– National Outdoor Events Industry April Confidence Monitor Underlines Industry Concern –

Confidence across the UK’s outdoor events industry has fallen between March and April, as rising costs, led by fuel and transport, begin to translate into direct business impact.

The latest Confidence Monitor from National Outdoor Events Association (NOEA) shows a clear shift over the past month. The proportion of respondents describing themselves as “very concerned” has more than doubled, while overall concern levels have increased across the board.

More significantly, the data shows that impact is now being felt on the ground. In March, 44% of businesses reported some level of impact. In April, that figure had risen to over 61%, with nearly three-quarters of respondents stating that conditions have worsened.

Cost pressure remains the defining issue, but the nature of that pressure is evolving. Fuel and transport costs continue to lead, but businesses are also reporting the effects of fuel surcharges, rising supply chain costs, and wider inflationary pressures.

For many events, these increases are financial. Around half of respondents reported cost rises of approximately 10%, while a significant proportion are seeing increases of 25% or more, further pressurising already strained profit margins.

Finally, there are also early indications that audience demand may begin to soften. Respondents point to weakening consumer confidence and slower forward bookings, particularly later in the season. While still emerging, this trend could add further pressure in the months ahead.

Susan Tanner, CEO of NOEA, commented, “This data shows a situation that is changing quickly. Between March and April, we’ve seen a clear move from concern to measurable impacts on businesses. Costs are rising, and that is now feeding directly into how events are delivered and managed. We continue to track this closely and are sharing insight with both the industry and government to make sure there is a clear, evidence-based understanding of what events businesses are dealing with on the ground.”