The 148th Open at Royal Portrush in Co. Antrim generated more than £100 million of economic benefit for Northern Ireland, according to an independent study commissioned by The R&A and new figures released by Tourism NI.
The Open injected £45 million in new money into Northern Ireland's economy, according to the study by Sheffield Hallam University's Sport Industry Research Centre (SIRC).
Northern Ireland also gained £37.3 million in destination marketing benefit from over 5,400 hours of global television coverage, and an additional £23.7 million has been identified by Tourism NI in advertising equivalent value for Northern Ireland golf tourism, monitored in other media coverage across the island of Ireland and internationally.
The SIRC study, which was commissioned by golf's governing body, The R&A, and supported by Tourism NI and Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, also concluded that the Causeway Coast council area alone received a £26.21 million injection of new money from The Open.
"A Groundbreaking Event For Tourism In Northern Ireland"
In a statement on Tourism NI's website, the organisation's chief executive, John McGrillen, said, "The 148th Open at Royal Portrush was a groundbreaking event for tourism in Northern Ireland and its success further demonstrates Northern Ireland's ability to seamlessly deliver world-class events which have a very positive impact on the local economy.
"Behind the scenes, a huge partnership effort across government, Causeway Coast and Glens Council, PSNI, Translink and Tourism NI delivered an unforgettable week for players and spectators alike."
© 2019 Hospitality Ireland – your source for the latest industry news. Article by Dave Simpson. Click subscribe to sign up for the Hospitality Ireland print edition.
