Vancouver nightclubs see record sales boost during World Cup
Downtown establishments report sales spikes ranging from 30% to 1,000%, with some marking their best weeks in over a decade.
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Vancouver's nightlife venues are experiencing record-breaking sales during the FIFA World Cup, according to the Downtown Vancouver Business Improvement Association.
Nightclubs have reported dramatic increases since the start of the pedestrian zone on Granville Street, which coincides with the tournament timeline. Jane Talbot, president and CEO of the DVBIA, said the results have exceeded expectations.
"Sales are up about 30 per cent," Talbot said. "Another one said they are up by 1,000 per cent. A third said that it was a record-setting week. Last week, after the end of the first week, one of them said to me that it was their best week in 11 years."
Many of these establishments faced difficult years following COVID-19 and other disruptions that forced some businesses to close. Those that survived are now reaping the benefits of heightened foot traffic and energy around the tournament.
"Sales are high; they're better than expected; they're breaking records in some cases, and it is paying off because these businesses were waiting for basically four years for this experience," Talbot explained.
After nearly two weeks into the tournament, Talbot noted that most nightclub visitors — whether locals or tourists — have been well-behaved, with only a few exceptions. She reminded the public that open container laws remain in effect and that the Vancouver Police Department will be monitoring compliance, especially as matches continue. She expressed hope that the surge can extend beyond the World Cup, with the Granville Pedestrian Zone continuing to benefit the entire hospitality industry.