Nottingham Forest Faces Criticism for Steep Season Ticket Price Increase
Premier League strugglers Nottingham Forest have come under fire from fans after announcing a significant increase in season ticket prices for the 2024-25 season. The Nottingham Forest Supporters’ Trust has strongly criticized the price hike, stating that the average price increases are “totally disproportionate to the current inflation rate,” which stands at 3.2% in the UK.
The controversial increase sees adult season tickets in Zone One of the Brian Clough Upper stand rise by 28%, while child tickets face an astonishing 111% increase. The most expensive adult ticket for next season will cost £850, up from £660 this season, while the cheapest ticket has risen from £465 to £550. The Supporters’ Trust argues that these extreme price increases, amid an ongoing cost of living crisis, will have a significant impact on loyal fans and may result in many being unable to renew their season tickets.
The lack of consistency in the percentage increases across different sections of the ground has also raised eyebrows among supporters. The decision appears arbitrary, with no logical or rational explanation provided by the club. This lack of transparency has further fueled dissatisfaction among fans.
Nottingham Forest’s total revenue for 2023 was £155m, with matchday income accounting for £11m. In comparison, Manchester United recorded the highest matchday income of £136m in the 2022-23 season. While Forest acknowledges that their season card pricing has been relatively affordable compared to other Premier League clubs, they argue that financial growth is essential to remain competitive, particularly in light of forthcoming squad cost ratio rules that will cap spending as a percentage of club revenues.
Forest chairman Tom Cartledge defended the price increase, stating that the club aspires to keep their season cards among the most affordable in the league. Despite the backlash, Forest maintains that their prices still offer good value for money, as evidenced by the fact that they have an 11,000-person waiting list for season tickets. The club also announced a 50% increase in renewals compared to the same period last year.
However, Nottingham Forest is not the only club facing criticism for increasing season ticket prices. Liverpool recently faced backlash after raising their prices by 2%, resulting in fan protests where flags were not displayed during a Europa League match. Similarly, Tottenham Hotspur faced disappointment from their supporters’ trust when they announced a 6% increase in season ticket prices. Brighton and Brentford have also implemented price hikes for their season tickets.
The issue of rising ticket prices continues to be a contentious one in football. While clubs argue that they need to generate revenue to remain competitive, fans believe that affordability and accessibility should be prioritized. The ongoing debate highlights the delicate balance between financial sustainability and fan loyalty that clubs must navigate.