Euro 2012 retail spinoff could be worth €250m

The Irish soccer team’s involvement in this summer’s European Championships could result in a €250 million boost for domestic retailers, it has been claimed.

Industry representative, Retail Excellence Ireland expects to see such a sales lift during June. If Ireland reach the tournament’s final, on July 1 in Kiev, retail sales could rise by another €18m.

According to David Fitzsimons, chief executive of Retail Excellence Ireland: “The sense of anticipation around the country is really starting to build, as we count down the days to Ireland’s first match in Poznan. The majority of retailers are picking up on this positive sentiment and are telling us that they expect to see an uplift in their sales during June.”