World Cup 2026: How Pubs, Restaurants and Takeaways Can Make Match Nights Count
The FIFA World Cup 2026 kicks off on 11 June and runs until 19 July. Hosted across the USA, Canada and Mexico, it is one of the biggest opportunities of the year for hospitality businesses. This World Cup 2026 marketing guide will help pubs, restaurants and takeaways in Cannock, Wolverhampton and across the West Midlands turn match nights into busy nights.
England’s group games
The good news for UK venues is that England’s group matches kick off in the evening, UK time:
- England vs Croatia: Wednesday 17 June, 9pm
- England vs Ghana: Tuesday 23 June, 9pm
- Panama vs England: Saturday 27 June, 10pm
Scotland also play, with kick offs at 11pm and 2am UK time. That creates interest in late night viewing and next day highlights.
Evening kick offs mean fans will want food before or during the game. That is where restaurants and takeaways come in.
Ideas for pubs and bars
Take bookings for big games
Fans hate turning up to find no space. Let people reserve tables for England games online. You can take a small deposit to reduce no shows.
Create a match day menu
Simple sharing platters, burgers and wings are easy to serve quickly during a game. Bundle food with drinks for groups.
Promote your screens
Tell people how many screens you have, whether there is sound and where the best views are. Photos help.
Check your licensing
Some games finish late. Check your licence and any extensions that may apply for this tournament with your local council before promoting late opening.
Ideas for restaurants
Not everyone wants to watch in a pub. Restaurants can appeal to:
- Families who want to eat before kick off
- Groups who prefer a calmer setting with a screen
- Non football fans looking for a quiet evening out
An “early bird before kick off” offer from 5pm to 7:30pm works well on match days.
Step Ideas for takeaways
Match nights are huge for takeaways. Many fans watch at home with friends.
- Launch a “match day meal deal” for groups of four or six
- Promote pre ordering so food arrives before kick off
- Make sure your online ordering is working smoothly and fast
- Plan extra staff and delivery drivers for England games
Marketing timeline
- Now: Update your website, Google Business Profile and social media with your World Cup plans
- Early June: Open table bookings and pre orders
- Match days: Post reminders on the morning of each game
- After games: Share photos of the atmosphere (with permission) and thank your customers
Social media tips
Keep posts timely and fun. Share fixture reminders, your match day menu and short videos of your venue getting ready. Avoid using official FIFA logos, branding or match footage, as these are protected. Your own photos and videos work best anyway.
Make it easy to book and order
The venues that do best during big tournaments are the ones that make it easy. Online booking, clear menus and fast ordering all turn interest into sales.
Frequently asked questions
When does the World Cup 2026 start?
The FIFA World Cup 2026 runs from 11 June to 19 July 2026.
When do England play in the World Cup 2026 group stage?
England play Croatia on 17 June at 9pm, Ghana on 23 June at 9pm and Panama on 27 June at 10pm, all UK time.
Can I use the World Cup logo in my marketing?
No. Official tournament logos and branding are protected. Use your own photos, colours and wording instead.
Talk to KIVEIN
Want to make the most of the World Cup? KIVEIN helps pubs, restaurants and takeaways across Cannock, Wolverhampton and Staffordshire with websites, online booking and social media. Get a free quote today.