Auckland businesses embrace RWC 2011 opportunities

MEDIA RELEASE

30 June 2011

Auckland businesses embrace RWC 2011 opportunities

Many Auckland businesses are making their play for piece of Rugby World Cup 2011 (RWC 2011) action through Match Ready and Business Club programmes, but there is still time for others to get on board.

Maximising economic opportunities created by RWC 2011 is essential for Auckland businesses maintains Councillor Cameron Brewer, chair of Auckland Council's Business Advisory Panel.

"With less than 75 days until kick-off, many businesses are well prepared and others are still working on plans to benefit from the expected 85,000 visitors," says Cr Brewer.

"Rugby World Cup 2011 has the potential to generate $267 million of direct economic benefits for the Auckland region, and we want to make sure every Auckland business capitalises on this one-off opportunity."

Match Ready, a comprehensive online guide for businesses, was launched in March by Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development Ltd (ATEED). The guide found at www.auckland2011.com/matchready has been well received with more than 6500 visits and almost 1000 registrations, and is the one-stop for businesses preparing for the Tournament.

"Match Ready is an extensive guide for businesses with valuable information designed to help Auckland businesses. There is information on everything from clean zones, transport plans and how to ensure your business is adequately staffed during the Tournament," says Cr Brewer.

"New Zealand Trade and Enterprise has just this week begun rolling out Auckland's Match Ready tool to the rest of the country.

"With a mix of practical guidelines on what can be done to ensure all businesses put their best foot forward, tips from other industry experts on what they are doing for Tournament time, and various networking opportunities and business programmes on offer, the Match Ready site is an essential resource.

"Match Ready is regularly updated with new information so it is important for business to keep checking back. Until you have visited Match Ready, you won't realise how much information you need to know."

The Business Club is another initiative designed to leverage RWC 2011 by making international connections. Part of a national programme, the club connects business visitors coming to New Zealand with like-minded local business people in similar industries after registering online.

"The Business Club creates an opportunity for businesses to make real contacts during Rugby World Cup 2011. Already 1220 Auckland businesses and 3600 off-shore businesses have joined the club after recognising the chance to develop international connections and establish relationships," says Cr Brewer.

The Business Club offers many potential benefits, including attracting new foreign investment and opening up new export markets.

Businesses wanting to be prepared or to register for the Business Club should visit www.auckland2011.com/matchready today.

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