The Macau Grand Prix attracts thousands of visitors to the city every year. November has traditionally been one of Macau’s strongest months for tourism, and much of that success is directly tied to the event. According to the Statistics and Census Service, tourist spending during this period is heavily concentrated on shows and events. This economic momentum generated by the Macau Grand Prix has become, year after year, essential for businesses of all sizes, which eagerly anticipate the start of the races.
“The Macau Grand Prix will undoubtedly boost our business, as many tourists come to watch the races,” says Kam In Ho, owner of Alua E Comidas Portuguesa “Kam In.” She expects “a 10 to 20 percent increase” in business, “as those who come for the races usually have a certain purchasing power.”
In the Senado Square area, Lei, owner of Cutebee Market, a souvenir shop, shares the same optimism: “The Grand Prix will certainly be a great help for our small business, as the number of tourists clearly increases,” he begins. “In fact, for those of us who work in this kind of business, we always look forward to this holiday. I expect a 30% increase in sales, which will benefit several sectors.”
For some, the event is not only about sales, but also about Macau’s international image. Stephen Anderson, owner of Cathedral Café, says: “The Macau Grand Prix has a positive regional and international reputation, attracting tourists from all over the world (…). We see our business improve both with the weather and with the event. We consider the Grand Prix a cornerstone for expanding Macau’s sports portfolio.”
For Sam, a representative of Momokawa, a café located in one of Macau’s older neighbourhoods, the Grand Prix is an opportunity to reach a broader audience. “As an annual international sporting event, it attracts a large number of foreign tourists to watch the races. I remain optimistic about the visitor flow during the event and confident in promoting our specialty coffee to these international visitors.”
And for Kimba Wong, whose company Spark Model produces collectible miniature cars, the event blends passion, culture, and business opportunity that extends beyond race week. On most years, Kimba can be found at one of the vendors stands near the entrance to the Macau Grand Prix.
“The Macau Grand Prix undoubtedly has a very positive impact on our business,” he says, while acknowledging that having a booth at the event is a significant investment. “It is expensive to have a booth during the races, but thousands of people from all over the world pass by every day. That also helps promote our brand. Many people start collecting our models because of the Macau Grand Prix, as they can see our products in person. That then brings us future business.”
PLATAFORMA has prepared a Special Report on the 72nd Macau Grand Prix. Click here to access the stories.
