Releasing annual financial figures for the year ending 30 June 2018 Chelsea FC recorded its highest ever turnover figure and a new record-high profit.
Coming after the club announced the January signing of USA international Christian Pulisic, which is likely to boost the club’s presence within the US market.
Chelsea’s group turnover figure grew to £443.4m from £361.3m, an increase of 22.7 per cent, as revenues exceeded £400m for the first time. The record revenues, as well as a profit on player sales of £113.0m, helped the club achieve a record-high profit for the year, after tax, of £62.0m.
These results ensure the club continues to comply with UEFA’s break-even criteria under the Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations.
Broadcasting revenues increased by £41.7m to £204.1m, primarily as a result of the club returning to the UEFA Champions League competition in the year.
Stamford Bridge continued to sell out on matchdays and, despite ticket prices remaining frozen at 2011/12 levels, the club’s participation in the Champions League helped achieve an overall increase in matchday revenues of £8.4m in 2017/18.
Revenue from commercial activities grew by £32.0m, following the signing of several partnership deals including with our new official kit supplier, Nike.
Chairman Bruce Buck commented: “The club has now posted a series of record-breaking revenue figures and our profit margin has increased in consecutive years. This has occurred against a backdrop of varying participation in European football, and different degrees of achievement in the Premier League, which demonstrates we have built a sound business footing to support our on-pitch quest for success.
“With our matchday income steady, despite not finishing in the top four of the Premier League last season, and our global fanbase increasing, we thank our loyal supporters as well as our hard-working staff and valued partners for helping to make a successful financial year.”
Chelsea FC plc’s ultimate parent company, Fordstam Limited, which is also responsible for the group’s non-footballing operations, reported a consolidated profit of £24.9m for the year.
