Dublin Experiences Spending Surge During Sold-Out Oasis Concerts

Card spending in Dublin surged by 9 percent over the weekend as Oasis performed two sold-out concerts at Croke Park. This marked the band’s first return to Ireland in over 16 years, with their last performance taking place at Slane in 2009. The analysis conducted by Revolut highlighted a significant increase in consumer activity as fans flocked to the city to celebrate the highly anticipated events.

Transaction volumes rose by more than 8 percent during the concerts when compared to the previous weekend of August 9-10. This upward trend in spending mirrors a similar spike observed during Taylor Swift‘s performance at Aviva Stadium last June, where Dublin bars, cafes, restaurants, and nightclubs saw spending increase by over 16 percent as concert-goers celebrated.

Impact on Local Economy and Consumer Behavior

The excitement surrounding Oasis’s return was palpable throughout Dublin, particularly with the opening of a pop-up merchandise store on St Stephen’s Green on August 4. Fans eagerly awaited the opportunity to purchase exclusive Oasis merchandise, leading to significant revenue for local retailers. Over the weekends surrounding the concerts, these stores generated hundreds of thousands of euros, driven by long queues and high demand. Due to the overwhelming interest, the pop-up store announced extended hours to accommodate eager customers.

While public transportation spending decreased by 9 percent across the rest of Ireland, Dublin experienced a remarkable increase of over 120 percent in transportation spending. This surge reflects the influx of Irish fans traveling to the capital for the gigs. Taxi services also benefited, witnessing a 15 percent rise in revenues during the weekend.

For those unable to secure tickets, the festive atmosphere extended throughout the city, with sales of store-bought beer, wine, and liquor rising by over a third compared to the previous weekend. The demographic most engaged in this spending included adults aged 25-34, followed closely by those in the 45-54 age group.

Revolut’s Insights and Industry Perspectives

According to Malcolm Craig, General Manager at Revolut Bank UAB – Ireland Branch, the surge in spending underscores the confidence of their more than 3 million customers in Ireland. He stated, “Consumer spending of this level in just one weekend sends a very strong signal about the confidence of our customers. Last weekend highlights the value of attracting genuine A-listers to Ireland.”

The hospitality sector also benefited, with establishments seeing a significant boost in sales of cigarettes and alcohol. Revolut Business customers in the food, beverage, and tobacco industries recorded a notable 2 percent increase in revenues compared to the previous weekend.

Oasis frontman Noel Gallagher expressed pride in his brother Liam Gallagher and reflected on the band’s reunion tour during recent interviews. He acknowledged the positive reception from fans, stating, “It’s great just to be back with Bonehead (Paul Arthurs) and Liam and just be doing it again. I guess when it’s all said and done we will sit and reflect on it, but it’s great being back in the band with Liam, I forgot how funny he was.”

As the dust settles on a weekend of celebration, the economic impact of Oasis’s concerts in Dublin serves as a reminder of the significant role that live music plays in boosting local economies and bringing communities together.