World Cup gives Suffolk pubs a welcome boost as England progress
One Ipswich venue attracted around 1,000 people to watch England's opening match.
The World Cup is providing a welcome boost for pubs in Suffolk, with one Ipswich venue attracting around 1,000 people to watch England's opening match.
England got their campaign off to a winning start with a 4-2 victory over Croatia, helping create packed venues and a lively atmosphere for businesses screening the tournament.
Tristan Finbow, Operations Manager for Bentley's Restaurants Limited, which operates Isaacs on the Quay in Ipswich, said major football tournaments remain an important source of income for the hospitality industry.
He said England matches can significantly increase trade, although the impact is not always as simple as adding an extra busy weekend to the calendar, as customers often spend less on other days when games are taking place.
Mr Finbow said football tournaments provide an important financial cushion for businesses at a time when many venues continue to face pressures linked to the cost of living and changing drinking habits.
He said the additional revenue generated by major sporting events helps venues invest in improvements and prepare for quieter periods of the year.
As part of that investment, Isaacs on the Quay has installed a permanent outdoor bar in its courtyard to help serve customers during major events more efficiently.
Mr Finbow said around 1,000 people attended the venue for England's first World Cup match and expects strong crowds to continue if the team progresses through the tournament.
He added that major football tournaments help create a positive atmosphere for customers and staff, with England matches bringing supporters together behind the same team.
Mr Finbow said the longer England remain in the competition, the greater the benefit is likely to be for pubs and bars across Suffolk.