£10 million boost for Suffolk as Ed Sheeran's Ipswich homecoming lights up the town
Three sold-out shows at Portman Road in Ipswich saw people coming from all over the world!
Last updated 14th Jul 2025
Ed Sheeran’s three sold-out shows at Portman Road have given Suffolk a multi-million pound boost, with Mayor Stefan Long calling the impact “a big thing” for the town and local businesses.
Around 90,000 fans packed into Ipswich across the weekend for Sheeran’s long-awaited return to his hometown, with the council estimating the concerts brought in at least £10 million for the local economy.
“Hotels are gonna be filled up" said Mayor Long. “Based on what happened in 2019 with the concert at Chantry Park, we think it’s gonna bring at least £10 million to the local economy.”
“It’s just about bringing money into Ipswich and the surrounding areas, not everyone is able to stay directly in Ipswich because all the hotels are booked.”
The Mayor, who attended the final show on Sunday night, said the concerts couldn’t have come at a better time for the county.
“We need this money coming into Ipswich so that businesses can grow… and then we can invest more into the town and support businesses that we’re gonna continue to thrive off of this sort of income.”
With the cost-of-living crisis still affecting many, he acknowledged the challenges businesses are facing and the power of events like this to offer a lifeline.
“Everyone’s facing challenges, whether that be private or public sector, everyone’s under pressure… but they’re tackling them well and we’re trying to support them where we can.”
Local pride has been a huge part of the celebrations, from a “Pink Plaque Trail” to Ed-themed murals and shoutouts to his favourite pubs and shops.
“You can’t walk 20 yards without seeing a shop that hasn’t got some sort of pink thing going on,” said Mayor Long. “Naturally, people following the trail will stop in at local cafés… have a cup of tea, and potentially shop. Footfall is increasing all over the town, which is only good for local businesses.”
As for whether Ed’s return has helped put Ipswich on the map? The Mayor didn’t hesitate:
“He’s a global superstar, if that doesn’t get people’s attention about the town, I don’t know what will.”