Post by: Toronto Villa on May 17, 2023, 05:59:40 PM
https://twitter.com/avfcofficial/status/1658877698783969289?s=46&t=0-BUXD66ovTcofwrbTW4Ag
Quote
V Sports and Aston Villa are delighted to announce the appointment of Chris Heck as the Group’s new President of Business Operations.
Chris Heck brings over 30 years of sports industry experience to the Club, including his most recent role as President of the National Basketball Association franchise the Philadelphia 76ers. Prior to his time with the 76ers, he held leadership roles at Major League Soccer’s New York Red Bulls and the National Basketball Association. He will report to Aston Villa ownership, Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens, and have full responsibility for all business and commercial matters.
Nassef Sawiris, Chairman of AVFC said: “We are excited to have Chris joining us as President of Business Operations. Consistent with our philosophy on the pitch, we have brought in world class talent off the pitch to help us continue our growth. Chris’ arrival will further establish Villa as a global leader in sport and enhance the fan experience.”
Mr. Heck said: “Villa’s storied history and impressive fanbase is something I’ve always admired from my sports career in the US. I look forward to becoming a part of this community and furthering the great legacy of this team and its fans.”
Chris will assume his duties effective immediately.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on May 17, 2023, 06:12:03 PM
Quote
and have full responsibility for all business and commercial matters.
I wonder where that leaves Purslow.
Post by: Toronto Villa on May 17, 2023, 06:15:37 PM
Quoteand have full responsibility for all business and commercial matters.
I wonder where that leaves Purslow.
I think Purslow has a role to play but maybe more domestically. Given this is a V Sports appointment as much Aston Villa, this to me sounds more growing our global brand. Commercially we have done ok but clearly lag behind several clubs we should be ahead of. And especially as we embark upon stadium expansion and hopefully European football next season, we need greater presence and revenue streams.
Post by: Drummond on May 17, 2023, 06:26:05 PM
Quoteand have full responsibility for all business and commercial matters.
I wonder where that leaves Purslow.
Running the Villa. V Sports is now here, in Portugal, Egypt and hopefully the USA in Vegas. Global partners will do us the world of good commercially, won't it?
Post by: eamonn on May 17, 2023, 06:26:50 PM
Post by: tomd2103 on May 17, 2023, 06:26:56 PM
"Like many NBA franchises, the Sixers have grown considerably in value over the last decade, which Heck has as his proudest achievement. “The business side of me is going to say we took a $300 million franchise and made it $2.7 billion in worth over a nine-year period, which has never been done".
I think it's pretty clear he has been brought in to try and propel us into the top reaches of the league off the field.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on May 17, 2023, 06:34:04 PM
Post by: Toronto Villa on May 17, 2023, 07:06:47 PM
As this is a group appointment I wonder whether Purslow just got himself a new boss.
That’s how it looks to me. Heck sets global commercial strategy, Purslow operates domestically and oversees more the business side of Aston Villa which is a critical function. He ultimately benefits from this because he likely didn’t have the “bandwidth” to grow us as aggressively as we need to.
Post by: Des Little on May 17, 2023, 07:45:11 PM
Post by: Gareth on May 17, 2023, 07:49:53 PM
Shame we have got someone in who will grow the brand / marketing etc at the time that we have jumped into bed with a scummy betting firm again, particularly if it is for 3 years as was talked about…hardly a tier 1 sponsor if we are aiming for the top table
Post by: dave.woodhall on May 17, 2023, 07:58:31 PM
I won’t be impressed until he buys a round for everyone in the Barton’s.
Lerner and Krulak never did. Who bloody told them about the place anyway?
Post by: Nev on May 17, 2023, 08:01:14 PM
I won’t be impressed until he buys a round for everyone in the Barton’s.
I'll bet he walks in and gets served straight away after I've been waiting 25 minutes.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on May 17, 2023, 08:51:32 PM
https://www.crossingbroad.com/2023/05/chris-heck-lands-job-with-premier-leagues-aston-villa.html
Quote
Aston Villa is a great club. Lots of history. Blue collar supporters from a blue collar steel town in Birmingham.
Post by: olaftab on May 17, 2023, 08:54:30 PM
Post by: ChicagoLion on May 17, 2023, 10:43:47 PM
It leaves Purslow out the door fairly soon.Quoteand have full responsibility for all business and commercial matters.
I wonder where that leaves Purslow.
Post by: not3bad on May 18, 2023, 10:46:28 AM
Post by: Brend'Watkins on May 18, 2023, 11:06:34 AM
I love America.
https://www.crossingbroad.com/2023/05/chris-heck-lands-job-with-premier-leagues-aston-villa.htmlQuoteAston Villa is a great club. Lots of history. Blue collar supporters from a blue collar steel town in Birmingham.
He got the Blue collar bit right....if he was referring to out early 70's kit.
Post by: Monty on May 18, 2023, 11:12:04 AM
Post by: Toronto Villa on May 18, 2023, 12:24:28 PM
I just can't believe his name is actually 'Heck'.
Oh yeh. He’s got “what the heck” all through his life.
Post by: DennisHodgetts on May 18, 2023, 12:33:40 PM
Post by: Monty on May 18, 2023, 01:01:08 PM
Post by: DeKuip on May 18, 2023, 01:53:37 PM
I don’t suppose any extra revenue he brings in will go towards offering catering staff better wages though.
Post by: tomd2103 on May 18, 2023, 01:55:20 PM
For all the moaning from Spurs fans, they have had a poor season but are still in the hunt to finish 6th. Leicester have had a poor season and look likely to get relegated and West Ham have been in the relegation picture all season. We need to take that next step to become the kind of club who can have a blip of a season and still finish well inside the top half or just continue seamlessly when a manager leaves rather than the whole club falling apart and taking the best part of a decade to recover.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on May 18, 2023, 06:50:36 PM
Like a Martin Amis Yank caricature.
And Kenny Jacket as the honest but credulous British football manager that gets caught up in Heck's murky personal life.
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on May 18, 2023, 07:17:50 PM
Quoteand have full responsibility for all business and commercial matters.
I wonder where that leaves Purslow.
He could become Steven Gerrards agent.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on May 18, 2023, 07:25:14 PM
I just can't believe his name is actually 'Heck'.
Oh yeh. He’s got “what the heck” all through his life.
He's had it easy, there was a guy in our New York office called Randy Yanker.
Post by: Footy-Vill on May 19, 2023, 07:12:19 PM
I mean it would make sense as only one of them have come in
Post by: Brazilian Villain on May 19, 2023, 07:15:49 PM
This Heck man maybe is the Almery substitute as it were? Overseeing a similar role.
I mean it would make sense as only one of them have come in
No, totally different roles.
Post by: Footy-Vill on May 19, 2023, 09:11:22 PM
Post by: Toronto Villa on May 19, 2023, 10:13:10 PM
Post by: ChicagoLion on May 19, 2023, 10:16:30 PM
Fucking hell. Now we are after Americans. Will they need to be Spanish speaking Americans?Well there are theories and bat shit crazy theories or there is just trolling.
Post by: Ducksworthy on May 19, 2023, 10:18:32 PM
Fucking hell. Now we are after Americans. Will they need to be Spanish speaking Americans?Well there are theories and bat shit crazy theories or there is just trolling.
I was going to say it’s getting towards performance art at this stage
Post by: Percy McCarthy on May 19, 2023, 11:02:43 PM
Post by: Footy-Vill on May 19, 2023, 11:37:52 PM
Transfers can be considered business transactions.
And the signings will bring commercial value, so I expect him to put forward ideas and players for commercial reasons.
Football, at its core, is a business.
Post by: Footy-Vill on May 19, 2023, 11:43:52 PM
Fucking hell. Now we are after Americans. Will they need to be Spanish speaking Americans?
And don't know what your gripe is TV?
We have USA and Spain connections so there's a connection there and a likely influence.
Heck will be under instructions to grow Villa in Americas market. Villa will look to the Americans North and South I summise.
Villa play a summer series and that's a commercial move so it's already begun.
Post by: Hillbilly on May 20, 2023, 12:14:22 AM
Fucking hell. Now we are after Americans. Will they need to be Spanish speaking Americans?
Our World Cup winning goalkeeper says ‘Hola’.
Post by: ChicagoLion on May 20, 2023, 09:57:11 AM
There is a complete disconnect in your logic but you apparently can’t see that.Fucking hell. Now we are after Americans. Will they need to be Spanish speaking Americans?
And don't know what your gripe is TV?
We have USA and Spain connections so there's a connection there and a likely influence.
Heck will be under instructions to grow Villa in Americas market. Villa will look to the Americans North and South I summise.
Villa play a summer series and that's a commercial move so it's already begun.
Post by: Risso on May 20, 2023, 10:52:05 AM
Well I imagine Heck will have some input and we could be in for some Americans. He has knowledge of the MLS so on a crossover. I mean We signed Duran even before Heck came in and can see a couple more Latin and South Americans based players from the MLS coming in.
No, completely different roles and he’s not even from a football background. He’s here to take control of commercial interests, not be a director of football or anything similar. Sawiris has also said they’re still looking for an Almery type appointment now that he’s decided to stay at Barcelona.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on May 20, 2023, 10:55:53 AM
Post by: ChicagoLion on May 20, 2023, 11:07:09 AM
There's no point explaining it, Risso, he's clearly just on a wind up.Yep.
Post by: Footy-Vill on May 20, 2023, 01:20:27 PM
Yes move on and stop your nonsense too! It happens frequently these mindless accusations is it because I have a different viewpoint or have considered something that they haven't?There's no point explaining it, Risso, he's clearly just on a wind up.Yep.
Let's just put our differences aside and watch what develops over time, I just hunch Villa will make other MLS transfers.
Post by: Toronto Villa on May 20, 2023, 01:32:55 PM
Post by: Footy-Vill on May 20, 2023, 01:58:01 PM
Footy - You make shit up constantly and consume almost every thread. That’s what people object to and find massively irritating. You take links from the shittest of sources when it comes to transfers and frequently add 2+2 and get any number not 4. Heck has nothing to with transfers but suddenly his US heritage means we are going to get US players. How many Egyptians have we bought because of Nas? Or Americans because of Edens? You seem like a decent bloke but you consume the oxygen out of so many conversations because of the rabbit holes you almost intentionally take the conversations down. Stop doing that and people won’t think you’re on a wind up and will take what you say more seriously.
That is up to the reader's interpretation. And your personal findings and views seem critical.
And we are permitted to post original thought and ideas?
Also, while I do my best to stay football-related and on topic, are you judgmental of other posters' consuming threads of non-Villa, non football-related, or off topic-related content?
No you don't seem so . As do some others here.
Let's move on from this.
I have theories and hypotheses and get some have issue with this.
What can I do ? No more theories? We all have our theories.
Debate and discussion are welcome, and ones own personal viewpoint is what the forum is all about in my view. Perhaps those who are disgruntled view it differently and that they take exception to people who don't fit in with their way of thinking or they like the narrative.
As always, it's only a difference of opinion, let's focus on the upcoming match. That is the most crucial thing.
Up The Villa.
Post by: Clampy on May 20, 2023, 02:00:27 PM
Post by: Drummond on May 20, 2023, 04:39:24 PM
Footy - You make shit up constantly and consume almost every thread. That’s what people object to and find massively irritating. You take links from the shittest of sources when it comes to transfers and frequently add 2+2 and get any number not 4. Heck has nothing to with transfers but suddenly his US heritage means we are going to get US players. How many Egyptians have we bought because of Nas? Or Americans because of Edens? You seem like a decent bloke but you consume the oxygen out of so many conversations because of the rabbit holes you almost intentionally take the conversations down. Stop doing that and people won’t think you’re on a wind up and will take what you say more seriously.
That is up to the reader's interpretation. And your personal findings and views seem critical.
And we are permitted to post original thought and ideas?
Also, while I do my best to stay football-related and on topic, are you judgmental of other posters' consuming threads of non-Villa, non football-related, or off topic-related content?
No you don't seem so . As do some others here.
Let's move on from this.
I have theories and hypotheses and get some have issue with this.
What can I do ? No more theories? We all have our theories.
Debate and discussion are welcome, and ones own personal viewpoint is what the forum is all about in my view. Perhaps those who are disgruntled view it differently and that they take exception to people who don't fit in with their way of thinking or they like the narrative.
As always, it's only a difference of opinion, let's focus on the upcoming match. That is the most crucial thing.
Up The Villa.
No more theories
Post by: OCD on May 20, 2023, 05:26:08 PM
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on May 21, 2023, 01:31:04 AM
A quote from Shrek comes to mind..."He has the right to remain silent. What he lacks is the capacity."
Once you're quoting Shrek then there is no where else to go. He is the pinnacle. Why won't everyone just leave the big green muhfugga alone to his swamp? Shiiiit. Shrek is basically Heck as well so it's on topic.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on May 21, 2023, 09:29:07 AM
ie absolute rubbish.
Post by: Richard E on May 21, 2023, 09:43:25 AM
Footy - You make shit up constantly and consume almost every thread. That’s what people object to and find massively irritating. You take links from the shittest of sources when it comes to transfers and frequently add 2+2 and get any number not 4. Heck has nothing to with transfers but suddenly his US heritage means we are going to get US players. How many Egyptians have we bought because of Nas? Or Americans because of Edens? You seem like a decent bloke but you consume the oxygen out of so many conversations because of the rabbit holes you almost intentionally take the conversations down. Stop doing that and people won’t think you’re on a wind up and will take what you say more seriously.
That is up to the reader's interpretation. And your personal findings and views seem critical.
And we are permitted to post original thought and ideas?
Also, while I do my best to stay football-related and on topic, are you judgmental of other posters' consuming threads of non-Villa, non football-related, or off topic-related content?
No you don't seem so . As do some others here.
Let's move on from this.
I have theories and hypotheses and get some have issue with this.
What can I do ? No more theories? We all have our theories.
Debate and discussion are welcome, and ones own personal viewpoint is what the forum is all about in my view. Perhaps those who are disgruntled view it differently and that they take exception to people who don't fit in with their way of thinking or they like the narrative.
As always, it's only a difference of opinion, let's focus on the upcoming match. That is the most crucial thing.
Up The Villa.
No more theories
Whatever happened to those theories?
Post by: Lastfootstamper on May 21, 2023, 09:51:26 AM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on May 21, 2023, 11:10:14 AM
All these theories, yet not once speculated on why Ryan Mason is in charge of spurs.
The clue is in his name, they look after their own.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on May 21, 2023, 11:28:55 AM
All these theories, yet not once speculated on why Ryan Mason is in charge of spurs.
He always looks like a teenager who has just reluctantly got out of bed at 1pm after his mother asked him about 30 times.
Post by: VILLA MOLE on May 21, 2023, 08:27:54 PM
All these theories, yet not once speculated on why Ryan Mason is in charge of spurs.
He always looks like a teenager who has just reluctantly got out of bed at 1pm after his mother asked him about 30 times.
Ha ha he is quite insipid and hardly inspirational is he ?
Post by: pauliewalnuts on May 21, 2023, 08:44:42 PM
All these theories, yet not once speculated on why Ryan Mason is in charge of spurs.
He always looks like a teenager who has just reluctantly got out of bed at 1pm after his mother asked him about 30 times.
Ha ha he is quite insipid and hardly inspirational is he ?
It's like Adrian Mole being put in charge of a team.
Post by: Risso on May 21, 2023, 09:37:19 PM
All these theories, yet not once speculated on why Ryan Mason is in charge of spurs.
He always looks like a teenager who has just reluctantly got out of bed at 1pm after his mother asked him about 30 times.
Ha ha he is quite insipid and hardly inspirational is he ?
It's like Adrian Mole being put in charge of a team.
Lucas Moura, I adore ya
I implore ye, don't ignore me
Post by: Sexual Ealing on May 22, 2023, 12:43:38 AM
Post by: tomd2103 on May 22, 2023, 01:14:32 AM
All these theories, yet not once speculated on why Ryan Mason is in charge of spurs.
He always looks like a teenager who has just reluctantly got out of bed at 1pm after his mother asked him about 30 times.
Ha ha he is quite insipid and hardly inspirational is he ?
Think Spurs are in trouble to be honest. Can definitely see Kane leaving this summer and they won't be able to replace him. Can see them having a similar season to the one Chelsea have had this one.
Post by: eamonn on May 22, 2023, 10:51:27 AM
All these theories, yet not once speculated on why Ryan Mason is in charge of spurs.
He always looks like a teenager who has just reluctantly got out of bed at 1pm after his mother asked him about 30 times.
Ha ha he is quite insipid and hardly inspirational is he ?
It's like Adrian Mole being put in charge of a team.
Lucas Moura, I adore ya
I implore ye, don't ignore me
Hahahahaha. Brilliant.
Post by: Smirker on June 22, 2023, 03:40:50 PM
Post by: Villan82 on June 22, 2023, 03:45:07 PM
Post by: Toronto Villa on June 22, 2023, 03:47:11 PM
Post by: Villan82 on June 22, 2023, 03:58:56 PM
You don't need to be a genius to work out that this new guy has decided unilaterally that the fans don't know best on the new badge.
Post by: Risso on June 22, 2023, 04:31:19 PM
Good grief. He’s been here 5 minutes
It’s not a good look though, is it? It’d be like announcing Monchi then our first signing is Luke Ayling.
Post by: Clampy on June 22, 2023, 04:34:23 PM
Good grief. He’s been here 5 minutes
Yep. Utterly ridiculous.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on June 22, 2023, 04:38:29 PM
Post by: Richard E on June 22, 2023, 04:38:58 PM
Good grief. He’s been here 5 minutes
It’s not a good look though, is it? It’d be like announcing Monchi then our first signing is Luke Ayling.
Please don’t float that idea even in jest!
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on June 22, 2023, 04:39:24 PM
Post by: PeterWithesShin on June 22, 2023, 04:43:04 PM
Post by: Clampy on June 22, 2023, 04:49:53 PM
Thomas Fox Mark II.
Wow.
Post by: Clampy on June 22, 2023, 04:59:26 PM
I'd imagine both the kit design and sponsor were finalised before he even joined us. And for all we know the badge stuff may also be either the same or from higher up.
Well, yes. It's sometimes that simple really.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on June 22, 2023, 05:09:50 PM
Post by: Clampy on June 22, 2023, 05:32:24 PM
Calm down Clamps only kidding me old mate.
Ah, ok. It's just that your other posts suggest that you're a bit cross. My bad, as the kids say.
Post by: chrisw1 on June 22, 2023, 05:43:01 PM
The vote with the fucking lamp shambles meant it was no vote at all. Equally, he may think from a global perspective looking back to 1982 isn't necessarily the right way forward.
Or as a club, we may want to do all the ground works in one go and as the North has been delayed they don't want to waste a load of money refitting the stadium right now.
Whilst it feels very disorganised, I kind of get the rationale. Let's let Henk do what he's being paid very handsomely to do.
Post by: Ads on June 22, 2023, 07:58:54 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on June 22, 2023, 09:24:48 PM
1982 means everything to us, but outside of our small neighbours in B9, B71, WV1, probably not a great deal.
I'll be honest, I am sick of hearing about it.
It was 41 years ago, FFS.
Yes be proud of it but Christ we go on and on about it.
You can't go more than - literally - two minutes at one of our matches without hearing the droning "we even conquered Europe".
Still, I suppose 41 is a landmark anniversary, so that bilge from the club about the badge all makes sense
*nods*
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on June 22, 2023, 10:19:09 PM
The trust has spoken. Sorry to link that rag.
Post by: Flin5tone on June 23, 2023, 07:17:15 AM
They say they are using the shield on digital platforms and TV etc. That's where our 'shield' looks at its worst, you can't even make it out with the yellow on sky blue . Absolutely ridiculous
Post by: Percy McCarthy on June 23, 2023, 08:39:46 AM
He should have come in and respected our decision. It's an absolute mess.
They say they are using the shield on digital platforms and TV etc. That's where our 'shield' looks at its worst, you can't even make it out with the yellow on sky blue . Absolutely ridiculous
Just wondering, do you get any pleasure out of supporting the club, in any way?
Post by: Gareth on June 23, 2023, 08:41:17 AM
Good grief. He’s been here 5 minutes
It’s not a good look though, is it? It’d be like announcing Monchi then our first signing is Luke Ayling.
Fully expecting that to happen now :-)
Post by: Brazilian Villain on June 23, 2023, 10:05:37 AM
He should have come in and respected our decision. It's an absolute mess.
They say they are using the shield on digital platforms and TV etc. That's where our 'shield' looks at its worst, you can't even make it out with the yellow on sky blue . Absolutely ridiculous
Agree with you on this one.
Post by: eamonn on June 23, 2023, 10:17:20 AM
He should have come in and respected our decision. It's an absolute mess.
They say they are using the shield on digital platforms and TV etc. That's where our 'shield' looks at its worst, you can't even make it out with the yellow on sky blue . Absolutely ridiculous
Just wondering, do you get any pleasure out of supporting the club, in any way?
That line by Jez from Peep Show that someone here quoted the other day has had me smiling all week - "Do you have to live so relentlessly in the real world?"
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on June 23, 2023, 01:42:40 PM
He should have come in and respected our decision. It's an absolute mess.
They say they are using the shield on digital platforms and TV etc. That's where our 'shield' looks at its worst, you can't even make it out with the yellow on sky blue . Absolutely ridiculous
Just wondering, do you get any pleasure out of supporting the club, in any way?
That line by Jez from Peep Show that someone here quoted the other day has had me smiling all week - "Do you have to live so relentlessly in the real world?"
👀 and yeah, it applies to Flint.
Post by: villadelph on June 25, 2023, 02:27:49 AM
Post by: tomd2103 on June 25, 2023, 02:44:10 AM
He delivers a good talk here, and brings up rebranding around 10 minutes in. He harps on the logo and how he made it more simple over time to make it recognizable across the sports spectrum. We’ll probably get a stand-alone lion. He clearly values history.
Yep, hearing him talk about 'cleaning up' and 'clearing up the muck' from the 76ers logo, I think that is a fair presumption
Post by: Scott Nielsen on June 25, 2023, 03:32:14 AM
Post by: Dogtanian on June 25, 2023, 06:48:21 AM
He delivers a good talk here, and brings up rebranding around 10 minutes in. He harps on the logo and how he made it more simple over time to make it recognizable across the sports spectrum. We’ll probably get a stand-alone lion. He clearly values history.
I found that quite interesting and really looking forward to seeing what he does with us.
Post by: Drummond on June 25, 2023, 07:35:01 AM
Yep, hearing him talk about 'cleaning up' and 'clearing up the muck' from the 76ers logo, I think that is a fair presumption
Ooh, no star! Simple is good, as long as it's not Lerner simple.
Post by: Ads on June 25, 2023, 09:56:57 AM
Post by: Cleybrooke on June 25, 2023, 10:03:06 AM
Watched the video. Very very impressed. He completely understands Brand, what that means to a sports club, the local community and most importantly, what it means to us fans.
It also explains why the new badge was pulled at the last moment. Must have been a very difficult call but better to do it now than to spend the next 5 years trying to fix it.
There is a lot that Purslow did brilliantly well at in his 5 years. However he had two weakness’s - He new bugger all about football and naff all about Branding.
Bit of a mess now, yes, but give him a little time and on the strength of what he has delivered for 76, I can see real pride both on and off the pitch coming our way.
UTV.
Post by: Dante Lavelli on June 25, 2023, 11:51:49 AM
Does anyone follow basketball? What was the trajectory of the 76ers after this video and how did we manage to poach Heck?
Post by: Dogtanian on June 25, 2023, 12:05:52 PM
Confession. I have far more knowledge and experience around Branding and Marketing than I do football. No idea what ‘play through the channels’ means, never dared to ask. I can tell you what a Brand Proposition and supporting activation are all about.
Watched the video. Very very impressed. He completely understands Brand, what that means to a sports club, the local community and most importantly, what it means to us fans.
It also explains why the new badge was pulled at the last moment. Must have been a very difficult call but better to do it now than to spend the next 5 years trying to fix it.
There is a lot that Purslow did brilliantly well at in his 5 years. However he had two weakness’s - He new bugger all about football and naff all about Branding.
Bit of a mess now, yes, but give him a little time and on the strength of what he has delivered for 76, I can see real pride both on and off the pitch coming our way.
UTV.
I was impressed with him too and think it was definitely the right call to hold it and give him time to assess things.
I think the biggest problem is the club haven’t communicated it very well. It’s the age old problem that if you don’t make it clear what you are doing and why, then people will make up their own story. And so now there’s lots of assumptions and worries and some pissed off fans.
A shame really, because this guy looks like he is what we need to progress and we’ve already got sections of people frustrated from the off!
Post by: Paul.S on June 25, 2023, 12:14:39 PM
He should have come in and respected our decision. It's an absolute mess.
They say they are using the shield on digital platforms and TV etc. That's where our 'shield' looks at its worst, you can't even make it out with the yellow on sky blue . Absolutely ridiculous
It’s not an absolute mess, it doesn’t look good but it’s not the end of the world.
Let’s give him time to settle in and let’s see what he comes up with. We just might be happy for once.
Post by: pablo_picasso on June 25, 2023, 12:35:46 PM
Confession. I have far more knowledge and experience around Branding and Marketing than I do football. No idea what ‘play through the channels’ means, never dared to ask. I can tell you what a Brand Proposition and supporting activation are all about.
Watched the video. Very very impressed. He completely understands Brand, what that means to a sports club, the local community and most importantly, what it means to us fans.
It also explains why the new badge was pulled at the last moment. Must have been a very difficult call but better to do it now than to spend the next 5 years trying to fix it.
There is a lot that Purslow did brilliantly well at in his 5 years. However he had two weakness’s - He new bugger all about football and naff all about Branding.
Bit of a mess now, yes, but give him a little time and on the strength of what he has delivered for 76, I can see real pride both on and off the pitch coming our way.
UTV.
There is a lot of marketing spiel & PR guff, but overall, if he took the company from $300m to $2b in 6 years, then he is clearly good at his job.
Couple of things though, one, I do not trust being told to "trust the process". Now he may be sincere, but its PR guff that kicks the can down the road similar to "its a 5 year plan". However, I do trust Emery, so this should counter act my concern.
And two, the logo that he took of the 76'ers wasn't great to start with, but he simplified it so much that it now looks like a 'Trump 2076' bumper sticker. I am hoping that with the elements that he has at his disposal with our crest(s), simplifying it might be quite nice.
The way this has been communicated however, has been a bit of a shit show. If they had been honest, instead of that "41 year anniversary" garbage, it would have been easier to swallow & wait to see what happens.
We have no choice but to do that now, but it could have been comminicated better.
Post by: wittonwarrior on June 25, 2023, 01:19:31 PM
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on June 25, 2023, 02:08:01 PM
https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Daily/Issues/2020/11/16/Franchises/Sixers-Chris-Heck.aspx
Post by: Lastfootstamper on June 25, 2023, 02:29:42 PM
Post by: OCD on June 25, 2023, 02:31:39 PM
He delivers a good talk here, and brings up rebranding around 10 minutes in. He harps on the logo and how he made it more simple over time to make it recognizable across the sports spectrum. We’ll probably get a stand-alone lion. He clearly values history.
Yep, hearing him talk about 'cleaning up' and 'clearing up the muck' from the 76ers logo, I think that is a fair presumption
Actually that would be better.
Post by: London Villan on June 25, 2023, 04:49:12 PM
https://logos-world.net/philadelphia-76ers-logo/
One icon to throw into the mix would be the Villan... now that would be brave!
Post by: pablo_picasso on June 25, 2023, 05:34:08 PM
For logo geeks:
https://logos-world.net/philadelphia-76ers-logo/
One icon to throw into the mix would be the Villan... now that would be brave!
According to that link, they have simply gone back to the 1964-1977 logo.
Post by: jwarry on June 25, 2023, 05:41:13 PM
Thought this was interesting, in terms of “getting” a football club. It’s far more than just coming up with a snappy brand.
https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Daily/Issues/2020/11/16/Franchises/Sixers-Chris-Heck.aspx
Sounds like he pissed off the Philly fans and had to apologise? Mmmm
Post by: Scott Nielsen on June 26, 2023, 04:13:13 AM
For logo geeks:
https://logos-world.net/philadelphia-76ers-logo/
One icon to throw into the mix would be the Villan... now that would be brave!
According to that link, they have simply gone back to the 1964-1977 logo.
So the branding process ended up copying a logo from 40 years earlier. Yet Villa supporters are somehow hopelessly behind the times for wanting a crest with historical characteristics.
A bit of a let-down after all that's been said on this thread and others.
Post by: Dogtanian on June 26, 2023, 07:15:54 AM
Maybe we should see what he does before we condemn him!
Post by: chrisw1 on June 26, 2023, 08:58:08 AM
They're just washing it as best they can with the 82 nonsense. Obviously, as Villa fans we're aware what has happened. But outside the club, nobody other than Birmingham City fans will care less.He should have come in and respected our decision. It's an absolute mess.
They say they are using the shield on digital platforms and TV etc. That's where our 'shield' looks at its worst, you can't even make it out with the yellow on sky blue . Absolutely ridiculous
It’s not an absolute mess, it doesn’t look good but it’s not the end of the world.
Let’s give him time to settle in and let’s see what he comes up with. We just might be happy for once.
Post by: darren woolley on June 26, 2023, 09:17:22 AM
He delivers a good talk here, and brings up rebranding around 10 minutes in. He harps on the logo and how he made it more simple over time to make it recognizable across the sports spectrum. We’ll probably get a stand-alone lion. He clearly values history.
Yep, hearing him talk about 'cleaning up' and 'clearing up the muck' from the 76ers logo, I think that is a fair presumption
Actually that would be better.
I watched this.
Post by: eamonn on June 26, 2023, 09:40:13 AM
Post by: chrisw1 on June 26, 2023, 10:20:02 AM
Post by: Smithy on June 26, 2023, 10:38:10 AM
He speaks very well, I like the 76ers story, I can see why the owners have brought him in. He doesn't have three years 'under the radar' like he did in Philli, given we're in Europe already and will be targeting the top 6 next year, but I am interested to see if he bring the same philosophy with him in terms of bringing the local community close to the club.
If he can have the same sort of impact off the pitch, as our owner's last appointment did ON it, then there could be some exciting times ahead!
Post by: chrisw1 on June 26, 2023, 10:42:58 AM
Post by: OCD on June 26, 2023, 11:04:34 AM
The story about being sponsored by Pepsi and there being a Coke can machine at the stadium made me laugh.
