18th September 2025
114,000 jobs sustained providing vital opportunities for young people
Northern Ireland’s night-time economy (NTE) generates an estimated £3.7 billion in Gross Value Added (GVA), supporting almost 114,000 jobs across the region, according to new independent research from IPSOS. The findings, commissioned by the three Belfast BIDs – Linen Quarter BID, Cathedral Quarter BID and Belfast One – in partnership with the Department for the Economy and Tourism NI, formally quantify the economic contribution of the night-time economy for the first time.
Belfast alone accounts for £802 million in GVA and supports over 26,000 jobs, many of them entry-level positions providing vital opportunities for young people and new workforce entrants. The research also demonstrates the value of the NTE throughout Northern Ireland generating £257 million and supporting 8,000 jobs in Derry & Strabane and contributing £182 million and 5,700 jobs in Fermanagh & Omagh.
The findings were officially launched at the Europa Hotel, Belfast, today at an event hosted to mark one year of the Belfast City Centre Night Czar that brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders from across Northern Ireland’s night-time economy.
Much of the economic impact identified in the new IPSOS research is driven by consumer spending. Belfast’s night-time cultural and leisure sectors alone generate £761 million annually, while across Northern Ireland, consumer spending fuels nearly £3.4 billion of the night-time economy, supporting thousands of jobs. Ensuring that consumers continue to engage with the city’s NTE is therefore vital to sustaining this growth and vibrancy.
Chris McCracken, Managing Director of Linen Quarter BID and Chair of Belfast’s Purple Flag Steering Group, said: “With tens of thousands of jobs supported, it is clear that the night-time economy is a major driver of growth across Belfast and Northern Ireland. Today’s event highlighted the importance of ongoing collaboration between government, businesses, and community groups to ensure our city continues to thrive safely and inclusively at night. We also celebrated the work of Michael Stewart, Belfast’s City Centre Night Czar, whose efforts over the past year have been integral to delivering this research. Upcoming events, such as Culture Night on September 19 and Belfast Restaurant Week in early October, will showcase our unique cultural and culinary offerings, attract thousands to the city, and highlight the vibrancy of Belfast’s night-time sector.”
The study also highlights how the lack of late-night transport is limiting the night-time economy from reaching its full potential and estimates that a year-round weekend late-night service could generate an additional £2.5 million in GVA annually – a benefit roughly four times the cost of providing the services.
The findings build on a recent consumer survey conducted in support of Belfast’s Purple Flag Accreditation renewal, which demonstrated strong public support for late-night transport and reinforced the importance of a safe, clean, and attractive night-time culture. 61% of respondents considered the lack of late-night transport the biggest barrier to enjoying nightlife, while two-thirds said they would use late-night bus or Glider services if available.
Michael Stewart, Belfast City Centre Night Czar, said: “This research highlights the scale and significance of the night-time economy. While the industry has always recognised its value, having it formally quantified enables everyone – from hospitality or creative industry business owners, to our transport workers, healthcare professionals and policymakers – to make informed decisions. Over the past 12 months, we’ve made substantial progress, from supporting initiatives to end violence against women and girls to working to delivering a 1000+ signature petition calling for Late Night Transport, and this month Culture Night returns with support from Belfast City Council and the BIDs as we continue to drive progress across the sector.
“Today’s research, along with the recent consumer survey, confirms that accessible and safe late-night transport is essential for the city to reach its full night-time potential. We are currently working closely with Ministers and officials to explore a potential pilot service before the end of the year. While we’ve achieved a great deal, there is still more work to be done to create safer, greener, and more inclusive experiences for everyone to enjoy Belfast at night. Looking ahead, we remain committed to initiatives that support businesses, attract consumers, and ensure the city continues to thrive as a vibrant, welcoming destination.”
The event and research underline a shared commitment among government, business, and city partners to invest in Belfast and Northern Ireland’s night-time economy, ensuring it continues to grow sustainably and inclusively.
For more information, visit belfastnightczar.com
