A survey conducted by IQ among member venues of the European Arenas Association has revealed a 4.7% increase in attendance between 2006 and 2007.

The poll, which incorporated all active EAA members that were open in both 2006 and 2007 shows that the association’s members welcomed over 18.5 million visitors to entertainment events and conferences last year.

A survey conducted by IQ among member venues of the European Arenas Association has revealed a 4.7% increase in attendance between 2006 and 2007.

The poll, which incorporated all active EAA members that were open in both 2006 and 2007 shows that the association’s members welcomed over 18.5 million visitors to entertainment events and conferences last year.

“These figures show an extremely healthy arena sector,” says EAA executive director Linda Bull. “Especially as there’s probably half a million visitors missing from The Point in Dublin because it’s currently closed for refurbishment, and another 400,000 visitors from Belgrade Arena in Serbia, which only opened in 2007.”

The survey also identified that arena capacity was believed to be the single most important factor affecting members’ business. Facilities were viewed as the second most important factor, followed by location.

“We’re in a very healthy time at the moment because during periods of recession or even the fear of recession, people are less likely to spend a lot of money on moving house and going on expensive holidays,” Bull says. “They’ll treat themselves to lesser expensive outings such as arena entertainment.”