Manchester United's Commercial Revenue Gap with Liverpool Narrowed

Strategic Insights -

Despite being one of the most valuable clubs in the world, Manchester United's commercial revenue growth has been sluggish in recent years, while Liverpool has bridged the gap significantly. The Red Devils' commercial revenue stood at £197m in 2015, with Liverpool lagging behind at £116m. However, Liverpool's focus on business building and leveraging competitive success has led to a significant increase in commercial revenue, with a record of £308m in the latest financial year.

Key Takeaways:

  • Manchester United's commercial revenue stood at £197m in 2015, with Liverpool lagging behind at £116m.
  • Liverpool's commercial revenue growth was £81m between 2016 and 2020, a rise of almost 60%, driven by the club's competitive success and focus on business building.
  • The largest gap between Manchester United and Liverpool's commercial revenue was £152m in 2016, which has been narrowed to £9m in the latest financial year.
  • Manchester United's commercial revenue grew from £232m to £303m between 2021 and 2024, a healthy increase of 30% driven by long-term deals with major brands such as Adidas and Qualcomm.
  • Liverpool's commercial revenue grew from £218m to £308m between 2021 and 2024, an increase of 41% and a record high for the club.
  • Liverpool's chief commercial officer, Ben Latty, has stated that the club aims to be the most impactful partnerships platform in sports and entertainment, with a vision to partner with major brands and drive commercial revenue growth.
  • Liverpool has secured several major partnerships, including deals with Japan Airlines, Husqvarna, and STRAUSS, and will move to Adidas as its kit manufacturer from next season.

Statistics:

  • Manchester United's commercial revenue (2015): £197m
  • Liverpool's commercial revenue (2015): £116m
  • Largest gap between Manchester United and Liverpool's commercial revenue (2016): £152m
  • Manchester United's commercial revenue growth (2021-2024): £71m (30% increase)
  • Liverpool's commercial revenue growth (2021-2024): £90m (41% increase)
  • Liverpool's record-breaking commercial revenue (2023/24): £308m
  • Manchester United's commercial revenue (2023/24): £303m

Sources:

  • Sportico: "Ranking the World's Top 100 Football Teams"
  • The Echo: "Ben Latty: Liverpool aims to be most impactful partnerships platform in sports and entertainment"
  • Michael Regan/Getty Images: General view of Liverpool's Anfield Stadium