Auckland businesses positive about RWC 2011 opportunities, but need to act.

Auckland businesses are positive about opportunities offered by Rugby World Cup (RWC 2011), however, most have yet to begin planning for the event.

A survey of Auckland businesses conducted by AucklandPlus on behalf of the RWC 2011 Auckland Regional Steering Group, revealed that while three quarters of Auckland businesses believe that their business will benefit from opportunities presented by RWC 2011, only 35 percent have begun planning how they will take advantage of those potential opportunities.

AucklandPlus Chairman Michael Barnett says while it is encouraging that businesses are able to recognise the opportunities offered by RWC 2011, those who haven’t yet started planning should so as soon as possible.

Survey respondents saw business opportunities in the form of sales growth, increased exposure both to their products and New Zealand as a destination and an opportunity to increase staff numbers. They anticipate their planning to be focused on marketing, staffing, location and business expansion.

Mr Barnett agrees that RWC 2011 presents significant opportunities to Auckland businesses in particular.

"To me it all adds up to an unprecedented opportunity for Auckland. When I look at the current economic climate, it is clearly an opportunity we cannot afford to miss. But I believe that with the match allocation we have and the size and scope of our business sector, Auckland is well placed to realise the economic potential of this mega event."

The survey also revealed that many business owners are looking for a raft of business advice and support from networking events and access to tender opportunities, to staff training and visitor servicing, in order to grab a piece of the RWC 2011 pie. This support will be available to businesses as part of Auckland’s RWC 2011 economic development programme launched earlier this year.

Findings from the survey are being integrated into the RWC 2011 Business Opportunities Guide due for launch in September. Mr Barnett says future facets of Auckland's RWC 2011 economic development programme, will focus on developing international linkages, more work on creating opportunities for business and building skills and talent. More information regarding RWC 2011 opportunities for Auckland businesses can be found at www.auckland2011.com/business

ENDS

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