Regina businesses scoring big with economic spinoff thanks to Grey Cup

Local business owners say they’re already seeing a benefit as hotels, restaurants and shops get busier and busier.

Regina’s business community is feeling the Grey Cup boost.

As the clock ticks down to kickoff, Regina is beginning to buzz as football fanatics from across the country arrive in the Queen City for the big game.

Local business owners, meanwhile, say they’re already seeing a benefit as hotels, restaurants and shops get busier and busier.

“We’re all really excited, people are starting to come from all across Canada for the Grey Cup. We’ve got all of our staff scheduled. I think we’re ready to go,” Bushwakker Brewpub bar manager Grant Frew said.

The expected financial impact predicted by Economic Development Regina is $60 to 70 million through the weekend.

“There’s been a lot of energy in the city and that’s fantastic. It really helps that our hotels are full. People from all over the country are using our restaurants, getting a feel for the tastes of Regina, as well as the unique retail shops,” Regina Chamber of Commerce CEO Tony Playter said.

As Regina is cashing in on the Grey Cup week, economic experts say hotels are full, restaurants are packed and fans are exhilarated.

“Today’s a real big day, people are starting to fly in, the city is bumping and busy, some great local bars like O’Hans are getting busy, which just adds to the excitement of the whole festival,” Steve Hanson, a CFL fan in Regina, said.