Sydney’s restaurant and hospitality sector is preparing for a major windfall as legendary rock bands Metallica and AC/DC bring their thunder to the city, with new analysis projecting a $90 million surge in local business activity over 10 days.
The music double-header begins with Metallica’s only Sydney show on Saturday 15 November, followed by AC/DC performances on Friday 21 November and Tuesday 25 November – marking the first time both bands have played the city in more than a decade.
According to NAB analysis, the three concerts are expected to draw more than 210,000 fans and boost total spending in Sydney’s CBD, inner suburbs and Accor Stadium precinct to approximately $424 million over the 10 days – a 26% increase from the typical $334 million spent during that timeframe.
“Concerts like this aren’t just cultural highlights – they’re economic powerhouses,” said Krissie Jones, NAB Executive Small Business. “That’s millions of dollars going to local businesses. There’s also flow-on benefits – more shifts for casual staff, more orders for suppliers and a boost in confidence across the sector.”
Restaurants set for 24% spend surge
The hospitality sector stands to be among the biggest beneficiaries, with restaurants expected to see spending increase by up to 24% during the concert period.
Fast food establishments could see gains of up to 34%, while bars and pubs are forecast to experience a 49% jump in spending.
“It’s been more than a decade since Metallica and AC/DC played in Sydney, and having both in quick succession will supercharge business activity,” Jones said.
Part of a bumper concert season
The concerts come as part of a blockbuster season for Sydney’s live music scene. Last week, Oasis performed in the city, while Lady Gaga is scheduled for December.
“Music makes Sydney go round. Last week it was Oasis. Now it’s Metallica and AC/DC and then Lady Gaga just before Christmas,” Jones said, noting that small businesses across the country are feeling positive and continuing to invest and hire.
The NAB analysis covers Sydney’s CBD, inner-city suburbs, and the Accor Stadium precinct, including postcodes 2127, 2140, 2128, 2144, and 2141.
