While footy fever is expected to generate revenue of $646.6 million for the key codes, according to IBISWorld, it will also boost consumer spending by $2.6 billion – to the benefit of pubs and bars, sports betting, sporting clubs and ticket retailers.
In terms of consumer spending, IBISWorld General Manager (Australia) Karen Dobie, tipped the start of the footy season to result in a $2.63 billion boon for pubs and bars, sports betting, sports club memberships and ticket sales.
IBISWorld anticipates the biggest spending category – pubs and bars – to grow moderately this footy season to reach over $1.58 billion.
"Growth will be spurred on by the large share of AFL games broadcast on Foxtel, and the Aussie culture of hitting the local to watch the game," Ms Dobie said.
Sports betting – the fastest-growing segment of spending on all sports – is expected to grow 3.2 per cent from last year’s winter betting to reach $325.64 million. This will be driven by increased marketing by providers, diverse betting options and the ease of internet and mobile device accessibility.
However, Ms Dobie said ticket sales are expected to remain relatively flat – mainly due to sporting bodies keeping membership and ticket prices on hold to attract members and spectators.
In the grandstands
"In the past 12 months, 44 per cent of Australians over the age of 15 have attended at least one sporting event”, Ms Dobie said.
On the whole, IBISWorld revealed winter sports receive a stronger attendance than summer sports – resulting in higher overall revenues for winter codes.
"Despite the general upward trend in unique spectators, spectator growth has begun to plateau over the past five years, largely due to the increasing volume and quality of TV and online coverage, as well as smartphone applications allowing and encouraging fans to tune in from home and when on the run," Ms Dobie said.