Post by: pablo_picasso on June 26, 2023, 11:11:46 AM
Watched it, and yeah, the round logo is toast. As others have said, I'd expect something like a lion and the words Aston Villa underneath, like the spurs chicken, if he genuinely believes in keeping things simple. The iterations of the 76ers logo was interesting, so it might be we refine it over a few years. "Owning a colour" was interesting. I suspect it will be mean the end of different shades of claret and blue - they will be well-defined, and we'll stick to it across everything. Which will be nice and hopefully see and end to any future pink-ish monstrosities.
The iterations of the logo ended up with them going back to the 1964-1977 logo, if that graphic on the previous page from London Villan is correct.
Post by: Risso on June 26, 2023, 11:16:03 AM
Post by: Drummond on June 26, 2023, 11:24:23 AM
Post by: pablo_picasso on June 26, 2023, 11:29:18 AM
Slightly worries me that he does a lot of harking back to the past, when really I want us to concentrate on future success. Whilst not belittling its importance in our history, I don't want somebody that's going to drone on about 82 forever.
Tbf to him, it wasn't all about the 76'ers franchise past that he looked back on as inspiration.
There was a lot of history regarding the city of Philadelphia he utilised too.
Post by: Goldenballs on June 26, 2023, 11:33:49 AM
Post by: Dogtanian on June 26, 2023, 11:42:16 AM
Slightly worries me that he does a lot of harking back to the past, when really I want us to concentrate on future success. Whilst not belittling its importance in our history, I don't want somebody that's going to drone on about 82 forever.
Tbf to him, it wasn't all about the 76'ers franchise past that he looked back on as inspiration.
There was a lot of history regarding the city of Philadelphia he utilised too.
He also said that because the team were so poor, they didn't really have star players or on court success they could use to get people excited about the team, so they had to turn to past stars and history to bring people in while they built up the brand.
We're in a much better situation, we have players we can get excited about that other teams would want, and we're legitimately in the top 10 of clubs in the country and have a genuine chance of winning something in the next couple of seasons.
I'm sure he will be using that rather than relying too heavily on the past. I mean, if you were trying to talk someone into being a Villa fan, would you talk about what we did in the 80s or would you focus on how fantastic the next season or two could be?
Post by: Villan82 on June 26, 2023, 12:01:22 PM
Watched it, and yeah, the round logo is toast. As others have said, I'd expect something like a lion and the words Aston Villa underneath, like the spurs chicken, if he genuinely believes in keeping things simple. The iterations of the 76ers logo was interesting, so it might be we refine it over a few years. "Owning a colour" was interesting. I suspect it will be mean the end of different shades of claret and blue - they will be well-defined, and we'll stick to it across everything. Which will be nice and hopefully see and end to any future pink-ish monstrosities.
So we will move from stupid, inaccurate comments about copying chelsea to stupid but accurate comments about copying bloody Spurs? Why is everybody missing the point about the new crest being presented, very effectively during consultation, as one that gave us the option of using as stand-alone lion with 'Aton Villa' overhead? Can we not just go with that everywhere digital and use the full circle version on the stadium?
Our badge as been a divisive issue for as long as I can remember and I think they have made a mistake re-opening it after it was settled last year. Open to being proved wrong but I think it is a mess and would prefer if, even just for one year, we got rid of the Lerner badge from all digital representations of the club (stadium and other aspects that cost money can always wait)
Post by: algy on June 26, 2023, 12:05:43 PM
Slightly worries me that he does a lot of harking back to the past, when really I want us to concentrate on future success. Whilst not belittling its importance in our history, I don't want somebody that's going to drone on about 82 forever.I don't think he needs to as much with us as he did in Philadelphia. As others have said, they were in a different situation. They had low crowds, with a low value assigned to going to games ($1 tickets), and they couldn't point to any of the players on the court as they were rubbish. So they leaned in to nostalgia to get the fans back in to the ground.
With us, I'm sure we'll be leaning on some of our history to some extent (Champions of Europe is already fairly well covered, but there's a decent history of stuff before that - William McGregor / founding the league being a really obvious one. Can also see us pushing heavily on a few things like really emphasising the club's prominent position in Birmingham and the wider Midlands area. Stuff like, I dunno, getting Benjamin Zephaniah to come up with some inspirational words, then getting various local high-profile people - Denise Lewis or Geezer Butler or whoever - to read it out when the teams come out. Something like that, where it's not explicitly about our history ... but it's clearly emphasising that Aston Villa, over say Sandwell or Small Heath, are the football club that people in/from Birmingham support, and the local area too.
With the badge, I could see us either going for something fairly simple. I'd almost be inclined to say the 1957 badge might actually be the one to go for here. No wording, just a lion on a plain shield, with or without a scroll underneath with some text underneath (which could be "Aston Villa FC", but could equally be "Villa In The Community" or "Villa Maths Club" or whatever. Ultimately join up claret shield AND/OR a lion (facing the right way) = Aston Villa = Birmingham.
Post by: eamonn on June 26, 2023, 12:18:07 PM
Watched it yesterday at 1.75x speed. I could see parallels and why we've hired him but he starts from a more advanced position with us.
The story about being sponsored by Pepsi and there being a Coke can machine at the stadium made me laugh.
Why the need to mention the speed? Are you saying Americans talk, like, slowleee?
Post by: paul_e on June 26, 2023, 12:22:22 PM
Slightly worries me that he does a lot of harking back to the past, when really I want us to concentrate on future success. Whilst not belittling its importance in our history, I don't want somebody that's going to drone on about 82 forever.
Tbf to him, it wasn't all about the 76'ers franchise past that he looked back on as inspiration.
There was a lot of history regarding the city of Philadelphia he utilised too.
He also said that because the team were so poor, they didn't really have star players or on court success they could use to get people excited about the team, so they had to turn to past stars and history to bring people in while they built up the brand.
We're in a much better situation, we have players we can get excited about that other teams would want, and we're legitimately in the top 10 of clubs in the country and have a genuine chance of winning something in the next couple of seasons.
I'm sure he will be using that rather than relying too heavily on the past. I mean, if you were trying to talk someone into being a Villa fan, would you talk about what we did in the 80s or would you focus on how fantastic the next season or two could be?
Yep, the job he describes is exactly what we should've done after we got relegated. From now he's got a different job which is to get us over the big hurdle of being competitive (commercially) with the teams that are backed by oil money or years of champions league doping.
Post by: OCD on June 26, 2023, 12:24:03 PM
Post by: pablo_picasso on June 26, 2023, 12:51:14 PM
He also said that because the team were so poor, they didn't really have star players or on court success they could use to get people excited about the team, so they had to turn to past stars and history to bring people in while they built up the brand.
We're in a much better situation, we have players we can get excited about that other teams would want, and we're legitimately in the top 10 of clubs in the country and have a genuine chance of winning something in the next couple of seasons.
I'm sure he will be using that rather than relying too heavily on the past. I mean, if you were trying to talk someone into being a Villa fan, would you talk about what we did in the 80s or would you focus on how fantastic the next season or two could be?
Yes, in all aspects we are in a stronger position.
Stronger on the field, stronger off it, stronger starting point elements that can be used for the branding, etc, etc.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on June 26, 2023, 12:57:29 PM
I thought we had established specific colour pallets for our claret and blue a while back. Did this fall by the wayside?
I would have thought by now it was well established that we don't have a Brand Book. ;)
Heck is obviously a very clever fella. The only mistake I see (and he admits to a few) is taking hold of the Twitter account. I trust he won't be doing it here. Other than that I think he'll be a brilliant appointment, it will be a massive challenge for him but he won't be doing it alone. Listening to how he builds and motivates a team yet knows when to leave certain things alone is extremely encouraging.
Post by: OCD on June 26, 2023, 01:00:52 PM
Post by: Dogtanian on June 26, 2023, 01:08:02 PM
https://twitter.com/chrisheck76/status/1529449705461190656?s=20 (https://twitter.com/chrisheck76/status/1529449705461190656?s=20)
I guess he's setting a challenge!
Ah no, that was 2022 and I don't know what year we are currently in! ;D
Post by: paul_e on June 26, 2023, 01:17:55 PM
It didn't sound like the Twitter account was his idea, more like the club wanted him to have it. He mentioned he was reluctant and worried about saying the wrong thing.
I suspect that would count double when he's in a new country, new sport, new city and new club, that feels like a recipe for disaster if the social media is pushed onto him.
Post by: exigo on June 26, 2023, 01:18:58 PM
I thought we had established specific colour pallets for our claret and blue a while back. Did this fall by the wayside?
We did. I had those brand guidelines. Castore's last two kits show that nobody seems capable of following pretty straightforward colour breakdowns.
Post by: Hookeysmith on June 26, 2023, 01:25:10 PM
Is he to be based here in the UK?
I know he is president of world wide operations but presumably AVFC UK is the top priority?
In all Management change overs the first change is always important and sets the tone and pace for what is to come - if having the balls to say "stop" to a complete rebrand is anything to go by then i am quite pleased the club agreed with him.
Post by: ChicagoLion on June 26, 2023, 03:11:24 PM
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on June 26, 2023, 03:13:25 PM
It didn't sound like the Twitter account was his idea, more like the club wanted him to have it. He mentioned he was reluctant and worried about saying the wrong thing.
Either way, his enthusiasm got the better of him with the 'New Philadelphia' term; a schoolboy error. I understand where he was coming from but he's an outsider and not all will feel part of the 'new'.
Post by: Nii Lamptey on June 26, 2023, 03:27:43 PM
Longer term, pot Castore for one of the better kit manufacturers (along with a decent sponsor), and let us know WTF is going on with the badge and stadium improvements.
Post by: Nelly on June 26, 2023, 07:44:51 PM
Post by: ChicagoLion on June 26, 2023, 10:06:20 PM
These problems would have been solved or not occurred with a Top CEO.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on June 26, 2023, 11:18:09 PM
It’s hard to watch it and think anything other than he killed the new badge.
He’s extremely impressive but I hope he understands both the big picture and the nuances that make English football very different from American sports
Post by: Dante Lavelli on June 26, 2023, 11:30:17 PM
It is well worth watching that video.
It’s hard to watch it and think anything other than he killed the new badge.
He’s extremely impressive but I hope he understands both the big picture and the nuances that make English football very different from American sports
I agree. Based on the video, a big part of his playbook is the branding of the club and the badge. You’d hope that the colours decision is off the table so removing the badge and the branding that goes with that too would have massively restricted what he could do.
Post by: Scott Nielsen on June 27, 2023, 04:36:01 AM
He’s extremely impressive but I hope he understands both the big picture and the nuances that make English football very different from American sports
I find it comforting rather than impressive as I think a good stage show is the bare minimum from someone in his position.
What matters is the actual commercial outcome. And that certainly is impressive over his six years there.
Post by: andyh on June 27, 2023, 06:50:09 AM
Stopping the rollout now, with the building delays, gives the club time to reset and start the process over again.
After listening, I get it now.
It was a ballsy decision to decide to not rebrand the club but to stop, reevaluate and start again.
All that said, the club could and should have put out a statement to explain.
Post by: j66acd on June 27, 2023, 07:06:12 AM
Post by: Scott Nielsen on June 27, 2023, 07:58:44 AM
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on June 27, 2023, 08:59:18 AM
It is well worth watching that video.
It’s hard to watch it and think anything other than he killed the new badge.
He’s extremely impressive but I hope he understands both the big picture and the nuances that make English football very different from American sports
I think you should run that up the flagpole to him as he is eating his eggs sunny side up and drinking his morning corrrfffee.
Post by: London Villan on June 27, 2023, 08:59:51 AM
The latest MOMS podcast is about the call that they had with Heck. It’s confirmed on there that Heck took the bold step to stop the rollout of the new badge because he felt it was selected without any credible competition. It’s said that Purslow manipulated it so that there was only ever going to one winner, the one he wanted,
Stopping the rollout now, with the building delays, gives the club time to reset and start the process over again.
After listening, I get it now.
It was a ballsy decision to decide to not rebrand the club but to stop, reevaluate and start again.
All that said, the club could and should have put out a statement to explain.
Better to be honest than have a load of transparent waffle!
Post by: Villan82 on June 27, 2023, 09:33:17 AM
Post by: LeeB on June 27, 2023, 09:37:44 AM
Has this man also 'killed' the new stand we were all excited about? Another concert now next June. Can we remember that we are first and foremost a football club with ambitions and a demand for extra seats and better facilities?
Are you serious?
Post by: Dogtanian on June 27, 2023, 09:56:14 AM
Has this man also 'killed' the new stand we were all excited about? Another concert now next June. Can we remember that we are first and foremost a football club with ambitions and a demand for extra seats and better facilities?
And surprise, surprise - for an American band, no less!
Why haven't we booked The Buggles? >:(
Post by: ChicagoLion on June 27, 2023, 09:56:28 AM
Vindication for DW.and others!
Post by: Brazilian Villain on June 27, 2023, 09:57:14 AM
Has this man also 'killed' the new stand we were all excited about? Another concert now next June. Can we remember that we are first and foremost a football club with ambitions and a demand for extra seats and better facilities?
Not 'killed' (yet), It's just been delayed until he's happy the badge that's going on the Villa Live venue is 'modern' enough.
Post by: chrisw1 on June 27, 2023, 10:05:35 AM
I'm not so sure. Outside the club nobody will really pick up on it, so why lay bare the error? Inside the club, we all know what's happened.The latest MOMS podcast is about the call that they had with Heck. It’s confirmed on there that Heck took the bold step to stop the rollout of the new badge because he felt it was selected without any credible competition. It’s said that Purslow manipulated it so that there was only ever going to one winner, the one he wanted,
Stopping the rollout now, with the building delays, gives the club time to reset and start the process over again.
After listening, I get it now.
It was a ballsy decision to decide to not rebrand the club but to stop, reevaluate and start again.
All that said, the club could and should have put out a statement to explain.
Better to be honest than have a load of transparent waffle!
Post by: ChicagoLion on June 27, 2023, 10:17:32 AM
You would have that that the COMMS around this would have been better handled based on the above.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on June 27, 2023, 10:57:11 AM
Post by: eamonn on June 27, 2023, 11:42:24 AM
Purslow’s legacy and reputation is being blown to pieces.
Nah, he's still in credit.
Post by: ChicagoLion on June 27, 2023, 11:52:53 AM
At the Bank, yeh.Purslow’s legacy and reputation is being blown to pieces.
Nah, he's still in credit.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on June 27, 2023, 12:27:22 PM
I am in favour of it though for a better longer term solution.
Nail on head.*
*Until we see the monstrosity Heck comes up with. ;)
Post by: N'ZMAV on June 27, 2023, 08:14:16 PM
Post by: Beard82 on June 27, 2023, 08:15:04 PM
Post by: ChicagoLion on June 27, 2023, 08:37:52 PM
I think its only very minorIt’s irrelevant
Post by: eamonn on June 27, 2023, 11:08:26 PM
I think its only very minorIt’s irrelevant
You hate the bugger ;D C'mon! Would you piss on him if he was on fire?!
Post by: Percy McCarthy on June 27, 2023, 11:48:03 PM
I'm not so sure. Outside the club nobody will really pick up on it, so why lay bare the error? Inside the club, we all know what's happened.The latest MOMS podcast is about the call that they had with Heck. It’s confirmed on there that Heck took the bold step to stop the rollout of the new badge because he felt it was selected without any credible competition. It’s said that Purslow manipulated it so that there was only ever going to one winner, the one he wanted,
Stopping the rollout now, with the building delays, gives the club time to reset and start the process over again.
After listening, I get it now.
It was a ballsy decision to decide to not rebrand the club but to stop, reevaluate and start again.
All that said, the club could and should have put out a statement to explain.
Better to be honest than have a load of transparent waffle!
Yes, I agree.
Post by: ChicagoLion on June 28, 2023, 07:58:23 AM
No, hate is too strong, I don’t hate anybody . I just don’t rate him as a top CEO.I think its only very minorIt’s irrelevant
You hate the bugger ;D C'mon! Would you piss on him if he was on fire?!
I do not say everything he did was shit either, he is a marketing guy, that will only take you so far as a CEO as we have now found out.
Post by: eamonn on June 28, 2023, 05:38:50 PM
Post by: ChicagoLion on June 28, 2023, 06:52:44 PM
Fair enough. Congrats on 20,000 posts, in 3 posts time (at time of typing).Cheers mate
Post by: Flin5tone on June 28, 2023, 10:03:42 PM
The warnings are there. We need action now from those that attend meetings
Post by: Villan For Life on June 28, 2023, 10:17:02 PM
Post by: Toronto Villa on June 28, 2023, 10:50:45 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on June 28, 2023, 10:51:51 PM
Absolutely. He has to get this right. So putting a pause on it might seem chaotic in the short term but if it creates a better version of everything for the future, nobody will remember the specific decision made in June 2023.
Yeah, so long as it does bring something better.
Post by: Toronto Villa on June 28, 2023, 10:54:14 PM
Absolutely. He has to get this right. So putting a pause on it might seem chaotic in the short term but if it creates a better version of everything for the future, nobody will remember the specific decision made in June 2023.
Yeah, so long as it does bring something better.
That will be the test for any change in senior leadership. To create change and deliver better results. I don’t think Purslow was the devil some made him out to be. But we can clearly do better especially when you look around at commercial revenue streams of of other clubs in the league. Many with a smaller domestic and global footprint and smaller fan bases. We have to maximize all of that.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on June 28, 2023, 10:57:53 PM
Absolutely. He has to get this right. So putting a pause on it might seem chaotic in the short term but if it creates a better version of everything for the future, nobody will remember the specific decision made in June 2023.
Yeah, so long as it does bring something better.
That will be the test for any change in senior leadership. To create change and deliver better results. I don’t think Purslow was the devil some made him out to be. But we can clearly do better especially when you look around at commercial revenue streams of of other clubs in the league. Many with a smaller domestic and global footprint and smaller fan bases. We have to maximize all of that.
We are underperforming commercially immensely, embarassingly.
So let's see the moves to correcting this.
Thus far we've had bin the badge, slow down the ground expansion, and lick of paint for the old venue.
Let's see the positives now, because if it is all like the above, it won't take long to deflate the fan base.
Post by: VillaBoy_23 on June 28, 2023, 11:00:53 PM
https://www.inquirer.com/sixers/chris-heck-boathouse-row-philadelphia-fans-20201113.html
The warnings are there. We need action now from those that attend meetings
How about you attend a meeting?
Post by: Paul.S on June 28, 2023, 11:23:17 PM
https://www.inquirer.com/sixers/chris-heck-boathouse-row-philadelphia-fans-20201113.html
The warnings are there. We need action now from those that attend meetings
What sort of action?
Post by: Flin5tone on June 28, 2023, 11:41:12 PM
https://www.inquirer.com/sixers/chris-heck-boathouse-row-philadelphia-fans-20201113.html
The warnings are there. We need action now from those that attend meetings
How about you attend a meeting?
Don't have the time but those that do should be voicing my concerns instead of tip toeing around the club. Good honest supporters on this board and others deserve answers on this bodge job
Post by: dave.woodhall on June 29, 2023, 01:01:45 AM
https://www.inquirer.com/sixers/chris-heck-boathouse-row-philadelphia-fans-20201113.html
The warnings are there. We need action now from those that attend meetings
How about you attend a meeting?
Don't have the time but those that do should be voicing my concerns instead of tip toeing around the club. Good honest supporters on this board and others deserve answers on this bodge job
But you've got plenty of time to hide behind your keyboard whining every time something doesn't meet your exact requirements.
Post by: Dogtanian on June 29, 2023, 07:11:27 AM
https://www.inquirer.com/sixers/chris-heck-boathouse-row-philadelphia-fans-20201113.html
The warnings are there. We need action now from those that attend meetings
How about you attend a meeting?
Don't have the time but those that do should be voicing my concerns instead of tip toeing around the club. Good honest supporters on this board and others deserve answers on this bodge job
How about we wait and see what he does before we start talking about hanging him, eh?
Your link is to people getting upset about something absolutely minor to most people. It’s nothing worse than what people accuse you of every time you come on here.
Post by: VillaBoy_23 on June 29, 2023, 08:57:05 AM
https://www.inquirer.com/sixers/chris-heck-boathouse-row-philadelphia-fans-20201113.html
The warnings are there. We need action now from those that attend meetings
How about you attend a meeting?
Don't have the time but those that do should be voicing my concerns instead of tip toeing around the club. Good honest supporters on this board and others deserve answers on this bodge job
So the entire purpose of the meetings is for others to voice your concerns because you don’t have the time to?
Post by: eamonn on June 29, 2023, 09:31:26 AM
Post by: Flin5tone on June 29, 2023, 09:46:05 AM
Post by: Villan For Life on June 29, 2023, 09:50:35 AM
There's obviously a select few from fan groups etc that attend these meetings , one from a particular podcast who will not be mentioned who highlights the issues but then when the meetings come along bottles asking the vital questions that the fans are talking about.
Why don’t you go then?
Post by: Flin5tone on June 29, 2023, 09:52:05 AM
There's obviously a select few from fan groups etc that attend these meetings , one from a particular podcast who will not be mentioned who highlights the issues but then when the meetings come along bottles asking the vital questions that the fans are talking about.
Why don’t you go then?
They are normally at times that don't suit. I imagine those that attend have a lot of free time /retired.
Post by: LeeB on June 29, 2023, 09:54:26 AM
Post by: AV82EC on June 29, 2023, 09:55:53 AM
Covenient
Smells a bit “night shifts down the Rover” to me.
Post by: VillaBoy_23 on June 29, 2023, 09:56:50 AM
There's obviously a select few from fan groups etc that attend these meetings , one from a particular podcast who will not be mentioned who highlights the issues but then when the meetings come along bottles asking the vital questions that the fans are talking about.
Why don’t you go then?
They are normally at times that don't suit. I imagine those that attend have a lot of free time /retired.
So you have time to post your drivel on here 24:7 while criticising others who actually make an effort to goto the meetings for not asking the specific questions you want them to, but when it comes down to it, you don’t have the time to do the same yourself?
Post by: PeterWithesShin on June 29, 2023, 10:09:30 AM
Post by: JD on June 29, 2023, 10:18:30 AM
https://www.inquirer.com/sixers/chris-heck-boathouse-row-philadelphia-fans-20201113.html
The warnings are there. We need action now from those that attend meetings
How about you attend a meeting?
Don't have the time but those that do should be voicing my concerns instead of tip toeing around the club. Good honest supporters on this board and others deserve answers on this bodge job
You don't have time but you think others should be representing you? Now I've heard it all. If you can't find the time yourself to express your personal views then shut up and stop complaining.
Post by: Flin5tone on June 29, 2023, 10:24:54 AM
There's obviously a select few from fan groups etc that attend these meetings , one from a particular podcast who will not be mentioned who highlights the issues but then when the meetings come along bottles asking the vital questions that the fans are talking about.
Why don’t you go then?
They are normally at times that don't suit. I imagine those that attend have a lot of free time /retired.
So you have time to post your drivel on here 24:7 while criticising others who actually make an effort to goto the meetings for not asking the specific questions you want them to, but when it comes down to it, you don’t have the time to do the same yourself?
I don't post on here 24/7 until the badge disaster I had not been on for some time. I come on to see the reactions of supporters when the club makes big decisions that changes the look of the football club.
Post by: LeeB on June 29, 2023, 10:31:16 AM
There's obviously a select few from fan groups etc that attend these meetings , one from a particular podcast who will not be mentioned who highlights the issues but then when the meetings come along bottles asking the vital questions that the fans are talking about.
Why don’t you go then?
They are normally at times that don't suit. I imagine those that attend have a lot of free time /retired.
So you have time to post your drivel on here 24:7 while criticising others who actually make an effort to goto the meetings for not asking the specific questions you want them to, but when it comes down to it, you don’t have the time to do the same yourself?
I don't post on here 24/7 until the badge disaster I had not been on for some time. I come on to see the reactions of supporters when the club makes big decisions that changes the look of the football club.
And then you take a position nobody else does and start screaming blue murder about the smallest thing, again and again and again.
Like that statement there, the 'badge disaster'. What disaster? A badge has changed and it will change again. It's a badge, so fucking what? Somebody got a water bottle and you didn't. Boo fucking hoo. What a disgrace.
All this whining and moaning, performative outrage, and what are you going to do about it?
Absolutely fuck all because you cant be bothered.
Post by: JD on June 29, 2023, 10:32:20 AM
There's obviously a select few from fan groups etc that attend these meetings , one from a particular podcast who will not be mentioned who highlights the issues but then when the meetings come along bottles asking the vital questions that the fans are talking about.
Why don’t you go then?
They are normally at times that don't suit. I imagine those that attend have a lot of free time /retired.
So you have time to post your drivel on here 24:7 while criticising others who actually make an effort to goto the meetings for not asking the specific questions you want them to, but when it comes down to it, you don’t have the time to do the same yourself?
I don't post on here 24/7 until the badge disaster I had not been on for some time. I come on to see the reactions of supporters when the club makes big decisions that changes the look of the football club.
Personally Caveman I think you come on here to post for effect. I never see you posting when the club/team do well or something good, but only when the team lose or the club do something that's not popular. I will take you more seriously if you start being more balanced in your postings, instead of someone on a morose downer.
Post by: Flin5tone on June 29, 2023, 10:55:43 AM
And to me it's not 'just a badge' it's what represents us , what the world will see and we needed continuety. We now have two badges, the one that's horrendous and the worst on socials and TV being used for that purpose. As MANY others agrees with.
If the badge does not bother you that's completely your choice but to me and others , especially those of us that took time to vote in which we all believe was a vote for a new club crest have been fobbed off.
It's almost on the verge of being illegal
Post by: Ads on June 29, 2023, 10:57:07 AM
There's obviously a select few from fan groups etc that attend these meetings , one from a particular podcast who will not be mentioned who highlights the issues but then when the meetings come along bottles asking the vital questions that the fans are talking about.
Why don’t you go then?
They are normally at times that don't suit. I imagine those that attend have a lot of free time /retired.
So you have time to post your drivel on here 24:7 while criticising others who actually make an effort to goto the meetings for not asking the specific questions you want them to, but when it comes down to it, you don’t have the time to do the same yourself?
I don't post on here 24/7 until the badge disaster I had not been on for some time. I come on to see the reactions of supporters when the club makes big decisions that changes the look of the football club.
And then you take a position nobody else does and start screaming blue murder about the smallest thing, again and again and again.
Like that statement there, the 'badge disaster'. What disaster? A badge has changed and it will change again. It's a badge, so fucking what? Somebody got a water bottle and you didn't. Boo fucking hoo. What a disgrace.
All this whining and moaning, performative outrage, and what are you going to do about it?
Absolutely fuck all because you cant be bothered.
Because he's a tedious fucking troll.
Post by: Flin5tone on June 29, 2023, 10:57:30 AM
There's obviously a select few from fan groups etc that attend these meetings , one from a particular podcast who will not be mentioned who highlights the issues but then when the meetings come along bottles asking the vital questions that the fans are talking about.
Why don’t you go then?
They are normally at times that don't suit. I imagine those that attend have a lot of free time /retired.
So you have time to post your drivel on here 24:7 while criticising others who actually make an effort to goto the meetings for not asking the specific questions you want them to, but when it comes down to it, you don’t have the time to do the same yourself?
I don't post on here 24/7 until the badge disaster I had not been on for some time. I come on to see the reactions of supporters when the club makes big decisions that changes the look of the football club.
Personally Caveman I think you come on here to post for effect. I never see you posting when the club/team do well or something good, but only when the team lose or the club do something that's not popular. I will take you more seriously if you start being more balanced in your postings, instead of someone on a morose downer.
Wrong
I've posted many times after a match that I've been pleased with . I'm not too fussed about the on the field stuff , more of how the clubs being run. We have an elite proven manager to take care of that , off the pitch the fans were given a voice and we have been given the two fingers
Post by: LeeB on June 29, 2023, 11:00:11 AM
There's obviously a select few from fan groups etc that attend these meetings , one from a particular podcast who will not be mentioned who highlights the issues but then when the meetings come along bottles asking the vital questions that the fans are talking about.
Why don’t you go then?
They are normally at times that don't suit. I imagine those that attend have a lot of free time /retired.
So you have time to post your drivel on here 24:7 while criticising others who actually make an effort to goto the meetings for not asking the specific questions you want them to, but when it comes down to it, you don’t have the time to do the same yourself?
I don't post on here 24/7 until the badge disaster I had not been on for some time. I come on to see the reactions of supporters when the club makes big decisions that changes the look of the football club.
And then you take a position nobody else does and start screaming blue murder about the smallest thing, again and again and again.
Like that statement there, the 'badge disaster'. What disaster? A badge has changed and it will change again. It's a badge, so fucking what? Somebody got a water bottle and you didn't. Boo fucking hoo. What a disgrace.
All this whining and moaning, performative outrage, and what are you going to do about it?
Absolutely fuck all because you cant be bothered.
Because he's a tedious fucking troll.
Yep.
Post by: dave.woodhall on June 29, 2023, 12:11:50 PM
There's obviously a select few from fan groups etc that attend these meetings , one from a particular podcast who will not be mentioned who highlights the issues but then when the meetings come along bottles asking the vital questions that the fans are talking about.
Why don’t you go then?
They are normally at times that don't suit. I imagine those that attend have a lot of free time /retired.
Wednesday evening 7.00, many of them virtual, being a particularly awkward time. You're not interested in doing anything. You haven't got a single contribution to make. You just want to moan.
Post by: Nii Lamptey on June 29, 2023, 12:21:47 PM
If we were being honest, most of us loved the round badge when it was unveiled (as it's WAY better than the current abomination), but it's far from perfect - Lion facing the wrong way, ridiculous star embedded in the design rather than on top with room to add more in future, loads of people criticising that it looks like everyone elses badge, etc.
The buck stops with Chris Heck, and with what is at stake from a crest redesign or a stadium expansion (*and the money involved), I think he's personally well within his rights to put the brakes on.... as long as he gets it right when he does proceed!
Post by: Bad English on June 29, 2023, 12:54:59 PM
Post by: algy on June 29, 2023, 01:14:33 PM
If Purslow was still in charge, and the club went back on the badge design and/or stadium expansion I could maybe see your point, but in this circumstance, with Chris Heck, a new 'screwed-on' head coming in, I'm fully on board with his pause and take stock approach.This pretty much nails my thoughts on the whole matter.
