Retailers not feeling GP hype

‘‘Most people go to the racing for the racing.’’ Kerry Gracie, retailer

It’s up to Feilding retailers to bring foot traffic to the town’s CBD during the New Zealand Grand Prix, Manawatu¯ ’s deputy mayor says.

Fans will flood the region for a weekend of high speed on Saturday and Sunday at Manfeild, but retailers say the action doesn’t move far beyond the track.

The Feilding venue has hosted the Grand Prix since 2008, and Speed Works promoter Geoff Short expected more than 10,000 punters to turn out.

Although the town’s motels would have a full house, many restaurants and stores don’t reap the full benefit, deputy mayor Michael Ford said.

Ford believed retailers could promote longer opening hours, deals and discounts, in a bid to draw more spectators up the road.

‘‘Sometimes, partners of the enthusiasts might break away from the track,’’ Ford said. ‘‘It’s up to retailers – the event brings people to the back doorstep – what can you do to attract those customers to your shop?’’

Central Economic Development Agency conventions and events executive Phil Hildred said the Grand Prix contributed about $1.2 million last year.

A survey of competitors and spectators showed 45 per cent of the 6000 spectators were visitors to Manawatu¯ .

The 1200 competitors spent $177 a day.

Visiting spectators spent $106 a day, mostly on accommodation, food, entertainment, retail and fuel.

Popular restaurant Amayjen wasn’t booked out.

Focal Point Cinema owner Julie Bell also didn’t have any more bookings than usual.

South Street West Motel owner Pauline Sarjeant was booked out from year to year.

It brought more than $15,000 income to her business.

Gracies owner Kerry Gracie said his clothing store didn’t see any increased foot traffic.

‘‘Most people go to the racing for the racing – it’s not much of a surprise.’’