Birmingham City Fans BLOWN AWAY by Knighthead's MASSIVE Investment! But How Will it Affect Fans? #81
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- čas přidán 13. 06. 2024
- Birmingham City fans are in dis-belief at the amount of money that new owners Knighthead are ploughing into the club. After years of poor ownership and no investment it is astonishing that £15 million pounds is being spent on the stadium alone this summer in addition to the money already spend since Tom Wagner and Knighthead took control of the club in July last year.
But what exactly does this investment mean for the fans? In this podcast, we discuss the details, unpacking everything from the size and structure of the investment to its impact on St Andrew's Stadium and the creation of a fan zones. The impact of Tom Wagner's vision for the club goes beyond the pitch. Future investment has the potential to significantly impact Birmingham's economy and job creation. We analyze these possibilities alongside the concerns some fans have raised about potential downsides.
Join the conversation! Share your thoughts on Knighthead's investment in the comments below. Will it be the key to propelling Birmingham City to the top? Or is there a hidden cost to consider?
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Thank you both for the shout out that was a nice surprise. I feel like both of you that there will be a big increase in season tickets despite the fact we are in League One. Many like myself was not keen on supporting our previous owner who were the worst owners in our history. Unlike the old owners Tom and his investors are putting something in to building an income stream that will help support the club. You have to speculate to accumulate and that's why I'm investing back into the club on a more regular basis. Blues future has never been better. I am looking forward to when they fully take 100% ownership. KRO
Thanks Robbie! As I was speaking your comment popped into my head :)
Yesterday was a huge day. I was at the club shop for 10am in a decent sized line with the majority there for tickets. I found out this morning we sold 4,000+ ST in opening day. Best opening day for many many years. This is crazy for a club that's just been relegated. It shows the fans believe and trust the vision.
That's a good point you just reminded me off that they don't have full 100% ownership just yet. I wonder when they plan to make that 100% commitment. I believe it was a case of having to do in stages as dictated too by the hong kong stock exchange rules etc. I could have that completely wrong but I remember reading this around the time of purchase last year.
Very best, KRO!
(Matt)
I haven't had a season ticket for about 15 years and had petty much washed my hands of the club because of all that happened in that time. These owners have got my enthusiasm back, I probably won't get a season ticket because I'd miss a lot of games due to work etc but I'm prepared to get down more often and spend my money at St Andrews again.
Thank you for your comment Neil. I think that will be the view of many fans after many years of neglect by previous owners. Fans can see what Knighthead are doing and anyone who goes to the ground who haven't been for a long tie are in for a really nice surprise. We sit in the upper Tilton in block 15 so when you are at matches come and find us to say hello. KRO and kind regards (Gary)
Have just read on there's site they sold a record 4k season tickets in the first day, over 50% were not renewals too!
@@Neil_Neil_orange_peel yes, I put a tweet on our X page about that. It’s incredible considering we were only relegated a few weeks ago. KRO
@@SmallHeathAllianceFC myself and my dad are 2 of those. My dads not had a season ticket since the mid 90s m, where as I last had one about 10 years ago. Really optimistic for the season and future seasons too really feel this is the start of something special for our club. KRO
I think it's fantastic that so many blue noses are coming back and new ones getting the bug, the more the merrier I say, blue noses are a very special breed of people. But I think a thank you has to go out to the 12 - 17 thousand fans who were always there for them thick and thin, there wouldn't be a club now if they hadn't turned up week in and week out, and of course the incredible away support which to be fair we've always had. Just hope we can all pull together now and be hopeful for the future KRO
Love the format you guys have, I had fallen out of the loop living far away and not having any other Blues fans around, watching your podcasts makes me feel involved again!
Thank you so much for the kind words, really appreciate the support and it makes you feel involved. This is the whole point for us doing it, to create a community of blues fans who want to chat, vent or share some positivity :)
Very best, KRO!
(Matt)
As for increases in prices, it's tough for everyone but it's inevitable. They e put so much into the club I feel the need to contribute. We all love the club so just want it to work.
I've dreamed of owners like this, that engage with fans and develop the club and culture, create a healthy climate that attracts progression. I honestly can't believe we have achieved that, it's incredible, we are very fortunate.
Thank you for your comment Peter. I think that this is just the nature of football these days. If we want a successful team and a better match day experience then you are quite right, it is inevitable that we will have to pay a little extra. I must admit I'm so happy that Tom Wagner and Knighthead decided to buy our club. KRO and kind regards (Gary)
Birmingham City fans have suffered enough and thus deserve really good owners.
