Topic overview
In brief
- A business group in Newquay is campaigning to change the perception that the town is too busy during the Boardmasters festival.
- Many local traders reported a drop in foot traffic and revenue during the festival week, despite the expected influx of visitors.
- The Beyond Boardmasters initiative aims to promote local businesses and attract visitors to Newquay during the festival.
Summary
In Newquay, England, a business group has initiated a campaign to alter the perception that the town is overly crowded during the Boardmasters surf and music festival. This festival, one of the largest in the country, is expected to attract around 58,000 attendees to Watergate Bay and Fistral Beach. However, many local traders reported a decline in foot traffic and revenue during the festival week, contradicting the belief that the event boosts local business. The Newquay Business Improvement District (BID) group has introduced the Beyond Boardmasters initiative to highlight the town's offerings and encourage both visitors and locals to explore shops, restaurants, and bars during this time. Festival organizers have expressed support for this initiative, acknowledging that while some larger retailers benefit from the influx of festivalgoers, many smaller businesses experience a downturn in sales. BID manager Mark Warren noted that numerous businesses reported being significantly down in revenue during what should be peak trading days. Local business owners, such as Aimee Dabrowski from Johnny's Tobacconist, have shared their experiences of having excess staff and fewer customers during the festival, indicating a shift in the festival's impact on local commerce. Ruby Pettit from No Worries Surf Co mentioned that families often avoid Newquay during the festival due to the perception of overcrowding, despite the reality that many festival attendees stay at the festival sites. Peter Davis, director of the Waverunner Group, welcomed the Beyond Boardmasters initiative, emphasizing that the town remains open and accessible. He also acknowledged improvements in transport planning that have minimized the festival's impact on the town. Rob Spring, the festival director, expressed his satisfaction with these changes and highlighted the importance of showcasing Newquay's attractions beyond the festival gates. The Beyond Boardmasters campaign aims to reshape the narrative surrounding the festival's effect on the town, promoting Newquay as a viable destination for visitors during the event.