BUSINESSES
lee's Summit soccer celebration
prepare for summer 2026
The 2026 World Cup will bring approximately 650,000 visitors to Kansas City, contributing to an expected
$653 million in direct economic impact for the Kansas City area. This includes spending on accommodations, transportation, food, and other services. Additionally, the event is projected to support
73,592 jobs, with
6,746 annual full-time equivalent positions created during the event period.
LOCAL BUSINESSES!
MAXIMIZE YOUR BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES DURING SUMMER 2026
Prepare Your Business for Global Visitors
The 2026 World Cup presents a rare opportunity for Lee’s Summit businesses to welcome global visitors, increase revenue, and showcase our local economy on an international stage.
With an estimated 650,000 visitors coming to the Kansas City region, preparation is key. We’re here to help you make the most of it.
Let’s Showcase Lee’s Summit
This is more than a tournament — it’s a global spotlight on our region.
With preparation, creativity, and collaboration, Lee’s Summit businesses can turn this moment into meaningful growth and long-term impact.
We’re excited to partner with you.
Preparing for the World Cup
Increased regional traffic means increased opportunity — but it also requires planning.
We encourage businesses to begin preparing early by focusing on:
Staffing
- Plan for increased customer volume, especially on match days and Futbol Fridays
- Consider extended hours of operation
- Cross-train staff for flexibility during peak periods
- Prepare for potential longer shifts and higher demand
Inventory & Operations
- Review supply chains and stock levels
- Increase high-demand items in advance
- Ensure POS systems and payment processing are optimized
- Prepare for larger group transactions
Customer Experience
- Anticipate longer wait times and communicate clearly
- Train staff to be welcoming to international visitors
- Provide simple wayfinding signage if needed
- Preparation now will position your business to thrive during the tournament.
Sponsorships & Partnerships
Businesses have the opportunity to formally participate in LSGoal26 through sponsorships and partnerships.
Options may include:
- Futbol Friday event sponsorships
- Activation booths or vendor participation
- Co-branded promotions
- In-kind support opportunities
- Collaborative programming during themed events
Sponsorship participation increases visibility, brand alignment with a global event, and community recognition.
👉 Learn more about Sponsorship Opportunities here:
Marketing & Promotions
World Cup visitors will be looking for places to eat, shop, and experience local culture.
Now is the time to create:
- Soccer-themed specials or limited-time menu items
- Match-day discounts
- International-inspired promotions
- Retail bundles or fan packages
- Window displays welcoming specific countries
- Social media contests tied to match results
We encourage businesses to:
- Use official LSGoal26 branding and hashtags (when available)
- Promote participation in Futbol Fridays
- Highlight extended hours
- Cross-promote with neighboring businesses
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Creative promotions will not only attract visitors — they’ll energize local customers as well.
Health & Safety
The safety of residents, visitors, and employees remains a top priority.
Local businesses will receive coordinated updates and support regarding:
- Crowd management best practices
- Emergency preparedness guidance
- Event-day protocols
- Coordination with public safety partners
We encourage businesses to:
- Review emergency action plans
- Ensure staff know communication procedures
- Maintain clean and welcoming environments
- Prepare for higher foot traffic
Our public safety and healthcare partners will be working proactively throughout the World Cup period to support a safe community environment.
Transportation & Logistics
With Lee’s Summit serving as a hub for Park & Ride locations, businesses — especially in high-traffic areas — should prepare for increased vehicle and pedestrian activity.
ConnectKC26 bus services will require a pass. Details on how to get your pass and pricing will be announced in early 2026. Parking spaces at Stadium Direct park-and-ride locations will be limited and will require booking.
Consider planning for:
- Increased foot traffic in Downtown and surrounding areas
- Customer parking management strategies
- Delivery schedule adjustments
- Clear signage for entrances and exits
- Coordination with neighboring businesses for shared logistics
Planning ahead will ensure smooth operations and a positive experience for customers.
Review the official transportation details here: