City Hits a Six as Ashes Test and Extended Trading Hours Support Record-Breaking Spend

The 2025–26 NRMA Insurance Ashes series, coupled with midnight trading in Rundle Mall, has helped drive record festive season spending.

New Adelaide Economic Development Agency (AEDA) data showed the city recorded its highest monthly spending on record at $430 million, marking a five per cent increase on 2024.

Spending peaked on Friday, 19 December—the third day of the Ashes Test at the Adelaide Oval and midnight trading in Rundle Mall—when locals and visitors alike splashed more than $28 million across the city.

In short:

• The city experienced record spending in December 2025, totalling at $430 million.
• AEDA Chair Steve Maras said it reflected strong confidence in the city's economy.
• Traders also saw increased activity and spending, particularly during The Ashes, which ran between 17-21 December 2025.

A significant proportion of that increase was related to hospitality expenditure on Friday, 19 December, when the dining sector recorded its highest spend day ever at $9.6 million.

AEDA Chair Steve Maras said the figures reflected strong confidence in the city’s economy, with both visitors and residents demonstrating a willingness to spend and support local businesses.

“Whether it is enjoying a cold beer at the cricket or retail therapy in Rundle Mall, the city offers something for everyone,” Mr Maras said.

“These results highlight the breadth of experiences available in the city and show that people are choosing to get out, head to the city and support businesses. It is an encouraging sign for traders across hospitality, retail and entertainment.

“As we move into festival season, I’m excited about the opportunities ahead, with visitors supporting local jobs and helping to deliver long-term economic benefits for Adelaide.”

Retail accounted for the largest share of expenditure, representing 44 per cent of the total $430 million spent, followed by dining and entertainment at 30 per cent.

Spending on shoes and clothing rose by 10 per cent, supermarket spending increased by eight per cent, and spending on luxury goods grew by two per cent.

“With many flagship stores located in Rundle Mall and great shops in precincts like the Adelaide Central Market, customers are choosing to come into the city rather than shop in the suburbs,” Mr Maras said.

“That shift is critical for the health of the CBD, as it drives foot traffic, supports local traders and reinforces the city’s role as South Australia’s premier retail destination.”

Overall, dining expenditure increased by 15 per cent compared with December 2024.

During The Ashes period alone, dining almost doubled, rising from $17.1 million in 2024 to $34 million in 2025. Expenditure at bars and clubs increased by 16 per cent over the same time.

Cosmo’s Pizza owner Josh O'Shaughnessy said his Hindley Street venue, which is a Renew Adelaide initiative, saw an increase in traffic during the event.

“We could feel a buzz around the city with The Ashes bringing in large international crowds,” Mr O'Shaughnessy said.

“Hopefully, more large-scale events can be held around Adelaide’s West End moving forward.”

Three of Cups Teahouse owner-operator Tasha Lewis said December was a strong month for trade, noting The Ashes played a significant role in increased expenditure.