If we were being honest, most of us loved the round badge when it was unveiled (as it's WAY better than the current abomination), but it's far from perfect - Lion facing the wrong way, ridiculous star embedded in the design rather than on top with room to add more in future, loads of people criticising that it looks like everyone elses badge, etc.
The buck stops with Chris Heck, and with what is at stake from a crest redesign or a stadium expansion (*and the money involved), I think he's personally well within his rights to put the brakes on.... as long as he gets it right when he does proceed!
Yeah, the new (23/24) badge is better than the old Lerner one, but that's a pretty low bar. It isn't like everyone thought it was perfect (e.g. lion facing the wrong way).
The Villa Live thing ... I mean if you were looking at the catering at Villa Park today, would your first thing be "We need a bar that's open 2 days a week and is staffed by the exact same people as currently serve pints in the ground"? Cos it feels to me that a more common complaint is that folk can't get served at half time, so maybe sort that out first?
Post by: Paul.S on June 29, 2023, 01:23:42 PM
I think you'll find many on here were outraged regarding the badge.
And to me it's not 'just a badge' it's what represents us , what the world will see and we needed continuety. We now have two badges, the one that's horrendous and the worst on socials and TV being used for that purpose. As MANY others agrees with.
If the badge does not bother you that's completely your choice but to me and others , especially those of us that took time to vote in which we all believe was a vote for a new club crest have been fobbed off.
It's almost on the verge of being illegal
What verge of illegality are we talking about here?
Post by: FatSam on June 29, 2023, 01:24:00 PM
There's obviously a select few from fan groups etc that attend these meetings , one from a particular podcast who will not be mentioned who highlights the issues but then when the meetings come along bottles asking the vital questions that the fans are talking about.Are you expecting fan representatives to trawl through every internet forum so that they can ask ‘the vital questions that the fans are talking about’ as you see them? I understand that you have every intention of attending the meetings yourself, but are prevented from doing so because they are at unsuitable times. Perhaps you could instead engage with one of the fan representatives through formal channels, and formulate ‘the vital questions that the fans are talking about’ into a coherent list for them to raise at the next meeting.
Post by: Ger Regan on June 29, 2023, 01:30:31 PM
He's a tedious bore prone to hyperbole who's best ignored.I think you'll find many on here were outraged regarding the badge.
And to me it's not 'just a badge' it's what represents us , what the world will see and we needed continuety. We now have two badges, the one that's horrendous and the worst on socials and TV being used for that purpose. As MANY others agrees with.
If the badge does not bother you that's completely your choice but to me and others , especially those of us that took time to vote in which we all believe was a vote for a new club crest have been fobbed off.
It's almost on the verge of being illegal
What verge of illegality are we talking about here?
Post by: Paul.S on June 29, 2023, 01:47:35 PM
He's a tedious bore prone to hyperbole who's best ignored.I think you'll find many on here were outraged regarding the badge.
And to me it's not 'just a badge' it's what represents us , what the world will see and we needed continuety. We now have two badges, the one that's horrendous and the worst on socials and TV being used for that purpose. As MANY others agrees with.
If the badge does not bother you that's completely your choice but to me and others , especially those of us that took time to vote in which we all believe was a vote for a new club crest have been fobbed off.
It's almost on the verge of being illegal
What verge of illegality are we talking about here?
I think if I was ever in doubt the illegal post confirmed it.
Post by: chrisw1 on June 29, 2023, 01:49:30 PM
I'll let you know if there's anything else I want you to tell him.
Cheers.
Post by: Drummond on June 29, 2023, 01:56:57 PM
Post by: cdward on June 29, 2023, 02:00:46 PM
The appointment of Chris Heck is to increase the commercial revenue being brought in, as compared to other PL clubs we are way below them.
Watching Chris Heck talking about 76ers and how he turned a $300million turnover into a $3Billion turnover, it was all about attracting new fans and new investors through new ideas.
For me a new badge will be nice, and somewhere to get a pint and something to eat will be nice, but i wont change my support or following of the club, it's the new supporters and commercial interest that this is all geared towards.
I don't know anybody who will stop going to VP because the badge is shit, or the "experience" is shit, but a lot of the new people/companies will not be attracted to the brand if it's not right.
I'm far more interested in what Unai is doing, don't get me wrong, i understand we need to improve in this area, and ultimately if we do, we can then spend more on better players.
But i'm happy to let Heck do his thing, if it's a new badge or experience i like, then great. If not, not to worry, i'll still keep going and supporting my club.
Post by: Dogtanian on June 29, 2023, 02:03:39 PM
The thing is, we are not the target audience that a new badge, crest or Villa Live experience is aiming at.
The appointment of Chris Heck is to increase the commercial revenue being brought in, as compared to other PL clubs we are way below them.
Watching Chris Heck talking about 76ers and how he turned a $300million turnover into a $3Billion turnover, it was all about attracting new fans and new investors through new ideas.
For me a new badge will be nice, and somewhere to get a pint and something to eat will be nice, but i wont change my support or following of the club, it's the new supporters and commercial interest that this is all geared towards.
I don't know anybody who will stop going to VP because the badge is shit, or the "experience" is shit, but a lot of the new people/companies will not be attracted to the brand if it's not right.
I'm far more interested in what Unai is doing, don't get me wrong, i understand we need to improve in this area, and ultimately if we do, we can then spend more on better players.
But i'm happy to let Heck do his thing, if it's a new badge or experience i like, then great. If not, not to worry, i'll still keep going and supporting my club.
Absolutely, well said.
Post by: Nii Lamptey on June 29, 2023, 02:06:43 PM
The club are pissing money away when it takes 25-30mins to get a beer during a 15min half time break. Fix this, and everything else will follow.
Post by: Dogtanian on June 29, 2023, 02:09:21 PM
As mentioned, the big projects are the branding and stadium expansion, but possibly the highest priority issue is half time food/drink service.
The club are pissing money away when it takes 25-30mins to get a beer during a 15min half time break. Fix this, and everything else will follow.
For some reason this made me think of self-serve beer stations above the piss troughs, so you only need to queue once for two needs. That would be some sort of progress, if we could just teach some more of our number to aim properly...
Post by: LeeB on June 29, 2023, 02:15:36 PM
Maybe he's ditching Villa Live so we can have tailgate parties instead...
Fuck yeah, though the reality of that would be Ford Focus with the boot jammed with cases of lager, grime played at ear splitting levels and a few moody looking lads standing around smoking weed
Post by: chrisw1 on June 29, 2023, 02:16:03 PM
Post by: pablo_picasso on June 29, 2023, 02:22:20 PM
The thing is, we are not the target audience that a new badge, crest or Villa Live experience is aiming at.
But we should be.
Which is why we have to be consulted about any changes to things like the crest.
Otherwise we might end up playing in red, being called Aston United, in the Budweiser Stadium with an overly simplified MLS/NFL style devil as the crest.
Don't get me wrong, having him drum up business is all well & good, & that is his job, but I don't want the identity & legacy of the club to be diluted so we can go chasing the short attention span of the likes of American day-trippers, bringing their vuvuzelas & happy clapper toy things, until something else shiny grabs their attention.
Post by: Dogtanian on June 29, 2023, 02:26:25 PM
The thing is, we are not the target audience that a new badge, crest or Villa Live experience is aiming at.
But we should be.
Which is why we have to be consulted about any changes to things like the crest.
Otherwise we might end up playing in red, being called Aston United, in the Budweiser Stadium with an overly simplified MLS/NFL style devil as the crest.
Don't get me wrong, having him drum up business is all well & good, & that is his job, but I don't want the identity & legacy of the club to be diluted so we can go chasing the short attention span of the likes of American day-trippers, bringing their vuvuzelas & happy clapper toy things, until something else shiny grabs their attention.
But the reality is that no matter what they do to the badge, we will still be Aston Villa fans for life. Those who go to games and support the club will keep going regardless.
His job is to make us attractive to everyone else.
Post by: Flin5tone on June 29, 2023, 02:33:45 PM
BUT when a vote with the fan base was carried out and now they have gone back on it , is in my opinion unacceptable.
If they want to look good/attractive why would you use that obscene shield even for this season on TV/socials/meetings etc it looks absolutely embarrassing
Post by: Drummond on June 29, 2023, 02:38:05 PM
Post by: pablo_picasso on June 29, 2023, 02:44:15 PM
The thing is, we are not the target audience that a new badge, crest or Villa Live experience is aiming at.
But we should be.
Which is why we have to be consulted about any changes to things like the crest.
Otherwise we might end up playing in red, being called Aston United, in the Budweiser Stadium with an overly simplified MLS/NFL style devil as the crest.
Don't get me wrong, having him drum up business is all well & good, & that is his job, but I don't want the identity & legacy of the club to be diluted so we can go chasing the short attention span of the likes of American day-trippers, bringing their vuvuzelas & happy clapper toy things, until something else shiny grabs their attention.
But the reality is that no matter what they do to the badge, we will still be Aston Villa fans for life. Those who go to games and support the club will keep going regardless.
His job is to make us attractive to everyone else.
Which is proven as we have visited Villa Park in a dark decade all the while with Lerners MS Paint jobby.
But not many of us liked it & there were a lot of calls to change it...
Like I have said, we have to wait to see what happens now, but I don't want the overall feel of our brand to be geared towards happy clapping day trippers.
Post by: chrisw1 on June 29, 2023, 03:29:45 PM
I suppose you're right us paying fools are just there to make an atmosphere and to make it look good on TV.What don't you get about it being a vote with only one tangible option? Putting a pile of turd vs the round badge made the vote a forgon conclusion. How is that fans choice?
BUT when a vote with the fan base was carried out and now they have gone back on it , is in my opinion unacceptable.
If they want to look good/attractive why would you use that obscene shield even for this season on TV/socials/meetings etc it looks absolutely embarrassing
Where was the fans choice on the way the lion faced? The stupid fucking star or the stand-alone lion?
It wasn't fans choice, it was a stitch up.
Post by: Goldenballs on June 29, 2023, 06:49:03 PM
And they say they're going to consult the fans next time, but what if Heck or whoever doesn't like the result of it? Keep asking until he gets the answer he wants? It'll be interesting how they go about it next time.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on June 29, 2023, 08:01:07 PM
Post by: FatSam on June 29, 2023, 08:12:17 PM
If Purslow was still in charge, and the club went back on the badge design and/or stadium expansion I could maybe see your point, but in this circumstance, with Chris Heck, a new 'screwed-on' head coming in, I'm fully on board with his pause and take stock approach.I completely agree with this
If we were being honest, most of us loved the round badge when it was unveiled (as it's WAY better than the current abomination), but it's far from perfect - Lion facing the wrong way, ridiculous star embedded in the design rather than on top with room to add more in future, loads of people criticising that it looks like everyone elses badge, etc.
The buck stops with Chris Heck, and with what is at stake from a crest redesign or a stadium expansion (*and the money involved), I think he's personally well within his rights to put the brakes on.... as long as he gets it right when he does proceed!
Post by: Footy-Vill on July 15, 2023, 01:47:41 AM
We are in the states in less than a week.There is a complete disconnect in your logic but you apparently can’t see that.Fucking hell. Now we are after Americans. Will they need to be Spanish speaking Americans?
And don't know what your gripe is TV?
We have USA and Spain connections so there's a connection there and a likely influence.
Heck will be under instructions to grow Villa in Americas market. Villa will look to the Americans North and South I summise.
Villa play a summer series and that's a commercial move so it's already begun.
Let's just see what American player will be one of us shall we.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on July 15, 2023, 03:17:59 AM
Post by: Axl Rose on July 15, 2023, 03:23:12 AM
I hear Fats Mckennie is incoming.
I hope not.
Post by: ChicagoLion on July 15, 2023, 04:52:02 AM
wooshWe are in the states in less than a week.There is a complete disconnect in your logic but you apparently can’t see that.Fucking hell. Now we are after Americans. Will they need to be Spanish speaking Americans?
And don't know what your gripe is TV?
We have USA and Spain connections so there's a connection there and a likely influence.
Heck will be under instructions to grow Villa in Americas market. Villa will look to the Americans North and South I summise.
Villa play a summer series and that's a commercial move so it's already begun.
Let's just see what American player will be one of us shall we.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on July 15, 2023, 09:49:55 AM
We are in the states in less than a week.
Let's just see what American player will be one of us shall we.
Welcome back F-V, a sure sign that the new (pre-)season is upon us.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on July 15, 2023, 10:04:07 AM
Post by: Percy McCarthy on July 15, 2023, 10:50:46 AM
Post by: Risso on July 15, 2023, 11:59:13 AM
The scoreline is a forecast so I can't be held to that but I'll stand by the Inter 1-0 and 1-1 scoreline. And Internazionale Milano will contrive to win the tie. I'll say no more on my insight.
And as of right now, the deal is if Man City wins the Champions League tonight, I won't post again until our season opener.
Inter win, I'm entitled to post and perhaps people won't be as critical of me because it's a perfect example of my foresight.
I stand by my football intelligence and understanding of the game. Man City rarely defeats decent opponents when playing away from home the only way they win is by penalties as I see it.
Such a shame when people don't stick to their word. :(
Post by: Axl Rose on July 15, 2023, 12:00:38 PM
Oh well, it was nice while it lasted. Note to self : try not to get banned.
😂
Post by: Bad English on July 15, 2023, 12:07:15 PM
Post by: Axl Rose on July 15, 2023, 12:09:25 PM
WIN
Indeed.
I'm in complete agreement.
Post by: ChicagoLion on July 15, 2023, 02:41:15 PM
I think you will find this a a pretty regular occurrence.
The scoreline is a forecast so I can't be held to that but I'll stand by the Inter 1-0 and 1-1 scoreline. And Internazionale Milano will contrive to win the tie. I'll say no more on my insight.
And as of right now, the deal is if Man City wins the Champions League tonight, I won't post again until our season opener.
Inter win, I'm entitled to post and perhaps people won't be as critical of me because it's a perfect example of my foresight.
I stand by my football intelligence and understanding of the game. Man City rarely defeats decent opponents when playing away from home the only way they win is by penalties as I see it.
Such a shame when people don't stick to their word. :(
Post by: Footy-Vill on July 15, 2023, 04:10:52 PM
Yes they did.
Now let's get on with discussions involving Heck and the upcoming American summer series
Post by: Risso on July 15, 2023, 04:14:52 PM
Post by: ChicagoLion on July 15, 2023, 04:15:19 PM
That’s why it’s called pre season.
Post by: Footy-Vill on July 15, 2023, 04:23:41 PM
It's actually now the new season.
There's really no need to debate it.
The league season hasn't started but players are in for training and the off season is over. So it's on season. And in season.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on July 15, 2023, 04:27:12 PM
What season is this? Its now 23/24
It's actually now the new season.
There's really no need to debate it.
The league season hasn't started but players are in for training and the off season is over. So it's on season. And in season.
You've been back posting here again for a matter of hours and already the site has got significantly worse as a result
re the bolded part, perhaps we'll just run by you what we do and do not debate, to make things easier.
And you wonder why people react to you the way they do.
Post by: Footy-Vill on July 15, 2023, 04:57:25 PM
Post by: Drummond on July 15, 2023, 07:51:37 PM
Did aston villa play their first match today?
Yes they did.
Now let's get on with discussions involving Heck and the upcoming American summer series
You don't post for weeks and yet when you do you try and tell everyone else what to post about, where to post it and decry the absence of a specific thread to suit your needs without starting one yourself; and then you post about topics that aren't relevant to a thread because you can't be arsed to post in the correct thread.
Anyway, welcome back hope you enjoyed the weather.
Post by: Dave P on July 15, 2023, 07:53:10 PM
Our season opener is against Newcastle.
On the 24th July? Right you are.
Post by: IFWaters on July 15, 2023, 08:18:51 PM
I'm always a bit confused here whether this is an open forum to which anyone can post on Aston Villa or whether its some form of private members club where all are welcome to donate but only some viewpoints are valid.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on July 15, 2023, 08:26:19 PM
If you dont like what Footy Vill posts why not ignore him ?
I'm always a bit confused here whether this is an open forum to which anyone can post on Aston Villa or whether its some form of private members club where all are welcome to donate but only some viewpoints are valid.
I agree with you on Footy's posts, which I enjoy and want to see more of.
What is it you feel you're being prevented from saying?
Post by: paul_e on July 15, 2023, 08:31:31 PM
If you dont like what Footy Vill posts why not ignore him ?
I'm always a bit confused here whether this is an open forum to which anyone can post on Aston Villa or whether its some form of private members club where all are welcome to donate but only some viewpoints are valid.
Is the viewpoint that he posts a lot of nonsense not acceptable on an open forum?
Post by: Richard E on July 15, 2023, 08:37:15 PM
Post by: Bad English on July 15, 2023, 08:47:23 PM
No,that falls foul of Popper’s intolerance paradox..
I'm not having that.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on July 15, 2023, 08:48:00 PM
If you dont like what Footy Vill posts why not ignore him ?
I'm always a bit confused here whether this is an open forum to which anyone can post on Aston Villa or whether its some form of private members club where all are welcome to donate but only some viewpoints are valid.
Why wouldn't he expect to get challenged when he posts utter nonsense like anyone else would?
Like when Percy posted that nonsense about 'Villa' being singular.
Look at the post above here, starts a truly pointless argument, tells us what we can and can't debate, having not been here for weeks.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on July 15, 2023, 08:57:40 PM
If you dont like what Footy Vill posts why not ignore him ?
I'm always a bit confused here whether this is an open forum to which anyone can post on Aston Villa or whether its some form of private members club where all are welcome to donate but only some viewpoints are valid.
Why wouldn't he expect to get challenged when he posts utter nonsense like anyone else would?
Like when Percy posted that nonsense about 'Villa' being singular.
Or when some people said Sarah Millican was funny.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on July 15, 2023, 08:59:06 PM
If you dont like what Footy Vill posts why not ignore him ?
I'm always a bit confused here whether this is an open forum to which anyone can post on Aston Villa or whether its some form of private members club where all are welcome to donate but only some viewpoints are valid.
Why wouldn't he expect to get challenged when he posts utter nonsense like anyone else would?
Like when Percy posted that nonsense about 'Villa' being singular.
Or when some people said Sarah Millican was funny.
(https://y.yarn.co/a3124b6d-e683-4a8e-9520-89bf66a032de_text.gif)
Post by: Sexual Ealing on July 15, 2023, 09:00:09 PM
Post by: Risso on July 15, 2023, 09:02:03 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on July 15, 2023, 09:08:14 PM
Me, because she is.
Firstly, are you OK?
Post by: Dogtanian on July 15, 2023, 09:08:35 PM
I’m not trying to have a go at anyone or start an argument, but Footy’s posts are pretty harmless really, can’t we let them enjoy the site like the rest of us?
It must be horrible to have everything you say greeted with animosity, I don’t think anyone really deserves that just for being a bit different.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on July 15, 2023, 09:10:29 PM
I do find it funny that the anti-footy posts often outnumber the footy posts
You're kidding?
He's chinese click farm levels of prolific.
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on July 15, 2023, 11:12:27 PM
Me, because she is.
Firstly, are you OK?
This is significantly worse than anything Footy could conjure up.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on July 15, 2023, 11:16:55 PM
Me, because she is.
Firstly, are you OK?
This is significantly worse than anything Footy could conjure up.
It certainly puts Harry Styles / Hairspray revlations in perspective.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on July 15, 2023, 11:25:23 PM
U2, Sarah Millican? Is this a cry for help?
Stand-up comedy is a live art. It doesn't necessarily transfer well to TV. If you haven't seen someone live, you have no idea whether they're any good. There are obviously exceptions to that, like Billy Connolly, Joan Rivers, Les Dawson, Richard Pryor etc.
I've seen Sarah Millican and (along with 400 or so others) can confirm that she's a brilliant stand-up. I wouldn't want to insult anyone here personally (maybe one or two), but if I did, I might suggest some latent, unconscious bias against a woman who isn't conventionally attractive. I don't know.
But if you haven't been in a room with them, you don't know what they're like.
Unless they're Peter Kay.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on July 15, 2023, 11:30:07 PM
"You're not allowed to judge any comic unless you've seen them live, been in a room with them, except for these ones I've decided are immune from that rule".
You like her, lots of people like her, some people don't like her. That's comedy, it's subjective. One man's Stewart Lee is another man's Michael McIntyre.
It's not anything more complicated than that. Your view isn't any more or less valid because you've seen her in a room.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on July 15, 2023, 11:35:02 PM
No offence, SE, but what a load of nonsense.
Yep, your brief summary of her act in OT was funnier than her.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on July 15, 2023, 11:35:37 PM
No offence, SE, but what a load of nonsense.
"You're not allowed to judge any comic unless you've seen them live, been in a room with them, except for these ones I've decided are immune from that rule".
That's not what I meant, but I can see why it comes across that way.
Having been a stand-up, you see so many different rooms and so many different comics. The upshot is that you simply can't say that someone 'isn't funny' when they're selling out theatres and getting TV work etc. Especially with female comedians. I'm pretty sure I've read on this very forum that some people 'just don't find women funny'. I mean, what the fuck is that?
In the comedy industry, people obviously get rich from TV work, but nobody respects the opinions of people who only see stand-up on TV.
I'm obviously no longer in that industry, so I have no axe to grind, but that's how it is.
Edit: but Peter Kay is shit.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on July 15, 2023, 11:36:05 PM
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on July 15, 2023, 11:36:58 PM
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on July 15, 2023, 11:37:45 PM
GARLIC BREAD! Now that's comedy.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on July 15, 2023, 11:38:20 PM
Absolutely and he totally missed out Russ Abbott from his list of immunes.
There are two good reasons for that.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on July 15, 2023, 11:42:22 PM
No offence, SE, but what a load of nonsense.
"You're not allowed to judge any comic unless you've seen them live, been in a room with them, except for these ones I've decided are immune from that rule".
That's not what I meant, but I can see why it comes across that way.
Having been a stand-up, you see so many different rooms and so many different comics. The upshot is that you simply can't say that someone 'isn't funny' when they're selling out theatres and getting TV work etc. Especially with female comedians. I'm pretty sure I've read on this very forum that some people 'just don't find women funny'. I mean, what the fuck is that?
In the comedy industry, people obviously get rich from TV work, but nobody respects the opinions of people who only see stand-up on TV.
I'm obviously no longer in that industry, so I have no axe to grind, but that's how it is.
Edit: but Peter Kay is shit.
I get that standing up in front of a lot of people and trying to be funny is immensely complex, there are a massive range of human emotions at play, and there will be - if you are a stand up yourself - comedians who are impressive on a technical level, even if you don't find them funny, ie you do it yourself, you know how difficult it is.
It's like me saying "Leon Bailey is fucking hopeless". If I was a league one player who had experienced trying to get ahead in football and knew how difficult it is, I would have a totally different view on him, I would almost certainly be more respectful of what he's achieved, because he plays for Aston Villa, not some League One no-hopers.
But ultimately, for the end viewer, it's all subjective.
So yes, of course you can say someone isn't funny even though they sell out Wembley or wherever. I don't find Jack Whitehall funny but he sells out the O2. Jimmy Carr, he's another one.
Just like I don't think Leon Bailey is very good, although he's playing in front of 40,000 every Saturday and I'm mooching around Sainsburys.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on July 15, 2023, 11:46:33 PM
No offence, SE, but what a load of nonsense.
"You're not allowed to judge any comic unless you've seen them live, been in a room with them, except for these ones I've decided are immune from that rule".
You like her, lots of people like her, some people don't like her. That's comedy, it's subjective. One man's Stewart Lee is another man's Michael McIntyre.
It's not anything more complicated than that. Your view isn't any more or less valid because you've seen her in a room.
Sorry again, I hadn't seen the second part of your post Paulie. I actually included those names because I was going to make another point but forgot to! I think those acts work on TV because their act is basically zingers (Rivers, Dawson - and you can add Gary Delaney - Millican's husband, Villa fan and follower of H&V on Twitter - Jimmy Carr, Frankie Boyle and loads more) or their material is so broad that it couldn't fail if the performance is right (Connolly in particular).
It's not that I'm deciding who's good and who isn't, just that TV gives a warped perception of what stand-up is and isn't.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on July 15, 2023, 11:50:01 PM
It's not that I'm deciding who's good and who isn't, just that TV gives a warped perception of what stand-up is and isn't.
I think I agree with that.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on July 15, 2023, 11:50:35 PM
No offence, SE, but what a load of nonsense.
"You're not allowed to judge any comic unless you've seen them live, been in a room with them, except for these ones I've decided are immune from that rule".
That's not what I meant, but I can see why it comes across that way.
Having been a stand-up, you see so many different rooms and so many different comics. The upshot is that you simply can't say that someone 'isn't funny' when they're selling out theatres and getting TV work etc. Especially with female comedians. I'm pretty sure I've read on this very forum that some people 'just don't find women funny'. I mean, what the fuck is that?
In the comedy industry, people obviously get rich from TV work, but nobody respects the opinions of people who only see stand-up on TV.
I'm obviously no longer in that industry, so I have no axe to grind, but that's how it is.
Edit: but Peter Kay is shit.
I get that standing up in front of a lot of people and trying to be funny is immensely complex, there are a massive range of human emotions at play, and there will be - if you are a stand up yourself - comedians who are impressive on a technical level, even if you don't find them funny, ie you do it yourself, you know how difficult it is.
It's like me saying "Leon Bailey is fucking hopeless". If I was a league one player who had experienced trying to get ahead in football and knew how difficult it is, I would have a totally different view on him, I would almost certainly be more respectful of what he's achieved, because he plays for Aston Villa, not some League One no-hopers.
But ultimately, for the end viewer, it's all subjective.
So yes, of course you can say someone isn't funny even though they sell out Wembley or wherever. I don't find Jack Whitehall funny but he sells out the O2. Jimmy Carr, he's another one.
Just like I don't think Leon Bailey is very good, although he's playing in front of 40,000 every Saturday and I'm mooching around Sainsburys.
That's the point. You can say 'I don't find them funny', but saying 'they're not funny' flies in the face of all evidence unless you're talking about Peter Kay.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on July 15, 2023, 11:50:52 PM
Post by: Sexual Ealing on July 15, 2023, 11:53:50 PM
Post by: Risso on July 15, 2023, 11:56:38 PM
Post by: Sexual Ealing on July 16, 2023, 12:00:55 AM
I love Stewart Lee and don’t mind Jimmy Carr, although just a string of one liners gets a bit tiring after a while. Gary Delaney was the most ridiculously offensive (and funny) show I’ve ever seen.
And I know he thinks Sarah Millican is funny.
Anyway, this has made me remember my favourite Les Dawson joke.
It was seven years ago today that my wife ran off with the next-door neighbour. I do miss him.
Post by: paul_e on July 16, 2023, 12:05:49 AM
That's the point. You can say 'I don't find them funny', but saying 'they're not funny' flies in the face of all evidence unless you're talking about Peter Kay.
I've seen a fair amount of standup comedians live and there are only 3 I genuinely disliked.
Peter Kay I got dragged to by my missus and even she was fed up about halfway through.
Mark Lamarr who did a tiny place when I was at Uni and I reckon about half the audience had walked out within 20minutes.
The third one was another Uni gig, this time in the SU and she seemed to completely miss the signs of what the audience would be and deliver a show about her menopause, with her my biggest problem was that she at no point seemed to think the topic wouldn't resonate with what I'd guess was a 75% 18-21 male audience.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on July 16, 2023, 12:07:07 AM
Stewart Lee is probably the best opinion splitter. took the Mrs to see him, she hated it, couldn’t wait to get away. Told her it was just because she wasn’t trying hard enough, still not having it. Not even the Jungle Canyon Rope Bridges routine.
The only time I’ve seen her enjoy herself less* was when I made her come to see Steely Dan with me.
* in a non sexual situation
Post by: pauliewalnuts on July 16, 2023, 12:10:32 AM
I love Stewart Lee and don’t mind Jimmy Carr, although just a string of one liners gets a bit tiring after a while. Gary Delaney was the most ridiculously offensive (and funny) show I’ve ever seen.
And I know he thinks Sarah Millican is funny.
Anyway, this has made me remember my favourite Les Dawson joke.
It was seven years ago today that my wife ran off with the next-door neighbour. I do miss him.
Randomly BBC4 showed a Les Dawson era episode of blankety blank the other day. I’d forgotten how utterly brilliant he was on that, just effortless.
He was great. “My wife’s cooking’s so bad, even the dustbin’s got ulcers” etc.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on July 16, 2023, 12:10:50 AM
Peter Kay isn't funny.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on July 16, 2023, 12:17:24 AM
Funny isn’t a scientific concept.
Funny to me is someone I find funny.
I can’t understand why so many people love Ed Sheeran but they do.
I can say his music is horrific shit because that’s what I feel about it. I can’t say he’s not popular though, because he is.
It’s just that they’re wrong and I’m right.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on July 16, 2023, 12:18:51 AM
Surely that should be “you can’t say he isn’t funny for a lot of people”.
Funny isn’t a scientific concept.
Funny to me is someone I find funny.
I can’t understand why so many people love Ed Sheeran but they do.
I can say his music is horrific shit because that’s what I feel about it. I can’t say he’s not popular though, because he is.
It’s just that they’re wrong and I’m right.
We're dancing on the head of a pin here. You can say what you want, I can think what I want. Peter Kay is shit.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on July 16, 2023, 12:21:31 AM
Post by: Risso on July 16, 2023, 12:25:22 AM
Post by: Sexual Ealing on July 16, 2023, 12:28:51 AM
Lee Evans is far and away the shittest comedian I’ve seen. Just amateurishly unfunny.
You should've seen me mate.
Post by: Risso on July 16, 2023, 12:32:10 AM
Lee Evans is far and away the shittest comedian I’ve seen. Just amateurishly unfunny.
You should've seen me mate.
You reading the telephone directory would have been funnier than him.
Post by: adrenachrome on July 16, 2023, 12:35:53 AM
For my own part, I liked George Carlin, because he had an axe to grind. I loved US sitcoms like Married With Children, Seinfeld and Curb Your Enthusiasm even though I didn't like a single character in any of them.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on July 16, 2023, 12:37:34 AM
Lee Evans is far and away the shittest comedian I’ve seen. Just amateurishly unfunny.
You should've seen me mate.
You reading the telephone directory would have been funnier than him.
Ah, you have seen me!
Post by: Brazilian Villain on July 16, 2023, 12:41:03 AM
What the Heck, Chris, your thread has turned into a discussion about comedians.
Given he has turned the new badge launch into a comedy of errors it's hardly surprising.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on July 16, 2023, 12:44:06 AM
I love Stewart Lee and don’t mind Jimmy Carr, although just a string of one liners gets a bit tiring after a while.
