PMR enjoys bumper spend in SEP
Palmerston North saw a 52% increase in the value of international card holder spending in SEP11 compared to SEP10, according to the latest Paymark retail data. The Paymark network accounts for over 75% of electronic transactions processed in NZ.
International spending on food and fuel was up 70% and on accommodation, up 65%. The strongest percentage increase was at recreational good stores, with an 81% increase from last year and a $280,000 increase in the value of transactions. Apparel sales were 32% higher than last year while home ware stores recorded a 25% increase.
While spending by Brits and Australians was down, there was strong growth from visitors from Canada, France, Germany, Netherlands, Rest of Europe, and the US. The increase in spending can be directly related to Palmerston North hosting two Rugby World Cup games. It is thought that the opening of new galleries at Te Manawa and the revamped Rugby Museum may have also contributed to the increase in international spending.
