Scottish Football Fuels Economy with Over £820 Million Impact

Scottish football has made a significant impact on the national economy, contributing more than £820 million during the 2023/24 season, according to a report by the Fraser of Allander Institute. This figure encompasses spending by fans, highlighting the importance of both men’s and women’s games, as well as the national teams. When spectator-related expenditure is excluded, the direct economic contribution of football stands at £545 million, which supports approximately 9,245 full-time jobs. This number rises to 14,315 when including matchday spending.

Attendance at professional matches involving Scottish teams reached over 6.8 million during the 2023/24 season. This research was commissioned by the Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL), the Scottish Women’s Premier League (SWPL), and the Scottish Football Association (SFA), and was conducted independently by the Glasgow-based economic think tank.

In-Depth Analysis of Football’s Economic Role

The report examined the economic impact of football through the operational activities of clubs and the spending habits of supporters attending domestic league and cup matches. It also considered expenditures related to international fixtures, including matches involving the men’s and women’s national teams and European club competitions. Researchers analysed club accounts, revenue streams, and operational spending, supplemented by detailed case studies from various clubs.

According to the findings, the total turnover of the Scottish football sector during the season was £426 million. Football accounts for approximately 20% of the direct gross value added (GVA) produced by Scotland’s sports and recreation sector.

Neil Doncaster, group chief executive of the SPFL, stated that the report underscores football’s significant economic contribution to local communities. “This new research underlines the hugely significant economic contribution of our clubs and fans right across the country,” he remarked.

The study also highlights the growing economic importance of women’s football, particularly since the integration of the SWPL into the SPFL Group in the 2022/23 season. Fiona McIntyre, managing director of the SWPL, expressed enthusiasm over the report’s findings. “It’s extremely encouraging to see independent research clearly demonstrating the positive economic impact of both the men’s and women’s game in Scotland,” she said, noting the rise in attendances and commercial interest.

Comparative Insights and Future Prospects

These findings represent a notable increase compared to a previous study focused on the SPFL, published in 2020 using data from the 2017/18 season. That earlier report estimated that SPFL clubs and spectator spending contributed £444 million to Scotland’s GDP and supported around 9,300 full-time equivalent jobs.

The Scottish FA highlighted that the economic benefits identified in the report extend to broader social outcomes, particularly in disadvantaged communities. Chief executive Ian Maxwell pointed out initiatives such as the Extra Time programme, which provides breakfast clubs and after-school care for children. “As the national association, we see how this economic benefit drives social impact,” Maxwell stated, emphasizing the significant positive influence football clubs and their supporters have across Scotland.

Sports minister Maree Todd welcomed the report’s findings, expressing interest in expanding the economic contributions of football. “Our national sport has a positive impact right across Scotland, and it’s very helpful to see how it also makes a major contribution to the Scottish economy,” she said.

The announcement comes as Scottish football anticipates further international exposure, with the men’s national team set to participate in the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. While the tournament will take place overseas, organizers and local businesses expect associated travel, broadcasting, and fan engagement to generate additional economic benefits domestically.

The Fraser of Allander Institute clarified that the purpose of this research was to provide evidence rather than advocate for specific outcomes. Professor Mairi Spowage, the director of the Institute, noted that the findings underscore football’s influence beyond the pitch. “Football supports substantial levels of economic activity and employment across the country,” she said, reinforcing the importance of understanding professional football’s role within Scotland’s broader economy.