As the final putt dropped at Royal Portrush, we not only celebrated a world-class sporting event, but I’d like to think we have opened the door to a wave of business development opportunities.
With more than 237,000 spectators and millions more watching globally, the event has once again placed us firmly on the global stage. Golf may have been the draw, but the real opportunity lies in what visitors discovered beyond the course: authentic, local experiences.
The immediate economic impact of The Open is estimated to exceed £60 million, with local businesses reaping the benefits, but the real opportunities must lie in what comes next. So what might these opportunities look like for smaller companies?
Beyond golf, the surge in international visitors highlighted the openings for a wider niche tourism approach. We can see the power that emerges in our economy when we focus on specific tourist groups and combine this with our reputation for authentic local experiences visitors are increasingly seeking authentic cultural experiences.
Northern Ireland’s rich heritage and thriving craft sector offer a unique opportunity to develop artisan markets, craft workshops, and cultural tours. These experiences not only support local makers but also provide tourists with meaningful, memorable interactions.
Northern Ireland’s craft sector is uniquely positioned to benefit with the right promotional support. The sector needs public bodies to connect these makers with the international audiences that are now aware of our uniqueness.
The success of The Open proves that Northern Ireland can host world-class events and our culinary scene enjoyed a magnificent spotlight. Food tourism is growing in numbers, providing an opportunity to capitalise more.
Craft breweries, distilleries, and farm-to-table dining experiences can build on this momentum and businesses that celebrate local ingredients and traditions are especially well-positioned to attract both tourists and locals.
We need greater support for these sectors and an acknowledgement that administrative support is needed to deal with regulations and policies.
Sustainability was a key theme during The Open. Businesses that align with eco-friendly practices – such as green transport, zero-waste hospitality, and sustainable retail – will find growing support from both government initiatives and environmentally conscious consumers.
As sustainability becomes a non-negotiable, it is paramount that our small businesses are supported to align with eco-conscious practices.
Small businesses can leverage this by engaging with or creating festivals, adventure tourism packages, and themed experiences. Activities like coastal hiking, cycling tours, and historical reenactments can appeal to the same demographic that attended The Open.
Small businesses often underestimate the power of their story from generational expansion within a local community to the connection of our craft sector to the local natural landscape.
With global media coverage generating over £60 million in advertising value, the digital opportunity is clear, but we need to be able convert this visibility into long-term growth.
There’s a growing need for digital marketing, branding, and content creation services. Local agencies can help businesses convert this exposure into long-term growth by targeting international audiences and enhancing their online presence.
As the crowds depart and the fairways quiet, Northern Ireland businesses stand ready to build on the legacy of The Open.
Michelle Lestas
To truly unlock the long-term economic potential, there is a need for stronger, more strategic public/private collaboration- one that fosters synergy, shares resources, and ensures that local businesses are not just spectators to growth, but active participants in shaping it.
- Michelle Lestas is founder and chief executive of the MENTupLEADup® technique, published author of ‘In Business With Yourself’ (Orpen Press) and a business turnaround specialist