Wolves relegation 'may cut city spending by 20%'

Business leaders have predicted Wolves relegation from the Premier League could cut spending in the city by a fifth.

West Ham's draw at Crystal Palace on Monday confirmed the club's eight‑year stay in the league was over.

While it came as a devastating blow to fans, local shops, pubs and taxis might begin to feel the pinch from a lack of global attention, Professor John Bryson, of Birmingham Business School, warned.

"I would assume there could be a 20% reduction in the spend that the city has seen from matches. It all depends on what happens with visitor numbers travelling from a distance," he told BBC Radio WM.

"For a city like Wolverhampton, its global reputation is partly linked to the success of football teams that are doing well, so if you're in the Premier League that really matters.

"If you drop out, there's no way you can spin this as a good news story."

Nuno Espirito Santo took Wolves to promotion in 2018, as well as two successive seventh‑place finishes, a Europa League quarter‑final and an FA Cup semi‑final.

He left after finishing 13th and, despite a 10th‑place finish under Bruno Lage in 2022, Wolves have slowly slipped further down the table each season - to 13th, 14th and then 16th last season.

Despite this, some hope remains for the city, and newcomers to the hospitality and nightlife scene have been highlighted for bringing visitors in on non‑match days.

"It's a real shame that Wolves have gone down, but there are things to be cheerful about in the Black Country," said Sarah Moorhouse, chief executive of the Black Country Chamber of Commerce.

"There have been some exciting new additions in the city centre – you've got P.A.C.K Perfect Ale, Cask & Keg, Lockworks Cinema and WV1 Cocktail Bar – so hopefully these will become more established venues and continue to thrive.

"You also can't ignore that The Halls has been a huge success and is drawing people into the city on non‑match days, which is still helping pubs, restaurants, coffee shops and hotels generate revenue."

Bryson agreed that "Wolverhampton is much more of a complex economy than its football team", adding the club has shown resilience before.

He said: "This happened before when it was relegated in 2012, and it managed to recover.

"The issue is whether the team will attract long‑distance travellers to matches, because if there's a significant drop, local spend will be hit.

"But there is some good news in that season‑ticket prices may drop by 25%, so football could be cheaper for those who want to attend."

Continuing the message of hope, the city's mayor urged fans to continue visiting the city and supporting the team.

He posted on Facebook: "Our players need to feel that the city is right behind them. Let's show the world that even in a difficult season, Wolves fans are the most loyal and passionate in the country.

"The work to bounce back begins now. With your support, I have no doubt we will find our way back to the top flight. "

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