As we enter the opening months of 2024, we find ourselves on the cusp of a genuinely exciting period ahead. Whilst as a sector we are still in challenging waters, we can look ahead with optimism, building on a successful year gone by. Liverpool’s visitor economy is resoundingly on the rise once again – it’s a return to true form and a clear sign of even greater things to come. STEAM figures have showed visitors spent almost 17 million more days in Liverpool City Region, compared to the previous year (an annual rise of 34%) while tourists spent £1.184bn more across the region, compared to the previous year (a 45% annual increase).
But it’s important to note the job is far from over and we never rest. Liverpool and the wider city region is resilient, resourceful and ready for any challenge. Once again, we remain hugely committed in ensuring that Marketing Liverpool, with support of our city region partners, will continue to put our Visitor Economy message at the heart of all we do. We are determined to welcome even more visitors, encourage greater spending and longer stays and we’ll show the world what a truly amazing place Liverpool City Region is for visitors, residents and businesses alike.
2023 brought some amazing events to the region, attracting a global audience of visitors with highlights including The 151st Open and the Randox Grand National. We’ll also never forget Liverpool’s hosting of the Eurovision Song Contest in May, which saw 473,000 attendees at Eurovision events and is forecast to increase the number of visitors to the city region by around 5% for years to come – boosting the economy by £250m by 2026.
There will be plenty of reasons why Liverpool City Region should be at the top of travel lists again in 2024, as it plays host to a series of stunning events. The ever-popular Randox Grand National Festival, River of Light and Southport Flower Show will return with packed out crowds. We’ll also be welcoming Taylor Swift’s ‘The Eras Tour’ and Pink to Anfield Stadium, an epic Eurovision celebration with Malmӧ on the Mersey and a special naming ceremony for Cunard’s new Queen Anne – just to name a few.
Partnership of Marketing Liverpool
As we swiftly head towards our 2024/25 partnership year, I would personally like to thank you for your support for the Visitor Economy through your current Marketing Liverpool partnership. Your engagement greatly assists in allowing our core activity to sustain, develop and expand our key leisure, business and travel trade sectors.
This year we will also include the opportunity to enhance your partnership with optional tiers of value-added elements. These tiers will include extra activity that will allow you to further promote and market your business.
In advance of your partnership re-commencing on 1st April 2024, you will be contacted shortly to confirm your 2024/25 fee, and with more information on our new tiers.
We hugely value the support each and every partner provides, and your continuing interaction is greatly appreciated.
Kind regards,
Susan Finnegan
Commercial Director | Acting Head of Visitor Economy