Like others, I’ve not had my season ticket for 6 years due to previous owners etc. finally happy to say me and my two daughter are getting tickets today for next season. So buzzing to be part of the fan base again, with decent owners, yes they may be after a profit just like any business, but they are investing as opposed to been asset stripped like previous couple of owners have done to us.
Thank you for your comment and I'm so happy to hear that you and your daughters are getting season tickets today. I think that people like yourself who are coming back to the Blues will encourage the owners and I'm sure this is exactly what they wanted when they saw the potential of the club and fanbase when they were considering buying the club. Exciting times ahead that is for sure. KRO and kind regards (Gary)
As you both said, raising revenue involves much more than just matchday/season tickets. Knighthead and the owners will undoubtedly want the fans on side and therefore won’t drastically raise prices, as their end game is a new stadium which will become a destination (leisure attractions, music concerts, England matches, etc). This new stadium will generate mega money for the owners. Great podcast, gents.
Thanks, Stephen, greatly appreciated :)
It shows how serious Knighthead are about making money, we have a new stadium in the pipeline and yet they have invested £15 million+ this past year on St Andrews alone. As you say the end goal is a premiere league team in a new stadium which will become a football village. They will want to generate as much revenue as possible during this transition and we are off to a good start with the season ticket sales (4,000+ day 1) and shirt sales. They are flying off the shelf :)
Very best, KRO!
(Matt)
NFL is where the mega money is and with Tom Brady involved it’s a very big possibility.
I havent had a ST since I left brum. Im now considering one even though its a 200 mile round trip. Looking forward to the season ahead.
Thanks for commenting, really appreciated :)
Wow! A 200 mile round trip season ticket when you include midweek games would be true dedication. If you do let us know and for that dedication there is a beer waiting for you on us! :)
Very best wishes, KRO!
(Matt)
Hi, Gary and Matt,
Very true I don’t mind paying the increase because of the owners are ploughing a considerable amount of money into the club. Obviously being in the third division the club will lose revenue compared to the Championship, it’s paramount we don’t linger to long in this league. KRO.
Thank you for your comment Michael. With the amount the owners are putting into the club I expect the stadium and match day experience will be very different so I don’t mind paying a little extra. Of course getting us a winning team is the most important thing as we mentioned in the podcast. KRO and kind regards (Gary)
Lovely video. I'm hopefully getting my first season ticket for this season. I just need to work out travel costs from the Forrest of Dean. I believe there is a Gloucester Blues club (thinking of coaches) but they haven't responded. I can always drive but I just don't fancy the traffic after the game and I can't have a drink at the ground.
Thank you for your comment Peter and we are pleased you enjoyed the video. Its great to hear that you be getting your first season ticket as well!
Why don't you see if the is a local supporters club in your area. That way you could get to meet some local Blues fans and share travelling on a match by match basis. KRO and kind regards (Gary)
it's amazing how these owners have brought everyone love back for the club broke records with the season tickets as you guys already know is it our time to finally rise from the ashes from the last 10 years looking foward to it and yes i understand why some tickets have gone up as you guys said they've made massive investement already gottta make the money back somehow until we move grounds and are able to have the big events they want which will bring money into the club
Thanks mate, brilliant comment!
"Rise from the ashes" is very powerful and true. I think this club is now going to move onto bigger and better things and I feel the 5-year premiere league target is achievable with these owners and the momentum we seem to be gaining.
As you say, when we move grounds it will change the landscape entirely. Bigger events etc will have a huge impact.
Thanks again, KRO!
(Matt)
Completely agree that if we want to progress as a club we unfortunately have to accept ticket prices have to increase. I’d rather pay a bit more and have these ambitious owners than pay the same prices and be stuck with the last regime 👍👍
Thank you for your comment. I think most fans will accept some increases as they can see how much money the owners are investing in the club. It would be a completely different story if the previous owners tried to increase season ticket prices! It shows how much the fans are buying into the new owners plans for the future. KRO and kind regards (Gary)
Hi guys Brian from Australia,really enjoy your show and find your comments And topics very informative and rational.so excited for the he new season.really hoping Steve Spooner keeps his coaching roll . To me he’s the quiet achiever.hope the new broom don’t sweep him away and replace him
Thank you for your comment Brian and its great to know we have viewers from as far as Australia. We are pleased you enjoy the podcast.