Same here. Back in my Uni days, Kevin McAleer was the campus favourite (very, very dry).
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on July 16, 2023, 12:51:28 AM
I also love Stewart Lee but I remember my mom watching some with me and I reckon she'd have laughed more at puppies being put down.
Post by: LeeS on July 16, 2023, 06:11:18 AM
I've seen quite a few comedians, mainly ones I have wanted to see unless it's at the Glee when you don't who is appearing. I did get dragged to see Micky Flanagan at an arena gig and I f**king hated it. Observation type stuff just isn't my thing, I don't 'get' it at all.
I also love Stewart Lee but I remember my mom watching some with me and I reckon she'd have laughed more at puppies being put down.
His dead puppies one is my favourite too. Absolute genius
Post by: ChicagoLion on July 16, 2023, 06:16:46 AM
I rather thought as I come by unheralded by some it was a mere post on the subject of the up and coming summer series in America something Heck will be involved with and that possibly signing of a player thats allOh yeh that’s it, you can fool some of the people some of the time…….
Post by: Axl Rose on July 16, 2023, 06:38:16 AM
Lee Evans is far and away the shittest comedian I’ve seen. Just amateurishly unfunny.
You should've seen me mate.
You reading the telephone directory would have been funnier than him.
😂
Fair play to you, though Paddy!
My job involves alot of standing in front of people talking, but I would never have the bollocks to do stand up. A good mate of mine here is heavily involved in the Tokyo stand up scene, so if you ever fancy a slot here, let me know!
Post by: Sexual Ealing on July 16, 2023, 06:46:09 AM
Lee Evans is far and away the shittest comedian I’ve seen. Just amateurishly unfunny.
You should've seen me mate.
You reading the telephone directory would have been funnier than him.
😂
Fair play to you, though Paddy!
My job involves alot of standing in front of people talking, but I would never have the bollocks to do stand up. A good mate of mine here is heavily involved in the Tokyo stand up scene, so if you ever fancy a slot here, let me know!
Everyone I met in Mexico wanted me to do a bit, but I'm not biting unless there's money in it Nik!
Post by: Bad English on July 16, 2023, 09:26:04 AM
My job involves a lot of standing in front of people talking, but I would never have the bollocks to do stand up.Is this you Nick?*
(https://i.ibb.co/7bHYFjm/20230716-102215.jpg) (https://ibb.co/N7XVztB)
(https://i.ibb.co/2ybYhkX/20230716-102056.jpg) (https://ibb.co/1LSJQmH)
*(Actually it's the university of Kyoto https://twitter.com/thegallowboob/status/1680299049243516928 )
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 19, 2023, 06:31:53 PM
Quote
Aston Villa President of Business Operations Chris Heck is delighted to announce four new appointments to the Senior Leadership Team at Villa Park.
Ron Erskine has joined as the club’s Chief Commercial Officer. Ron is a seasoned commercial executive with 35 years’ experience in the sports business. His portfolio includes spells at global sports marketing agency, Octagon, as well as the NBA, the New York Red Bulls in MLS and most recently at CSM Sport and Entertainment where he was responsible for the commercial programmes at the US Open Tennis Championships and the WTA Tour.
Following Ron into Villa Park, Ben Hatton joins as Chief Operating Officer. A chartered accountant, Ben brings 25 years of international football experience to the team. He spent 10 years at Manchester United, AS Roma and most recently Blackpool FC where, as Managing Director, he was responsible for the transition of the club to new, stable ownership.
Richard Stevens has come on board as the club’s Vice President, Strategy and Analytics where he joins from global mobility app, Free Now, having also spent six years consulting at KPMG.
And, completing the line-up of new hires, is Ryan Disdier. Ryan arrives as Vice President, Content and Digital. An experienced social media executive, Ryan has worked with the Philadelphia 76ers and the Washington Wizards in the NBA as well as the Washington Commanders in the NFL.
Elsewhere, Club Ambassador and former player, Ahmed Elmohamady, is now working closely with the club’s commercial department in a full-time capacity.
Chris Heck, President of Business Operations, said: “I’m delighted to be able to welcome four fantastic operators in their respective fields to the Senior Leadership Team at Villa Park. And, of course, bring Elmo back to the club in an official role.
“This has been a thoughtful process, looking at areas we could strengthen our existing management structure, and I’m excited we now have a team in place that can help project this great football club forward as we embark on the next leg of our exciting journey.
“It’s time to awaken this sleeping giant of a football club – both on and off the pitch - and our supporters have every right to feel excited about what the future holds. Aston Villa is a huge, historic institution that is on the rise again.”
Post by: N'ZMAV on September 19, 2023, 07:51:44 PM
Post by: dave.woodhall on September 19, 2023, 07:54:42 PM
Any chance of Steve Stride?
Steve, incredibly, is in his seventies now.
Post by: N'ZMAV on September 19, 2023, 08:01:34 PM
and I have no doubt he could run the show much better.Any chance of Steve Stride?
Steve, incredibly, is in his seventies now.
Post by: Exeter 77 on September 19, 2023, 08:32:22 PM
Post by: Des Little on September 19, 2023, 08:55:12 PM
and I have no doubt he could run the show much better.Any chance of Steve Stride?
Steve, incredibly, is in his seventies now.
To be fair, I think Steve Strange could. And he’s dead.
Post by: OCD on September 19, 2023, 08:57:20 PM
Have I read it right that the new COO was at Manchester United then Roma but was last at Blackpool?
But he was CEO at Blackpool though, overseeing the transition of ownership. So a promotion in role.
Post by: Exeter 77 on September 19, 2023, 09:17:38 PM
I assumed it was something like that but the way it was phrased made it look very strange.Have I read it right that the new COO was at Manchester United then Roma but was last at Blackpool?
But he was CEO at Blackpool though, overseeing the transition of ownership. So a promotion in role.
Post by: Drummond on September 19, 2023, 10:12:49 PM
Post by: eamonn on September 20, 2023, 02:43:22 PM
Post by: chrisw1 on September 20, 2023, 02:46:25 PM
Four new appointments? Check out the headcount increase at VP. Good to see Coutinho's wages are being re-routed so efficiently.But if they can get us Adidas kits and flush out a better pie supplier then it will have been worth it.
Post by: RamboandBruno on September 20, 2023, 04:03:24 PM
Four new appointments? Check out the headcount increase at VP. Good to see Coutinho's wages are being re-routed so efficiently.But if they can get us Adidas kits and flush out a better pie supplier then it will have been worth it.
If they can sort flushing full stop it might beca start
Post by: Nii Lamptey on September 20, 2023, 05:23:13 PM
The question is, has anything 'good' come of his tenure yet (or any little hints of progress)?
I'm going to include things which were maybe instigated before he joined, but they happened on HIS watch, so imo he is responsible as AVFC's 'President of Business Operations'....
- Calamitous badge fiasco
- Worst kit possibly ever released (inc. sponsorship)
- Extortionate Season ticket price hikes
- Removal of season ticket perks such as free cup game and Holte Social
- Away ticket policing
- Cup game pricing
- Acts of vandalism to our most prized stand - 'Terrace View' in the Holte
- ZERO improvement/possible decline in quality of service in general concourses around the ground
- Removal of chicken balti pies!
There is possibly more to add... but on this evidence, I'd say he's not doing a very good job so far.
Post by: eamonn on September 20, 2023, 05:29:42 PM
Post by: Simon Page on September 20, 2023, 05:33:35 PM
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on September 20, 2023, 05:40:02 PM
I'm really struggling to understand his thought process at the moment. It just doesn't make sense.
EDIT: I see Nil Lamptey beat me to it.
Post by: chrisw1 on September 20, 2023, 05:40:41 PM
TV decision was also pre-Heck.
Post by: Nii Lamptey on September 20, 2023, 05:47:42 PM
Kits are sorted over a year in advance, so you can knock that one off.
TV decision was also pre-Heck.
Yep, fair enough. But he's in charge now, so the very least I'd expect is some kind of statement to the fans, based on the backlash on both instances.
On a related note, were our season tickets sold claiming free access to the Holte Suite this season (or did we just 'assume' it would carry on into this season)?
If so, that's false advertising and not a great position to be putting the club in!
Post by: lennythekad on September 29, 2023, 09:45:56 AM
Post by: cdward on September 29, 2023, 09:55:04 AM
https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Daily/Issues/2012/08/03/People-and-Pop-Culture/Red-Bulls.aspxNot his first rodeo.
Heck also managed to “alienate many of the team’s most ardent fans by raising season-ticket prices and committing what seemed to be some relatively minor missteps, like barring a popular food truck from its regular spot outside the team’s stadium.”
Post by: AlexAlexCropley on September 29, 2023, 09:55:19 AM
https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Daily/Issues/2012/08/03/People-and-Pop-Culture/Red-Bulls.aspxLooks like he hasn't changed then
Post by: Monty on September 29, 2023, 09:58:29 AM
Post by: brontebilly on September 29, 2023, 10:13:52 AM
Post by: London Villan on September 29, 2023, 10:48:06 AM
To play devil's advocate - is there another big premier league team with a facility like the Holte Suite that is free to season ticket holders? He's probably looked at that and thought why aren't we charging entry for that?
Rumours of the new "Warehouse" being £20-£30 a match would add to this.
It's the same at most PL clubs and is why they all earn so much more money that we do an a match day.
Post by: Chris Smith on September 29, 2023, 10:52:44 AM
It's about revenue - he's looking a quick fixes to raise more cash.
To play devil's advocate - is there another big premier league team with a facility like the Holte Suite that is free to season ticket holders? He's probably looked at that and thought why aren't we charging entry for that?
Rumours of the new "Warehouse" being £20-£30 a match would add to this.
It's the same at most PL clubs and is why they all earn so much more money that we do an a match day.
Looks to me like they’re trying to find ways to maximise income to partially compensate for the lost revenue whilst the North Stand is redeveloped.
Post by: sid1964 on September 29, 2023, 10:58:22 AM
When i complain about the cost of my season ticket to my Wife her standard response is "you either pay it or you stop going, you have 2 choices"
The you tube video of Chris Heck when he was in charge Philadelphia basket ball team is interesting viewing
Post by: London Villan on September 29, 2023, 11:02:30 AM
Post by: Sexual Ealing on September 29, 2023, 11:04:09 AM
...hang on. What the fuck have I done?!
Post by: Paul.S on September 29, 2023, 12:27:31 PM
I would imagine that within the next 3 seasons my lower Holte End season ticket will be a £1,000.00
When i complain about the cost of my season ticket to my Wife her standard response is "you either pay it or you stop going, you have 2 choices"
The you tube video of Chris Heck when he was in charge Philadelphia basket ball team is interesting viewing
I think that’s dependent and where we are on the pitch and what they improve for us off it.
If he hasn’t learnt already, the support at our club are not slow in letting people what they think. If we are challenging at the right end, are signing top players and have improved the facilities then he’ll get away with it. Anything less and he’ll fall flat on his face.
Post by: chrisw1 on September 29, 2023, 12:41:46 PM
It's about revenue - he's looking a quick fixes to raise more cash.I agree with this and whilst I appreciate that it's an unpopular opinion I also agree that the club probably needed to make better use of the Holte suite. We have a very tight ground so corporate areas are limited and we're miles behind our competitors. Whether I think the offer in the corporate areas is good value is irrelevant as I'm not a potential customer.
To play devil's advocate - is there another big premier league team with a facility like the Holte Suite that is free to season ticket holders? He's probably looked at that and thought why aren't we charging entry for that?
Rumours of the new "Warehouse" being £20-£30 a match would add to this.
It's the same at most PL clubs and is why they all earn so much more money that we do an a match day.
Where they have fallen down is the lack of mitigation for those who have lost facilities or have terrible facilities in the first place. Better concourses, more bars, more W/Cs etc. It just comes across that they simply don't care.
And prices of course - not just season tickets but everything. I saw a post where someone had paid £7.50 for a hot dog. The bread was so stale it had fallen apart. I just can't understand why the don't get that if they provide a decent offer at a reasonable price with good service the turnover would increase exponentially.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on September 29, 2023, 12:56:19 PM
Post by: London Villan on September 29, 2023, 01:09:15 PM
Post by: chrisw1 on September 29, 2023, 01:18:02 PM
Post by: AV82EC on September 29, 2023, 01:35:37 PM
Post by: tomd2103 on September 29, 2023, 02:16:28 PM
https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Daily/Issues/2012/08/03/People-and-Pop-Culture/Red-Bulls.aspx
That does not read well to be honest.
Post by: pablo_picasso on September 29, 2023, 03:18:29 PM
Post by: Mister E on September 29, 2023, 03:24:16 PM
I think LV has this about right. The club's poor exploitation of commercial opportunities is one reason we're not competing. Like it or not, they'll be leveraging loyalty from now on, which will mean some of us will probably 'drop out' and let others bear the financial burden of fandom.It's about revenue - he's looking a quick fixes to raise more cash.Looks to me like they’re trying to find ways to maximise income to partially compensate for the lost revenue whilst the North Stand is redeveloped.
To play devil's advocate - is there another big premier league team with a facility like the Holte Suite that is free to season ticket holders? He's probably looked at that and thought why aren't we charging entry for that?
Rumours of the new "Warehouse" being £20-£30 a match would add to this.
It's the same at most PL clubs and is why they all earn so much more money that we do an a match day.
I think I'll be one of the drop-outs soon (after this season).
Post by: pauliewalnuts on September 29, 2023, 04:32:46 PM
I also reckon that in the last ten years almost every one of us on here has been triggered by something and said “that’s it for me now” - multiple times - and still kept coming.
They know this. They’re money driven ruthless operators who would charge you to drive past the ground, let alone come in it if they could.
If you complain they’ll point at two things. One will be that revenue per supporter graph someone posted the other day which had us in the relegation places and the other will be the season ticket waiting list.
Also, lest we forget, from end of this season we will have two years when 7,000 less of us will be able to come to the match, so there aren’t going to be any horrifying attendance figures as a result of what they do for a bit, by which time we will all have forgotten and flock back, excited to use a new stand which even has functional toilets.
Post by: Ads on September 29, 2023, 04:34:57 PM
Post by: UK Redsox on September 29, 2023, 04:38:47 PM
Post by: Billy Walker on September 29, 2023, 05:25:12 PM
Post by: Ads on September 29, 2023, 05:33:05 PM
Post by: Nii Lamptey on September 29, 2023, 05:36:52 PM
By next August, we should be seeing the skeleton of the new North Stand going in, a new kit deal with one of the TOP known sports brands and the current shirt sponsor potted (no more of this second rate bollocks). And as importantly, all Villa Park concourse catering given a full overhaul, where 'edible' food is served and you don't have to miss HT PLUS 20 minutes of the game to get served.
Post by: dorsetvillian on September 29, 2023, 05:41:43 PM
Post by: Martyn Smith on September 29, 2023, 08:22:24 PM
Post by: john e on September 29, 2023, 09:57:06 PM
Like a banned poster returns to H&V under another name we’ve got the returning CEO
Post by: tomd2103 on September 29, 2023, 10:47:55 PM
Next summer is make or break for Heck imo. So far - Absolutely not impressed. He's alienated a lot of the fanbase, prioritised vanity projects instead of getting the foundations right (*baltie pies, beer and pissers).
By next August, we should be seeing the skeleton of the new North Stand going in, a new kit deal with one of the TOP known sports brands and the current shirt sponsor potted (no more of this second rate bollocks). And as importantly, all Villa Park concourse catering given a full overhaul, where 'edible' food is served and you don't have to miss HT PLUS 20 minutes of the game to get served.
What I find annoying is that we haven't heard a peep from him since he started, not even in the local media. A lot of what has happened such as the badge situation, abandoning Villa Live, the changes to the Holte etc. have been accompanied with a wall of silence, which is going to rile fans up.
I just hope that he understands that Birmingham is not London and Manchester, and Villa are not Chelsea or Manchester United.
Post by: trinityoap on September 29, 2023, 11:59:45 PM
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 30, 2023, 01:28:31 AM
He thinks we are soccer fans.
We are.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/I6ZM49PSDHXBHRq64S1pG1YiKsTwmFboD8iAX7X_j3Vb4HGrk-KL6_XgRH8lqzgYo3F126OHGTWoNCFE1jAaeSrVk62drT2w00n8syEiH7X8O6uEtoGa27MVp41IPruF_oNdoo8lGg=w2400)
Post by: rooboy316 on September 30, 2023, 04:16:51 AM
Post by: Des Little on September 30, 2023, 07:14:22 AM
Post by: AlexAlexCropley on September 30, 2023, 09:39:16 AM
Post by: N'ZMAV on September 30, 2023, 09:46:43 AM
I don’t think he’ll be here very long.he's being a right Liz Truss
Post by: thick_mike on September 30, 2023, 10:41:23 AM
In protest I've stopped buying his sausages
I stopped after he brought these out.
(https://i.ibb.co/23h6T2g/IMG-9494.jpg) (https://ibb.co/23h6T2g)
Post by: Percy McCarthy on September 30, 2023, 10:53:07 AM
In protest I've stopped buying his sausages
I stopped after he brought these out.
(https://i.ibb.co/23h6T2g/IMG-9494.jpg) (https://ibb.co/23h6T2g)
Me too.
Post by: Bad English on September 30, 2023, 11:03:11 AM
(https://i.ibb.co/6Fb8P9V/Chris-heck.jpg) (https://ibb.co/Pg4MhX3)
Post by: Risso on September 30, 2023, 11:38:18 AM
Post by: frank black on September 30, 2023, 11:43:00 AM
He’s only about 5’4”. A right shit pair of shoes he’s wearing today. Never ends well, that.
At least this guy gets some hits when you google him. Unlike Tony
Post by: Tokyo Sexwhale on September 30, 2023, 10:02:54 PM
Post by: tomd2103 on October 01, 2023, 02:03:43 AM
Post by: wittonwarrior on October 01, 2023, 09:33:56 AM
Post by: Risso on October 01, 2023, 10:58:18 AM
Was that him sat in front of Gareth Southgate?
Yep.
Post by: DB on October 02, 2023, 09:21:16 PM
Post by: Malandro on October 02, 2023, 09:23:47 PM
We're never going to get rid of the star with Chris Heck. Look, he has won the Cup at least six times himself and flaunts it!
(https://i.ibb.co/6Fb8P9V/Chris-heck.jpg) (https://ibb.co/Pg4MhX3)
He looks like the piggy guy in The Talented Mr Ripley.
Post by: ian c. on October 02, 2023, 09:43:07 PM
Post by: pablo_picasso on October 02, 2023, 10:04:56 PM
What has he got right or you can call a success since he came in?
Your location.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on October 02, 2023, 10:06:32 PM
Maybe in the background he’s negotiating a break with Castore and a massive new deal with Nike. We don’t know.
Post by: Ads on October 02, 2023, 10:07:32 PM
Tbf to him, we don’t have overview of what he’s working on so I don’t think we can write him off just yet.
Maybe in the background he’s negotiating a break with Castore and a massive new deal with Nike. We don’t know.
That's fair. We briefed the living daylights out of Castore last week and I suspect we'll have a new kit manufacturer paying double what we have now.
Post by: AV84 on October 02, 2023, 10:08:32 PM
Tbf to him, we don’t have overview of what he’s working on so I don’t think we can write him off just yet.
Maybe in the background he’s negotiating a break with Castore and a massive new deal with Nike. We don’t know.
We're unlikely to get a massive deal with anyone for kits unless we start selling an awful lot more, or increase the price of a jersey to £125 a pop.
Post by: exigo on October 02, 2023, 10:11:51 PM
Tbf to him, we don’t have overview of what he’s working on so I don’t think we can write him off just yet.
Maybe in the background he’s negotiating a break with Castore and a massive new deal with Nike. We don’t know.
We're unlikely to get a massive deal with anyone for kits unless we start selling an awful lot more, or increase the price of a jersey to £125 a pop.
Don't give him ideas
Post by: AV84 on October 02, 2023, 10:20:21 PM
Tbf to him, we don’t have overview of what he’s working on so I don’t think we can write him off just yet.
Maybe in the background he’s negotiating a break with Castore and a massive new deal with Nike. We don’t know.
We're unlikely to get a massive deal with anyone for kits unless we start selling an awful lot more, or increase the price of a jersey to £125 a pop.
Don't give him ideas
That's kind of my point though. Be careful what you wish for when it comes to kit deals. We're only worth a certain amount and it's probably not that much, comparatively speaking.
Post by: DB on October 02, 2023, 10:33:32 PM
What has he got right or you can call a success since he came in?
Your location.
Chortle
Post by: pauliewalnuts on October 02, 2023, 10:36:23 PM
Tbf to him, we don’t have overview of what he’s working on so I don’t think we can write him off just yet.
Maybe in the background he’s negotiating a break with Castore and a massive new deal with Nike. We don’t know.
We're unlikely to get a massive deal with anyone for kits unless we start selling an awful lot more
Well, that's his job to move those figures.
We moan about the guy and we hate this and hate that (and I do, too, in the case of the LG and TV) but he's going to be measured on a lot of things and one of those is going to be shifting shirts.
So let's see what he achieves. He's got a good pedigree, whatever we think of him.
Post by: AV84 on October 02, 2023, 10:40:36 PM
Tbf to him, we don’t have overview of what he’s working on so I don’t think we can write him off just yet.
Maybe in the background he’s negotiating a break with Castore and a massive new deal with Nike. We don’t know.
We're unlikely to get a massive deal with anyone for kits unless we start selling an awful lot more
Well, that's his job to move those figures.
We moan about the guy and we hate this and hate that (and I do, too, in the case of the LG and TV) but he's going to be measured on a lot of things and one of those is going to be shifting shirts.
So let's see what he achieves. He's got a good pedigree, whatever we think of him.
I agree completely. Shifting more shirts will result in bigger and better kit deals, but looking at how things have been handled with hospitality and ticket pricing, for example, we may go about things the wrong way and just start charging more for jerseys in order to maximise profit for the manufacturers.
I could see us getting Nike or Addidas on board next season, but it won't be a big money deal. Hopefully better design and quality will shift a lot more though, which in time will lead to bigger deals.
Post by: The Edge on October 02, 2023, 10:41:52 PM
Compared to clubs like Man U with a worldwide glory hunting network we're pretty small. Like my mate once told a bluenose "We are a behemoth. You're just a moth"Tbf to him, we don’t have overview of what he’s working on so I don’t think we can write him off just yet.
Maybe in the background he’s negotiating a break with Castore and a massive new deal with Nike. We don’t know.
We're unlikely to get a massive deal with anyone for kits unless we start selling an awful lot more, or increase the price of a jersey to £125 a pop.
Don't give him ideas
That's kind of my point though. Be careful what you wish for when it comes to kit deals. We're only worth a certain amount and it's probably not that much, comparatively speaking.
Post by: AV84 on October 02, 2023, 10:45:35 PM
Compared to clubs like Man U with a worldwide glory hunting network we're pretty small. Like my mate once told a bluenose "We are a behemoth. You're just a moth"Tbf to him, we don’t have overview of what he’s working on so I don’t think we can write him off just yet.
Maybe in the background he’s negotiating a break with Castore and a massive new deal with Nike. We don’t know.
We're unlikely to get a massive deal with anyone for kits unless we start selling an awful lot more, or increase the price of a jersey to £125 a pop.
Don't give him ideas
That's kind of my point though. Be careful what you wish for when it comes to kit deals. We're only worth a certain amount and it's probably not that much, comparatively speaking.
I saw figures the other day for 2022 that said we sold 245k shirts that year. Man U sold 2.5 million.
Newcastle, West Ham, and even Everton sold nearly 2x what we did.
Post by: Axl Rose on October 02, 2023, 10:56:35 PM
Compared to clubs like Man U with a worldwide glory hunting network we're pretty small. Like my mate once told a bluenose "We are a behemoth. You're just a moth"Tbf to him, we don’t have overview of what he’s working on so I don’t think we can write him off just yet.
Maybe in the background he’s negotiating a break with Castore and a massive new deal with Nike. We don’t know.
We're unlikely to get a massive deal with anyone for kits unless we start selling an awful lot more, or increase the price of a jersey to £125 a pop.
Don't give him ideas
That's kind of my point though. Be careful what you wish for when it comes to kit deals. We're only worth a certain amount and it's probably not that much, comparatively speaking.
😂
Brilliant.
Post by: The Edge on October 02, 2023, 10:58:00 PM
It's something the club has got to address. This is where Heck comes in. He needs to be careful not to piss off the the Villa faithful in the process though. He hasn't made a good start on that front.Compared to clubs like Man U with a worldwide glory hunting network we're pretty small. Like my mate once told a bluenose "We are a behemoth. You're just a moth"Tbf to him, we don’t have overview of what he’s working on so I don’t think we can write him off just yet.
Maybe in the background he’s negotiating a break with Castore and a massive new deal with Nike. We don’t know.
We're unlikely to get a massive deal with anyone for kits unless we start selling an awful lot more, or increase the price of a jersey to £125 a pop.
Don't give him ideas
That's kind of my point though. Be careful what you wish for when it comes to kit deals. We're only worth a certain amount and it's probably not that much, comparatively speaking.
I saw figures the other day for 2022 that said we sold 245k shirts that year. Man U sold 2.5 million.
Newcastle, West Ham, and even Everton sold nearly 2x what we did.
Post by: AV84 on October 02, 2023, 11:31:23 PM
https://www.npr.org/2023/09/27/1201992668/taylor-swifts-travis-kelce-jersey-sales
Post by: Percy McCarthy on October 03, 2023, 12:08:09 AM
Compared to clubs like Man U with a worldwide glory hunting network we're pretty small. Like my mate once told a bluenose "We are a behemoth. You're just a moth"Tbf to him, we don’t have overview of what he’s working on so I don’t think we can write him off just yet.
Maybe in the background he’s negotiating a break with Castore and a massive new deal with Nike. We don’t know.
We're unlikely to get a massive deal with anyone for kits unless we start selling an awful lot more, or increase the price of a jersey to £125 a pop.
Don't give him ideas
That's kind of my point though. Be careful what you wish for when it comes to kit deals. We're only worth a certain amount and it's probably not that much, comparatively speaking.
I say to them ‘we’re an icon, you’re an ex-con’.
But the ones I know like it.
Post by: Des Little on October 03, 2023, 06:30:55 AM
Post by: eamonn on October 03, 2023, 08:32:19 AM
Post by: astonvilla82 on October 03, 2023, 08:38:09 AM
Surely our shirt sales are hindered by our distribution (or lack of it). Only being able to buy via the club directly, with dreadful stock levels must be a barrier.I ordered a baby's kit from the online store and after 4 weeks it hadn't arrived and they refunded the money straight away, so it makes you wonder if it's a on going problem
Post by: LeeB on October 03, 2023, 08:41:53 AM
Post by: astonvilla82 on October 03, 2023, 08:42:13 AM
We need to get Taylor Swift to have a disgustingly public relationship with one of our playersif you start that kind of thing every club will be doing it, good example is the mob down the road having a relationship with the cast from Peaky Blinders inders
https://www.npr.org/2023/09/27/1201992668/taylor-swifts-travis-kelce-jersey-sales
Post by: AV84 on October 03, 2023, 09:36:35 AM
Do WHAM! and Everton have bigger fanbases ?
I've no idea but they sold about 450k each that year. Maybe it's a one off for that year and they don't usually sell that many, I don't know.
West Ham qualifying for Europe probably helped with their sales. Sometimes a club signing a big name player, or someone from a particular country, will drive up shirt sales. Not saying we should go and sign a South Korean player just to push up sales, but there are a lot of ways sales can be increased.
Post by: Drummond on October 03, 2023, 09:39:10 AM
Do WHAM! and Everton have bigger fanbases ?
I've no idea but they sold about 450k each that year. Maybe it's a one off for that year and they don't usually sell that many, I don't know.
West Ham qualifying for Europe probably helped with their sales. Sometimes a club signing a big name player, or someone from a particular country, will drive up shirt sales. Not saying we should go and sign a South Korean player just to push up sales, but there are a lot of ways sales can be increased.
Making them not shit would be a start.
Post by: AV84 on October 03, 2023, 09:44:40 AM
Do WHAM! and Everton have bigger fanbases ?
I've no idea but they sold about 450k each that year. Maybe it's a one off for that year and they don't usually sell that many, I don't know.
West Ham qualifying for Europe probably helped with their sales. Sometimes a club signing a big name player, or someone from a particular country, will drive up shirt sales. Not saying we should go and sign a South Korean player just to push up sales, but there are a lot of ways sales can be increased.
Making them not shit would be a start.
Well yes, less shit in design and quality, and more readily available seem the two most obvious places to start.
I'm no expert on it but I could see us changing suppliers but it'll be a small enough fee we'll get, with the aim being we drive up sales over the period of the deal and get a bigger one next time.
Edit - just looking at those shirt sales again and Man U sales were up 44% on the previous year because of Ronaldo 7 shirts.
Chelsea increased 22% after winning the Champions League.
Man City's sales were up 19% thanks to Grealish and Haaland shirt sales.
Post by: chrisw1 on October 03, 2023, 09:49:34 AM
Post by: Duncan Shaw on October 03, 2023, 09:56:52 AM
I see the Villa on Tour guys tweeted about the empty seats yesterday and someone tagged him in the replies, so it will be interesting to see if he takes any notice of that at all.
Post by: LeeB on October 03, 2023, 10:01:07 AM
I think a less shit design is an eminently sensible starting point. This stuff is easy isn't it?
You'd think so Chris, but then their answer to "How do we make more money from fans who just want to be able to buy some refreshments, and are literally begging us to help them part with their cash?" is to make it even harder to do so for the majority whilst fleecing a select and stupid few much harder.
Post by: AV84 on October 03, 2023, 10:10:13 AM
Honestly, if he did a Q and A for an hour on here, it would give him enough of a sensible "to-do" list to keep his team going for the next 12 months.
I think it's a bit disingenuous to suggest he doesn't know these very basic points about business. Especially when it comes to something as basic as shirt sales. I get why people are annoyed about the way things have happened at the stadium, but the man's not an idiot.
Post by: Drummond on October 03, 2023, 10:38:58 AM
I think a less shit design is an eminently sensible starting point. This stuff is easy isn't it?
You'd think so Chris, but then their answer to "How do we make more money from fans who just want to be able to buy some refreshments, and are literally begging us to help them part with their cash?" is to make it even harder to do so for the majority whilst fleecing a select and stupid few much harder.
