Data from Barclaycard Payments, reveals that the first Easter Bank Holiday Weekend without Covid-19 restrictions since 2019 boosted sales across a number of sectors, in particular hospitality as Brits enjoyed days out and made the most of the sunny weather.
The UK businesses benefitting from an uplift in spending include:
Pubs, Bars and Night Clubs
- 74.0 per cent up, compared to the Easter Bank Holiday weekend in 2019*
Restaurants
- 35.2 per cent, compared to the Easter Bank Holiday weekend in 2019*
- 116.2 per cent up, compared to the Easter Bank Holiday weekend in 2021**
Fast Food
- 25 per cent up, compared to the Easter Bank Holiday weekend in 2019*
- 35.3 per cent up, compared to the Easter Bank Holiday weekend in 2021**
Harshna Cayley, Head of Online Payments, Barclaycard Payments said: “The sunny weather combined with the first restriction free Easter Weekend since 2019 lifted the spirits of Brits as they enjoyed days out and took supported businesses as they return to normal operations across the UK. Our data shows that many experience–led businesses alongside food and drink retailers received a significant boost in trade, which will no doubt be welcome news against the wider backdrop of concerns around the cost of living. As many Brits get back to work, businesses will be hopeful that the recent spell of warmer weather returns in time for the next Bank Holiday in early May”.
*Comparison refers to 20-23 April, 2019. The large growth in card spending recorded at pubs, bars and clubs can also be attributed in part to the rising popularity of Chip & PIN and contactless payments over cash payments – a long-term trend which accelerated during the pandemic.
**Comparison refers to 2-5 April 2021. N.B. Covid-19 restrictions impacted the operations of some businesses i.e. only able to seat customers outdoors. Businesses such as zoos were closed during this time period, therefore no comparisons are available.
