Liverpool's Night-Time Economy: A Beacon of Opportunity Amid Economic Challenges
Liverpool's night-time economy is not just about vibrant nightlife; it's a crucial pillar of the city's economic framework. As we navigate through a period marked by economic challenges, the resilience of this sector offers a beacon of hope and opportunity. In 2023, Liverpool saw a remarkable increase in foot traffic, with weekday and weekend numbers rising by 30.41% and 45.54% respectively compared to 2019. This surge underscores the sector's vitality and its role in sustaining the local economy.
Employing over 125,889 individuals, the night-time economy accounts for nearly 24% of Liverpool's population and 48% of its employment. This diverse workforce includes a significant percentage of young workers, with more than 40% under the age of 24. New venues, like Harringtons, are pivotal in this ecosystem, creating around 20 new full and part-time jobs, contributing to the city's broader employment landscape.
Despite the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, Liverpool's night-time economy has demonstrated resilience. From March 2020 to December 2024, the number of evening venues in the city has increased by 3.9%, defying trends seen in other major cities like London, which experienced a decline. However, the sector is not without its challenges. Rising operating costs and potential tax increases pose significant hurdles, particularly for small to medium enterprises and cultural sectors.
Large events and venues play a significant role in boosting the local economy. Concerts at Anfield, for instance, have injected over £31 million into the local economy over the past five years, providing thousands of jobs, with 85% of employees hailing from Liverpool and over 55% being under 30 years old. Such events highlight the economic and employment benefits the night-time economy brings to the city.
The Liverpool BID Company is instrumental in managing the night-time economy, ensuring safety and cleanliness, and providing exemptions from the Late Night Levy for businesses within BID areas. This support is crucial for sustaining economic investment in the city centre.
For job seekers, the night-time economy offers a myriad of opportunities. jobs24 is at the forefront, providing a platform to explore these opportunities across the UK, including vacancies in Scotland, in sectors ranging from hospitality to security. As new venues like Harringtons open, they not only enhance the city's vibrancy but also pave the way for economic growth and employment.