See the 'Pro' shirts too.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on October 03, 2023, 11:02:56 AM
1. The kits are crap and are the laughing stock of the kit making world.
2. The TV and LG are about as popular as sick.
3. The toilets are overflowing with piss.
4. The zero hours contracts catering staff do not seem to be able to communicate.
5. The food is dire and overpriced.
6. The beer is dire and expensive.
7. The fanbase is being alienated.
8. We can never seem to be able to distribute merchandise as effectively as other clubs.
9. The club crest changes more often than the weather.
And yet amongst all this we need to grow revenue.
Good luck Chris.
Post by: Drummond on October 03, 2023, 11:05:21 AM
He has got a lot on his plate. If he can succeed then great. But, currently;
1. The kits are crap and are the laughing stock of the kit making world.
2. The TV and LG are about as popular as sick.
3. The toilets are overflowing with piss.
4. The zero hours contracts catering staff do not seem to be able to communicate.
5. The food is dire and overpriced.
6. The beer is dire and expensive.
7. The fanbase is being alienated.
8. We can never seem to be able to distribute merchandise as effectively as other clubs.
And yet amongst all this we need to grow revenue.
Good luck Chris.
And I'm pretty sure none of those were of his doing.
He's not going to say it's all shit, and throw people under the bus (possibly because he's not allowed to) but things will improve, because they have to.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on October 03, 2023, 11:10:04 AM
Post by: Sexual Ealing on October 03, 2023, 11:20:41 AM
Post by: Drummond on October 03, 2023, 11:21:45 AM
I was being genuine I wish him the best of luck and I don't blame him for anything....yet.
Absolutely, me too. Though he's got his work cut out.
Post by: Dante Lavelli on October 03, 2023, 11:54:44 AM
I’d guess lots of deals will expire each season but others might be multi-year deals. Until they’re all flushed through his hands are pretty tied unless he can create a fiasco like sweaty shirts to exit the deals earlier.
Post by: chrisw1 on October 03, 2023, 01:48:24 PM
He might not be an idiot but he's certainly not attuned to the fan experience at the club. If we were he'd realise there's a huge amount of low-hanging fruit when all he's interested is the new fangled Kumquats.Honestly, if he did a Q and A for an hour on here, it would give him enough of a sensible "to-do" list to keep his team going for the next 12 months.
I think it's a bit disingenuous to suggest he doesn't know these very basic points about business. Especially when it comes to something as basic as shirt sales. I get why people are annoyed about the way things have happened at the stadium, but the man's not an idiot.
edit - Lee makes the same point
Post by: AV84 on October 03, 2023, 01:52:12 PM
He might not be an idiot but he's certainly not attuned to the fan experience at the club. If we were he'd realise there's a huge amount of low-hanging fruit when all he's interested is the new fangled Kumquats.Honestly, if he did a Q and A for an hour on here, it would give him enough of a sensible "to-do" list to keep his team going for the next 12 months.
I think it's a bit disingenuous to suggest he doesn't know these very basic points about business. Especially when it comes to something as basic as shirt sales. I get why people are annoyed about the way things have happened at the stadium, but the man's not an idiot.
I get why people aren't happy with the new stuff, although I'm not sure how much he's responsible for. As harsh as it sounds though, from a purely money making point of view, I can understand why the idea seems to be to bring more people in spending big money, than have people who are already coming spending a little bit more.
Obviously there's a middle ground where both happens, but maybe that's the long term plan.
Post by: chrisw1 on October 03, 2023, 01:53:37 PM
Dave said they still don't think they did anything wrong with the league cup pricing, despite it being the smallest crowd I can remember at VP for a few years. If they aren't prepared to learn from mistakes then I fear for them getting things right in the future.I was being genuine I wish him the best of luck and I don't blame him for anything....yet.
Absolutely, me too. Though he's got his work cut out.
Post by: AV84 on October 03, 2023, 01:59:41 PM
Dave said they still don't think they did anything wrong with the league cup pricing, despite it being the smallest crowd I can remember at VP for a few years. If they aren't prepared to learn from mistakes then I fear for them getting things right in the future.
Financially speaking, 40,000 people paying £20 a ticket doesn't bring in as much money as 23,000 paying £40 a ticket. If all they're looking at is the bottom line, then the Everton game was probably quite successful.
Post by: Nii Lamptey on October 03, 2023, 02:00:49 PM
On current evidence, I'm pretty sure that fixing basic concourse catering (ie. Have 5 roles behind the counters - A manager, till operators, pint pullers, order collectors and 'cooks' - Sorted!), would bring in more revenue than what they've managed to squeeze out of the Terrace View and Holte Suite so far.
Post by: eamonn on October 03, 2023, 02:00:49 PM
Post by: AV84 on October 03, 2023, 02:04:07 PM
On current evidence, I'm pretty sure that fixing basic concourse catering (ie. Have 5 roles behind the counters - A manager, till operators, pint pullers, order collectors and 'cooks' - Sorted!), would bring in more revenue than what they've managed to squeeze out of the Terrace View and Holte Suite so far.
Maybe it does, but you're also having to pay those extra staff, so how does that impact your profit. And does it mean prices go up, which is a negative in most people's eyes.
It provably sounds like I'm being contrary for the sake of it here, but all I'm saying is there's a simple solution to all the problems, kit, catering, etc. but the simple solution isn't always the one that increases the club profits, which seems to be Heck's main job.
Post by: chrisw1 on October 03, 2023, 02:08:12 PM
When you preside over our lowest attendance since the League Cup second-round game against Wigan in 2017, you have fucked up.
Post by: Lastfootstamper on October 03, 2023, 02:08:51 PM
They. Don't. Care.
Post by: astonvilla82 on October 03, 2023, 02:41:50 PM
Re the current/ongoing state of the catering on offer to the hoi polloi. Our owners have been here for over 5 years. Do you not think if anything was going to improve there'd be at the very least some tiny green shoots of progress by now?Trouble is if it's not bought to there attention until recently, they probably think everything is hunky dory,we may moan about it on social media which I would guess they wouldn't really read
They. Don't. Care.
Post by: Lastfootstamper on October 03, 2023, 02:51:27 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on October 03, 2023, 03:53:05 PM
It's like saying "I went for a pint in that crooked house pub the other day, and didn't notice it had been demolished". They can not fail to know it's been a problem for years.
Post by: astonvilla82 on October 03, 2023, 04:15:18 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on October 03, 2023, 04:33:15 PM
The club ran a survey on it less than a year ago.
There's zero chance they don't know about it.
Post by: Des Little on October 03, 2023, 04:47:34 PM
Post by: astonvilla82 on October 03, 2023, 05:10:48 PM
Of course they know. It’s been on the agenda at the Fans Advisory Board meetings for yonks. They just don’t give two fcuks.Then what's the point of having a FAB if they don't listen
Post by: Percy McCarthy on October 03, 2023, 05:11:02 PM
Dave said they still don't think they did anything wrong with the league cup pricing, despite it being the smallest crowd I can remember at VP for a few years. If they aren't prepared to learn from mistakes then I fear for them getting things right in the future.
Financially speaking, 40,000 people paying £20 a ticket doesn't bring in as much money as 23,000 paying £40 a ticket. If all they're looking at is the bottom line, then the Everton game was probably quite successful.
Maybe, but somewhere close to a sell-out we might have won.
Post by: AV84 on October 03, 2023, 05:15:11 PM
Dave said they still don't think they did anything wrong with the league cup pricing, despite it being the smallest crowd I can remember at VP for a few years. If they aren't prepared to learn from mistakes then I fear for them getting things right in the future.
Financially speaking, 40,000 people paying £20 a ticket doesn't bring in as much money as 23,000 paying £40 a ticket. If all they're looking at is the bottom line, then the Everton game was probably quite successful.
Maybe, but somewhere close to a sell-out we might have won.
Yeah, but I'm just talking about cold hard cash. Would a win and an away tie in Exeter have brought in much more cash?
Post by: dave.woodhall on October 03, 2023, 05:22:53 PM
Post by: tomd2103 on October 03, 2023, 06:11:59 PM
I've always said that the best scam ever pulled at Villa was Ellis making supporters think he cared as much about the Villa as they did. The idea that we have to rinse every last penny "in order to compete" is catching it up.
I agree that it is nonsense Dave. Compete with who? Manchester City and their bottomless pit of money? Think we would need a bit more than a a converted suite at £60 a go to do that.
Post by: VILLA MOLE on October 03, 2023, 06:27:10 PM
Post by: Lastfootstamper on October 03, 2023, 06:28:57 PM
Of course they know. It’s been on the agenda at the Fans Advisory Board meetings for yonks. They just don’t give two fcuks.Then what's the point of having a FAB if they don't listen
It lets us think they're listening.
Post by: AV84 on October 03, 2023, 06:33:31 PM
I've always said that the best scam ever pulled at Villa was Ellis making supporters think he cared as much about the Villa as they did. The idea that we have to rinse every last penny "in order to compete" is catching it up.
I agree that it is nonsense Dave. Compete with who? Manchester City and their bottomless pit of money? Think we would need a bit more than a a converted suite at £60 a go to do that.
Compete with the teams around us in the table to qualify for Champions League, which gets us €15.6 million, and an extra €2.5mil for every group game we win (930k for a draw), along with TV money. Do it a couple of years in a row and we're looking at bigger and better sponsorship deals, kit deals, other advertising deals.
Post by: dave.woodhall on October 03, 2023, 06:47:44 PM
I've always said that the best scam ever pulled at Villa was Ellis making supporters think he cared as much about the Villa as they did. The idea that we have to rinse every last penny "in order to compete" is catching it up.
I agree that it is nonsense Dave. Compete with who? Manchester City and their bottomless pit of money? Think we would need a bit more than a a converted suite at £60 a go to do that.
Compete with the teams around us in the table to qualify for Champions League, which gets us €15.6 million, and an extra €2.5mil for every group game we win (930k for a draw), along with TV money. Do it a couple of years in a row and we're looking at bigger and better sponsorship deals, kit deals, other advertising deals.
And to do that we have to take supporters for every penny?
Post by: algy on October 03, 2023, 06:52:53 PM
At the moment he is hopefully going through each of the existing contracts and working out which are good/bad/indifferent. What’s being outsourced that should be done by direct employees etc.Prince William is a fan I suppose, but I'm not sure how much influence he'd have over his uncle tbh
I’d guess lots of deals will expire each season but others might be multi-year deals. Until they’re all flushed through his hands are pretty tied unless he can create a fiasco like sweaty shirts to exit the deals earlier.
Post by: AV84 on October 03, 2023, 06:55:34 PM
I've always said that the best scam ever pulled at Villa was Ellis making supporters think he cared as much about the Villa as they did. The idea that we have to rinse every last penny "in order to compete" is catching it up.
I agree that it is nonsense Dave. Compete with who? Manchester City and their bottomless pit of money? Think we would need a bit more than a a converted suite at £60 a go to do that.
Compete with the teams around us in the table to qualify for Champions League, which gets us €15.6 million, and an extra €2.5mil for every group game we win (930k for a draw), along with TV money. Do it a couple of years in a row and we're looking at bigger and better sponsorship deals, kit deals, other advertising deals.
And to do that we have to take supporters for every penny?
If you're a season ticket holder, they already have your money, and probably don't care that much about you at this moment in time. Especially if there's really 30k on the waiting list, any one of them would take your place for the same price.
That group of people are probably way more of interest to the powers that be. That's 30,000 people willing to pay the price of a season ticket if given the opportunity, so maybe they'll pay £150 a couple of times a season instead for a match day experience, while they're waiting.
Where exactly are they squeezing every penny from? You buy your ticket and in exchange you get to see the football. Any other money you spend is your choice. A lot of people seem quite happy to get their pre and post match jollies at one of the pubs clever enough to take advantage of disgruntled fans. Spend your money there and see how much it helps us compete.
Post by: tomd2103 on October 03, 2023, 07:04:19 PM
I've always said that the best scam ever pulled at Villa was Ellis making supporters think he cared as much about the Villa as they did. The idea that we have to rinse every last penny "in order to compete" is catching it up.
I agree that it is nonsense Dave. Compete with who? Manchester City and their bottomless pit of money? Think we would need a bit more than a a converted suite at £60 a go to do that.
Compete with the teams around us in the table to qualify for Champions League, which gets us €15.6 million, and an extra €2.5mil for every group game we win (930k for a draw), along with TV money. Do it a couple of years in a row and we're looking at bigger and better sponsorship deals, kit deals, other advertising deals.
I agree about that, but not sure if the Lower Grounds and Terrace View are going to make that huge a financial impact are they?
Post by: dave.woodhall on October 03, 2023, 07:19:42 PM
Post by: AV84 on October 03, 2023, 07:33:16 PM
I agree about that, but not sure if the Lower Grounds and Terrace View are going to make that huge a financial impact are they?
I'm not sure how many tickets are available for each option, but let's say there's 500 sold for TV at the full £140, that's £70,000.
Say those seats are normal seats again and they sell 500 at £50 each, that's £25,000.
Even allowing for there being empty seats, they're probably still making a lot more money than they were.
This is what's listed as left for the upcoming games. Makes sense that the league games sell more given the ko times probably allow for more socialising before and after.
273 - Mostar
99 - West Ham
82 - Luton
593 - Alkmaar
550 - Legia
Assuming they're actually selling them and not giving them away to try and get a bit of publicity, then I'd say it's working for them, and it is going to bring in a lot of money.
Post by: AV84 on October 03, 2023, 07:38:51 PM
I don't think anyone outside the ticket office believes the 30,000 figure and to say those people are the Villa's priority is exactly what I mean. How about prioritising the 30,000 who were paying five years ago? And if you think that spending your money away from the ground is a bad thing, this probably isn't the right place to argue that particular corner.
I'm not arguing anything, and there are valid concerns that people have with how things are being done. I'm not denying that.
The fact of the matter is that this guy has been brought in to make more money, and yes, you have to make some effort to retain the punters you have, but in terms of increasing profit, you're of little interest to them. They'll take your £25 a game extra for TV bolt on, if you want to pay it, but they're far more interested in the people who are willing to spend money but haven't got the opportunity to yet, ie. Seasons ticket waiting list.
Whether that's actually 30k or not, I don't know, but it is probably big enough to guarantee that anyone who doesn't renew in protest or on moral grounds or whatever, will be immediately replaced.
Post by: dave.woodhall on October 03, 2023, 07:41:55 PM
Post by: AV84 on October 03, 2023, 07:49:29 PM
And that's the crux of the matter - long-standing supporters getting elbowed out in favour of big-spending new fans.
Yeah, but what we've been discussing here is whether or not these things will actually make money, how that helps the club, and whether Heck is actually good at his job. The fact a lot of people don't like what his job is, is another matter, one being discussed in multiple threads for months.
Post by: RamboandBruno on October 03, 2023, 07:55:08 PM
I've always said that the best scam ever pulled at Villa was Ellis making supporters think he cared as much about the Villa as they did. The idea that we have to rinse every last penny "in order to compete" is catching it up.
I agree that it is nonsense Dave. Compete with who? Manchester City and their bottomless pit of money? Think we would need a bit more than a a converted suite at £60 a go to do that.
Compete with the teams around us in the table to qualify for Champions League, which gets us €15.6 million, and an extra €2.5mil for every group game we win (930k for a draw), along with TV money. Do it a couple of years in a row and we're looking at bigger and better sponsorship deals, kit deals, other advertising deals.
But….in the new tab your card bar in the lower holte on Saturday, the staff were pouring one pint at a time and they ran out of food after food after 5. Mins.
Now you tell me how are we going to compete with Man City pouring one pint at a time with no chips on offer. Fucked.
Post by: N'ZMAV on October 03, 2023, 07:57:29 PM
The lot is a rip off.
Post by: RamboandBruno on October 03, 2023, 08:02:51 PM
I've always said that the best scam ever pulled at Villa was Ellis making supporters think he cared as much about the Villa as they did. The idea that we have to rinse every last penny "in order to compete" is catching it up.
I agree that it is nonsense Dave. Compete with who? Manchester City and their bottomless pit of money? Think we would need a bit more than a a converted suite at £60 a go to do that.
Compete with the teams around us in the table to qualify for Champions League, which gets us €15.6 million, and an extra €2.5mil for every group game we win (930k for a draw), along with TV money. Do it a couple of years in a row and we're looking at bigger and better sponsorship deals, kit deals, other advertising deals.
And to do that we have to take supporters for every penny?
If you're a season ticket holder, they already have your money, and probably don't care that much about you at this moment in time. Especially if there's really 30k on the waiting list, any one of them would take your place for the same price.
That group of people are probably way more of interest to the powers that be. That's 30,000 people willing to pay the price of a season ticket if given the opportunity, so maybe they'll pay £150 a couple of times a season instead for a match day experience, while they're waiting.
Where exactly are they squeezing every penny from? You buy your ticket and in exchange you get to see the football. Any other money you spend is your choice. A lot of people seem quite happy to get their pre and post match jollies at one of the pubs clever enough to take advantage of disgruntled fans. Spend your money there and see how much it helps us compete.
One flaw here…where were the fabled 30k for the Everton game??
If you want to look at the future of the current strategy then look at the direness of that shambles. Maybe the 23k or whatever it was brought in as much cash as 40k on a lower price, although ChrisW has pointed out one flaw in less catering stuff being purchased.
However, if the future for Emery and the players is playing in front of 2/3rds full stadium with a silent holte end, then I’d suggest those extra thousands soon become largely irrelevant.
Post by: VILLA MOLE on October 03, 2023, 08:08:56 PM
I've always said that the best scam ever pulled at Villa was Ellis making supporters think he cared as much about the Villa as they did. The idea that we have to rinse every last penny "in order to compete" is catching it up.
I agree that it is nonsense Dave. Compete with who? Manchester City and their bottomless pit of money? Think we would need a bit more than a a converted suite at £60 a go to do that.
Compete with the teams around us in the table to qualify for Champions League, which gets us €15.6 million, and an extra €2.5mil for every group game we win (930k for a draw), along with TV money. Do it a couple of years in a row and we're looking at bigger and better sponsorship deals, kit deals, other advertising deals.
But….in the new tab your card bar in the lower holte on Saturday, the staff were pouring one pint at a time and they ran out of food after food after 5. Mins.
Now you tell me how are we going to compete with Man City pouring one pint at a time with no chips on offer. Fucked.
They can’t get the basics right
Post by: AV84 on October 03, 2023, 08:13:41 PM
One flaw here…where were the fabled 30k for the Everton game??
If you want to look at the future of the current strategy then look at the direness of that shambles. Maybe the 23k or whatever it was brought in as much cash as 40k on a lower price, although ChrisW has pointed out one flaw in less catering stuff being purchased.
However, if the future for Emery and the players is playing in front of 2/3rds full stadium with a silent holte end, then I’d suggest those extra thousands soon become largely irrelevant.
Purely on ticket sales the Everton game probably did make as much as it would have selling more for less £.
I'd assume they plan the catering based on expected attendance, and maybe staffing too. So maybe they're not selling as much, but they're probably saving in other ways there too.
Don't get me wrong, I didn't like the pricing for the Everton game, but again, from a business POV, the league cup isn't exactly a money maker.
Post by: RamboandBruno on October 03, 2023, 08:22:02 PM
One flaw here…where were the fabled 30k for the Everton game??
If you want to look at the future of the current strategy then look at the direness of that shambles. Maybe the 23k or whatever it was brought in as much cash as 40k on a lower price, although ChrisW has pointed out one flaw in less catering stuff being purchased.
However, if the future for Emery and the players is playing in front of 2/3rds full stadium with a silent holte end, then I’d suggest those extra thousands soon become largely irrelevant.
Purely on ticket sales the Everton game probably did make as much as it would have selling more for less £.
I'd assume they plan the catering based on expected attendance, and maybe staffing too. So maybe they're not selling as much, but they're probably saving in other ways there too.
Don't get me wrong, I didn't like the pricing for the Everton game, but again, from a business POV, the league cup isn't exactly a money maker.
I suppose the point I was making is not the monetary gain from the Everton game, more if all these 30k on the waiting list are desperate for tickets why didn’t they come to that game.
And secondly if the priority is squeezing more money out of those that come, even if it means less attend matches (like on Saturday) and continuing to corporatising the Holte, the smaller attendance and dire atmosphere at the Everton game will be a more frequent occurrence. Im not sure how attractive that would be to elite players or the elite manager we have, and without either the whole thing starts to unravel and we’ll see how many lower grounds tickets they sell then on a Wednesday night against Stoke.
Post by: AV84 on October 03, 2023, 08:37:31 PM
I suppose the point I was making is not the monetary gain from the Everton game, more if all these 30k on the waiting list are desperate for tickets why didn’t they come to that game.
And secondly if the priority is squeezing more money out of those that come, even if it means less attend matches (like on Saturday) and continuing to corporatising the Holte, the smaller attendance and dire atmosphere at the Everton game will be a more frequent occurrence. Im not sure how attractive that would be to elite players or the elite manager we have, and without either the whole thing starts to unravel and we’ll see how many lower grounds tickets they sell then on a Wednesday night against Stoke.
I mean, I don't want it to seem like I'm defending the Everton thing, but I'm sure a lot of season ticket holders didn't show up either, so it would be interesting to know what the demographic of the 23,000 actually was.
But generally yeah, I agree, it wasn't a great look, and it'll be interesting to see how they approach the FA Cup in the new year, if necessary.
Post by: astonvilla82 on October 03, 2023, 08:39:00 PM
I was away for the Everton game, but would have went if here, after that performance I asked myself if they put that team out for the FA cup would I pay money to watch it, especially after Stevenage last season and I would have to say no
One flaw here…where were the fabled 30k for the Everton game??
If you want to look at the future of the current strategy then look at the direness of that shambles. Maybe the 23k or whatever it was brought in as much cash as 40k on a lower price, although ChrisW has pointed out one flaw in less catering stuff being purchased.
However, if the future for Emery and the players is playing in front of 2/3rds full stadium with a silent holte end, then I’d suggest those extra thousands soon become largely irrelevant.
Purely on ticket sales the Everton game probably did make as much as it would have selling more for less £.
I'd assume they plan the catering based on expected attendance, and maybe staffing too. So maybe they're not selling as much, but they're probably saving in other ways there too.
Don't get me wrong, I didn't like the pricing for the Everton game, but again, from a business POV, the league cup isn't exactly a money maker.
I suppose the point I was making is not the monetary gain from the Everton game, more if all these 30k on the waiting list are desperate for tickets why didn’t they come to that game.
And secondly if the priority is squeezing more money out of those that come, even if it means less attend matches (like on Saturday) and continuing to corporatising the Holte, the smaller attendance and dire atmosphere at the Everton game will be a more frequent occurrence. Im not sure how attractive that would be to elite players or the elite manager we have, and without either the whole thing starts to unravel and we’ll see how many lower grounds tickets they sell then on a Wednesday night against Stoke.
Post by: tomd2103 on October 03, 2023, 09:26:40 PM
I agree about that, but not sure if the Lower Grounds and Terrace View are going to make that huge a financial impact are they?
I'm not sure how many tickets are available for each option, but let's say there's 500 sold for TV at the full £140, that's £70,000.
Say those seats are normal seats again and they sell 500 at £50 each, that's £25,000.
Even allowing for there being empty seats, they're probably still making a lot more money than they were.
This is what's listed as left for the upcoming games. Makes sense that the league games sell more given the ko times probably allow for more socialising before and after.
273 - Mostar
99 - West Ham
82 - Luton
593 - Alkmaar
550 - Legia
Assuming they're actually selling them and not giving them away to try and get a bit of publicity, then I'd say it's working for them, and it is going to bring in a lot of money.
That's fair enough, but on the face of it, they don't seem the kind of figures that will bridge that commercial.gap with other clubs. I guess the question would be whether those figures are worth the impact it is going to have on the relationship with the fan base.
As I said earlier the thread, I have been one of the people on here saying for a number of years that the club is way behind commercially and needs to.perform better in that area. Maybe all of this is just inevitable to achieve that and it us something that has to be accepted, even if it isn't liked.
Post by: AV84 on October 03, 2023, 09:35:43 PM
If it brings in a few million extra a season, and allows us to meet a big player's wage demands, or offer a couple of million more to secure a transfer, then that's the start of moving things forward on the pitch too.
Or maybe they'll take the profits from TV and LG and reinvest it into facilities for the average punter to eek some more cash out of them.
Post by: tomd2103 on October 03, 2023, 09:45:23 PM
^ well I don't think anyone is thinking a few match day experiences is going to make us billionaires, but presumably it's one step in a bigger plan. I was looking it up earlier and after TV rights, most club's main income is from matchday revenue.
If it brings in a few million extra a season, and allows us to meet a big player's wage demands, or offer a couple of million more to secure a transfer, then that's the start of moving things forward on the pitch too.
Or maybe they'll take the profits from TV and LG and reinvest it into facilities for the average punter to eek some more cash out of them.
True. The increase in capacity should also help on that front.
Post by: Dante Lavelli on October 03, 2023, 10:04:27 PM
And that's the crux of the matter - long-standing supporters getting elbowed out in favour of big-spending new fans.
Are they new fans, or just existing fans that are being offered a new price-point/product that didn’t exist before?
Post by: AV84 on October 03, 2023, 10:11:37 PM
And that's the crux of the matter - long-standing supporters getting elbowed out in favour of big-spending new fans.
Are they new fans, or just existing fans that are being offered a new price-point/product that didn’t exist before?
Not conclusive evidence, obviously, but I was reading a piece in the Brum Mail about the first day the TV was open, the day the women's WC final was on, whoever we were playing that day.... and they talked to a few people who had used it and asked them the same questions. Mixed reviews, mostly positive, but a few of them were existing season ticket holders who opted for the add on, which one guy said worked out at £25 extra a game. A couple of them had bought, I think, the TV season ticket option.
Post by: Des Little on October 03, 2023, 10:11:41 PM
https://x.com/justinmoorhouse/status/1709302086498689496?s=61
Looks like they’re selling executive seating in the Stretford End as well.
Post by: Dante Lavelli on October 03, 2023, 10:12:21 PM
Post by: AV84 on October 03, 2023, 10:14:21 PM
Here’s a glimpse of the future, from Old Trafford this evening…
https://x.com/justinmoorhouse/status/1709302086498689496?s=61
Looks like they’re selling executive seating in the Stretford End as well.
What are we looking at here? I don't understand the relevance? Genuine question.
Post by: Dante Lavelli on October 03, 2023, 10:15:55 PM
Here’s a glimpse of the future, from Old Trafford this evening…
https://x.com/justinmoorhouse/status/1709302086498689496?s=61
Looks like they’re selling executive seating in the Stretford End as well.
What are we looking at here? I don't understand the relevance? Genuine question.
Me neither.
Post by: ChicagoLion on October 03, 2023, 10:16:35 PM
Here’s a glimpse of the future, from Old Trafford this evening…Coming to a ground near you soon.
https://x.com/justinmoorhouse/status/1709302086498689496?s=61
Looks like they’re selling executive seating in the Stretford End as well.
Post by: Exeter 77 on October 03, 2023, 10:17:17 PM
I think the suggestion is this is the thicker end of the wedge which started with Terrace View on the Holte.Here’s a glimpse of the future, from Old Trafford this evening…
https://x.com/justinmoorhouse/status/1709302086498689496?s=61
Looks like they’re selling executive seating in the Stretford End as well.
What are we looking at here? I don't understand the relevance? Genuine question.
Me neither.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on October 03, 2023, 10:17:33 PM
What are we looking at here? I don't understand the relevance? Genuine question.
Tickets in the Stratford End sold as hospitality. Gala fans bought them, then cheered when they scored and the Yanited fans didn't take kindly to it.
Post by: AV84 on October 03, 2023, 10:19:28 PM
What are we looking at here? I don't understand the relevance? Genuine question.
Tickets in the Stratford End sold as hospitality. Gala fans bought them, then cheered when they scored and the Yanited fans didn't take kindly to it.
Ah, OK, I see.
Is there no requirement for booking history or fan ID to buy the TV or LG tickets then?
Post by: Des Little on October 03, 2023, 10:19:41 PM
Post by: Nev on October 03, 2023, 10:24:50 PM
Hand wringing will start regarding the lack of atmosphere leading to club organised singing areas, songsheets and the creation of an "Ultra" section in a desperate attempt to claw back what was pissed away with such careless alacrity.
We will still hurt at every loss and cheer every win but that thrill of attending one of the great football grounds will be lost in whirl of padded seats, premium offers and pick 'n' mix.
Post by: Toronto Villa on October 03, 2023, 10:55:48 PM
Post by: Drummond on October 03, 2023, 11:06:42 PM
Post by: chrisw1 on October 04, 2023, 01:36:59 PM
It'll take a while but gradually the atmosphere at Villa Park will dissipate, the noise levels will reduce and the image of the Holte bouncing a just a memory. Those new areas creating revenue streams will be successful, the choice vast but expensive. Day trippers and tourists will attend in ever larger numbers, camera's pointed at the opposition scorer taunting a once rabid Holte. Hardcore supporters will drift away, many won't of course but that's why they're described in that way. The ground will lose it's name, as will each stand as we explore more and more ways of trying to compete.Poetry Nev.
Hand wringing will start regarding the lack of atmosphere leading to club organised singing areas, songsheets and the creation of an "Ultra" section in a desperate attempt to claw back what was pissed away with such careless alacrity.
We will still hurt at every loss and cheer every win but that thrill of attending one of the great football grounds will be lost in whirl of padded seats, premium offers and pick 'n' mix.
Post by: ChicagoLion on October 04, 2023, 02:02:42 PM
Sad but true NevIt'll take a while but gradually the atmosphere at Villa Park will dissipate, the noise levels will reduce and the image of the Holte bouncing a just a memory. Those new areas creating revenue streams will be successful, the choice vast but expensive. Day trippers and tourists will attend in ever larger numbers, camera's pointed at the opposition scorer taunting a once rabid Holte. Hardcore supporters will drift away, many won't of course but that's why they're described in that way. The ground will lose it's name, as will each stand as we explore more and more ways of trying to compete.Poetry Nev.
Hand wringing will start regarding the lack of atmosphere leading to club organised singing areas, songsheets and the creation of an "Ultra" section in a desperate attempt to claw back what was pissed away with such careless alacrity.
We will still hurt at every loss and cheer every win but that thrill of attending one of the great football grounds will be lost in whirl of padded seats, premium offers and pick 'n' mix.
