An Arsenal supporters’ group has warned that an increase in season ticket prices could drive some fans away from the club.
The Gunners have increased prices for the 7,000 supporters seated in Club Level by 6.5%, although the club say the rise is 4% and inflated by the rise in VAT, and there are fears that situation could be replicated across the board.
The Arsenal Supporters’ Trust says the increased prices are a dangerous move at a time when the adverse economic climate has reined in disposable income, and has urged the club to instead focus on maximising commercial revenues.
An AST spokesman said: “We are very concerned at the impact this will have on the fans at a time when bills are increasing, wages aren’t and some people are losing their jobs. It’s a big increase for fans to stomach in one go and for some people it is just closing them out.
“Some members have come to us already expressing their concern. They are worried that they won’t be able to afford to come to games. This is stretching some fans’ loyalty to the limit.
“Arsenal must work harder at securing more revenue through commercial projects so the fans do not have to pay extra. The Government’s VAT increase means that they get another £2 million from the club this year. What the AST would like is to see the Government support football clubs more too.”
A club spokesperson said: “We obviously take any decisions like this carefully. We have decided to make this increase at Club Level to keep up with the rising costs. A decision on the cost of other season ticket prices has not yet been made.”
Credit: http://soccernet.espn.go.com
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