HAMPSHIRE companies are being warned not to miss out on their chance to join the stampede which promises to boost business this summer.

So far 17 businesses have signed up to be part of Marwell Wildlife’s Go!

Rhinos public art extravaganza that will see life-sized sculptures popping up in streets across Southampton from July.

But time is running out for those not yet part of the charge and with previous events in other parts of the country responsible for millions of pounds of investment, firms are being urged to act quickly before they miss out.

When Rhino Mania hit the streets of Chester in 2011 an estimated £16m extra was spent in the city and 40 per cent of all visitors headed their specifically to see the multi-coloured sculpture trail.

Rachel Vaughan, from Bank of America in Chester, said: “We have been delighted to be involved with Rhino Mania, which has benefited the city in terms of increased visitor numbers, people wanting to spend time in the city and that’s one of the best returns that we get.

“It has also improved the economy of the city, which has been a very positive outcome of this event and that has been appreciated by everyone.”

There is also clear evidence that businesses that sponsor a sculpture benefiting greatly from having their name associated with such a major event in their town.

Jarrolds department store in Norwich reported a 20 per cent increase in sales based upon their sponsorship of an elephant sculpture, while Pret a Manger saw a 16 per cent increase based purely on their involvement.

Richard Marks, general manager for John Lewis in Norwich, said: “Although many factors influence our trade it is perhaps no coincidence that John Lewis Norwich experienced the best increase of all John Lewis shops across the country in the final week of Go Elephants. It was very evident there were plenty of people in the city following the trail.”

The Pride of Northampton, which saw lions prowling the city centre, helped increase footfall at the shopping centre by 18 per cent during the event and Liverpool’s Superlambananas event in 2008 attracted in excess of one million visitors.

Southampton’s Go! Rhinos event kicks off on July 13 and promises to create a unique day out for residents and visitors to the city, with the aim of having the same boosting effect to the economy as those already mentioned.

The project is asking businesses to pay between £3,500 to £4,000 for a sculpture, which they can then choose to decorate with one of a variety of designs by local artists.

For more information on how to get involved call Kirstie on 01962 777931.