Sunderland’s growing food and drink sector makes the biggest contribution to the city’s retail economy, according to new research.
The positive impact that the café, bar and restaurant scene is making – accounting for more than 33% of retail sales – was unveiled at an event where representatives from city businesses were told about the impact regeneration was having on Sunderland.
Organised by Sunderland BID, the Sunderland Reimagined – The Impact of Regeneration event was attended by around 50 businesses, who heard from a range of speakers. Among those was Adam Rabinowitz from retail data company Beauclair, who highlighted the changes in how money is spent in the city. Following the contribution made to the local economy by food and drink was fashion, followed by health and beauty.
“These three sectors alone are responsible for more than 75% of sales made in Sunderland,” he said. “Food and drink is one the most resilient sectors and has grown considerably in the past two years.”
Other speakers at the event – held at Sheepfolds Stables – included Tom Whittington, director of retail and leisure research at Savills, who gave an overview of the national picture including current consumer demand and the need to give places purpose in the future.
Liz St Louis, director of smart cities and enabling services at Sunderland City Council, also talked about driving the economy in the city and the importance of a strong digital infrastructure for Sunderland.
The annual report presentation is one of a number of events organised by Sunderland BID to ensure businesses across the city are aware of the many positive transformations taking place. Sharon Appleby, chief executive of Sunderland BID, also gave an overview of the contribution the organisation makes to the city, generating more than £500,000 through events like Sunderland Restaurant Week and the Food and Drink Festival. She also outlined the BID’s ambitious plans for growth, which includes extending the BID to the seafront and looking at ways to get funding for community projects.
