Leeds United might face fan dropouts after raising ticket prices and increasing premium seating, says former Everton CEO Keith Wyness.
Wyness issued the warning during an appearance on the Football Insider podcast and claimed that clubs like Leeds are at a “tipping point” as player fees and wages increase leading to potentially excessive ticket prices for fans.
Growing Concerns Over Fan Loyalty
Wyness said: “If prices go up, the club could lose 5-10% of its fanbase every season.
He believes clubs rely too heavily on tourism to fill gaps left by departing supporters.
Elland Road Expansion Plans
Recently Leeds CEO Angus Kinnear revealed plans for Elland Road’s capacity to increase up to 53,000.
That will mean even more room for expensive seats than we’ve seen in the past, something that may well alienate some fans who have been around since the good old days.
Meanwhile, the news of some season ticket prices increasing by as much as 12% has already caused outcry, particularly following Leeds’ failure to achieve promotion to the Premier League.
Leeds have a season ticket waiting list of 22,000 and must grow revenue streams but keep the loyalty of their fans a much as possible.
Wyness says football grounds must limit incomes streams rather than passing the misery onto fans.
For Leeds United, the question remains whether this balance can be achieved without damaging the strong support from their loyal fanbase.
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