Chamber urges Coventry businesses to gear up for Pope's visit

Business leaders in Coventry say the Papal visit to the city will bring huge economic benefits.

It has been confirmed that Pope Benedict XVI will visit Coventry in September as part of a four day trip to the UK at the invitation of the Queen.

The last time a Pope came to the city in 1982 it attracted more than 300,000 people and a similar number could head for Coventry again.

Louise Bennett, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said businesses should be prepared for an influx of people and potential customers.

She said: “This could have a huge knock-on effect economically for the city and the region. 

“With hundreds of thousands of people descending on Coventry from across the country and Europe, we will have to be prepared.

“It’s very good news for Coventry and the wider region and hotels, restaurants, shops and tourist attractions as well as a range of other businesses could benefit from this visit.

“Not only will the visit itself bring an economic boost, it will also put Coventry’s name on an international stage and that is something we can also benefit from.

“It’s important that we all gear up for this well in advance.”

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