Global Scans · Leisure · Weekly Summary

WHAT'S NEXT?: Online retailing will be one of the fastest growing channels between 2015 and 2019 as individuals do not have much time for leisure and seek convenience. Entertainment will continue to shift away from traditional broadcast media and print to reality augmented and deeply personalised content. The occupations with the largest new employment growth will be managers, professional and technical jobs, and caring and leisure occupations. Many middle-class professionals will be outsourced to machines within the next few decades leaving workers with more leisure time than they have ever experienced.

• [New] The development of metaverse-based leisure platforms could allow global audiences to explore European landmarks remotely, creating new revenue channels through virtual ticket sales and digital merchandise. Market Data Forecast
• [New] The convergence of advanced digital technologies with Europe's unparalleled cultural heritage offers a lucrative opportunity to create immersive and interactive leisure experiences that attract tech-savvy tourists and locals alike. Market Data Forecast
• [New] 74.8% of respondents plan to participate in ice - and snow-related leisure activities during the 2025-2026 winter season, while 50.5% expect to travel long distances specifically for winter tourism. TravelMole
• [New] The In-Flight Entertainment (IFE) business will continue its recovery, driven by Thales' innovative solutions for airlines such as FlytEdge. Finanzwire
• [New] By 2026, XR is expected to go far beyond entertainment, becoming part of many people's daily routines in areas like work, shopping, and education. IPv6.net
• [New] Based on a national survey of 1,500 active U.S. leisure travelers, more than half have already altered travel plans due to extreme weather; nearly 70% expect to do so regularly in the future. Morningstar, Inc.
• [New] Airlines segment RASK grew 6.4% year-over-year in the first half of 2026, surpassing guidance of 3-5% on stronger-than-expected leisure demand and commercial transformation. / Australia usfunds
• [New] The tragic deaths of the British skiers in the French Alps serve as a reminder of the inherent risks associated with extreme sports, particularly in the context of changing weather patterns and avalanche risks. Westbridge Insight
• [New] The global fantasy sports industry is growing at a fast pace and will continue to do so because of macro and digital factors. Troniex Technologies
• [New] As China continues to invest in its winter sports infrastructure, the impact on the local and national economy is expected to grow. Travel And Tour World
• [New] China will continue to foster the sports event economy. Big News Network.com
• Global women's sports revenue is projected to exceed $2.35 billion in 2025, up from $692M in 2022 - a 240% increase in four years. CMMedia by Carrie A. Mitchell
• The entertainment & gaming segment is predicted to grow at the strongest CAGR of approximately 17.38% during 2026-2035, driven by increasing adoption of immersive gaming experiences and virtual reality integration. GlobeNewswire
• SPORTS With major events like the 2026 FIFA Men's World Cup and the 2026 Winter Olympics on the horizon, businesses involved with major sporting events need to be more mindful than ever with regard to unforeseen risks and potential perils. JD Supra
• US women's sports media rights are projected to reach $520M annually by 2030, a 250% increase from 2024 levels. CMMedia by Carrie A. Mitchell
• In 2026, other European leagues are expected to authorize the use of wearables during competition, ushering in a substantial shift in how teams manage player health across multiple sports. International Business Times
• 81% of respondents plan to combine business and leisure travel in 2026. Insurance Business
• In 2026, Telegram groups and communities will consist of education, technology, sports, content creation, and international business. Ameisenhardt.com
• Leisure demand will be fuelled by the continued recovery of long-haul travel, with the European Travel Commission expecting visitor numbers from China to increase by 23% and from India by 9% in 2026. LEADING HOTELIERS
• Iconic franchises like Looney Tunes, DC and Harry Potter could receive sustained investment and development, giving families higher quality entertainment without constantly switching between apps or managing multiple bills. Deseret News

Last updated: 18 March 2026