Youth Sports Tournaments Bring 150 Million SEK to Skåne’s Tourism Industry

Over 40,000 visitors from across Sweden and around the world were drawn to Skåne last year to participate in sports tournaments for children and young people. These popular events provide an abundance of joy through physical activity and generate significant revenue for the tourism and retail sectors, according to a new study conducted by Visit Skåne.

The handball and basketball tournament Lundaspelen saw a record number of participants, Åhus Beach had more registrations than ever before, and Eskilscupen in Helsingborg reported record-breaking figures. A broad upswing is noticeable across Skåne.

Economic Impact

The visitors to these youth sports tournaments are estimated to have generated 150 million SEK for the local economy and contributed to filling hotels and commercial accommodations throughout Skåne. Nearly 50,000 guest nights at commercial lodging facilities are believed to have resulted from these events.

Mikael Wigsten, responsible for sports events at Visit Skåne AB, stated: “The figures allow us to conclude that the sports tournaments have a very important effect on the economy and local businesses. In addition, they contribute to increased public health and physical activity among children and young people.”

Study Methodology

Visit Skåne’s survey is based on the results of a questionnaire sent to organizers of children’s and youth tournaments in Skåne during 2023. A total of 35 representatives from various tournaments responded, corresponding to a response rate of 63 percent. The tourism economic calculation is based on previous studies of average expenditures per participant during different tournaments.

The study included participants under 18 years old who do not permanently reside in Skåne and who came to the tournaments accompanied by an adult. For each participant under 18 who does not permanently reside in Skåne, it is assumed that 0.5 adults accompany them.

Importance of Youth Sports Tourism

These tournaments not only boost the local economy but also promote health and well-being among young people. They showcase Skåne as a destination for sports and active lifestyles, potentially attracting future visitors and events.

Visit Skåne AB, Skåne’s regional destination company, aims to strengthen Skåne’s brand internationally and promote the visitor and events industry. Their mission includes working to ensure that major events, congresses, exhibitions, and fairs are held in Skåne, as well as developing Skåne’s visitor and events industry with a focus on sustainability and innovation.

For more information about the impact of these tournaments and quotes from organizers, visit Visit Skåne’s corporate website.

Source: Visit Skåne AB Press Release