I'm pretty sure that Steve Spooner will be safe. He is going such a great job with the young players which is a big part of what the owners want. Also, I'm sure Chris Davies will appreciate the excellent work that Steve and his team are doing as he is very much from a coaching background himself. KRO and kind regards (Gary)
Really enjoying your videos on my lunch breaks guys! Looking forwards to the new season and hope your channel grows to where you want it to be. Keep up the good work 👍
Thank you so much for your kind words we really appreciate :)
We are really looking forward to the new season and saw today that we have sold 4,000 season tickets on the day of renewals and early bird pricing. Just incredible.
Very best, KRO!
(Matt)
That's great news! Really feels like something special is happening. Will be great to be part of it
Hi guys
I’d say season tickets are very fairly priced tbh, think mine works out at about £17 a game.
Some non league teams are charging £20 a game
Thank you for your comment Charley. I would agree with that. If you consider you are paying for 23 home matches it works out much cheaper than paying on a game by game basis, plus your seat if guaranteed. KRO and kind regards (Gary)
Also another thing to mention now I've watched the full video is that you mentioned about match day experience etc... I personally think what will attract more people to come to the club is basically showing it on social media because that in itself is the platform to make people want to come to the ground more and more. Social media is such a big influence for businesses because that's all it would do is attract, so I feel that would make a big impact for the community to come together more instead of going to pubs around the area.
Thank you for your comment Christopher. I think that will naturally happen once the work is completed. The club are bound to showcase the stadium upgrades on their social media channels plus once fans start attending games we will see a lot of videos and social media posts about the match day experience.
I personally think what the club are doing to the current stadium is amazing and myself and Matt can’t wait to get down there and experience it. KRO and kind regards (Gary)
Good show again lads
Thank you for your kind comments Kevin which are greatly appreciated. KRO and kind regards (Gary)
My dads from Birmingham(I'm born and bred south london) but I've been a Blues fan since I could see colour thanks to him and my uncle, and its been a rollercoaster but I still wouldnt trade it for anything. theres something so special about blues and the fanbase that you just dont get at any other club.
Like a lot of fans I fell off following the club while in the championship, it felt like the same every season, new manager, new ideas all that led to nothing. But with all the changes recently it feels like blues again. at least for me, being disconnected, not being anywhere near other fans. I even made the trip back to St Andrews after something like 15 years. I'm watching you guys, keeping up with all the news, I couldn't care less what goes on at other teams or in other leagues but I love the blues and I can't keep my eyes off the club for a second, I bloody love it.
And I'm glad you guys are so positive about the club, I am too, and i think we've had so much to be negitive about over the better part of two decades that making the most of all the positives is the right thing to do. Love the podcast, Thank you for keeping an outsider like me in the loop with the fans. KRO
Thanks for leaving such a lovely comment 😊
I agree supporting blues is nothing but a rollercoaster journey but we wouldn’t have it any other way and as you rightly say it feels like we have our club back.
Things off the pitch have been incredible this last year but now we need to really get the on pitch side of the club sorted and I think with Knighthead and Chris Davies at the wheel we have the perfect formula to do this.
Roll on next season. It’s going to be so exciting 😊
Very best wishes, KRO
(Matt)
Keeping this positivity is key, gentlemen! I agree we will break recent records in season ticket sales. Doesn't it feel good to be positive about the season ahead of our club, even with the relegation. Just shows how badly we've been managed over the last decade plus. The sleeping giant is being woken up!
Thank you for the comment Aaron. This must be a fairly unique situation. We are a relegated club but the fan base is buzzing!
I think what we are seeing now is a set of fans that are seeing what are new owners are doing and buying into the vision and journey. What a journey this promises to be and just to think 'we'll be there at the end of the road'! KRO and kind regards (Gary)
12 thousand season ticket holders last season already within two days of sales it's a massive climb 52% looking at renewal and early bird new season ticket holders 15k already 🤯 the sleeping giants of blues noses have woken up and on a massive rise
This season is massive for blues more cups to try for ect people are going to want them seats at Wembley with the priority of the season ticket
Got my Season ticket for 24/25. Looking forward to this season lads, KRO
Thank you for your comment Ashley. Season tickets have been selling fast in the first few days so it’s great that you have got yours. I think next season could be really special. KRO and kind regards (Gary)
Its nice to see a bit of common sense been spoke for a change, ive recently been a called "happy clapper fan" recently, even tho ive supported and loved the Blues, like many others, for over 50yrs and think Wagner is the best thing to happen to the Blues certainly in my lifetime. But bottom line is, Knighthead aint running a charity, they are there to make a profit and fair play to them. I personally are very happy to pay a but extra to have decent owners in charge. If that makes me happy clapper, so be it.
Thanks for commenting Keith!
I have been called over the top with my optimism from time to time but it's just the way I am. I remember my first blues game with my dad when I was 6 (1996 Barnsley) and I just caught the bug of football and the addiction to Birmingham City started after hearing that Tilton roar!
