Zimbabwe’s preparations for the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup are entering a potentially lucrative phase—not just for cricket but for the small businesses hoping to cash in when thousands of fans, players, officials, and visitors descend on the country.
Of course, there’s still time. The ICC recently confirmed 12 venues and the allocation of 57 matches across Zimbabwe, South Africa and Namibia for the landmark tournament – with Harare Sports Club, Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo and the Fale Mosi- oa-Tunya International Cricket Stadium set to host matches in Zimbabwe.
Visitors won’t simply be coming for cricket, and for Zimbabwean businesses that presents a significant opportunity. Hotels can fill rooms, restaurants can serve meals, taxi drivers can offer transport, and countless others can benefit from tourism related to the world’s premier cricket tournament. However, none of that will matter if businesses aren’t ready when fans arrive.
Cricket’s Biggest Stage Could Bring a Business Bonanza
An event like the Cricket World Cup being hosted in Zimbabwe can act as a multiplier for many small businesses as well as betting sites listed on bettingtop10.com/zimbabwe/. Cricket fans require accommodation when they travel abroad; they need food while they’re exploring cities; they need transport to stadiums and tourist attractions – and they’re often interested in experiencing a destination beyond the sport on offer. Here’s how entrepreneurs across a range of sectors could capitalize on Zimbabwe’s chance in the global spotlight.
Victoria Falls Hoteliers Could Cash in on Cricket
Zimbabwe has already earmarked land at the Masuwe Special Economic Zone for Tourism to construct the Fale Mosi-oa-Tunya International Cricket Stadium, which will host matches in Victoria Falls come 2027. The Falls are one of Africa’s most iconic destinations. Imagine a cricket fan flying into Zimbabwe for the World Cup, staying at a Falls hotel for four or five nights while also taking day trips to the Falls and exploring local culture and attractions. Accommodation providers with the capacity, facilities and services to meet international standards may be able to cash in.
Hotels in Harare and Bulawayo Prepare for Crowds
Harare and Bulawayo are well-established cricketing cities, with Harare Sports Club having hosted international matches for decades and Queens Sports Club serving as one of Zimbabwe’s flagship grounds. That shouldn’t be ignored by local businesses. There will already be hotels and restaurants nearby when matches begin, creating familiarity for tourists.
The catalyst on offer here is increased footfall. Just as taverns around Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria have become part of the Super Rugby experience in South Africa, Cricket World Cup visitors could provide a boost to restaurant owners in Harare and Bulawayo – if they have capacity when crowds arrive.
Taxi Operators Eye World Cup Windfall
While larger hotels and established restaurants have their place in the tourism mix, smaller enterprises can also benefit. Independent taxi operators could provide transport to and from cricket matches, especially if the fixtures fit around larger tourist attractions like Victoria Falls. The accumulation of small transactions from international tourists can add up to big business. That holds for guesthouses and self-catering accommodations that can cater to travelers, too.
Restaurants Gear Up for Match-Day Business
Food is one of the most affordable and authentic ways to experience a culture when visiting a new country. As cricket fans descend on Zimbabwe from around the world, restaurants, cafés and takeaways can supplement match-day business by positioning themselves as alternatives to stadium hospitality or providing space for fans to socialize ahead of big matches.
Think about it: every fan that visits a restaurant also needs transport to the stadium, somewhere to stay before and after their visit, and will likely purchase souvenirs or other goods while they’re in the country.
Zimbabwe’s Stone Craft Industry Could See Demand
Follow-on spending is a crucial part of sports tourism. Cricket will be the hook, but Zimbabwe will benefit from revenue if tourists buy souvenirs, enjoy local cuisine and stay for tours of its famous attractions. Craft sellers may find willing customers if they market their products effectively. The global fan attending a match at Harare Sports Club might arrive in need of a cricket shirt but leave with a stone sculpture or a locally produced textile as a souvenir.
Zimbabwe’s Tourism Pitch to Cricket Tourists
Zimbabwe’s shining asset in its tourism armory is Victoria Falls. The World Cup will bring fans familiar with the Chevrons, but ancillary spending across the country will likely be influenced by distinctive experiences such as the Falls.
A star-studded international tournament presents a rare opportunity to put Zimbabwe on the global tourism map. While the focus in the lead-up will be on sport, entrepreneurs can soon shift their attention to capturing a share of spending when fans come to town. Visibility will be critical. Promoting your business before prospective tourists begin planning could give you an edge on competitors once January 2027 rolls around.
With the 2027 tournament approaching, Zimbabwe small businesses are already making preparations. From crafting compelling online profiles to gauge the upcoming International rush, entrepreneurs across Zimbabwe can position themselves to make the most of the 2027 Cricket World Cup, even after the final wicket is recorded.
COMMENTS