Qatar World Cup costing businesses in Lancashire money?

Many are boycotting the tournament due to Qatar's human rights record

Beer gardens are likely to remain empty
Author: Jamie WilliamsonPublished 22nd Nov 2022

When the Qatar World Cup was moved to November/December football fans across Lancashire were frustrated they may have to wait an additional 6 months to see England play, but now that we're here and the full effect of a 'Winter' World Cup has become reality.

There's been hardly any St George's flags flying across Lancashire, on cars, out of windows or over pubs, bars and restaurants.

England's first game against Iran yesterday saw fans gather at designated indoor fanzones, set up at places like the Winter Gardens in Blackpool, but beer gardens remained empty with temperatures around 6 degrees Celsius.

It's lead to more serious concerns about the local economy and how pubs and bars may be missing out on some badly needed cash.

The head of East Lancashire's Chamber of Commerce Miranda Barker said:

"I do think we're looking at a different situation with the world cup in terms of it's profile, it's publicity, the time of year and the weather. All of that is potentially going to affect the standing for people.

"Only time will tell over the next couple of weeks as to how much people are likely or willing to spend on merchandise, alcohol and parties. As the competition progresses, we'll see how it all pans out.

"Had this tournament been held in high summer when we would have had the best weather, we'd have seen full beer gardens and that atmosphere that we're used to."

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