Fair enough we have had a completely diabolical previous 13 years but this club has provided me with many memories I will never forget and you just can't beat it. It's a brilliant club with a fanbase that is just amazing. I am so happy that Knighthead has recognised this and is actively investing serious money into this club.
You are right, this isn't a charity and as fans, we will be expected to pay more for certain things as time goes on I know times are hard for people and match-day is not cheap anymore but if we want a quality product on the pitch in the modern game of football this is what happens. As long as they don't go too far with it and we see what has happened at Wolves etc. I think the fans will always get behind the team and boys.
Very best, KRO!
(Matt)
Got my season today well pleased .l think season sales have gone through roof
Thanks for commenting :)
We secured ours yesterday. Thankfully we had no drama but I believe people have been struggling as the system has been going down or not working. 4,000+ alone sold in the first day which is just incredible. Roll on next season now!
Very best, KRO!
(Matt)
Higher prices and success go hand in hand ,iam afraid ....thats why man United- Liverpool and arsenal have the most money , most fans and most success .
If we want the blues to survive in the premier league, and SUSTAIN IT , that will mean more income coming into the club , somehow .
The owners can't massively put up season ticket prices , so they are trying to get supporters to buy beer , food, and merchandise,at the ground , its the only way it can be done .
When we move ,then the club will have multiple income streams .
Concerts ...offices ...other sporting games.
Because of their attachment to the NFL , spurs are now the richest club in London.
We can , and WILL be the richest club in the midlands , if it all pans out
Support the owners , they are trying to bring in the income for better players .
And they are treating all of us with respect
Thanks for commenting Andy :)
I think what you just said about sustainability and Premiere League is really key. It might seem a few years away at the moment which is understandable but when we do get there the owners don't want a yoyo club they want us to stay up there.
Love the insights and the optimism!
Very best, KRO!
(Matt)
@@SmallHeathAllianceFC - the club from b6 announced their accounts for 2023 - they lost £120 million ....so although they are well run club who this season , the maths say they cannot compete , with £500 for a season ticket and a 42,000 seater stadium ....thats the reality .
Thats why our owners are trying to get the fans to make more of a " day of it " when we play home games .
No team in the west midlands can charge £2 -3 grand for a season ticket as they do in London.
So our owners have to get creative
There’s a lot of positives and the ticket prices are fine but I think moving the fans from club class is a bad move. How much extra is that really going to make them?. Fans are the family of the club and family comes first. In my opinion the spion kop was our stand and where all the singing came from in the old ground. If I had my way I would send all corporate to the main stand and give the kop back to the fans. I hope they consider the history when they build the new stadium so it still feels like home not some modern Lego stadium like some that have been built.
Thanks, Neil and really valid/fair points! :)
People are rightly upset about this and it didn't quite sit right with me either that people would need to relocate or pay an extortionate fee when you consider people have made friendships and we have had settled families in this area for many many years. Football is a social thing just as much as it is getting behind the team and this certainly will hurt a lot of people and be upsetting. There seems to be a trend of this amongst clubs that look to expand or grow. As you say, hopefully, the new stadium will retain some of our DNA and be something special.
I think it will be...
Very best, KRO!
(Matt)
im 80 year old Bluenose the best investment for any club is a winning side just one bit of silver on the sideboard and sit back and watch the support flood in blues fans are starving for a bit of success
Thanks for commenting :)
Thank you for your service as a Blues fan. You have suffered a lot longer than me and my dad then 😂🙈.
59 years and 34 years can feel like an eternity sometimes but we wouldn't have it any other way :)
Totally agree that a winning side is a way to get bums on seats and higher revenue. They have made a tremendous start off the pitch but let's hope this is the season it starts to come together on it as well.
Very best, KRO!
(Matt)
born in Garrison Lane it's been a rollercoaster ride but I love it bluenose rule my day will come KRO @@SmallHeathAllianceFC
Think the most we sold was in 03-04 when we got promoted the first time. 18K sold then
Thanks for commenting Chris!
Wow, I remember these days really vividly. Sellouts every week, seeing Ronaldo, Henry and Shearer etc. Really were amazing times and I feel they are now becoming a reality again as opposed to a downward trajectory.
Very best, KRO!
(Matt)
I’d love to have a season ticket but unfortunately I live in Southampton it’s just to expensive to get the season ticket and then pay for travel up there every home game to 😢
Thanks for commenting Wesley! :)
Yeah, this is really unfortunate. Sorry to hear that you really want to get a season ticket but sadly price and location are big obstacles. That would be a crazy commute and would probably spend an additional thousand+ in Petrol money throughout home games.
