Premier League’s Growing Contribution To UK Economy
New independent research from EY has underlined the Premier League’s growing contribution to the British economy.
EY’s assessment of the 2023/24 season shows the Premier League and its clubs generated £9.8bn in gross value added (GVA) to the UK economy – a 21 per cent rise since the 2021/22 season and more than 14 times higher than in 1998/99.
The study also found the Premier League supported over 100,000 full-time equivalent jobs and contributed £4.4bn in tax, including £2.1bn from players and staff.
The EY study was published in the Premier League’s 2024/25 Annual Report is available to read here.
Richard Masters, Premier League Chief Executive, said: “Premier League clubs are proudly rooted in their communities. As the League continues to grow, it helps them further invest in their staff, facilities and local programmes that support millions of people.
“The League generates significant economic value for the United Kingdom and promotes a positive image of the country globally. But just as importantly, our funding supports every level of the game, from professional and non-league clubs to the Academy system and grassroots football.”
Peter Arnold, EY UK Chief Economist, said: “The Premier League continues to be a success story for the UK economy, generating billions in GVA and tax, with positive contributions extending to regions across the country and throughout the football pyramid.
“The League’s popularity at home and abroad creates jobs and attracts inward investment to the UK, while also serving as a significant source of soft power on the world stage.”
In 2023/24, more than 60 per cent (£5.9bn) of the total economic contribution was generated by clubs based outside London, while over 30 per cent (31,705) of supported jobs were located in the north-west of England.
Across the country, clubs are central to their local areas – supporting businesses, improving facilities, and investing in education, skills and wellbeing programmes.
Recently, the Premier League and West Midlands Combined Authority signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to work in partnership to improve the sporting, health, personal, educational and employment opportunities for local young people.
This will build on the work of club charities who engage 20,000 participants in the West Midlands each season through Premier League programmes thanks to £8.5m in funding over the past three years.
As one of the UK’s most successful cultural exports, the Premier League continues to project Britain positively around the world. A PACT survey of over 20 UK TV distributors (excluding the Premier League) showed that the League generated £1.7bn in broadcast exports in 2023/24, almost matching the rest of the UK television sector combined (£1.8bn).
Images: Premier League/EY
