How Yorkshire businesses can benefit from return of Tour de France: Martyn Kendrick

The women’s race will open with three high-profile stages across the country. Stage one will take riders from Leeds to Manchester, followed by a second stage from Manchester to Sheffield, showcasing the landscapes and urban centres of Northern England. Stage three will then head south towards London, bringing the race into the capital.

As the race sets off from Leeds, Yorkshire’s scenery will be broadcast to millions worldwide, placing the region firmly on the global stage.

When the Tour last visited the UK in 2014 for the men’s race, around 4.8 million people lined the route – 2.5 million of them in Yorkshire. Hotels filled months in advance, restaurants extended opening hours and independent retailers saw footfall surge. The economic impact was substantial: Harrogate alone saw £19 million in visitor spending, Bradford £11.5 million.

Projections for next summer are even bigger, with up to 15 million people expected to line the streets across the UK to watch both the men’s and women’s events, with significant crowds anticipated in Yorkshire. The projected economic impact for the region is over £128 million.

For Yorkshire SMEs, this sporting spectacle highlights a significant commercial opportunity.

The businesses that benefit most will be those that think outside the box.

Retail, food, drink, hospitality and transport businesses across Yorkshire have already shown how major calendar moments can be turned into tangible commercial gains when approached strategically.

Leeds-based sports bar Toast, for example, successfully underwent a series of upgrades to boost capacity. To meet the growing demand, the installation of 17 draught lines, new pool tables, upgraded TVs and expanded staffing rotas has allowed the team to help deliver consistent Saturday night crowds, and turn the venue into a match day favourite.

However, opportunity requires preparation.

Businesses should plan ahead, understand their finances and identify any pinch points early. The right financial support can give SMEs the headroom to scale with confidence.

Spectators will spend quickly, but only where businesses are ready. That means offering contactless and mobile payments and enhancing the customer experience. ‘Phygital’ solutions - blending physical service with digital tools – are becoming essential, particularly in hospitality.

One common frustration is waiting for the bill. Paytech now allows diners to scan a QR code, order and pay via an app, and enjoy seamless table service. These systems can also encourage tipping through built-in prompts, while digital menus reduce waste and keep service efficient during busy periods.

Understanding customer spending habits in advance is also key. Payment data can help businesses tailor offers and refine marketing.

Some may benefit from short-term funding, such as business overdrafts, to invest in stock, staffing or themed experiences. This can help manage cashflow and meet spikes in demand.

In 2026, Lloyds will also make £2.5 billion in new finance available across Yorkshire and the Humber as part of a wider £35 billion made available to businesses operating and investing across the UK. At a time when many organisations are carefully considering their next move, having access to meaningful funding can make all the difference.

When the peloton rolls out in 2027, global attention will be on Yorkshire. With strong planning and ambition, SMEs can ensure the benefits last after the final rider crosses the finish line.

Martyn Kendrick, regional director for Yorkshire at Lloyds Banking Group.