Post by: astonvilla82 on October 04, 2023, 09:03:12 PM
Post by: john e on October 04, 2023, 09:25:40 PM
Hopefully we don't start a Ultra section
Already bought my black hoodie
Post by: Brazilian Villain on October 04, 2023, 09:32:32 PM
Hopefully we don't start a Ultra section
Already bought my black hoodie
I've chipped in for the drum and megaphone.
Post by: frankmosswasmyuncle on October 04, 2023, 09:42:18 PM
It'll take a while but gradually the atmosphere at Villa Park will dissipate, the noise levels will reduce and the image of the Holte bouncing a just a memory. Those new areas creating revenue streams will be successful, the choice vast but expensive. Day trippers and tourists will attend in ever larger numbers, camera's pointed at the opposition scorer taunting a once rabid Holte. Hardcore supporters will drift away, many won't of course but that's why they're described in that way. The ground will lose it's name, as will each stand as we explore more and more ways of trying to compete.Beautifully expressed Nev.
Hand wringing will start regarding the lack of atmosphere leading to club organised singing areas, songsheets and the creation of an "Ultra" section in a desperate attempt to claw back what was pissed away with such careless alacrity.
We will still hurt at every loss and cheer every win but that thrill of attending one of the great football grounds will be lost in whirl of padded seats, premium offers and pick 'n' mix.
I sincerely hope you're wrong, but you don't 'arf do good words!
UTFV!
Post by: dorsetvillian on October 04, 2023, 09:47:02 PM
Post by: Nev on October 04, 2023, 09:55:35 PM
Well put Nev. So I won't bring the drum tomorrow night..
If you bang a drum where you sit the vibration would dislodge all that dust from the girders.....
Post by: pauliewalnuts on October 04, 2023, 10:53:03 PM
It'll take a while but gradually the atmosphere at Villa Park will dissipate, the noise levels will reduce and the image of the Holte bouncing a just a memory. Those new areas creating revenue streams will be successful, the choice vast but expensive. Day trippers and tourists will attend in ever larger numbers, camera's pointed at the opposition scorer taunting a once rabid Holte. Hardcore supporters will drift away, many won't of course but that's why they're described in that way. The ground will lose it's name, as will each stand as we explore more and more ways of trying to compete.Beautifully expressed Nev.
Hand wringing will start regarding the lack of atmosphere leading to club organised singing areas, songsheets and the creation of an "Ultra" section in a desperate attempt to claw back what was pissed away with such careless alacrity.
We will still hurt at every loss and cheer every win but that thrill of attending one of the great football grounds will be lost in whirl of padded seats, premium offers and pick 'n' mix.
I sincerely hope you're wrong, but you don't 'arf do good words!
UTFV!
The only thing is, the atmosphere - which, let's be totally honest, wasn't what we think it was in the first place, I remember way, way more matches in acres of empty space on the Holte than I do swaying seas of humanity erupting in thunderous joy at a Villa goal - died years ago.
That ship has already sailed.
Post by: Clive W on October 05, 2023, 01:50:24 AM
It'll take a while but gradually the atmosphere at Villa Park will dissipate, the noise levels will reduce and the image of the Holte bouncing a just a memory. Those new areas creating revenue streams will be successful, the choice vast but expensive. Day trippers and tourists will attend in ever larger numbers, camera's pointed at the opposition scorer taunting a once rabid Holte. Hardcore supporters will drift away, many won't of course but that's why they're described in that way. The ground will lose it's name, as will each stand as we explore more and more ways of trying to compete.Beautifully expressed Nev.
Hand wringing will start regarding the lack of atmosphere leading to club organised singing areas, songsheets and the creation of an "Ultra" section in a desperate attempt to claw back what was pissed away with such careless alacrity.
We will still hurt at every loss and cheer every win but that thrill of attending one of the great football grounds will be lost in whirl of padded seats, premium offers and pick 'n' mix.
I sincerely hope you're wrong, but you don't 'arf do good words!
UTFV!
The only thing is, the atmosphere - which, let's be totally honest, wasn't what we think it was in the first place, I remember way, way more matches in acres of empty space on the Holte than I do swaying seas of humanity erupting in thunderous joy at a Villa goal - died years ago.
That ship has already sailed.
I’m not quite so pessimistic PW - I think it’s an age and memory issue
I remember the Holte when Dalien scored the last minute equaliser against Tranmere.
I remember the Holte when Sammy Morgan terrorised Bob Wilson and Arsenal in the FA Cup replay
I remember the Holte when Andy Lochhead towered above the Man U defence to thump his header into the top corner
I remember the Holte when we played Liverpool in 1981 - “Go on Dennis!…go on Dennis!…go on Dennis!…gooooaaaallll”
I remember the Holte when Andy King smashed his penalty straight down the middle against Inter
Closer to home I remember the electric atmosphere for that Friday night match against Everton a couple of seasons ago
I remember the ground rocking during last season’s match against Newcastle
And in 20/30/4O years hence, today’s youngsters will say - “do you remember the atmosphere at VP in the last 10 minutes when we came from a goal down to beat Palace 3-1?”
As long as VP exists, there will always be special moments like these - and yes, probably outnumbered by mind numbing mediocrity
But it’s why we love the Villa - for those special moments
And why we will never be like Manchester (how many trophies will we win this season?) City
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on October 05, 2023, 05:45:42 AM
Post by: PeterWithe on October 05, 2023, 07:53:35 AM
Post by: Clive W on October 05, 2023, 08:01:55 AM
Phil King.
Thanks PW
I did say it was an age thing!!
And I spelt Dalian with an e
Post by: Mister E on October 05, 2023, 08:01:56 AM
I’m not quite so pessimistic PW - I think it’s an age and memory issueYes, I was there for many of those, as were many of us older contributors (you could have added the 5-1 vs Liverpool in 1976 and the 2-0 vs Sunderland when we finished our promotion season in 1974; no matter).
I remember the Holte when Dalien scored the last minute equaliser against Tranmere.
I remember the Holte when Sammy Morgan terrorised Bob Wilson and Arsenal in the FA Cup replay
I remember the Holte when Andy Lochhead towered above the Man U defence to thump his header into the top corner
I remember the Holte when we played Liverpool in 1981 - “Go on Dennis!…go on Dennis!…go on Dennis!…gooooaaaallll”
I remember the Holte when Andy King smashed his penalty straight down the middle against Inter
Closer to home I remember the electric atmosphere for that Friday night match against Everton a couple of seasons ago
I remember the ground rocking during last season’s match against Newcastle
And in 20/30/4O years hence, today’s youngsters will say - “do you remember the atmosphere at VP in the last 10 minutes when we came from a goal down to beat Palace 3-1?”
As long as VP exists, there will always be special moments like these - and yes, probably outnumbered by mind numbing mediocrity
But it’s why we love the Villa - for those special moments
And why we will never be like Manchester (how many trophies will we win this season?) City
And they were amazing.
But I also take Paulie's point: the fact that we can call out those occasions - rather than the swaying mass of raucous, riotous fans being the norm - does emphasise the singularity of many of these high-octane games.
Post by: Nev on October 05, 2023, 08:25:58 AM
I’m not quite so pessimistic PW - I think it’s an age and memory issueYes, I was there for many of those, as were many of us older contributors (you could have added the 5-1 vs Liverpool in 1976 and the 2-0 vs Sunderland when we finished our promotion season in 1974; no matter).
I remember the Holte when Dalien scored the last minute equaliser against Tranmere.
I remember the Holte when Sammy Morgan terrorised Bob Wilson and Arsenal in the FA Cup replay
I remember the Holte when Andy Lochhead towered above the Man U defence to thump his header into the top corner
I remember the Holte when we played Liverpool in 1981 - “Go on Dennis!…go on Dennis!…go on Dennis!…gooooaaaallll”
I remember the Holte when Andy King smashed his penalty straight down the middle against Inter
Closer to home I remember the electric atmosphere for that Friday night match against Everton a couple of seasons ago
I remember the ground rocking during last season’s match against Newcastle
And in 20/30/4O years hence, today’s youngsters will say - “do you remember the atmosphere at VP in the last 10 minutes when we came from a goal down to beat Palace 3-1?”
As long as VP exists, there will always be special moments like these - and yes, probably outnumbered by mind numbing mediocrity
But it’s why we love the Villa - for those special moments
And why we will never be like Manchester (how many trophies will we win this season?) City
And they were amazing.
But I also take Paulie's point: the fact that we can call out those occasions - rather than the swaying mass of raucous, riotous fans being the norm - does emphasise the singularity of many of these high-octane games.
It's not the norm anywhere though, that's a myth. Everyone's first trip to Anfield is remarkable for how quiet the ground is, ditto many other "fabled" stadiums. Of course, they come alive, just like the Holte at certain times and when the chips are down the crowd can drag the team over the line. My fear is that fans on the Holte will be wondering when the chips are served in the years to come rather than anything else.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on October 05, 2023, 08:33:32 AM
Most of the time in my 40+ years it's been an average to quiet atmosphere in a ground well below capacity. And for many years mainly half empty.
The atmosphere thing most of the time is again the same as every other club in the country.
Post by: eamonn on October 05, 2023, 09:23:22 AM
Phil King.
Thanks PW
I did say it was an age thing!!
And I spelt Dalian with an e
Alien
Post by: PaulTheVillan on October 05, 2023, 09:24:06 AM
Phil King.
Juan King
Post by: SaddVillan on January 14, 2024, 10:51:57 AM
The online version is behind a paywall.
Is anybody able to cut and paste it onto this thread?
Post by: Risso on January 14, 2024, 10:54:26 AM
This doesn't offer a huge amount new, but might be of interest:
https://archive.ph/vqGVG
Interview with Chris Heck in The Times.
Post by: pablo_picasso on January 14, 2024, 11:09:43 AM
From algy in the ground redevelopment thread:This doesn't offer a huge amount new, but might be of interest:
https://archive.ph/vqGVG
Interview with Chris Heck in The Times.
I like this from him...
Quote
“They can try all they want,” (try & buy our bestplayers) says Heck, firmly. “But maybe we’ll try to buy one of their players. I think this idea that we’re here for the taking is dated. And we need to move on from that.”
...But the rest is nothing new.
And the dismissive tone from that journalist to Villa is all too familiar with the media in this country.
Post by: SaddVillan on January 14, 2024, 11:37:11 AM
He's taking a cold-eyed unsentimental approach to his job, which is to drive up revenue from every potential source.
Remember that Deadly Doug got a lot of flak during his time in charge (some deserved, some less so) because he was a fairly hard-nosed businessman who kept an eye on the pennies. But in retrospect there's a recognition of the positive changes and improvements he brought about during his times at B6 6HE - remember where we were and what Villa Park was like when he took over in 1968?
Post by: dave.woodhall on January 14, 2024, 11:43:45 AM
He's taking a cold-eyed unsentimental approach to his job, which is to drive up revenue from every potential source.
Remember that Deadly Doug got a lot of flak during his time in charge (some deserved, some less so) because he was a fairly hard-nosed businessman who kept an eye on the pennies. But in retrospect there's a recognition of the positive changes and improvements he brought about during his times at B6 6HE - remember where we were and what Villa Park was like when he took over in 1968?
I remember what we were like when he took over in 1982 and I remember how that "hard-nosed businessman" failed to take advantage of every opportunity that came our way from then on.
Post by: OCD on January 14, 2024, 11:46:31 AM
Post by: AV82EC on January 14, 2024, 11:50:37 AM
He's taking a cold-eyed unsentimental approach to his job, which is to drive up revenue from every potential source.
Remember that Deadly Doug got a lot of flak during his time in charge (some deserved, some less so) because he was a fairly hard-nosed businessman who kept an eye on the pennies. But in retrospect there's a recognition of the positive changes and improvements he brought about during his times at B6 6HE - remember where we were and what Villa Park was like when he took over in 1968?
I remember what we were like when he took over in 1982 and I remember how that "hard-nosed businessman" failed to take advantage of every opportunity that came our way from then on.
Well said. All the goodwill he built in the late 60s early 70s was pretty much burnt by the time I started supporting the club in the early 90s and he was a deadweight around the neck of the club for the majority of the 80s/90s. For hard nosed businessman read Corner Shop Proprietor.
Post by: Risso on January 14, 2024, 11:55:43 AM
Thought it was interesting that they want to make the tunnel more intimidating for opposition players. It is all a bit too nice atm.
That must be why we've lost so many home matches this season...
Post by: Rigadon on January 14, 2024, 12:00:32 PM
From algy in the ground redevelopment thread:This doesn't offer a huge amount new, but might be of interest:
https://archive.ph/vqGVG
Interview with Chris Heck in The Times.
An article that’s about as patronising as it gets. I hope
Leon Bailey really can keep us in the top flight.
Post by: olaftab on January 14, 2024, 12:01:43 PM
Haha...was about to say exactly the same before I saw Risso's post.Thought it was interesting that they want to make the tunnel more intimidating for opposition players. It is all a bit too nice atm.
That must be why we've lost so many home matches this season...
It's all a load of bollocks. What intimidates opposition more than most things is quality players sent out by a great tactician putting in the required effort, backed up by noisy fans. Rest is just fluff.
Post by: TopDeck113 on January 14, 2024, 12:06:22 PM
Post by: pablo_picasso on January 14, 2024, 12:11:49 PM
He's taking a cold-eyed unsentimental approach to his job, which is to drive up revenue from every potential source.
Remember that Deadly Doug got a lot of flak during his time in charge (some deserved, some less so) because he was a fairly hard-nosed businessman who kept an eye on the pennies. But in retrospect there's a recognition of the positive changes and improvements he brought about during his times at B6 6HE - remember where we were and what Villa Park was like when he took over in 1968?
I remember what we were like when he took over in 1982 and I remember how that "hard-nosed businessman" failed to take advantage of every opportunity that came our way from then on.
This is my overriding memory of Ellis too.
I don't see Heck taking the profits home in a personal capacity, like Ellis did, but I do see him with a small time short term "it'll do" mentality like Ellis had...
Post by: olaftab on January 14, 2024, 12:13:55 PM
Quote
Walking me down the players’ tunnel, he almost visibly cringes at the “friendly” feel of the corridor — which does somewhat resemble a council-run leisure centre.
Post by: London Villan on January 14, 2024, 12:14:59 PM
Based on the approach so far my guess would be option b.
Post by: Risso on January 14, 2024, 12:25:46 PM
Was Ellis a "hard-nosed businessmen" or someone who was at the vanguard of new opportunities and then decided to live off the good living that provided rather than pushing on? I think there's an argument that he did that both in the travel business and also when the Premier League riches came along.
Prior to the Premier League, top flight clubs were mostly owned by millionaire provincial UK businessmen. Ellis at Villa (travel agent), Swales at Man City (radio and hi fi), The Moores at Liverpool (pools, home shopping) etc. These old school type owners quickly got left behind, both in terms of finance and also business acumen. Our problem was that Doug held on too long, and then sold out to somebody with limited cash and even more limited football acumen, just as clubs started to get taken over by international billionaires and even whole states.
Post by: pablo_picasso on January 14, 2024, 12:31:50 PM
Never mind Heck the hack is a twat.QuoteWalking me down the players’ tunnel, he almost visibly cringes at the “friendly” feel of the corridor — which does somewhat resemble a council-run leisure centre.
He is a Chelsea fan. Enough said...
Post by: N'ZMAV on January 14, 2024, 12:39:22 PM
Post by: dave.woodhall on January 14, 2024, 12:39:30 PM
Was Ellis a "hard-nosed businessmen" or someone who was at the vanguard of new opportunities and then decided to live off the good living that provided rather than pushing on? I think there's an argument that he did that both in the travel business and also when the Premier League riches came along.
Without wishing to spend even more time going over old ground, that was pretty much the problem. Some clubs saw the opportunities the Premier League could provide and exploited them. Ellis just saw the cake getting bigger and was content to keep our share of it.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on January 14, 2024, 12:46:01 PM
Quote
He says that Villa, in the midst of a purple patch on the pitch, is filming its season behind the scenes in the hope of selling it on as a documentary series.
Post by: N'ZMAV on January 14, 2024, 12:46:37 PM
Post by: paul_e on January 14, 2024, 12:48:35 PM
Post by: pablo_picasso on January 14, 2024, 12:52:25 PM
Post by: Beard82 on January 14, 2024, 01:00:40 PM
Could they just make it so we could, you know, buy beers at half time.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on January 14, 2024, 01:04:24 PM
Quote
And if Villa’s form does continue through to the end of the season, I suggest, the existing Big Six in the Premier League — with their superior revenues and ability to pay higher wages — may come knocking for Villa’s best players, striker Ollie Watkins most prominent among them.
“They can try all they want,” says Heck, firmly. “But maybe we’ll try to buy one of their players. I think this idea that we’re here for the taking is dated. And we need to move on from that.”
Post by: Chris Smith on January 14, 2024, 01:06:39 PM
I dont want a behind the scenes bollocks.
Could they just make it so we could, you know, buy beers at half time.
It’s not compulsory that you watch it.
Post by: PaulWinch again on January 14, 2024, 01:12:21 PM
I do like this bit though. It's the attitude we as need as a club, and as fans.QuoteAnd if Villa’s form does continue through to the end of the season, I suggest, the existing Big Six in the Premier League — with their superior revenues and ability to pay higher wages — may come knocking for Villa’s best players, striker Ollie Watkins most prominent among them.
“They can try all they want,” says Heck, firmly. “But maybe we’ll try to buy one of their players. I think this idea that we’re here for the taking is dated. And we need to move on from that.”
Agreed love that.
Post by: Risso on January 14, 2024, 01:14:59 PM
I do like this bit though. It's the attitude we as need as a club, and as fans.QuoteAnd if Villa’s form does continue through to the end of the season, I suggest, the existing Big Six in the Premier League — with their superior revenues and ability to pay higher wages — may come knocking for Villa’s best players, striker Ollie Watkins most prominent among them.
“They can try all they want,” says Heck, firmly. “But maybe we’ll try to buy one of their players. I think this idea that we’re here for the taking is dated. And we need to move on from that.”
We're not going to be buying anybody like that because of FFP concerns, so the chances of raiding Arsenal for Rice or Saka seem a bit slim.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on January 14, 2024, 01:19:13 PM
Post by: KevinGage on January 14, 2024, 01:31:26 PM
He's taking a cold-eyed unsentimental approach to his job, which is to drive up revenue from every potential source.
Remember that Deadly Doug got a lot of flak during his time in charge (some deserved, some less so) because he was a fairly hard-nosed businessman who kept an eye on the pennies. But in retrospect there's a recognition of the positive changes and improvements he brought about during his times at B6 6HE - remember where we were and what Villa Park was like when he took over in 1968?
I remember what we were like when he took over in 1982 and I remember how that "hard-nosed businessman" failed to take advantage of every opportunity that came our way from then on.
Indeed.
Keeping a club like Aston Villa solvent is not worthy of naming a stand after one's self.
Post by: dave.woodhall on January 14, 2024, 01:31:35 PM
I dont want a behind the scenes bollocks.
Could they just make it so we could, you know, buy beers at half time.
The two aren't mutually exclusive.
Post by: Bad English on January 14, 2024, 04:03:28 PM
Thought it was interesting that they want to make the tunnel more intimidating for opposition players. It is all a bit too nice atm.(https://i.ibb.co/qgQV4Kw/s-l400.jpg) (https://ibb.co/dpYx3Fy)
Post by: algy on January 14, 2024, 08:24:02 PM
Post by: Beard82 on January 14, 2024, 08:26:53 PM
I mean - rather than selling behind the scenes footage - couldnt we just sort out stuff like that?I dont want a behind the scenes bollocks.
Could they just make it so we could, you know, buy beers at half time.
The two aren't mutually exclusive.
Post by: Dante Lavelli on January 15, 2024, 07:22:58 AM
If so, it’s clear he is tying to get his name out there in those circles improving his chances of getting the sponsorship deals etc.
Post by: Villan For Life on January 15, 2024, 07:41:38 AM
The format and content of that interview suggests it wasn’t in the sports section. The Business or Money section right?
If so, it’s clear he is tying to get his name out there in those circles improving his chances of getting the sponsorship deals etc.
Yes it was in the business section
Post by: chrisw1 on January 15, 2024, 08:27:45 AM
But they're not related at all. If it does bring in a few million quid, or help increase our fan base abroad is it really a problem?I mean - rather than selling behind the scenes footage - couldnt we just sort out stuff like that?I dont want a behind the scenes bollocks.
Could they just make it so we could, you know, buy beers at half time.
The two aren't mutually exclusive.
I'm a big critic of our catering, although I have noticed service in the upper Holte does seem to have improved a bit over the last few games
Post by: cdward on January 15, 2024, 09:03:15 AM
Commercially we are way behind a lot of other clubs, and Heck has been brought in to change that.
https://www2.deloitte.com/uk/en/pages/sports-business-group/articles/deloitte-football-money-league.html
If Emery keeps us competing at the right end of the table and we become regulars in European competitions, Hecks job will be a lot easier.
Post by: exigo on January 15, 2024, 09:26:44 AM
I dont want a behind the scenes bollocks.
Could they just make it so we could, you know, buy beers at half time.
The two aren't mutually exclusive.
Exactly. Sell the rights for a few million quid, and use the cash to put in better facilities. Or would people rather we sold players to fund it instead?
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on January 15, 2024, 09:55:25 AM
Post by: cdward on January 15, 2024, 10:18:55 AM
Post by: Towser on January 15, 2024, 10:21:19 AM
Post by: Smithy on January 15, 2024, 10:29:08 AM
Post by: eamonn on January 15, 2024, 10:34:53 AM
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on January 15, 2024, 10:35:44 AM
As long as it doesn't include quizzes with Cash versus Watkins. I know footballers are meant to be thick but Christ, the pair of 'em took the biscuit on that recent Sky Sports (?) challenge thing.
Seconds?
Post by: Smithy on January 15, 2024, 11:26:04 AM
As long as it doesn't include quizzes with Cash versus Watkins. I know footballers are meant to be thick but Christ, the pair of 'em took the biscuit on that recent Sky Sports (?) challenge thing.
I imagine something akin to the Amazon "All or Nothing" series, rather than an extension of anything you see on social media. Generally speaking, I've really enjoyed pretty much all of them. Even those about sports in which I have little interest. They're basically work-based documentaries. The Dallas Cowboys one, from 2017 for example, was really good. I haven't watched the recent Newcastle one, however.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on January 15, 2024, 01:59:59 PM
As long as it doesn't include quizzes with Cash versus Watkins. I know footballers are meant to be thick but Christ, the pair of 'em took the biscuit on that recent Sky Sports (?) challenge thing.
I imagine something akin to the Amazon "All or Nothing" series, rather than an extension of anything you see on social media. Generally speaking, I've really enjoyed pretty much all of them. Even those about sports in which I have little interest. They're basically work-based documentaries. The Dallas Cowboys one, from 2017 for example, was really good. I haven't watched the recent Newcastle one, however.
I too, until recently, had watched all the All or Nothing NFL ones, despite finding american football utterly tedious, and agree, they are very good indeed
Post by: eamonn on January 15, 2024, 02:52:54 PM
Post by: LeeB on January 15, 2024, 02:54:37 PM
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on January 15, 2024, 03:31:38 PM
Don't apologise, he's a prick.
You seen him eating steak straight from Salt Bae's* fork?.. Fuck me.
*C&nt Bae.
Post by: Toronto Villa on January 15, 2024, 03:47:58 PM
Don't apologise, he's a prick.
You seen him eating steak straight from Salt Bae's* fork?.. Fuck me.
*C&nt Bae.
****** meets ******
https://x.com/eurofootcom/status/1745894720641913139?s=20
Post by: AV82EC on January 15, 2024, 03:54:29 PM
Post by: Risso on January 15, 2024, 04:07:31 PM
Everything that’s wrong with the modern cult of celebrity in one small clip, I think I’ve just been a bit sick in my mouth. ******.
Indeed, fucking hell. You know how everything Emery says and does makes you like him just a little bit more. Well the exact opposite is true for Arteta, who is now my least favourite ever manager by a huge margin.
Post by: LeeB on January 15, 2024, 04:09:54 PM
Post by: LeeS on January 15, 2024, 04:14:10 PM
Post by: eamonn on January 15, 2024, 04:17:53 PM
Post by: PeterWithe on January 15, 2024, 04:28:46 PM
Post by: AV82EC on January 15, 2024, 04:41:21 PM
Post by: Toronto Villa on January 15, 2024, 04:44:06 PM
Post by: LeeB on January 15, 2024, 04:46:56 PM
Post by: Toronto Villa on January 15, 2024, 04:48:14 PM
Can't stand anyone serving fucking about at my table, just give me my dinner and fuck off. What's that? Is everything to my liking? Yeah it was, until you interrupted you berk.
Out here, I fucking hate when they ask “so how’s your first bite?” Like do fuck off and let me eat in peace.
Post by: brontebilly on January 15, 2024, 04:49:04 PM
Everything that’s wrong with the modern cult of celebrity in one small clip, I think I’ve just been a bit sick in my mouth. ******.
Indeed, fucking hell. You know how everything Emery says and does makes you like him just a little bit more. Well the exact opposite is true for Arteta, who is now my least favourite ever manager by a huge margin.
He did sell us Martinez!
Post by: Toronto Villa on January 15, 2024, 04:51:04 PM
Post by: LeeB on January 15, 2024, 04:51:43 PM
Can't stand anyone serving fucking about at my table, just give me my dinner and fuck off. What's that? Is everything to my liking? Yeah it was, until you interrupted you berk.
Out here, I fucking hate when they ask “so how’s your first bite?” Like do fuck off and let me eat in peace.
Oh that would send me over the top.
Post by: Risso on January 15, 2024, 04:54:51 PM
I have got a sort of grudging respect for that cook for getting these cretins to pay those sort of prices for meat with airpit hair on it, and that he also gets them to eat gold.
My mate who likes that sort of things got a table when he did a "pop up" in London, and he invited me along. The steak was alright I suppose, but no better than you'd pay a 10th of the price for in a Miller and Carter or somewhere like that. And if I wanted a sweaty Turkish bloke to slice a piece of meat for me I could go to our local kebab shop in Uppingham and pay a tenner instead of £200. It was something like a tenner for a small glass of diet coke.
Post by: LeeB on January 15, 2024, 04:57:28 PM
Post by: PeterWithe on January 15, 2024, 05:39:41 PM
Can't stand anyone serving fucking about at my table, just give me my dinner and fuck off. What's that? Is everything to my liking? Yeah it was, until you interrupted you berk.
Strangely enough, i was looking for something and read this earlier by the queens son (?) who disagrees with you.
https://www.countrylife.co.uk/food-drink/ill-have-a-side-of-drama-please-time-for-a-tableside-cooking-renaissance-262801
Post by: LeeB on January 15, 2024, 05:56:00 PM
Post by: Sexual Ealing on January 15, 2024, 06:08:10 PM
His restaurant idea is just a posh Berni Inn. (One for the kids there)
"You have three restaurants. Berni Inn has thousands. Jealous?"
Post by: Sexual Ealing on January 15, 2024, 06:10:29 PM
I have got a sort of grudging respect for that cook for getting these cretins to pay those sort of prices for meat with airpit hair on it, and that he also gets them to eat gold.
And if I wanted a sweaty Turkish bloke to slice a piece of meat for me
I'm aware of a sauna in East London called Chariots. My understanding is that all your needs will be met there. PM me.
Post by: andyh on January 15, 2024, 07:28:10 PM
Post by: andyh on January 15, 2024, 07:33:46 PM
I dont want a behind the scenes bollocks.I’m not interested in buying a pint. I go to watch the football and would love to see what goes on behind the scenes.
Could they just make it so we could, you know, buy beers at half time.
Post by: Bad English on January 15, 2024, 07:35:41 PM
Post by: itbrvilla on January 23, 2024, 10:10:10 PM
Post by: Risso on January 23, 2024, 10:52:13 PM
What a load of shite this bloke talks. Heck hasn't just been "listening and watching" at all. He cancelled the new crest almost as soon as he set foot through the door.
Post by: Axl Rose on January 23, 2024, 11:17:34 PM
What a load of shite this bloke talks. Heck hasn't just been "listening and watching" at all. He cancelled the new crest almost as soon as he set foot through the door.
Agreed, mate.
I can't stand his tedious shite.
Post by: paul_e on January 23, 2024, 11:26:03 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on January 23, 2024, 11:27:08 PM
What a load of shite this bloke talks. Heck hasn't just been "listening and watching" at all. He cancelled the new crest almost as soon as he set foot through the door.
Agreed, mate.
I can't stand his tedious shite.
He is good when he's talking about on-pitch stuff, I like his content, but anything off-the-pitch and he tends to sound considerably less credible.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on January 23, 2024, 11:46:57 PM
Post by: sid1964 on January 24, 2024, 06:34:43 AM
I am sure that every decision he is making, the owners are in full agreement with.
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 24, 2024, 06:47:23 AM
So there are 10 of us on here that dont like what Heck is doing - as long as he has the backing of the owners, he is going nowhere.I don’t think anyone believes Heck is going anywhere soon.
I am sure that every decision he is making, the owners are in full agreement with.
It will depend on how successful the owners perceive him to be.
However, he has not made a good start from a PR /communications perspective.
They “let them eat cake strategy “ has not been shown to provide long term success.
Post by: Dogtanian on January 24, 2024, 08:41:21 AM
His next big challenge is going to be replacing BK8 with something more 'on-brand' and sexy. I wouldn't be surprised if that deal is cut early if we get in the Champions League, especially as CL may be less attractive to them as the logo won't be worn in some countries anyway.
If he goes and gets a main sponsor that brings in big bucks and is a more respectable and attractive brand partner, he'll have done a big part of his job.
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 24, 2024, 09:49:35 AM
Heck's only going to be judged on improving our commercial revenue. That will have already gone up, plus there's the Adidas deal next year and whatever else they're looking to do to get the cash in.I agree with all of that. But he has in a very short time pissed off a lot of people, the fact that Canadian bloke makes a video about it proves the point.
His next big challenge is going to be replacing BK8 with something more 'on-brand' and sexy. I wouldn't be surprised if that deal is cut early if we get in the Champions League, especially as CL may be less attractive to them as the logo won't be worn in some countries anyway.
If he goes and gets a main sponsor that brings in big bucks and is a more respectable and attractive brand partner, he'll have done a big part of his job.
They were all schoolboy mistakes because the messaging was so poorly executed, and pissing off lots of supporters within such a short time period brings its own pressure.
