‘Best-ever’ Birdman launches strong sales

Around 6,000 people each day gathered on Worthing seafront to enjoy the internationally-broadcast event, and traders reported strong performances as a result.

In the case of the Mens Gift Shop, in Montague Street, sales had rocketed by 70 per cent on last year’s Birdman weekend – something owner Michael Smith was not anticipating.

He said: “It was a little bit surprising, as we have not seen the event make a huge difference in previous years.

“We had really good sales in the morning, it was a bit slow from 12pm-2pm, and after that it took off.

“We had increased footfall in the shop, and as a result, increased sales.”

Candy Love, in Montague Street, had a 28 per cent rise on Saturday, and 35 per cent increase on Sunday.

Owner Paul O’Brien said: “This year was particularly good, and it was very busy. I spoke to a couple of other traders, who also did very well.”

Popular café Parklife did not notice a change, however, although they did not open on Sunday, and are regularly at full capacity at the weekend.

Owner Mike Corrigan said: “It’s not a negative. It’s a great event for the town.

“We were very busy on Saturday, and I don’t think we could have done much more. But Saturdays are always busy for us.”

For the full story, see the Worthing Herald, out Thursday, August 15.