Sheffield’s hospitality sector experienced significant growth in 2024, new data revealed, surpassing rates in London and Manchester.
A recent report from Northern Restaurant & Bar (NRB) and CGA by NielsenIQ, highlighted a 2.4% increase in licensed venues across the city in 2024, exceeding the national average of 0.0%.
The thriving hospitality scene was driven by several independent ventures and high-profile openings such as the Cambridge Street Collective.
Berke Aliyazicioglu, 32, owner of the newly opened Crave Cafe on Ecclesall Road, said: “I chose Sheffield because it’s an attractive location with a family-friendly environment, it’s safe and there are opportunities to explore ventures here that you just don’t get in bigger cities because it’s crazy expensive, living in London was a desperate situation for us.”
He added: “In general, Sheffield is constantly improving and it has a lot of potential, it’s getting more investments every day.”
The growth, which has positioned Sheffield as a leader in the North, was likely driven by the city’s diverse hospitality scene.
11% of Northern Consumers were also cited as having ‘sufficient disposable income’ —a factor that appeals to businesses and prompts increased investment into the city.
In a statement, Siobhan Thompson, event manager for NRB, said: “The North continues to demonstrate strong resilience, innovation, and investment, which has helped drive growth in key cities
With a steady stream of new openings, evolving consumer trends, and continued enthusiasm from operators, Northern hospitality remains a vital and thriving part of the UK’s food and drink landscape.”
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Despite these findings, debate exists as to whether the hospitality scene has improved significantly in Sheffield.
Kamal Hussain, 60, who has lived in Sheffield for over 20 years, said: “It’s interesting because, If anything I’m seeing more and more restaurants and shops closing, it feels like everywhere you turn in the city centre something else is being shut down.
“I also have friends who own local shops that are being forced to shut down, which is really unfortunate obviously.”
While statistics demonstrate growth, the ‘tangible benefits’ are yet to be felt by everyone.