Scotland set for Grand Départ, but how can SMEs make the most of the Tour de France?

Next summer, Scotland will swap tartan for the maillot jaune as Edinburgh hosts the Grand Départ of both the men’s and women’s Tour de France. As the world’s most famous cycling race sets off from the capital, Scotland’s streets and scenery will be broadcast to millions across the globe.

Based on comparable data from when the event was last in the UK in 2014, it is expected to attract more than 1.27 million spectators and generate over £45.4 million in economic impact for Edinburgh. For Scottish SMEs, this isn’t just a sporting spectacle, it’s a significant commercial opportunity.

When the Tour last visited the UK, around 4.8 million people lined the route. Hotels filled up months in advance, restaurants extended opening hours and independent retailers saw footfall surge.

That experience creates real momentum as Scotland looks ahead to 2027.

Getting race-ready

The businesses that benefit most will be those that think outside the box.

Retail, food, drink, hospitality and transport businesses across Scotland have already shown how major calendar moments can be turned into tangible commercial gains when approached strategically.

Edinburgh-based fashion brand Islander, for example, has successfully introduced seasonal collections and expanded experiential workshops to align with peak visitor periods. Similarly, the city’s craft brewery Vault City Brewing has leveraged limited-edition product launches to capitalise on festive demand, using creativity and timely innovation to stand out during competitive trading periods.

The opportunity extends well beyond the capital too.

Hospitality operators such as The Oak Tree Inn at Loch Lomond have invested in expanding accommodation capacity, positioning themselves to welcome higher visitor numbers during peak tourism periods.

Equally, St Andrews Executive Travel, which specialises in transporting golf tourists, is expanding its luxury fleet to boost operational capacity by 70%. Major sporting events often encourage international visitors to explore the country’s wider attractions, with Scotland’s world-class golf courses among the biggest draws. Expanding capacity ahead of the Tour is a timely and strategic move for firms like this.

Planning for growth

However, opportunity requires preparation.

Businesses should plan ahead, understand their finances and identify any pinch points early. The right financial support can give SMEs the headroom to scale with confidence.

Spectators will spend quickly, but only where businesses are ready. That means offering contactless and mobile payments and enhancing the customer experience. ‘Phygital’ solutions – blending physical service with digital tools – are becoming essential, particularly in hospitality.

One common frustration is waiting for the bill. Paytech now allows diners to scan a QR code, order and pay via an app, and enjoy seamless table service. These systems can also encourage tipping through built-in prompts, while digital menus reduce waste and keep service efficient during busy periods.

Understanding customer spending habits in advance is also key. Payment data can help businesses tailor offers and refine marketing.

Some may benefit from short-term funding, such as business overdrafts, to invest in stock, staffing or themed experiences. This can help manage cashflow and meet spikes in demand.

Bank of Scotland has also committed over £2.5 billion in new finance for businesses across Scotland in 2026, supporting investment in innovation, expansion and technologies like AI.

When the peloton rolls out in 2027, global attention will be on Scotland. With strong planning and ambition, SMEs can ensure the benefits last after the final rider crosses the opening line.

Commentary prepared exclusively for Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce.

Article to be attributed to Martyn Kendrick, regional director for Scotland at Bank of Scotland