Manchester United Embarks on Wide-Scale Cost-Cutting Measures
Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the owner of INEOS, has launched a major restructuring process at Manchester United, resulting in approximately 250 redundancies since his arrival earlier this year.
As part of this cost-cutting drive, the club has axed lunchboxes for matchday staff and slashed the number of programmes given to corporate fans in half. The move is aimed at eliminating waste and streamlining the business.
Previously, matchday staff were provided with a lunchbox containing a sandwich, cereal bar, bag of crisps, and soft drink. However, this offering has been discontinued, and staff are now offered leftovers from the food supplied to corporate fans. United insists that the food is not leftovers and that extra quantities are now being made for staff.
Corporate fans, who pay thousands per game to watch from private boxes, have also been affected. Instead of receiving a matchday programme each, they will now be provided with only five programmes per box of 10. United claims that many programmes were found in bins after games, leading to this decision. Anyone who requests a programme will still be given one, and a QR code is available for digital access.
Other perks for senior staff, such as pre-match parties, post-match lunches, and hotel accommodation, have been scrapped entirely. The club is also reviewing its usage of private chauffeurs and company credit cards, among other areas, to slash costs and create a leaner business.
The goal of these measures is to maximize the amount the club can spend on its playing squad. United officials were reportedly shocked by the perceived overspend in certain areas and are determined to make the necessary changes to ensure the club’s financial sustainability.
These cost-cutting measures have not been without controversy, with some staff expressing dismay at the changes. However, United remains committed to its goal of becoming a more efficient and financially responsible organization.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS have been implementing a variety of cost-cutting measures since they took part ownership in Manchester United earlier this year
United are set to axe lunchboxes for matchday staff are also going to slash the number of programmes given to corporate fans in half