The infectious atmosphere generated by a European football tournament is always a reason to party, but even more so when the Three Lions progress to the latter stages.
Playing fellow home nation Scotland, conquering rivals Germany and the stunning performance against Ukraine in Rome ensured England would take part in the final stages at Wembley and increased excitement levels to fever pitch across the nation. International football at its best unites people, it is a celebration of culture and national pride, exemplified by ‘It’s coming home’, the undeniable soundtrack of the summer for both avid football fans and casual supporters alike.
A great opportunity for party business? PartyWorldwide.net spoke to a few members of the squad to find out:
‘Safe hands’ Stuart Wheeler at Party Delights confirmed: “We have seen a nice uplift, maybe not as big as normal under the circumstances, being slightly tempered by restrictions. Nevertheless it’s great to see excitement around the event, and a good boost both for party retailers and general feel good factor among consumers. Bunting hats and flags has seen a resurgence, perhaps good training the Platinum Jubilee next year.”
Julian Starns at Henbrandt was as ever ‘on the ball’, reporting: “We brought in stock for the event and it didn’t even touch the floor! It’s possible that some importers weren’t convinced the event would go ahead and were cautious – either way it’s been a great morale booster.”
Being fielded for the ladies team is Emily Duke at Amscan International, who said: “There’s a fantastic buzz! It’s great to see the nation come together and have something to celebrate! We think it has caught a lot of people by surprise and now there’s a last-minute surge in all things red, white and soccer. Fingers crossed we have the same momentum next year for the World Cup in Qatar… flags and bunting at the ready!”
Traitorous ‘quarter Italian’ Fran Hales of Bristol Novelty and Rubies fame added: “Our Gareth Southgate masks from the Mask-arade business have obviously flown out the door – a great reminder that facemasks remain a staple for the partying consumers. Flags and bunting, as you would expect, have also been big sellers – it’s galvanised the nation and kicked off the celebrations building up to freedom day.”
All eyes turn to television sets at 8pm this evening in the hopes of one further success before what could be the biggest Sunday since 30 July 1966.
(Commentary by Joe Cuffaro, brother-in-law to Rob Willis who knows nothing about football).