Heck and his Canadian fanboy don’t even understand because culturally they don’t get it.
Post by: Risso on January 24, 2024, 09:57:59 AM
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 24, 2024, 10:01:05 AM
That podcast is terrible. A few weeks ago when the new badge appeared, he said he'd donate £100 to Acorns if it was really, and then listed all the stuff that was shit about it. Clearly not understanding that a club isn't going to apply for a trademark on something it has no plans on using. Now he's trying to defend Heck's atrocious new effort.I could tell a story about a recent event that highlights the cultural difference across the Atlantic but it would probably bore everyone, so I won’t.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on January 24, 2024, 10:03:20 AM
Post by: Risso on January 24, 2024, 10:03:40 AM
Post by: pablo_picasso on January 24, 2024, 11:11:40 AM
That podcast is terrible. A few weeks ago when the new badge appeared, he said he'd donate £100 to Acorns if it was really, and then listed all the stuff that was shit about it. Clearly not understanding that a club isn't going to apply for a trademark on something it has no plans on using. Now he's trying to defend Heck's atrocious new effort.
And I don't get the argument that we are not allowed to criticise Heck because he hasn't been here long enough.
Utter bollocks.
If he is doing things that I don't think are to the positive of the club, then if that starts on day one, then criticism is warranted from day one.
And the same goes for praise.
The fact that he has mostly done things that warrant criticism is on him & not the fans / customers criticising him.
As for not being allowed to criticise him without criticising the owners, yes, the owners make final decision.
However, they are also delegating a large role & responsibility to Heck. If its all down to the owners, & them alone, then what the fuck is Heck doing here?
Having said that, yes, the owners warrant some criticism for not being brave enough to tell him "no".
And I will add, just because there are some majorly positive things happening at the club at the moment, doesn't mean that the owners / manager / board members, etc, cant be criticised.
If their actions warrant criticism, then so be it. Same with praise.
Not everything has to be all doom & gloom & not everything has to be all candy-floss grass & lollipop trees.
The truth is often found in the grey areas.
Post by: Villan82 on January 24, 2024, 11:16:13 AM
Heck has made two major decisions in a short time, neither making a whole lot of sense, neither particularly popular and both a major distraction to the club at an important moment.
And both communicated really badly.
Post by: Dogtanian on January 24, 2024, 11:30:24 AM
That led me to wonder who would win in a fight between him and Big Eck.
Then I realised I need to do some fucking work.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on January 24, 2024, 11:31:44 AM
Post by: Dogtanian on January 24, 2024, 11:53:56 AM
Post by: Bad English on January 24, 2024, 12:30:20 PM
Post by: Hookeysmith on January 24, 2024, 01:25:17 PM
Is that Holy Trinity bloke our own BCVillain?
As in British Columbia...interesting
Post by: Percy McCarthy on January 24, 2024, 01:27:24 PM
Is that Holy Trinity bloke our own BCVillain?
As in British Columbia...interesting
I always assumed BCVillain is a yam-yam.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on January 24, 2024, 01:28:45 PM
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on January 24, 2024, 01:32:17 PM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on January 24, 2024, 08:03:01 PM
• Mervyn King, Lord King of Lothbury
• Ian Taylor
• Brian Little
• Dennis Mortimer
• Thomas Hitzlsperger
• Katherine Merry
• Marisa Ewers
• Guy Rippon
• Guri Nandra
• Aaron Jones
• Rob Bishop
• Pam Bridgewater
• David Bridgewater
Post by: john e on January 24, 2024, 08:05:35 PM
Heck has announced the members of our 2024/25 Honorary Anniversary Board.
• Mervyn King, Lord King of Lothbury
• Ian Taylor
• Brian Little
• Dennis Mortimer
• Thomas Hitzlsperger
• Katherine Merry
• Marisa Ewers
• Guy Rippon
• Guri Nandra
• Aaron Jones
• Rob Bishop
• Pam Bridgewater
• David Bridgewater
Where’s Dave ?
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on January 24, 2024, 08:13:21 PM
Heck has announced the members of our 2024/25 Honorary Anniversary Board.
• Mervyn King, Lord King of Lothbury
• Ian Taylor
• Brian Little
• Dennis Mortimer
• Thomas Hitzlsperger
• Katherine Merry
• Marisa Ewers
• Guy Rippon
• Guri Nandra
• Aaron Jones
• Rob Bishop
• Pam Bridgewater
• David Bridgewater
* Ian Robathan
* Jonathan Fear
* Nigel Callaghan
Blimey some corkers there.
Post by: eamonn on January 24, 2024, 08:13:45 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on January 24, 2024, 08:16:51 PM
Heck has announced the members of our 2024/25 Honorary Anniversary Board.
• Mervyn King, Lord King of Lothbury
• Ian Taylor
• Brian Little
• Dennis Mortimer
• Thomas Hitzlsperger
• Katherine Merry
• Marisa Ewers
• Guy Rippon
• Guri Nandra
• Aaron Jones
• Rob Bishop
• Pam Bridgewater
• David Bridgewater
You really can never have too many Bridgewaters. Clearly.
Post by: Risso on January 24, 2024, 08:20:36 PM
Heck has announced the members of our 2024/25 Honorary Anniversary Board.
• Mervyn King, Lord King of Lothbury
• Ian Taylor
• Brian Little
• Dennis Mortimer
• Thomas Hitzlsperger
• Katherine Merry
• Marisa Ewers
• Guy Rippon
• Guri Nandra
• Aaron Jones
• Rob Bishop
• Pam Bridgewater
• David Bridgewater
Thought there be more of a Class of 82 contingent. Other than Rob Bishop who is the fan who writes books I think, I haven't heard of anybody after Hitz in the list. Who are they all?
Post by: pauliewalnuts on January 24, 2024, 08:25:51 PM
Heck has announced the members of our 2024/25 Honorary Anniversary Board.
• Mervyn King, Lord King of Lothbury
• Ian Taylor
• Brian Little
• Dennis Mortimer
• Thomas Hitzlsperger
• Katherine Merry
• Marisa Ewers
• Guy Rippon
• Guri Nandra
• Aaron Jones
• Rob Bishop
• Pam Bridgewater
• David Bridgewater
Thought there be more of a Class of 82 contingent. Other than Rob Bishop who is the fan who writes books I think, I haven't heard of anybody after Hitz in the list. Who are they all?
Rob Bishop was a local sports journalist for years.
Never heard of Katherine Merry?
Post by: PeterWithesShin on January 24, 2024, 08:27:54 PM
Post by: Toronto Villa on January 24, 2024, 08:29:15 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on January 24, 2024, 08:29:53 PM
Sit in a room whilst Heck presents what they're going to decide, probably.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on January 24, 2024, 08:33:11 PM
Quote
Another is Dave Bridgewater, popularly known as “Bridge”, who is believed to be the only person to have attended all 89 of Villa’s UEFA ties.
At the time of the Besiktas tie, Bridge and his wife Pam were both employed in Villa’s Development Association office, and were allowed to take a couple of hours off to watch the game.
“It was a weird experience, very eerie,” recalls Pam, who still works for the club. “We sat in the directors’ box – but only because we weren’t allowed to sit anywhere else in the ground.
“Quite a lot of guests of the Beskitas directors were also there, so we managed to create a bit of atmosphere in that area!
Post by: Brazilian Villain on January 24, 2024, 08:35:05 PM
Yeh Merry was a super former athlete and a big Villa fan.
I'm guessing Risso doesn't listen to 'Fighting Talk'. :)
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on January 24, 2024, 08:35:36 PM
I wonder what that board will actually do.
Sit in a room whilst Heck presents via Team or Zoom what they're going to decide, probably.
FTFY
Post by: PeterWithesShin on January 24, 2024, 08:36:02 PM
Post by: Risso on January 24, 2024, 08:36:55 PM
Yeh Merry was a super former athlete and a big Villa fan.
I'm guessing Risso doesn't listen to 'Fighting Talk'. :)
I'd honestly rather listen to Jazz FM.
Post by: BC54 VFC on January 24, 2024, 08:40:45 PM
Good to see Pam and Dave Bridgewater involved. I've known them since they used to sit in the front row of away coach 1 in the mid-70s. Very pleasant, down to earth, people and they'll certainly be able to represent 'ordinary' fans.
Post by: BC54 VFC on January 24, 2024, 08:45:08 PM
Bishop's Castle? (S. Shropshire).Is that Holy Trinity bloke our own BCVillain?
As in British Columbia...interesting
I always assumed BCVillain is a yam-yam.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on January 24, 2024, 08:48:00 PM
I'm guessing Risso doesn't listen to 'Fighting Talk'. :)
I'd honestly rather listen to Jazz FM.
Sounds like a suitable topic for Defend the Indefensible.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on January 24, 2024, 08:48:55 PM
Post by: SaddVillan on January 24, 2024, 09:00:59 PM
Let's cut the crap about Chris Heck and his role and accept the brutal truth.
Heck's here to put more bums on more seats and get them to spend more money, whilst at the same time bringing in as much as possible from reputable commercial sources.
Football's always been about money. William McGregor set up the Football League to provide clubs with "a fixity of fuxtures". Hitherto games were played as and when and he wanted to regularise and increase the income flow.
To Heck, history, tradition and heritage count for fuck all unless they can be monetised.
Painful for some to accept, but we're not going to become a top club without the appropriate financial muscle and that won't happen if we stick what we've done up until now.
Don't forget, he's been head hunted by Wes and Naseef and must, therefore have their support and they've already put over half a billion into the club - no wonder they're looking to bring in money from other sources.
For the future of Villa, it's crucial that Heck succeeds - there will be missteps for sure, but let's give the bloke a chance.
Post by: Villan82 on January 24, 2024, 09:21:27 PM
Not really logical with his brief now is it?
Post by: Steve67 on January 24, 2024, 09:46:48 PM
Post by: Sexual Ealing on January 24, 2024, 09:53:07 PM
There is a logic to what he said though. Put a few thousand on the current gate, rather than lose around 7 thousand whilst the ground is being addressed. Ok, so it's very 'live for today' but I can get why he's making hay whilst the sun shines.
There was a conversation on here semi-recently about average indie bands. I can't say I care for much of their output, but Catatonia had a great lyric in one of their songs that went, "make hay not war". I'm all for it.
Post by: Risso on January 24, 2024, 09:55:43 PM
There is a logic to what he said though. Put a few thousand on the current gate, rather than lose around 7 thousand whilst the ground is being addressed. Ok, so it's very 'live for today' but I can get why he's making hay whilst the sun shines.
He hasn't said the ground is being addressed though. He's just cancelled the expansion.
Post by: Steve67 on January 24, 2024, 10:00:23 PM
Post by: Risso on January 24, 2024, 10:06:56 PM
Post by: Villan82 on January 24, 2024, 10:20:16 PM
I might, at a push, agree with you on getting an extra 2-3k seats in, and then reassessing, if I had an idea where they would go and I saw planning permission. But the North is just increasingly a relic of a different era that needs replacing asap
But as of now, like the decision on the round badge, it just looks to me like he wants to rip up what his predecessor did so he can look all decisive, promise a few unicorns, tick a few boxes and move on to his next job.
Post by: Chris Smith on January 24, 2024, 10:42:32 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on January 24, 2024, 10:57:09 PM
The more I have thought about this then next season with centenary celebrations and potential CL football against a backdrop of a building site at one end of the ground makes no sense to me.
That's totally fine and understandable.
But he hasn't said what we're going to do instead, other than some flannel about 2 or 3,000 extra seats shoe-horned in, which doesn't stand up to the slightest bit of scrutiny.
Post by: Villan82 on January 24, 2024, 11:01:10 PM
The more I have thought about this then next season with centenary celebrations and potential CL football against a backdrop of a building site at one end of the ground makes no sense to me.
The Holte was a building site for the Inter-Milan game, it was about half built. The Trinity side was a building site for half the 2000-01 season, the Luc Nillis stunner against Chelsea!
I don't see any of that as an argument for delaying/ceasing. it just goes to show we should have done it years ago so it would be ready for when we got back to the upper echelons. In fact, having the new stand rising up majestically as we progress through our 150th season would be a signal that we are here to stay and are, once again, at the vanguard within the game and with an evolving Villa Park fit for the future.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on January 24, 2024, 11:18:38 PM
And in 00/01 it wasn't hard to get into VP, even after the Trinty was done the attendances were often 10-12k below capacity.
Post by: Drummond on January 24, 2024, 11:21:19 PM
Post by: Villan82 on January 24, 2024, 11:34:33 PM
Not this argument, again.
The club's home is a big deal, no?
Post by: Toronto Villa on January 24, 2024, 11:45:39 PM
Not this argument, again.
The club's home is a big deal, no?
It’s a huge deal. But this has been done to death based on what we know. The plans haven’t been cancelled. I am sure the owners, who Heck works for want to expand the ground. But they have paused those plans for the time being as they consider all the options. It’s unfortunate and disappointing but it might turn out for the best when you consider everything else that needs to be considered at Villa Park and the surrounding area. It’s just that we had this conversation for ages when it was initially announced.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on January 25, 2024, 01:44:12 AM
Let's cut the crap about Chris Heck and his role and accept the brutal truth.
Heck's here to put more bums on more seats and get them to spend more money, whilst at the same time bringing in as much as possible from reputable commercial sources.
Football's always been about money. William McGregor set up the Football League to provide clubs with "a fixity of fuxtures". Hitherto games were played as and when and he wanted to regularise and increase the income flow.
To Heck, history, tradition and heritage count for fuck all unless they can be monetised.
Painful for some to accept, but we're not going to become a top club without the appropriate financial muscle and that won't happen if we stick what we've done up until now.
Don't forget, he's been head hunted by Wes and Naseef and must, therefore have their support and they've already put over half a billion into the club - no wonder they're looking to bring in money from other sources.
For the future of Villa, it's crucial that Heck succeeds - there will be missteps for sure, but let's give the bloke a chance.
Does anybody feel patronised when people think they’re explaining things that everybody already understands?
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 25, 2024, 03:31:26 AM
Missteps ffs.
Let's cut the crap about Chris Heck and his role and accept the brutal truth.
Heck's here to put more bums on more seats and get them to spend more money, whilst at the same time bringing in as much as possible from reputable commercial sources.
Football's always been about money. William McGregor set up the Football League to provide clubs with "a fixity of fuxtures". Hitherto games were played as and when and he wanted to regularise and increase the income flow.
To Heck, history, tradition and heritage count for fuck all unless they can be monetised.
Painful for some to accept, but we're not going to become a top club without the appropriate financial muscle and that won't happen if we stick what we've done up until now.
Don't forget, he's been head hunted by Wes and Naseef and must, therefore have their support and they've already put over half a billion into the club - no wonder they're looking to bring in money from other sources.
For the future of Villa, it's crucial that Heck succeeds - there will be missteps for sure, but let's give the bloke a chance.
Does anybody feel patronised when people think they’re explaining things that everybody already understands?
Post by: PeterWithe on January 25, 2024, 07:45:14 AM
Post by: FatSam on January 25, 2024, 08:00:30 AM
As much as I enjoyed Hitz’s goals for us, did he even get to 100 appearances?No, but he was with us from youth level, and went on to win a league title, international caps, and become a football administrator, so I imagine he brings more to the conversation than Gabby for example.
Post by: Dogtanian on January 25, 2024, 08:03:52 AM
As much as I enjoyed Hitz’s goals for us, did he even get to 100 appearances?
114 appearances. It's a shame we couldn't keep him longer.
In this day and age, having gay people represented is a positive when celebrating and promoting the club.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on January 25, 2024, 08:16:32 AM
As much as I enjoyed Hitz’s goals for us, did he even get to 100 appearances?
114 appearances. It's a shame we couldn't keep him longer.
In this day and age, having gay people represented is a positive when celebrating and promoting the club.
Quite right.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on January 25, 2024, 08:53:38 AM
Post by: Dogtanian on January 25, 2024, 08:54:38 AM
Hitz also single handedly invented the Germano-Brummie accent.
Gummie? or Deummie? ;D
Post by: pauliewalnuts on January 25, 2024, 09:01:23 AM
Not this argument, again.
The club's home is a big deal, no?
It’s a huge deal. But this has been done to death based on what we know. The plans haven’t been cancelled. I am sure the owners, who Heck works for want to expand the ground. But they have paused those plans for the time being as they consider all the options. It’s unfortunate and disappointing but it might turn out for the best when you consider everything else that needs to be considered at Villa Park and the surrounding area. It’s just that we had this conversation for ages when it was initially announced.
People at the FAB meeting specifically mentioned that the way he discussed the north stand left no doubt about it - cancelled not paused, even if he may not have used the word.
All he has to do is start talking about things we ARE going to do rather than just stuff we are not, or it sounds small time
Then stop trying to pull the wool over the eyes of people who have significantly more experience of people who run football clubs. For example, the absolute illusion that anyone at all contributed to the new new badge design other than him and his peers. Or the idea that the old new badge was being ‘reevaluated’ rather than scrapped, or that it was a one season badge to celebrate Rotterdam.
These are all things which are palpably not true, just utter nonsense. I am sure he is good at his job but he needs to stop treating us like morons who will believe anything he says.
I very much suspect that there are two more recent utterances which are also rubbish - somehow adding another 3,000 seats and the no consideration whatsoever of moving or rebuilding.
Post by: chrisw1 on January 25, 2024, 09:04:31 AM
The more I have thought about this then next season with centenary celebrations and potential CL football against a backdrop of a building site at one end of the ground makes no sense to me.It makes perfect sense to me. It's a statement, we're not standing still this is the start of the next 150 years. We're building one of the best stand-alone stands in the country.
For me, the only acceptable reason for putting off the build is that we've decided it's not big and ambitious enough. Not that it's too much too fast.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on January 25, 2024, 09:05:00 AM
As much as I enjoyed Hitz’s goals for us, did he even get to 100 appearances?
114 appearances. It's a shame we couldn't keep him longer.
In this day and age, having gay people represented is a positive when celebrating and promoting the club.
Quite right.
It’s also important that there is some input from an international perspective rather then just people who live in places on the number 11 route.
We can’t just have local people agreeing that Heck is right and pretend to be a global club.
Post by: algy on January 25, 2024, 09:23:59 AM
Yeah, willing to give Heck more time personally (and I know NSWE hang on to my every utterance on the matter). Stop the badge change, don't build the new North Stand - fine. But I'd hope there would be some better alternative to both of those in the next year or so. Because both are still problems - we still need a bigger stadium, and the Lerner badge is still shit.The more I have thought about this then next season with centenary celebrations and potential CL football against a backdrop of a building site at one end of the ground makes no sense to me.It makes perfect sense to me. It's a statement, we're not standing still this is the start of the next 150 years. We're building one of the best stand-alone stands in the country.
For me, the only acceptable reason for putting off the build is that we've decided it's not big and ambitious enough. Not that it's too much too fast.
Just hope over the next 12-18 months there's a clear vision as to where we're going cos at the moment it feels like we've got the business version of Gerrard.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on January 25, 2024, 09:29:05 AM
It’s the sort of putting the dampers on things vibes.
Post by: London Villan on February 15, 2024, 11:50:15 AM
https://twitter.com/avfcstaff/status/1757817987132690662?s=46&t=yx2YnlcR5gNKfa4FgGjd7A
Post by: Sexual Ealing on February 15, 2024, 12:05:15 PM
Oh dear…. Might not be true…
https://twitter.com/avfcstaff/status/1757817987132690662?s=46&t=yx2YnlcR5gNKfa4FgGjd7A
Based on the excellent communication skills he's employed thus far, I can't believe this is true of the fantastic Mr Heck.
Post by: tomd2103 on February 15, 2024, 12:06:45 PM
Oh dear…. Might not be true…
https://twitter.com/avfcstaff/status/1757817987132690662?s=46&t=yx2YnlcR5gNKfa4FgGjd7A
Based on the excellent communication skills he's employed thus far, I can't believe this is true of the fantastic Mr Heck.
That does not make good reading at all and resonates with the statement made after he left the club in New York.
Post by: Villan82 on February 15, 2024, 12:10:15 PM
The everyday fan actually is usually bang on about things. The person on the terrace can see when it isn't working out. For months with Gerrard I tried to convince myself it might work and ignored the growing consensus here and elsewhere. I also ignored my gut.
With Heck it has felt wrong from the minute the round badge was jettisoned and then the bizarre 'pause' of the new stand (among other things).
I don't know who issues this document but it reads like quite a credible one to me. How much harm is being done every single week?
Post by: Risso on February 15, 2024, 12:10:21 PM
Post by: London Villan on February 15, 2024, 12:12:11 PM
Staff being sacked on the spot with no real justification other than the CEO mood, circumnavigating employment law, speaking inappropriately of other staff in front of people...
Post by: frank black on February 15, 2024, 12:12:25 PM
Post by: BC Villain on February 15, 2024, 12:14:21 PM
Post by: dave.woodhall on February 15, 2024, 12:17:03 PM
Post by: London Villan on February 15, 2024, 12:20:44 PM
That said if all of it turned out to be true is would hardly be a surprise.
Post by: Ads on February 15, 2024, 12:27:48 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on February 15, 2024, 12:29:21 PM
There's something about that letter that's just too perfect, if that's the right word to use. It came from an anonymous XformerlyknownasTwitter source with a handful of followers.
I'd imagine that account was created solely to release the document.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on February 15, 2024, 12:30:02 PM
I look forward to two days of arguing over something to confirm a prejudice one way or the other without ever being able to confirm the bona fides of the source material. This is now the zeitgeist and ACL chatter is passé. Yaaaaaaay Internet!
No you don't, you corporate shill.
Post by: john2710 on February 15, 2024, 12:30:34 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on February 15, 2024, 12:32:18 PM
I used to work for a company that was taken over by a US listed company halfway through my time there. The difference in day to day culture with it becoming firstly, an American company, and secondly, a listed American company was massive.
I mean that in general, day to day operations sense, not that all of a sudden they started sacking everyone or anything like that, but there was a period of significant misunderstanding usually around what you can and can not do in the UK versus the US.
Post by: sid1964 on February 15, 2024, 12:33:29 PM
IF TRUE - then Mr. Heck will be gone from the club, if it is not true, whoever posted this on the internet will need very deep pockets, with the potential damage to the club and Mr Heck's reputation.
Post by: chrisw1 on February 15, 2024, 12:35:16 PM
Notwithstanding my misgivings on the badge and stand development, I thought we had someone well qualified to really drive our commercial success, which is vital to succeed in the PL. Reading this it seems he's an absolute prick and we'll probably be looking for a replacement soon. It's always seems to be 2 steps forward 1 back with Villa at the moment.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on February 15, 2024, 12:35:24 PM
i am sure that our owners would not stand for this type of behaviour from any one of their employees.
IF TRUE - then Mr. Heck will be gone from the club, if it is not true, whoever posted this on the internet will need very deep pockets, with the potential damage to the club and Mr Heck's reputation.
One of our owners thinks Abu Dhabi has a perfect system of governance so I wouldn't hold your breath.
Edit: and the other one is an American billionaire. Breathe.
Post by: Villan82 on February 15, 2024, 12:36:37 PM
What we do know is that it has been released and if it is genuine those who released it would have good reason to protect their identity.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on February 15, 2024, 12:36:41 PM
Joking apart, it would be so 'Villa' to get the football part of the business in brilliant shape, to have a world class manager running the team, a fucking transfer market assassin like Monchi doing his stuff, and for the club to be in the very upper reaches of the table only to then have the 'business' side of it turn into a great big barrel of bin juice.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on February 15, 2024, 12:37:43 PM
i am sure that our owners would not stand for this type of behaviour from any one of their employees.
IF TRUE - then Mr. Heck will be gone from the club, if it is not true, whoever posted this on the internet will need very deep pockets, with the potential damage to the club and Mr Heck's reputation.
One of our owners thinks Abu Dhabi has a perfect system of governance so I wouldn't hold your breath.
Edit: and the other one is an American billionaire. Breathe.
Who made most of his fortune from sub-prime mortgages.
Not dissing Wes here, I still like him.
Post by: Villan82 on February 15, 2024, 12:38:28 PM
It could be worse, at least he hasn't done his ACL.
Joking apart, it would be so 'Villa' to get the football part of the business in brilliant shape, to have a world class manager running the team, a fucking transfer market assassin like Monchi doing his stuff, and for the club to be in the very upper reaches of the table only to then have the 'business' side of it turn into a great big barrel of bin juice.
To be honest, without seeing this letter this was my assessment of how things have been since last summer. Based on the badge, ticketing, paused redevelopment and communications
Post by: Sexual Ealing on February 15, 2024, 12:39:05 PM
i am sure that our owners would not stand for this type of behaviour from any one of their employees.
IF TRUE - then Mr. Heck will be gone from the club, if it is not true, whoever posted this on the internet will need very deep pockets, with the potential damage to the club and Mr Heck's reputation.
One of our owners thinks Abu Dhabi has a perfect system of governance so I wouldn't hold your breath.
Edit: and the other one is an American billionaire. Breathe.
Who made most of his fortune from sub-prime mortgages.
Not dissing Wes here, I still like him.
I'm dissing him, and I don't (based mainly on that light grey/blue-checked suit he wore when they bought us).
Post by: Nelly on February 15, 2024, 12:39:34 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on February 15, 2024, 12:40:48 PM
i am sure that our owners would not stand for this type of behaviour from any one of their employees.
IF TRUE - then Mr. Heck will be gone from the club, if it is not true, whoever posted this on the internet will need very deep pockets, with the potential damage to the club and Mr Heck's reputation.
One of our owners thinks Abu Dhabi has a perfect system of governance so I wouldn't hold your breath.
Edit: and the other one is an American billionaire. Breathe.
Who made most of his fortune from sub-prime mortgages.
Not dissing Wes here, I still like him.
I'm dissing him, and I don't (based mainly on that light grey/blue-checked suit he wore when they bought us).
I have mild objections to his hair style.
Post by: sid1964 on February 15, 2024, 12:40:54 PM
Post by: Dogtanian on February 15, 2024, 12:43:08 PM
the person who sits by me is a senior manager at Villa in the Finance department - (when I have asked them about working at Villa) they seem to like Chris
Did he twitch and look over his shoulder as he said it?
Post by: VillaTim on February 15, 2024, 12:51:25 PM
Post by: paul_e on February 15, 2024, 12:58:08 PM
Post by: Sexual Ealing on February 15, 2024, 01:08:20 PM
I don't know if that's real or not and won't make an attempt to guess but if I wanted to create something to make Heck look bad I'd include most of the stuff that's in there because it feeds perfectly into the facts that he's american, he's done things fans don't like and there were stories of him upsetting people at New York Red Bulls(or whatever they're called). I think Dave W sees the same thing with his "too perfect" comment as well, it's painting him as the worst possible charicature of an american going to a UK business.
That last point is true, but he's kind of on public record as being a caricature of the worst kind of American going into a UK business, which makes it easy to believe (whilst I acknowledge it might be total bollocks).
Post by: Simon Page on February 15, 2024, 01:12:59 PM
Post by: dave.woodhall on February 15, 2024, 01:13:43 PM
I don't know if that's real or not and won't make an attempt to guess but if I wanted to create something to make Heck look bad I'd include most of the stuff that's in there because it feeds perfectly into the facts that he's american, he's done things fans don't like and there were stories of him upsetting people at New York Red Bulls(or whatever they're called). I think Dave W sees the same thing with his "too perfect" comment as well, it's painting him as the worst possible caricature of an american going to a UK business.
That's a fair point. It's all a bit broad brush.
Post by: Nii Lamptey on February 15, 2024, 01:19:23 PM
I kind of hope it's true and we can get that 'cocksucker' out of our club. Absolutely nothing of any worth has come from his appointment (*I feel the Adidas deal would have happened regardless).
Post by: pauliewalnuts on February 15, 2024, 01:24:10 PM
all looks a bit suspect to me , whacking it onto social media adds to the lack of credibility
If they wanted to get this letter out to as many people as quickly, whilst remaining anonymous, what else would they have done?
Not making any inference here that it's true or untrue, but I'd be interested to know how they could have achieved the above quicker and as effectively.
Post by: London Villan on February 15, 2024, 01:26:56 PM
Post by: Richard E on February 15, 2024, 01:28:59 PM
Post by: Richard E on February 15, 2024, 01:37:16 PM
I think someone needs to have a word with Chris about UK employment law, looking at that.
I used to work for a company that was taken over by a US listed company halfway through my time there. The difference in day to day culture with it becoming firstly, an American company, and secondly, a listed American company was massive.
I mean that in general, day to day operations sense, not that all of a sudden they started sacking everyone or anything like that, but there was a period of significant misunderstanding usually around what you can and can not do in the UK versus the US.
There’s been a case recently where a US company thought it could import its redundancy procedure (or lack thereof) wholesale into this country and the Employment Appeal
Tribunal was of course having none of it.
Post by: Dogtanian on February 15, 2024, 01:45:14 PM
But there does seem to be a hint of specificity regarding a recent contract award.
At any rate, I'd expect that if they are breaching employment law then we will be hearing about it sooner rather than later.
Post by: VillaTim on February 15, 2024, 01:47:47 PM
i'm not sure it's the right way to go about lodging very serious accusations - sharing it on social media before the other side has had chance to respond ? If you're serious you get legal help and guidance not throw everything up on Xall looks a bit suspect to me , whacking it onto social media adds to the lack of credibility
If they wanted to get this letter out to as many people as quickly, whilst remaining anonymous, what else would they have done?
Not making any inference here that it's true or untrue, but I'd be interested to know how they could have achieved the above quicker and as effectively.
Post by: Nii Lamptey on February 15, 2024, 01:49:55 PM
I don't know anyone at Villa any more so can't ask if any of it can be corroborated. There must be a couple of people on here with some decent contacts still?
A mate of mine knows someone in charge of a department at Villa - He's just asked about it for me and got a blunt 'no comment' reply. Silence speaks a thousand words.
Post by: Demitri_C on February 15, 2024, 01:53:02 PM
I mean if he labelled me a cock sucker i would be on the phone to my solicitor
Post by: Sexual Ealing on February 15, 2024, 01:54:06 PM
Anyone could type that up and share it on twatter. We dont know if its true or not but i would imagine wes and nas would take this very seriously.
I mean if he labelled me a cock sucker i would be on the phone to my solicitor
Well yeah, anyone could, but why would they?
Post by: Mouse Potato on February 15, 2024, 01:59:41 PM
Anyone could type that up and share it on twatter. We dont know if its true or not but i would imagine wes and nas would take this very seriously.
