How can your club deal with rising (energy) prices?

Prices of goods and services are rising; on average they are already 10% higher than a year ago. Sports clubs also face rising costs, mainly for their facilities, but also for canteen supplies, club kit, coaches for away matches and more.

Consequences of inflation

In September the KNVB (Royal Dutch Football Association) surveyed all amateur clubs to map the effects of inflation. The results are shocking: around 38% of football clubs fear for their survival, mainly because of higher energy prices. For a third of those 38%, survival is threatened within a year. Some clubs even say they will be in trouble within the next three months.

Higher membership fees

Many clubs are taking short-term measures straight away. Half of the clubs are lowering the temperature in their facilities and 35% say they will turn the showers down. Clubs with a shower policy are also trying to get teams to shower for less time. Clubs dislike it, but for many even a fee increase is unavoidable.

It's not just football clubs that are struggling. The chairman of Hockey Club Alphen also expressed concerns in a report by Omroep West. Last season the club bought an air dome to play indoor hockey in winter. The dome must be kept at temperature, so a cold winter will drive the bill up considerably. This will also be passed on in membership fees.

Generating extra income

Clubs are now trying to cut costs quickly to save themselves. It makes sense to look at the short term first, but we advise looking at the long term too. How can your club generate extra income? Could the pitches or canteen be rented out to organisations at times when nothing is happening? A more multifunctional sports park ultimately yields more and, with more visitors, may attract different or additional sponsors. You can also involve your own members, for example by organising activities at the club for a small contribution.

It also pays to invest in high-quality equipment that lasts a long time and doesn't need replacing soon. Cheap equipment is the cheapest option in the short term, but expensive in the long run. What is clear is that clubs need to make changes. Every club has different options: sit down together to discuss the best choices for your club.