Man United deal sees 36% increase in Premier League shirt sponsorship income

Premier League clubs have seen a 36% rise in shirt sponsorship income according to research by Repucom

The report shows that the Premier League has seen a 36% rise in income on the previous season as a result of Chevrolet’s deal with Manchester United, worth at least $70 million per year (€54 million).

The total annual income from shirt sponsorship for the six European leagues included in the report now amounts to over €687 million, an increase of over 20% on the 2013/14 season (€570 million).

Foreign investment is fuelling this revenue boost, most notably that from the Middle East. Approximately €160 million has been spent by United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Qatar based companies this season alone.

Emirates airline sponsors several European clubs including Real Madrid, AC Milan, Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal and it also holds a stadium rights deal with the Gunners.

Glenn Lovett, president of global strategy, Repucom, said: “The rise in foreign money in European football is nothing new however investment in shirt sponsorship is increasing more rapidly than ever. With investment in 2014/15 growing 20% over last season, the investment in shirt sponsorship has increased faster than at any time in the last 15 years.

“As such, we are seeing a greater need from current brands, rights holders and broadcasters operating throughout European football to better understand the benefits and opportunities this presents.

“Foreign investment is big business but it is vital to understand how organisations can benefit. Our approach to helping these key stakeholders understand the benefits is to ensure we provide both data driven market intelligence as well as consulting services to ensure deeper insights and relevant and actionable recommendations result.”