Hopefully, we will have more televised games for you and we will continue to release content to give you some proper insights on the games!
Very best, KRO!
(Matt)
Cheers Gents ... RE: Season Ticket Prices I think Knighthead know this is a Working Class Fan base and they know We are not all minted .. So the rise is fair for Tickets ..
Thanks for commenting!
Good point and it shows we will get behind to team and owners as we've sold more season tickets on opening day than in the last 5 years - 4,000! Mental. What support considering relegation.
Very best, KRO!
(Matt)
These owners are not only the best weve ever had ,no offence to sulivan and the golds..they are set to be one of the best owners in the uk and europe with the 3 billion sports quarter and 62k stadium...were going to the top ,but be careful what you wish for ...we'll end up with many prawn sandwich fans as do all the massive clubs ...hopefully our hardcore still keeps our identity going forward...ive not had a season ticket for 7 years now ,..ive just brought 5 and also my brother has brought his first season ticket along with others i know ..its the start of everything for us i believe
Thanks, Mark! :)
Yeah, these owners are putting their money where their mouth is at least. Look at the investments since they came in. Truly amazing and this is reflected in 4000+ season tickets being renewed/sold on opening day yesterday for a relegated team. The best opening day of season ticket sales in many years.
Yeah, it will inevitably bring a lot of temporary CZcams fans and possibly wealthy tourist-type fans but the DNA at this club can and will not change I feel at this point we won't let it. This is such a fantastic club and fanbase and that is due to our roots and values and togetherness as a fanbase.
Even during last year's turmoil when things turned south and it got a bit nasty, it had an inward family argument vibe 😂
This is an awesome fanbase.
Very best, KRO!
(Matt)
If blues make the premier league I would more than happily pay £100-200 more a season to watch them.
It is unfortunate that this will price some people out, but I have no doubt the club and its owners will do all they can to ensure the stadium remains full and fans can get that match day feeling.
They have also hit on it as you have revenue comes from other areas, the fan parks if they work will be a great opportunity to get a fan experience without forking out a chunk on a season ticket
Thank you for your comment Nathan. It is likely that the more successful we get the more we will be expected to pay however this is not just our club that will apply to pretty much any club in the land.
I'm sure the club will try to do what they can to keep a decent balance and they will definitely want to avoid a situation that will alienate the fans, similar to what happened at Wolves recently. KRO and kind regards (Gary)
@@SmallHeathAllianceFC I agree, these owners are wise enough that bums on seats is valuable in more ways that just the revenue it brings in, so deterring the fans away by pricing them out won't be an option.
Ensuring there is a good atmosphere and the team is performing (both achieved by filling the ground) will have a huge effect on the types of sponsors we can get and the amount of money spent behind the bar!
Enjoy the ride while you can. Once the new stadium has been built and when we're in the Premier League, there will have to be a cost. There will also come a time when Knighthead will sell the Blues. Then you have new owners who may have a different outlook on how to run the club and putting up prices may not be a worry for them. I know that some time in the future I'll be outpriced , but until then I'm going to enjoy every minute. I have friends who are life long Man City fans, that no longer go to live matches as they can no longer afford to be able to.
I'll just have to have a Blues TV account when that happens.
Thank you for your comment Steven. I suspect that you may be right and at some point in the future the owners will look to sell. For now though we are looking forward to better times after many years of neglect. KRO and kind regards (Gary)
What if match day ticket prices varied week by week according to league position? It would encourage more fans to attend and to support the team when results aren't going so well. Of course, some season ticket holders might be envious but they would still recognise the potential benefit to the club.
Thank you for your comment. Blues have operated a category system for many years where the ticket price varies based on the opposition. Teams would be categorised as A, B or C.
The issue I see with your suggestion is that if Blues are doing well prices will remain high and there would be little cost benefit for those who may struggle to buy a match ticket. Also, if the club are not doing well it would likely be a big hit on revenue and something that the club would not be able to control.
As a season ticket holder I’m all for the club providing deals and methods of allowing others to afford to come to games though. KRO and kind regards (Gary)
Excellent comments. Just need a team to back it all up KRO
Thanks Jim! :)
100% agree, all the stuff of the pitch is amazing but if the product on the pitch is rubbish it all starts to become a bit pointless. I think this will change this season and we can expect some really exciting football.
Very best, KRO!
(Matt)
It feels like Knighthead are following the philosophy that you have to speculate to accumulate. This can only be good news for our club!
