Vancouver businesses are hopeful that FIFA World Cup will provide a much-needed revenue boost
With now just 50 days before FIFA comes to Vancouver, businesses are hoping for a much-needed boost to their revenues.
VistaPrint, a print and design company, recently published findings from a survey of 334 small businesses in Vancouver and Toronto, finding that 64 per cent think that the World Cup will create a positive impact.
“With over a million people projected to visit Canada for the FIFA World Cup, businesses have a real opportunity to reach new audiences,” said Erin Shea, the senior director of North America Marketing at VistaPrint, in a release.
VistaPrint conducted the survey between March 20 and 26 with businesses with fewer than 100 employees.
They found that 56 per cent of them expect customer foot traffic to increase, and 41 per cent are expecting a “significant revenue increase” by at least 20 per cent or more.
Vancouver is hosting seven matches between June 11 and July 19, with each game expected to draw in over 50,000 fans.
According to a report from Downtown Van, the business improvement association for downtown Vancouver, FIFA is projected to bring in $1.0 billion in additional spending to B.C. from 2026 to 2031.
B.C. businesses have dealt with a number of hits over the past several years, including COVID, the decline in the housing market, the trade war, and the current energy crisis — all resulting in consumers spending less money.
In 2025, downtown Vancouver saw its weekly retail sales go down an average of 1.65 percent compared to 2024, and decline by 5.7 percent for restaurants.
In March 2026, B.C.’s long-term small business confidence index also decreased by 3.9 points to 57.3 points, according to the Canadian Federation of Independent Business’ (CFIB) monthly business barometer. Its historical average is 61.4 points.
The CFIB attributed this drop in confidence to B.C.’s recent PST expansion, which, starting on Oct. 1, 2026, will include professional services like accounting and bookkeeping. Further, the war in Iran has shot fuel prices up, adding even more pressure on businesses.
Granville Street to transform during FIFA
Granville Street, which has faced the additional challenges of rising crime and increasing disorder, will undergo a transformation during the FIFA World Cup.
The City of Vancouver will turn it into a pedestrian zone between June 11 and July 20, running five blocks between Georgia and Davie. The City is planning live music, additional seating and expanded patios, vendors and food options, and “placemaking and selfie spots.”
“Granville Street businesses will be well-positioned to capitalize on visitor traffic and global attention,” reads Downtown Van’s report.
The report goes as far as to say that 2026 will be a “decisive” year for Granville Street, with many operators hoping the FIFA World Cup will be a “potential turning point” to offset some of the costs of the difficult conditions.