The AFL's inaugural Gather Round has been a smashing success for the city of Adelaide with $223 million spent across accommodation, restaurants, bars and pubs, and retail, according to NAB transaction data*.
The event saw a 21% trading boost when compared to the same weekend the year prior, whilst bars in Adelaide Oval precinct alone saw a massive increase in money through the tills - up 175% on last year.
NAB Executive Business Metro, Julie Rynski, said it was great to see fans flock from across the country to the City of Churches and support local businesses.
"There are so many strong and innovative businesses in Adelaide and the AFL's new Gather Round provides the perfect opportunity for others from around the nation to experience the city's beauty, cultural and culinary scene," Ms Rynski said.
"It was wonderful to see Adelaide in the national spotlight, as both an events city and an amazing place to live, work and play. Gather Round will be at home here for the next three years, which will be great for small businesses, many who rely on domestic and international tourists.
"While some people are being more thoughtful around where and how they spend their money, it was good to see a buzz around cafes, restaurants, hotels and retail stores."
Overall, spend on accommodation around metro Adelaide was up 50%, retail saw an increase of 30% and bars and pubs were up 13% when compared to the same weekend in 2022.
Simon Kardachi, owner of the Kardachi Group who operates popular restaurants such as Shobosho, Oggi and Bread & Bone, said his establishments were abuzz with excitement, which saw a solid increase in trade over the weekend.
"It was exciting to have lots of interstate visitors in town - we really felt a lift in energy," Mr Kardachi said.
"By putting the spotlight on Adelaide in front of a national market, events such as Gather Round provide incremental bottom-line immediate impacts for the hospitality industry."