Thank you for your comment Richard. They definitely have an eye on increasing revenue and realize that they can only do that by spending money first. These are great owners and I never thought I would be ever saying that in my life time! KRO and kind regards (Gary)
Brought my first season ticket today, cannot wait for the journey ahead, KRO 🙏🔵
Wow! Congrats mate. Really exciting time ahead :)
If you see us down St Andrews next season, don't forget to pop over and say hello.
Very best, KRO!
(Matt)
@SmallHeathAllianceFC absolutely! I'll be sitting in the lower Tilton, hope to see yous around 👊
Great content again lads thanks and KRO
Thanks so much for the kind words Darren we really appreciate it! :)
Very best, KRO!
(Matt)
See what the stadium looking like 100 they going hit transfer window Hard kro great video Kro
Thank you, David, appreciate the kind words!
The stadium is going to be incredible when we go back for the first game. The season tickets are also selling amazingly well with the new shirts so it's nice that relegation isn't putting people off and we are seeing the bigger picture of what these owners are putting in :)
Very best, KRO
(Matt)
Matt/Gary do you watch the wrexham documentary? This journey here feels very much like what has started at Wrexham a few years ago. As you mention the key is getting a winning club then all things roll forward and increase exponentially. A key stat to take from Wrexham info is when Rob and Ryan purchased the club the average attendance was 4000 in the doldrums of National league with no hope and no real ownership. 3 years later sold out avr attendance of 12000 and basically waiting on them to build the new Kop which i think will add 5000-7000 seats which will sell out. If you extrapolate this info to Birmingham with the much larger population you could be looking at current avr around 17000 and if all goes to plan in 3 years that can get to 50000 based on wrexhams numbers. So it all makes sense on the large new stadium... but its all predictions at this point. the team has to do it! still feels very positive!
Thank you for your comment. I’ve seen a lot of publicity about the Wrexham documentary but I have to admit I’ve never watched it. I think a lot of people are interested by what has happened to Wrexham over the last few years and fair play to them.
Despite relegation our season tickets went on sale on Thursday and there was record sales on the first day. I think it shows that the fans are buying into what the owners are doing here. The difference between us and Wrexham is that the fan base at Birmingham is enormous and if the club can give us a competitive team the fans will continue to keep flooding back and the potential is endless.
It’s a really weird feeling but although we have been relegated the feel good factor and positivity at the club is really high which is because the fans can see what is happening here, something that fans from other clubs just don’t see at the moment. The future is very bright for our club and I can’t wait for the start of the new season. KRO and kind regards (Gary)
Hi lads just letting you know sad day for football martic sakic dies age 27 was hoping blues was going to be looking at him to sign as first team keeper after the loan spell he had at blues sad day indeed
Thanks for commenting Jeff!
I found out about an hour ago. Truly gutted. What a brilliant talent and only 26 years old. Everyone at blues is coming out and saying what a pleasure he was on and off the pitch.
Our condolences go out to his family and Millwall FC. Truly devastating loss.
Very best, KRO!
(Matt)
As always prices will go up but I think the most fair way to charge X amount of money for a season ticket is potentially go down the finance route so it doesn't make it a massive blow to fans when that time will come.
Thank you for your comment Christopher. We are blessed to be able to pay for our season tickets as a one off payment so I’m not sure if the club offer payment options.
I think that would be a good idea however it would add an extra layer of debt management for the club which would possibly require chasing payment on occasion as well as increasing the risk of a debt burden on the balance sheet. I would be I favour of the club doing this however I could also see why the club may be reluctant to do it. KRO and kind regards (Gary)
I think match day tickets, including season tickets, is not a massive revenue stream compared to other opportunities. First and foremost, Knighthead are a VC that are investing in a regeneration programme for an area where there’s a large business opportunity. Birmingham City FC is simply an enabler. Evidence of this would be aiming for a 40/60k sports quarter. This isn’t ultimately to fill a stadium with blues fans. It’s a nice to have and any possibility of this would mean keeping prices low. 2012 an average of 25k watching premiership football. If we’re aiming for a 40k stadium, it means a 60% increase in seat sales. The opportunities are bigger elsewhere in commercial investment, sponsorship opportunities etcetera. Tom Brady is clearly on board for a reason and it’s not “soccer”. As mentioned before, I’m not saying this is a bad thing for Birmingham City and prices will steadily increase over time. But their investment is a wider programme where they’re expecting a bigger return.
