Students and their families attending Sheffield Hallam University graduation ceremonies have generated £3.4m for city centre businesses.
The figure has been revealed as the University’s annual graduation fortnight draws to a close. More than 31,000 guests accompanied 8,400 students to 34 ceremonies held at Ponds Forge during the graduation programme.
Academics in the University’s Sheffield Business School calculated the significant benefit to the city’s economy based on estimates that over 75 per cent of graduates and their guests had a celebratory meal out in Sheffield with approximately 50 per cent staying the night in a local hotel.
Professor Sir Chris Husbands, vice-chancellor, Sheffield Hallam University, said: “This year’s graduation ceremonies have been a huge success and I would like to thank everyone who contributed to making them so special for graduates and their families.
“It is always a delight for me to chat to attendees before and after the ceremonies, and to understand just how important graduation, and the University, is to them. I wish them the very best for what the future holds.”
