Scottish football generated over £800m and supported 14,000 jobs in 2023/24; rising attendances and the growth of the women's game could sharpen home advantage and deepen betting markets — punters may favour home-team and match-goals wagers and increasingly back women's fixtures as liquidity and odds stabilise.
Scottish football delivers £800m boost and 14,000 jobs in 2023/24
New independent analysis shows Scottish football contributed more than £800m to the national economy in the 2023/24 season and supported roughly 14,000 jobs. Professional attendances across domestic matches exceeded 6.8 million, underlining the game's substantial commercial and community footprint.
How the economic impact was measured
The study assessed the direct economic activity of clubs, spending by supporters at league and cup matches, and expenditure linked to international fixtures — including national team games and European club competitions. The findings reflect both matchday income and the wider commercial ecosystem around Scottish football.
Attendance and club activity
Attendances topping 6.8 million drove significant spectator spending across hospitality, local retail and transport. Clubs’ day-to-day operations and matchday events generated a sizeable share of the reported economic value, sustaining local supply chains and seasonal employment.
International and European fixtures
Income tied to Scotland men's and women's internationals and European club ties further boosted economic figures, bringing additional visitors and spending to host cities and regions during high-profile fixtures.
Women's football shows rising commercial weight
Integration of the top women's league into the broader SPFL group has coincided with steady attendance growth, increased commercial investment and greater visibility. Clubs in the women’s game are now competing more regularly in European competitions, amplifying revenue streams and audience engagement.
Growth on and off the pitch
Rising crowds and sponsorship interest indicate the women's game is delivering both sporting progress and tangible economic returns, helping to diversify revenue sources across Scottish football.
Social and community outcomes
Officials highlighted that economic benefits extend into social programs and disadvantaged communities. Club-led initiatives — including school breakfast clubs and after-school activities tied to wider community outreach — were cited as examples of football translating financial impact into social value.
Year-on-year uplift and historical context
This result marks a significant increase on earlier equivalent studies, with previous research showing lower GDP contribution and fewer full-time equivalent jobs. The jump reflects higher attendances, expanded competitions and greater commercialisation across both men’s and women’s football.
Betting market and commercial implications
For betting markets, larger attendances and growing interest in women's fixtures suggest deeper liquidity and more stable markets. Punters might see tighter odds on home favourites at well-supported grounds and expanding markets for women's matches and goal-line outcomes, as bookmakers respond to increased demand and data availability.
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Scottish football is worth more than £800m to the country's economy, new research has revealed.
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