What Spurs are doing is aiming to have fans at the ground before and after the match, hence the large number of bars and food halls. Clearly Blues are entering the same strategy and a great idea. Makes traffic control a lot better as well as keeping revenue within the club. But I agree guys. They need good beers, ipa ranges, and not just cheap burgers and pies. We always head to the church for some Jerk Chicken. Would love her stand to be part of the set up.
Thank you for your comment Ricky. The wider strategy as you point out for Knighthead is far beyond Birmingham City FC and Knighthead made it clear that the Wheels site was identified before the purchase and was a key driver in pushing the deal through.
Whichever way we look at this as Blues fans we can see huge investment into our club the likes of which we have never seen before and we can see a much brighter future, however we should never lose sight of the fact that Knighthead are here to make money. If that means that the club progresses during the process then I don’t think most Blues fans will mind. One thing that is for sure is that we would be in a real mess with relegation under the previous owners. KRO and kind regards (Gary)
One comment I’d like to make was yes it’s great revenue for blues but there are some great pubs in town and digbeth, small heath that will lose business,
Thank you for your comment Dave. It’s a fair point however if Blues are doing well and constantly getting bigger crowds then that will provide more revenue for the pubs and Digbeth, City Centre and surrounding areas just by the extra volume of people as many may decide to not get to fan zones until nearer kick off. KRO and kind regards (Gary)
Yes you might have good away support, and so did Derby County, but don’t forget that some grounds you’ll be visiting have a limited number of tickets for away supporters. Revenue will be reduced on some of those small club grounds.
Thank you for your comment. Myself and Matt were talking about this the other day. Some away allocations will be lower than we would expect for sure. There is not a lot we can do as fans apart from buy the tickets available which we always do at Birmingham City. At least we will get to see some different grounds this season! KRO and kind regards (Gary)
@@SmallHeathAllianceFC Good luck trying to get back up to the Championship. It took us two years but we were fortunate that we had a manager that knew what it takes, had done it before with Rotherham a few times, and the type of football that it takes to get out of that division. I think you’re going to be quite surprised with the quality some Division 1 teams have reached. Some clubs have players coming to the end of their careers with tons of experience from higher divisions. The tough clubs you HAVE to beat to get up are obviously Peterborough, Bolton, Carlisle, and the upcoming Lincoln, and that’s not to mention those Championship clubs that just got relegated, and those that just got promoted from Division 2. Derby found that Division 1 clubs saw Derby as a scalp to take and they upped their game to play us. Mix all that in with Division 1 referees/assistants, some sub-par pitches, some brutal break-your-leg type players/tackles, and new Blue Nose players that don’t fully know yet how each other plays, and you might be in for a surprise, but good luck anyway.
Looking beyond the new investment I want to see a winning team which we haven't seen for years KRO
Thank you for your comment Robert. Yes, we mentioned that as well and it is probably the most important thing. A winning team underpins everything that is going on in and around the club. KRO and kind regards (Gary)
Birmingham Sports Holdings are our majority share holder. So, is it Shelby Companies Ltd only putting money in?
Thanks for commenting!
This is a really good question I believe they could only buy part of the company due to the restrictions of the Hong Kong stock exchange so although they are technically minority holder they will have legal things in place to have effectively have full ownership until the technicality of the full sale to go through in the coming year or 2.
I must admit I don't know all the fine print or the legality of it all but this is how many have interpreted it.
Very best, KRO!
(Matt)
@@SmallHeathAllianceFC Thanks Matt, I've not heard this explanation before and it makes sense why Knighthead are getting all the credit for the spending we're seeing.
I don't want to see a single half and half scarf unless it's Real Madrid 🤣🤣
As long as we don't lose the soul and the spirit of what the club is about and price those fans that have been loyal to the core and supported and followed the club through thick and thin.
I fully understand and appreciate success comes at a cost and this is something I have mentioned before and I know you both have too, but not a cosy that the most loyal fans who have spent and dp spend their hard earned money to watch, follow and support the Blues.
The Wolves season ticket rises were disgusting. I don't think our owners will do something like that (I hope not anyway) but if we progress in the way that they're mapping out with a small blip then we can obviously expect an increase in season ticket prices, I just hope it's sensible and sensitive or that they come up with some sort of scheme for those that need it. Loyalty should be rewarded.
I hope those moved to make way for corporate seating are looked after by the club.
I'm fortunate to have been to a good number of games in hospitality, sometimes paid for sometimes for free. Paying for corporate is something that I will have to think carefully about going forward.
KRO 💙
Thank you for your comment Richard. It’s true that the club will have to price any increases in the future carefully as they will not want to alienate the fan base and price loyal fans out of being able to afford coming to watch the Blues.
