Ron Gordon has hailed the strategic action plan to significantly improve income to Scottish clubs from £28.4million to £50m by 2029 following the findings of the Deloitte review.
Aberdeen, Dundee, Dundee United, Hearts and Hibs commissioned an independent review into the SPFL last year and he believes the outcome will spark the beginning of a new era for Scottish Football. As a follow up to the report, an innovation and strategy group comprising representatives from Aberdeen, Celtic, Hearts, and Rangers have developed a five-year plan actioned to implement the recommendations and it has received the overwhelming backing of fellow Scottish Premiership clubs.
Priorities are to maximise income and growth in commercial partnerships and revenue while also upping the value of overseas rights which would see more matches being sold. Improving the brand and profile of the SPFL and the women's elite game and a sustainable youth development competitions programme is also high on the agenda.
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Speaking on behalf of the five clubs, Gordon – chairman of Hibernian FC, said: “We’re very excited about this strategic action plan which sets a new tone and direction for the SPFL and the game in Scotland.
“The proposed strategic building blocks are designed to grow our clubs, the SPFL, and the men’s and women’s game at every level. A more substantial and comprehensive broadcast partnership, a focused and robust commercial structure and team, an investment and commitment to the growth of the women’s game, and the development of our young men’s players are all critical to reaching our aspirational goal of £50 million in revenues.
“Football is Scotland’s passion - we have a dynamic and exciting league with historic clubs and passionate fans. The image and brand of the SPFL should reflect and celebrate the many positives that our clubs and league provide our communities across the country.
“I want to thank Aberdeen, Dundee, Dundee United, Heart and Hibs for their investment in the review, along with Celtic and Rangers for their participation and contributions in curating and refining the actionable recommendations of the study.
“Our thanks also go to the SPFL Board and Executive for their openness, receptivity and leadership in exploring and driving new ideas and opportunities to help advance, promote and grow our clubs, the league and our game.”
Neil Doncaster, chief executive of the SPFL added: “On behalf of the SPFL, I would like to thank Aberdeen, Celtic, Dundee, Dundee United, Hearts, Hibernian and Rangers for their constructive approach and their investment of time, money and expertise into this project, which will underpin the League’s strategy over the coming years.
“Their valuable work will undoubtedly enable the League to bring in additional commercial revenues for the benefit of all 42 SPFL Member Clubs and for Scottish football as a whole. It is an exciting time for the game.”
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