If any more proof were needed of Manchester’s soaring tourism numbers - following the news that Manchester Airport are on track to break the 23 million passenger barrier - hotel research compiled by STR Global and released by Marketing Manchester have it.
For two consecutive nights in June, occupancy was the highest ever at 98%
With average occupancy at 78%, the first half of 2015 has seen the best city centre rates on record; up from 75% for the same period last year and surpassing the previous 76% peak achieved in 2007. Greater Manchester as a whole fared similarly well, with occupancy reaching 77%, and June saw both areas score a phenomenal 81%.
For two consecutive nights in June, occupancy was the highest ever at 98% as a result of two significant events: the Twenty20 cricket match between England and New Zealand at Old Trafford, which took place on Tuesday 23, and Taylor Swift performing at Manchester Arena the following evening.
Radisson Blu EdwardianThese dates also played host to the Chartered Institute of Housing conference, attracting over 7000 businessmen, and the OECD LEED Forum at Manchester Town Hall. Indeed, business tourism cannot be underestimated, with weekday occupancies of up to 98% as a result of frequent meetings. As casual tourists are typically most populous at weekends, such a trend ensures a consistent baseline. August is expected to draw in over 5000 delegates owing to five high-profile conferences; amongst them the sixth World Congress on Ecological Restoration and CASE Europe 2015, the continent’s largest gathering of advancement professionals.
With Greater Manchester continuing to invest in a myriad of premier events, from international sports to renowned musicians, the hotel industry has benefitted considerably and success is expected to continue as the vibrant arts trip goes on.
Manchester International Festival established its firm place on the cultural calendar earlier this month, after nine years of successful performances, whilst August sees the 25th anniversary of the annual Manchester Pride. Sports fans can enjoy the Rugby World Cup in October and November sees the celebrated Christmas markets grace the city once again.
Director of tourism at Marketing Manchester Nick Brooks-Sykes cited 2014 as an “exceptional year” for Manchester hotels and opined that such achievement being carried forward to the first half of this year is “clear evidence of the current vitality of our tourism industry.”
Current samples: City centre 36 hotels (6500+ rooms), Greater Manchester 100 hotels (13,600+ rooms).