There’s absolutely no doubt that there will be increases in the future as the owners are hear to make money and as we mentioned in the podcast we don’t mind paying a little extra if the offering both on and off the pitch is better, however increases have to be carefully considered. KRO and kind regards (Gary)
@SmallHeathAllianceFC Very, very carefu with the expected increase in ticket prices. Like you, I don't mind paying more, I'm thinking more about others than I am myself. I used Wolves as an obscene example.
Fair play to Villa. I have a number of friends who support them down the road, who, after an unbelievably successful season last, have been very sensible and sensitive with their increases. They obviously have a bigger capacity (for now 🤣🤣) and a waiting list for season tickets, but my friends were more than happy with their respective increase.
I'm super excited to see all the finished work at St Andrews, but even more so, the players on the pitch!!
What a time to be. Blues fan. KRO 💙
@@richardpincher8936 it really is an exciting time to be a bluenose! KRO
@@SmallHeathAllianceFC KRO 💙
Just a thought..... my hope is that the increased number of corporate seats and prices the club will be able to generate the match day money through this and with the improvement to the General and overall match day experience of good quality and a fair price at the ground that season tickets and match day tickets will be affordable for all. So that way the club can grow how it wants to but keep the fans that make all the noise and create the atmosphere. That would be a very sensible business and football decision but then what do I know!! KRO 💙
I would love a season ticket but with working nights I would miss all the midweek games. Last season I went to 11 home games & 1 away game (funnily enough it was 1 of the 3 away games we won at Stoke 🤣) I just try & go when I can working around work & family commitments
Thanks for commenting :)
I think a lot of people share this problem. It can be tough for people who do any sort of shift work or night work etc. Good going getting to 11 home games. Fair play :)
We managed to get to the Stoke game as well. That was an amazing day. Nervous last 10-15 minutes of the game but 2 absolute wonder strikes from Stanno and Bacuna.
Very best, KRO!
(Matt)
Hi how do you guys wash your blues shirts and I’m asking as I don’t want to ruin them because of the material and the printing?
Thank you for your comment Dan. The honest truth is that we dont wash them that often but if we do it is always on a low temperature wash. It’s really easy on some of the kits for the logos and prints to detach and come off if you wash them too often and at a higher temperature. Hope this helps and KRO and kind regards (Gary)
@@SmallHeathAllianceFC Thank you very much. Much appreciated
All clubs owned by nation states hedge funds billionaires etc are being manouvered into a position to compete in european and world superleagues.Supporters will find some games against bigger clubs will be played in different countries.Income from supporters is largely irrelevant in the bigger picture of media coverage/brand franchising etc.Dont worry ya'll be playing Soccer 1 day.
Thanks for commenting James!
There is no doubt football at the top of the tree / elite level has sadly turned that way.
I even heard they just past or are going to pass something that allows one international game a year for domestic fixtures. Thankfully when the super league was announced the fans rebelling forced the Premiere League teams hands however that will only go so far. Sad when it becomes all about power.
Very best, KRO!
(Matt)
❤ to moral yes Saturday 15 season tickets yes up the blues win 🏆 and new players coming yes 😅😅 new top 😀 new season tickets 🎟 😅😅up the ❤
Thank you for your comment Paul. KRO and kind regards (Gary)
Hi the price increase is probably only £1 per match taken over the season.KRO
Thank you for your comment Robert. Also, if the club encourage us to the ground earlier, we will also spend more money there as well. It's really great what the owners are doing and although it might cost us a little more the match day experience will be completely different. Above all they need to provide us with a winning team. KRO and kind regards (Gary)
❤ yes it mi frtst session ticket 🎟 38 yrsss to day yes 15 June up the blues 💙 👌 😎 😅
Thank you for your comment Paul. It’s great that you have got yourself a season ticket. KRO and kind regards (Gary)
It's not even two days into the season tickets being om sale and we've already got 52% above pervious season on sale its crazy 🤯 we've got weeks yet 💙🤍🏴🇬🇧 up the blues the fans are backing the club more then the previous years this is insane to see now with our new investors showing us what we want.
Thanks for commenting, we really appreciate it :)
I heard today we have 4,000+ ticket sales on day 1 alone. It's amazing to see the fans getting behind the owners and the new manager. Let's get some transfers through the door with the window opening today and start to get some momentum on the pitch as we move into the pre-season.
Very best, KRO!
(Matt)
@SmallHeathAllianceFC I've already got my season ticket kop 40 and I'm taking my daughter down for her first full season. I've converted her into a blue nose from last season from the vile 🙃 😅 and she said she cannot wait for this year it's going to be amazing KRO 🤗