Nanxiang InCity MEGA mall uses F1-themed installations and exclusive benefits to attract F1 attendees. [Photo/jiading.gov.cn]
The 2025 Formula 1 Chinese Grand Prix, held from March 21 to 23 in Jiading district, Shanghai, significantly boosted local consumption.
Over the weekend of the race, Jiading saw a notable increase in both sales and foot traffic. Preliminary data shows that 13 businesses participating in the "F1 Ticket Stub Promotion" reported sales totaling 1.12 billion yuan ($160 million), a 7-percent increase from the previous weekend. Foot traffic surged to 1.27 million, up 17 percent.
The event drew a record of over 220,000 spectators, with international attendees making up 15.25 percent of them – 60 percent of which traveled specifically to Shanghai for the race.
International visitors enjoy barbecue at Xiyunlou Block. [Photo/jiading.gov.cn]
Xiyunlou Block was a popular destination for international visitors, with its cafes, bars, and barbecue joints bustling with foreign patrons. Over 10 businesses there offered special discounts to F1 ticket holders, increasing foot traffic by 20 percent compared to the previous weekend.
"Some restaurants saw a 30-percent year-on-year increase in sales," said Wang Ting, Xiyunlou's marketing manager. "We aim to enhance Xiyunlou's appeal as a leisure destination through more such promotional activities."
Nanxiang InCity MEGA mall enhanced the race experience with F1-themed installations. From March 21 to 23, consumers who engaged with these features or presented their F1 ticket stubs enjoyed exclusive benefits. This attracted many visitors, boosting the mall's foot traffic by 15 percent over the weekend, with over 300,000 visitors.
Jiading also launched a car-buying subsidy program during the period, offering up to 22,000 yuan in combined national and municipal subsidies. This policy spurred interest and drove automotive sales, with InCity MEGA mall reporting over 32 million yuan in car sales over three days.