Accor has reported significant occupancy and general revenue increases in hotel restaurants, bars and parking revenues in the first six months since the opening of Bankwest Stadium in Parramatta.
According to a report from City of Parramatta Council, the redeveloped stadium – which has welcomed over 450,000 patrons across a variety of sporting events since its opening in April 2019 – has helped Accor record occupancy increases of 20% and incremental spend at hotel restaurants, bars and parking of over 50% around events at the new facility.
The wider Parramatta economy receives a boost of around a million dollars every time an event takes place at the new stadium. The report found three individual events generated $2.92 million for the Parramatta area, with $1.27 million spent by patrons within the stadium itself and $1.65 million in the wider area on food, drinks, transport, accommodation and other entertainment.
Accor Pacific Chief Operating Officer, Simon McGrath, said Bankwest Stadium has proven to be a real game-changer for tourism in Western Sydney.
“The NSW Government has had the foresight to go beyond just upgrading the long-term home of the Parramatta Eels and the Western Sydney Wanderers, they have invested in a world-class structure, which is also attracting sold-out music events like Elton John and Cold Chisel, offering patrons a unique experience, changing the way consumers interact with such venues.
“The stadium design itself brings fans closer to the action featuring the steepest grandstands in Australia and creating an awesome live event experience.”
The report and economic analysis was carried out by Micromex Research on behalf of Parramatta City Council.