Dublin Sees 9% Spending Surge During Oasis Concerts

Card spending in Dublin surged by 9 percent over the weekend as the iconic band Oasis performed two sold-out concerts at Croke Park. This marked the group’s return to Ireland for the first time in over 16 years, having last played at Slane in 2009. The increase in consumer spending was highlighted in an analysis by financial technology company Revolut.

The analysis showed that the volume of card transactions in Dublin rose by over 8 percent compared to the previous weekend, August 9-10. The economic impact of the concerts was reminiscent of the spending spike seen during Taylor Swift’s performance at Aviva Stadium last June. Dublin bars, cafes, restaurants, and nightclubs experienced a remarkable increase, with spending up more than 16 percent over the concert weekend.

Anticipation had been building throughout August, further fueled by a pop-up store on St Stephen’s Green that opened on August 4, 2023. Fans flocked to the store to purchase exclusive Oasis merchandise, contributing significantly to local revenues. Reports indicate that merchandise stores in Dublin earned hundreds of thousands of euros, with the lengthy queues reflecting the high demand. Due to popular interest, the pop-up store has announced extended operating dates.

While spending on public transportation declined by 9 percent across the rest of Ireland, it skyrocketed in Dublin, with an increase of over 120 percent as fans traveled from various regions for the concerts. Taxi drivers also reported a 15 percent boost in earnings during the same period.

For many who could not secure tickets, the party atmosphere permeated the city, as sales of beer, wine, and liquor from stores jumped by over a third compared to the previous weekend. The demographic most actively participating in this spending surge were adults aged 25-34, followed closely by those aged 45-54.

Dublin’s restaurants, pubs, and licensed stores saw a notable increase in sales of ‘Cigarettes & Alcohol’, with Revolut Business customers reporting a 2 percent rise in revenues in this category compared to the previous weekend.

“It’s safe to say that Oasis ‘Definitely Maybe’ gave the Dublin economy a boost last weekend,” stated Malcolm Craig, General Manager at Revolut Bank UAB – Ireland Branch. “Consumer spending of this level in just one weekend sends a very strong signal about the confidence of our more than 3 million customers in Ireland. Last weekend highlights the value of attracting genuine A-listers to Ireland and that Revolut remains Irish people’s preferred way to spend.”

Oasis’s lead guitarist, Noel Gallagher, expressed pride in his brother Liam Gallagher during the concerts. He commented on how much he enjoyed being back together with the band, saying he was “completely blown away” by the enthusiastic response from fans. Speaking to talkSport, he noted, “Liam’s smashing it. I’m proud of him,” emphasizing the joy of performing together again.

The successful concerts not only brought joy to fans but also provided a significant boost to Dublin’s economy, showcasing the powerful influence of major entertainment events on local commerce.