Scottish Football Worth £820M, Supports 14,000 Jobs

Scottish football is proving to be an economic powerhouse, pumping over £820 million into the country's economy every year while supporting thousands of jobs.

A new independent study by the Fraser of Allander Institute at the University of Strathclyde found that the beautiful game creates 14,000 jobs across Scotland. The research was commissioned by the Scottish Professional Football League, Scottish Women's Premier League, and Scottish Football Association to understand the sport's true economic impact.

The numbers tell a story of growing passion for the game. Professional matches involving Scottish teams drew more than 6.8 million fans during the 2023/24 season alone.

The research examined multiple revenue streams including day-to-day club operations, supporter spending at domestic matches, and expenditure from international fixtures. This included Scotland's men's and women's national team matches plus European club competitions.

Women's football is driving significant growth in these numbers. Since the SWPL integrated into the SPFL Group in 2022/23, attendance has steadily climbed alongside commercial investment and visibility. Female players are also competing more regularly in prestigious European competitions.

The Ripple Effect

The economic impact reaches far beyond stadium turnstiles and merchandise sales. Football clubs serve as anchors for local businesses, from restaurants and pubs to transportation services and hotels on match days.

The Scottish FA highlighted how these economic benefits support crucial social programs in disadvantaged communities. Their Extra Time initiative uses football's resources to fund breakfast clubs and after-school sessions for children who need them most.

The findings represent remarkable growth from the Institute's 2020 study using 2017/18 data. That earlier research found the sport contributed £444 million to Scotland's GDP and supported around 9,300 jobs, meaning the sector has nearly doubled its economic contribution in just a few years.

SPFL chief executive Neil Doncaster said the report demonstrates how clubs and fans contribute to communities across the country. SWPL managing director Fiona McIntyre added that growth on the pitch is being matched by growth off it.

The timing couldn't be better for Scottish football. The men's national team qualified for the 2026 World Cup with a thrilling 4-2 victory against Denmark, their first World Cup appearance since 1998. When Scotland competes in the USA, Canada, and Mexico this summer, businesses across the country will see another economic boost from fans celebrating their team on the world stage.