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Brexit fears to fuel leisure activity spending

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Although some say the issue of Brexit has fuelled divisiveness, new research commissioned by Alton Towers suggest Brexit worries will see UK adults prioritise spending time with family and friends.

The UK’s historic referendum in 2016, which saw the country vote to leave the European Union, has been followed by doubts, fears and uncertainty. Prime Minister Theresa May has failed to propose a deal everyone can agree on, and warehouses are filling up as companies and individuals begin stockpiling.

But it may not be all bad news. A study by Alton Towers found that three quarters (73%) of Brits spend time with loved ones to distract themselves from the things they are worried about. 64% respondents said they will prioritise their financial spending on quality time with loved ones.

And, according to data from Alton Towers, British adults will double their monthly spend on leisure activities this year compared to last – up to £163 per month. That equates to £8.2 billion across the UK – an increase of 81% on last year.

The research was commissioned to promote the park and the new ‘Power of the Towers’ campaign.

Francis Jackson, Operations Director for Alton Towers Resort, said: “This research confirms that there’s never been a greater need for family escapism in the UK. Visitors have always come to Alton Towers to escape life’s worries and enjoy quality time with their family and friends. That’s why we’ve launched the ‘Power of the Towers’ campaign, to remind people that they can find the perfect place to escape from it all in 2019 at Alton Towers Resort.”

Brexit – good or bad?

After Britain voted to leave the EU, VisitEngland announced their expectation for a tourism spike. CEO of Merlin Entertainments, Nick Varney, also said in an interview with Blooloop that Brexit is good for Merlin in the long run.

But museums have expressed their concern. Memos published by the Independent reveal the concerns of major museums including the V&A, Natural History Museum and the National Museums of Liverpool. Bernard Donoghue, the director of the Association of Leading Visitor Attractions, echoed these concerns – noting a no-deal Brexit would have “vast consequences” for the cultural economy.

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Michael Mander

Michael Mander

I am a journalist from Essex, England. I enjoy travelling, and love exploring attractions around the world. I graduated from Lancaster University in 2018. Twitter @michael_mander.

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