I mean if he labelled me a cock sucker i would be on the phone to my solicitor
Does everybody have a solicitor? I think I'm missing out.
Post by: ChicagoLion on February 15, 2024, 02:00:20 PM
Only cock suckers.Anyone could type that up and share it on twatter. We dont know if its true or not but i would imagine wes and nas would take this very seriously.
I mean if he labelled me a cock sucker i would be on the phone to my solicitor
Does everybody have a solicitor? I think I'm missing out.
Post by: eamonn on February 15, 2024, 02:00:47 PM
the person who sits by me is a senior manager at Villa in the Finance department - (when I have asked them about working at Villa) they seem to like Chris
Did he twitch and look over his shoulder as he said it?
Yeah, it's Risso, head of Finance there, but as he's always on H&V posting shit about his employer, he's constantly looking over his shoulder ;)
Post by: Dogtanian on February 15, 2024, 02:06:58 PM
the person who sits by me is a senior manager at Villa in the Finance department - (when I have asked them about working at Villa) they seem to like Chris
Did he twitch and look over his shoulder as he said it?
Yeah, it's Risso, head of Finance there, but as he's always on H&V posting shit about his employer, he's constantly looking over his shoulder ;)
Funny how it all comes out while he's sunning himself in exotic climbs rather than being in the office to face the flack!
Post by: Dogtanian on February 15, 2024, 02:08:15 PM
Only cock suckers.Anyone could type that up and share it on twatter. We dont know if its true or not but i would imagine wes and nas would take this very seriously.
I mean if he labelled me a cock sucker i would be on the phone to my solicitor
Does everybody have a solicitor? I think I'm missing out.
And what's all the hate for these poor cocksuckers? They provide a much needed service that many of us greatly appreciate at times. 8)
Post by: aj2k77 on February 15, 2024, 02:10:15 PM
Post by: Ads on February 15, 2024, 02:10:20 PM
I don't know if that's real or not and won't make an attempt to guess but if I wanted to create something to make Heck look bad I'd include most of the stuff that's in there because it feeds perfectly into the facts that he's american, he's done things fans don't like and there were stories of him upsetting people at New York Red Bulls(or whatever they're called). I think Dave W sees the same thing with his "too perfect" comment as well, it's painting him as the worst possible charicature of an american going to a UK business.
That last point is true, but he's kind of on public record as being a caricature of the worst kind of American going into a UK business, which makes it easy to believe (whilst I acknowledge it might be total bollocks).
Maybe it's what we need? When we get figures that GDP per head is 0.7% across 20 years, there's a productivity crisis and zombie firms awash up and down the country, propped up by previously low interest rates- meanwhile the biggest dive States in the US pay significantly more in wages than us. Even being in the Old Bill over there dwarfs what we earn and the only qualification appears to be how keen you are to shoot black people at traffic stops. $100k a year to you Billy-Bob.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on February 15, 2024, 02:10:41 PM
I'm no fan of Heck's, but I'll wait till it's confirmed as true before I get too worked up about it.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on February 15, 2024, 02:11:28 PM
Post by: aldridgeboy on February 15, 2024, 02:13:11 PM
Time will tell if it’s real or not. It just seems a lot of effort to go to to be to start an internet rumour mill.
Post by: Dogtanian on February 15, 2024, 02:13:29 PM
Rumour I heard was that they were dishing out egg and waffle sandwiches as the Friday breakfast offering. US corporate culture has its downsides. :(
Chris Heck is a saint and a gift for humanity!
I'm more than prepared to have all my responsibilities taken away via PowerPoint in exchange for regular egg and waffle sarnies.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on February 15, 2024, 02:16:15 PM
I don't know if that's real or not and won't make an attempt to guess but if I wanted to create something to make Heck look bad I'd include most of the stuff that's in there because it feeds perfectly into the facts that he's american, he's done things fans don't like and there were stories of him upsetting people at New York Red Bulls(or whatever they're called). I think Dave W sees the same thing with his "too perfect" comment as well, it's painting him as the worst possible charicature of an american going to a UK business.
That last point is true, but he's kind of on public record as being a caricature of the worst kind of American going into a UK business, which makes it easy to believe (whilst I acknowledge it might be total bollocks).
Maybe it's what we need? When we get figures that GDP per head is 0.7% across 20 years, there's a productivity crisis and zombie firms awash up and down the country, propped up by previously low interest rates- meanwhile the biggest dive States in the US pay significantly more in wages than us. Even being in the Old Bill over there dwarfs what we earn and the only qualification appears to be how keen you are to shoot black people at traffic stops. $100k a year to you Billy-Bob.
If he's here to sort out GDP we really are fucked.
Post by: Ads on February 15, 2024, 02:17:35 PM
I don't know if that's real or not and won't make an attempt to guess but if I wanted to create something to make Heck look bad I'd include most of the stuff that's in there because it feeds perfectly into the facts that he's american, he's done things fans don't like and there were stories of him upsetting people at New York Red Bulls(or whatever they're called). I think Dave W sees the same thing with his "too perfect" comment as well, it's painting him as the worst possible charicature of an american going to a UK business.
That last point is true, but he's kind of on public record as being a caricature of the worst kind of American going into a UK business, which makes it easy to believe (whilst I acknowledge it might be total bollocks).
Maybe it's what we need? When we get figures that GDP per head is 0.7% across 20 years, there's a productivity crisis and zombie firms awash up and down the country, propped up by previously low interest rates- meanwhile the biggest dive States in the US pay significantly more in wages than us. Even being in the Old Bill over there dwarfs what we earn and the only qualification appears to be how keen you are to shoot black people at traffic stops. $100k a year to you Billy-Bob.
If he's here to sort out GDP we really are fucked.
I look forward to the increased spending on health care and defence as a result of the Americanisation of our economy.
Post by: Rigadon on February 15, 2024, 02:20:26 PM
Post by: cdward on February 15, 2024, 02:21:34 PM
There is so much specific detail in this that it has to be genuine, if it was made up it could be de-bunked quickly and easily.
This is going to blow up.
Can't see Heck surviving this.
Post by: Nii Lamptey on February 15, 2024, 02:29:27 PM
Quote
A letter to the Fan Advisory Board of Aston Villa FC to be shared with the football authorities and all who care about this great football club.
Significant Concern from Aston Villa employees
We are a group of Aston Villa employees who feel the urgent need to speak out about some of the awful things we are experiencing at the football club. Most worryingly we think the mental health of employees has been deprioritised and, in some cases, disregarded by the appointment of Chris Heck and Ben Hatton to senior roles in the club and we are unwilling to accept this without challenge going forward. We do not trust alternative routes of raising this will effectively address the problem so we are looking for the FAB, Villa fans and all those who care about this great institution to support us by raising and addressing our concerns; we are looking to you to help us protect the employees and fans today and in the future.
Our collective concerns.
HR Matters
This is at the heart of our concerns. HR matters are no longer handled within the framework of law operating in the country. The complete disregards of our legal rights is causing significant concern for employees because we have seen many examples of illegal or inappropriate practices since the appointment of Chris Heck and Ben Hatton at Aston Villa. Specific examples are detailed below.
• A highly respected senior member of staff needed time away from work due to mental health issues and on requesting to return to the business once their health improved was told they were no longer welcome back. Prior to this, they'd had no performance or sickness issues and was well known to be a high-performing employee. This caused shock and anger within the workforce as it tells us that if we have mental health issues, we wont be welcome at Aston Villa. We believe this employee was not given their legal right to a duty of care.
• One employee was forced out (despite no prior performance concerns) and their team was immediately told by Chris Heck they'd left the business without any departure agreement in place at this point. They had worked for the club for 4 years. This was illegal and breached their employment contract.
• Most recently we have lost a highly respected senior member of our staff who was fired on the spot, again with no evidence of any performance concerns. This action now leaves the club vulnerable in a highly regulated sector and we believe unable to fulfil its statutory duties.
• Multiple staff have resigned and Chris Heck repeatedly tried to not pay their notice period and force them out that day. It takes considerable HR and Legal negotiation to convince him that his intended actions are illegal in this country. People are scared to leave the club as they know if they resign they will have to battle to get their notice period paid, as per UK law and don't know where they stand on their notice period and their income before they start new roles.
• Multiple examples have occurred where people's roles have materially changed without consultation. A new organisation structure was announced in a company wide meeting in Autumn whereby people's roles had significantly changed (teams and staff removed, scope reduced) and they found out about it on a big screen in the company wide meeting. Jobs were changed, responsibilities removed or reduced with no prior warning or agreement. Everyone just looked at each other with shock. It was humiliating for many people and no one knew how to handle it. HR were apparently not consulted that this was going to be announced that day in fact the HR Leader was not there). Some people felt they were effectively being forced out of the club in front of their colleagues. It was chaos. This is illegal in England. New job roles hadn't been written for the people affected by the changes, they hadn't been asked if they wanted their reassigned roles, reporting lines weren't confirmed in some areas. Furthermore, the few new roles which were advertised were published with existing employee's responsibilities included within them. There was no one holding Chris Heck to account because we believe our HR/Legal teams were too afraid to address the issue. We are looking to them to have ethical standards to help us enforce our rights.
• We have seen a series of female employees leave the business having felt marginalised and disrespected. Chris Heck has shocked staff referring to people he doesn't like as 'cocksuckers.' This language is appalling in the workplace and reaffirms our concern that his behaviours are discriminatory in nature.
• People are repeatedly being removed from the club without performance issues and being replaced by friends of Mr Heck and Mr Hatton. The leadership team has become a group of people with very little recent experience in the Premier League or even of football in this country. The culture is one of breaking legal contract, intimidating behaviour and disregard of fans wishes. This is very quick demise from the progressive company we felt we worked in less than 12 months ago.
• All these examples have resulted in considerable mental health concerns for existing and exiting staff members. Without employment rights in this country being honoured, how do we trust anyone of authority such as HR/Legal/Senior Management? Staff are trying to stick together and support each other through this but it's very hard for us to feel this uncomfortable about our employment for this long. Some are considering joining a Trade Union. It is common practice now for everyone to share their progress in the job market. It's not a secret at all that many of us are actively interviewing elsewhere.
Commercial Agreements and Governance
We believe there is a lack of governance at the club since the departure of the last CEO in June 2023, Mr Heck and Mr Hatton have been running the business as though it is their personal plaything.
Ben Hatton, the Chief Commercial Officer of the club, has hired three pals into unusually high value consultancy contracts or staff jobs with no HR process or tendering of the work and the firing of our well respected and high performing senior member of staff (as mentioned earlier) has resulted in the appointment of another friend of Mr Hatton into the role. This new hire has zero experience of working in a club and environment as big as Aston Villa games and therefore puts some of the club's policies and procedures at risk.
We have evidence of Mr Hatton awarding a high value contract to a company run by an individual he has previously partnered with as co-Director in other businesses. He resigned from two of these businesses one working day before he started work at Villa, but only resigned from one of the other businesses he was a Director with this person on Jan 30 this year.
We believe the contract has been awarded with no tendering process, as is normal, prudent and good business practice in this industry.
We ask the Fan Advisory Board to ask the Club's Board the following questions:
- Can the Board confirm if standard procedures (tendering and shortlisting etc) have been followed in the awarding of contracts by Ben Hatton?
- Has the company awarded the supplier contract got adequate experience to deliver the required level of service compared to its more experienced competitors in this sector?
- Is the Board aware of the previous business dealings between Mr Hatton and the owner of the company awarded the lucrative contract?
Crest
We have strong evidence that the 'new' crest was designed in September 2023 long before the fan 'consultation, This included issuing male executives a new club tie with the new crest on before December for a photoshoot. This is completely against the essence of how a club crest should be designed by the heritage asset rules set out by the FA.
Furthermore, the new crest project has been built on a lie that shirt sale have been negatively impacted by the existing crest. This was suggested in Autumn 2023 in an all-staff meeting however performance reports on shirt sales at this point showed that sales were actually up year on year. We do not feel comfortable knowing stakeholders are being lied to.
Mr Heck has said internally that he wants to remove Mo Razzaq of the Aston Villa Supporters Trust from the Fan Advisory Board because of what he said on BBC West Midlands radio about the crest. This must not happen. We have worked hard to build a good rapport with the FAB based on mutual respect and understanding that the fans deserve a voice. Hearing he may removed goes completely against the findings of the Fan Led Review into football. We see this as our responsibility to ensure this does not happen. Many of us, especially those staff who are also Villa fans, feel anxious that we are associated with this approach but know if we raise it internally we put ourselves at serious risk.
Relations with the FA
There's a common theme of disregard towards the FA. Members of staff have been explicitly told to either not communicate to the FA, or worse, lie about business matters. This has been true about both the crest issue and the Euro 2028 bid.
As a workforce, we strongly urge the FA to take right the stance on the protection of rights under the Heritage Assets rules to allow a democratic process to occur on the selection of a future crest. We strongly feel the fans have the right to vote between the proposed new crest and the existing one implemented off the back of the huge fan vote in 2022. We feel if the FA do not insist on this, it tells all the football clubs that the FA's rules can be disregarded and the regulation becomes meaningless.
Conclusion
In summary we are looking for your help. We cannot continue like this. We love this club but the performance on the pitch is masking what is going on behind the scenes at Villa Park. We need you to hold Chris Heck and Ben Hatton to account asap.
We would like you to help us by using your platforms to raise our concerns and force the club, the FA and the Premier League to address these issues.
We've thought hard about sending this appeal for help. As a group of staff, we have seen a lot of ownership and management change over many years. This always comes with uncertainty and adaptation but this is different. This is illegal and immoral. We cannot continue working here without raising our concerns because we're worried about the people we work with, the impact this is having on their health and the good name of the club.
We look forward to Aston Villa being put back on a proper pathway but to do this Chris Heck and Ben Hatton need to be investigated about these issues.
Finally, we would like to make two requests.
- Please do you best to ensure Chris Heck and Ben Hatton are questioned about our concerns and the answers are shared with employees.
- Please can the Fan Advisory Board set up a centralised email address that can be shared with Aston Villa employees so we can individually communicate our concerns on anything else that arises. We need a confidential channel of communication to get our voices heard.
Kind Regards,
Aston Villa Staff.
Post by: Dogtanian on February 15, 2024, 02:33:24 PM
The bit about the club being vulnerable and not being able to fulfill it's statutory duties in a highly regulated sector, would ring alarm bells for me. Especially if this refers to FFP.
There is so much specific detail in this that it has to be genuine, if it was made up it could be de-bunked quickly and easily.
This is going to blow up.
Can't see Heck surviving this.
I took that to mean the company finances in general rather than FFP, but could be.
Post by: Smithy on February 15, 2024, 02:48:47 PM
I think someone needs to have a word with Chris about UK employment law, looking at that.
I used to work for a company that was taken over by a US listed company halfway through my time there. The difference in day to day culture with it becoming firstly, an American company, and secondly, a listed American company was massive.
I mean that in general, day to day operations sense, not that all of a sudden they started sacking everyone or anything like that, but there was a period of significant misunderstanding usually around what you can and can not do in the UK versus the US.
There’s been a case recently where a US company thought it could import its redundancy procedure (or lack thereof) wholesale into this country and the Employment Appeal
Tribunal was of course having none of it.
Assuming it's genuine, it's either been written by someone who hasn't spoke to an employment lawyer about their situation, or who has completely ignored any advice they were given. You will know better than I, but unless someone has been there for two years, it's pretty easy to get rid of someone who doesn't "fit".
The mention of someone with 4 years service being summarily dismissed is the big red flag to me. If that bit is real, I can't believe they haven't spoken to an employment lawyer? Or maybe they have, and it's now in the process of being dealt with legally but they're just mentioning it here for extra context?
It'll be interesting to see how it develops. If the claims are 100% genuine, then there will be lawyers all over the DMs of that Twitter account.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on February 15, 2024, 03:00:38 PM
If he's here to sort out GDP we really are fucked.
I look forward to the increased spending on health care and defence as a result of the Americanisation of our economy.
At least our borders will be secure.....oh.
Post by: Demitri_C on February 15, 2024, 03:04:46 PM
Only cock suckers.Anyone could type that up and share it on twatter. We dont know if its true or not but i would imagine wes and nas would take this very seriously.
I mean if he labelled me a cock sucker i would be on the phone to my solicitor
Does everybody have a solicitor? I think I'm missing out.
What you on about?
Post by: Demitri_C on February 15, 2024, 03:09:00 PM
Anyone could type that up and share it on twatter. We dont know if its true or not but i would imagine wes and nas would take this very seriously.
I mean if he labelled me a cock sucker i would be on the phone to my solicitor
Well yeah, anyone could, but why would they?
Some sad people out there. The kind of people that make up fake fixture lists on opening day, or spread rumours on twatter and it spreads like wildfire just for clicks, shares and likes. This is the sad world we live in now.
Im sure if its true hecks a gonna.no chance he would survive these allegations.
I have to admit i was a purslow fan. Was disappointed they removed him
Post by: London Villan on February 15, 2024, 03:11:12 PM
Heck has so far come across as someone who doesn't get football or have any respect for the support... let alone if any of these allegations are true.
Post by: Nii Lamptey on February 15, 2024, 03:22:24 PM
Post by: rjp on February 15, 2024, 03:22:32 PM
The bit about the club being vulnerable and not being able to fulfill it's statutory duties in a highly regulated sector, would ring alarm bells for me. Especially if this refers to FFP.
There is so much specific detail in this that it has to be genuine, if it was made up it could be de-bunked quickly and easily.
This is going to blow up.
Can't see Heck surviving this.
I took that to mean the company finances in general rather than FFP, but could be.
I took it to mean stadium safety. I suppose there's several things it could be (if true).
Post by: Somniloquism on February 15, 2024, 03:23:24 PM
Does Hookey still work there in a senior steward capacity? Wouldn't he hear about firings around the club?
Post by: Demitri_C on February 15, 2024, 03:26:26 PM
Purslow at least had a grasp of the football world - despite making some horrendous errors on and off the pitch.
Heck has so far come across as someone who doesn't get football or have any respect for the support... let alone if any of these allegations are true.
The gerrard appointment killed him. I for one was willing to forgive as no club gets all mangerial appointments correct.
I feel he did a lot of good for this club. Heck on the other hand i just get oil slick car salesman vibes
Post by: Nev on February 15, 2024, 03:28:12 PM
Post by: Risso on February 15, 2024, 03:44:52 PM
Post by: Clampy on February 15, 2024, 03:47:52 PM
Post by: Dogtanian on February 15, 2024, 04:18:59 PM
I know reasonably well one of the people mentioned in that letter. I'll have to ask them their thoughts.
You're besties with Chris Heck!?
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on February 15, 2024, 04:20:45 PM
Relations with the FA
There's a common theme of disregard towards the FA. Members of staff have been explicitly told to either not communicate to the FA, or worse, lie about business matters. This has been true about both the crest issue and the Euro 2028 bid.
As a workforce, we strongly urge the FA to take right the stance on the protection of rights under the Heritage Assets rules to allow a democratic process to occur on the selection of a future crest. We strongly feel the fans have the right to vote between the proposed new crest and the existing one implemented off the back of the huge fan vote in 2022. We feel if the FA do not insist on this, it tells all the football clubs that the FA's rules can be disregarded and the regulation becomes meaningless.
If the letter proves to be genuine it will reach a wider audience and the club will have a case to answer. That last line is very naughty and challenges the FA. It will be hard for them to ignore.
Post by: Clampy on February 15, 2024, 04:21:58 PM
I know reasonably well one of the people mentioned in that letter. I'll have to ask them their thoughts.
You're besties with Chris Heck!?
Yes. He lent me the Jossy's Giants boxset, which was nice.
Post by: Mister E on February 15, 2024, 04:43:32 PM
What, is he on a walking holiday?Funny how it all comes out while he's sunning himself in exotic climbs rather than being in the office to face the flack!Yeah, it's Risso, head of Finance there, but as he's always on H&V posting shit about his employer, he's constantly looking over his shoulder ;)the person who sits by me is a senior manager at Villa in the Finance department - (when I have asked them about working at Villa) they seem to like Chris
Did he twitch and look over his shoulder as he said it?
Post by: VillaTim on February 15, 2024, 04:44:03 PM
Post by: Mister E on February 15, 2024, 04:52:20 PM
And I say that as someone who has worked with and in American business for a large part of my career.
Furthermore, I'd add that I've always been concerned about the club whenever they've not had someone at the 'top table' with good knowledge of the English Football sector (I'm thinking Steve Stride and C Purslow as good examples of people who were football insiders).
Post by: BC54 VFC on February 15, 2024, 04:59:01 PM
A strenuous one, with inclines, by the sound of it!What, is he on a walking holiday?Funny how it all comes out while he's sunning himself in exotic climbs rather than being in the office to face the flack!Yeah, it's Risso, head of Finance there, but as he's always on H&V posting shit about his employer, he's constantly looking over his shoulder ;)the person who sits by me is a senior manager at Villa in the Finance department - (when I have asked them about working at Villa) they seem to like Chris
Did he twitch and look over his shoulder as he said it?
Post by: Sexual Ealing on February 15, 2024, 05:00:59 PM
Post by: Somniloquism on February 15, 2024, 05:01:43 PM
All the employment issues aside, the FA claims could lead to an investigation:
IF the crest thing was true, I doubt we are the only club who knew what crest was going to be used prior to a vote and rigged it in a certain favour. I also doubt the FA don't already know we don't have the expanded stadium plans in place prior to 2028.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on February 15, 2024, 05:23:55 PM
All the employment issues aside, the FA claims could lead to an investigation:
IF the crest thing was true, I doubt we are the only club who knew what crest was going to be used prior to a vote and rigged it in a certain favour. I also doubt the FA don't already know we don't have the expanded stadium plans in place prior to 2028.
Sure, small crumbs. However it's a bit difficult to ignore the damning claim of "Members of staff have been explicitly told to either not communicate to the FA, or worse, lie about business matters".
Post by: pauliewalnuts on February 15, 2024, 05:34:45 PM
also why would somebody "leak" this now with the club at a low ebb already and seemingly one bad thing after another at present. I smell a rat
Because the majority of them will not be Villa fans, but they are all employees.
Post by: Villan82 on February 15, 2024, 05:47:25 PM
All the employment issues aside, the FA claims could lead to an investigation:
IF the crest thing was true, I doubt we are the only club who knew what crest was going to be used prior to a vote and rigged it in a certain favour. I also doubt the FA don't already know we don't have the expanded stadium plans in place prior to 2028.
Sure, small crumbs. However it's a bit difficult to ignore the damning claim of "Members of staff have been explicitly told to either not communicate to the FA, or worse, lie about business matters".
Indeed and both of these speak directly to two of Heck's biggest decisions, one of which has implications beyond just Aston Villa's interests but potentially undermines the Euro hosting.
Look, i am not going to flog a dead horse. Things Heck has done have not sat easily and have been inadequately communicated. He would have more goodwill if he had been more upfront about certain things and not given the impression of being somebody you just cannot trust.
Post by: Risso on February 15, 2024, 05:49:57 PM
Post by: Drummond on February 15, 2024, 05:53:35 PM
Post by: LeeB on February 15, 2024, 05:54:05 PM
'Walking holiday' is an oxymoron.
Certainly Is when viewed through the haze of communist weed.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on February 15, 2024, 06:13:40 PM
'Walking holiday' is an oxymoron.
Certainly Is when viewed through the haze of communist weed.
I hear ya, comrade.
Post by: RamboandBruno on February 15, 2024, 06:14:44 PM
They need a decent employment lawyer. If I come across any I’ll let you know.Havent read the whole thread so point may have been made…they need to be unionised
Post by: VillaTim on February 15, 2024, 06:43:32 PM
Fair point but they are going about this totally the wrong way even if its truealso why would somebody "leak" this now with the club at a low ebb already and seemingly one bad thing after another at present. I smell a rat
Because the majority of them will not be Villa fans, but they are all employees.
Post by: Simon Page on February 15, 2024, 06:49:20 PM
Post by: Richard E on February 15, 2024, 06:56:03 PM
If senior executives all followed employment law all of the time, there would be no need for employment lawyers.
Just as well they don’t, in that case. And long may it continue!
Post by: VillaTim on February 15, 2024, 07:02:37 PM
What's the right way?Via an employment lawyer rather than splattering everything across X
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on February 15, 2024, 07:05:53 PM
Post by: Somniloquism on February 15, 2024, 07:11:53 PM
I’m surprised how many people think this is total BS. I mean it’s a bit far fetched for someone to write four pages against Heck and Hatton just because one’s an American and they don’t like the crest?
I'm only following the flow from the people who would be ITK from these type of things. Some people on here have a lot of contact with insiders at the club and they haven't mentioned anything like any of these complaints. Remember this is supposed to be representative of most of the staff in the club, yet all we have is currently this one person posting.
Post by: OCD on February 15, 2024, 07:12:40 PM
The account behind the original tweet has been deleted now anyway.
Post by: Simon Page on February 15, 2024, 07:14:43 PM
What's the right way?Via an employment lawyer rather than splattering everything across X
Suspending the veracity question, none of us has any idea if that has been tried or, indeed, is the best way given it seems to be about the entire culture rather than a single act. Whistleblowing is rarely something done successfully through official channels.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on February 15, 2024, 07:23:53 PM
Post by: VillaTim on February 15, 2024, 07:29:04 PM
Talking about an "entire culture" would again point towards BS as it's very subjective.What's the right way?Via an employment lawyer rather than splattering everything across X
Suspending the veracity question, none of us has any idea if that has been tried or, indeed, is the best way given it seems to be about the entire culture rather than a single act. Whistleblowing is rarely something done successfully through official channels.
Post by: paul_e on February 15, 2024, 07:30:25 PM
Well if it isn’t genuine it’s just a bit weird.
Welcome to the internet.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on February 15, 2024, 07:33:41 PM
Post by: Simon Page on February 15, 2024, 07:36:50 PM
Talking about an "entire culture" would again point towards BS as it's very subjective.
Not at all, unless you believe workplaces can't be toxic. Again, for clarity, I've no idea or view on whether any of this is genuine, but the method of the reveal reveals nothing in terms of it's truth or otherwise.
Post by: VillaTim on February 15, 2024, 07:51:34 PM
I thought it was just a fad.i think it's fairly obvious
Post by: TonyD on February 15, 2024, 07:52:55 PM
Post by: Stu on February 15, 2024, 08:07:45 PM
What did the letter say?
Allegations of seppo-style summary firings which are illegal in the UK, sweetheart deals for mates etc.
Post by: VillaTim on February 15, 2024, 08:17:05 PM
Post by: Stu on February 15, 2024, 08:25:14 PM
Post by: Demitri_C on February 15, 2024, 08:27:22 PM
Not necessarily. If the employee isn’t unionised then they’ll be picking up fees themselves.
Cant speak for anyone elses but my union is useless. They are in bed with the management
Post by: London Villan on February 15, 2024, 08:28:25 PM
IF there are summary style firings without any due process then the club will already be facing employment tribunals
That depends. An agreement may have already been reached following the sacking. Experienced that at places i’ve been at too.
Post by: VillaTim on February 15, 2024, 08:33:25 PM
Always join a union they aren't aligned with . They hate thatNot necessarily. If the employee isn’t unionised then they’ll be picking up fees themselves.
Cant speak for anyone elses but my union is useless. They are in bed with the management
Post by: Demitri_C on February 15, 2024, 08:37:20 PM
Always join a union they aren't aligned with . They hate thatNot necessarily. If the employee isn’t unionised then they’ll be picking up fees themselves.
Cant speak for anyone elses but my union is useless. They are in bed with the management
Yeah thats good point but unfortunately i woek in nhs and my union is unison. God they are so bad. Even when you right their main number outside no one gets back to you. You have that sense of being ignored. I am seriously considering cancelling my membership
Post by: Stu on February 15, 2024, 08:38:30 PM
Not necessarily. If the employee isn’t unionised then they’ll be picking up fees themselves.
Cant speak for anyone elses but my union is useless. They are in bed with the management
Sorry to hear it.
Post by: VillaTim on February 15, 2024, 08:39:23 PM
Ah sorry to hear that .Always join a union they aren't aligned with . They hate thatNot necessarily. If the employee isn’t unionised then they’ll be picking up fees themselves.
Cant speak for anyone elses but my union is useless. They are in bed with the management
Yeah thats good point but unfortunately i woek in nhs and my union is unison. God they are so bad. Even when you right their main number outside no one gets back to you. You have that sense of being ignored. I am seriously considering cancelling my membership
Post by: The Edge on February 15, 2024, 08:55:46 PM
Not sure if this still stands but my brother was a Unite the union official and they had 98% of the staff signed up a few years back.They need a decent employment lawyer. If I come across any I’ll let you know.Havent read the whole thread so point may have been made…they need to be unionised
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on February 15, 2024, 08:57:36 PM
I thought it was just a fad.i think it's fairly obvious
No I was talking about the internet.
Post by: astonvilla82 on February 15, 2024, 09:11:48 PM
They help non union members just as well, the ones that wouldn't support any industrial action when requiredAlways join a union they aren't aligned with . They hate thatNot necessarily. If the employee isn’t unionised then they’ll be picking up fees themselves.
Cant speak for anyone elses but my union is useless. They are in bed with the management
Yeah thats good point but unfortunately i woek in nhs and my union is unison. God they are so bad. Even when you right their main number outside no one gets back to you. You have that sense of being ignored. I am seriously considering cancelling my membership
Post by: VillaTim on February 15, 2024, 09:24:04 PM
Post by: DeKuip on February 15, 2024, 09:35:55 PM
I’m surprised how many people think this is total BS. I mean it’s a bit far fetched for someone to write four pages against Heck and Hatton just because one’s an American and they don’t like the crest?
I'm only following the flow from the people who would be ITK from these type of things. Some people on here have a lot of contact with insiders at the club and they haven't mentioned anything like any of these complaints. Remember this is supposed to be representative of most of the staff in the club, yet all we have is currently this one person posting.
Genuine ITKs wouldn’t say anything to break confidences or risk causing problems for whoever told them.
And don’t read that as me knowing anything, I’m just saying that’s how it works.
Post by: AlexAlexCropley on February 15, 2024, 10:00:02 PM
David Grusch enters the roomI’m surprised how many people think this is total BS. I mean it’s a bit far fetched for someone to write four pages against Heck and Hatton just because one’s an American and they don’t like the crest?
I'm only following the flow from the people who would be ITK from these type of things. Some people on here have a lot of contact with insiders at the club and they haven't mentioned anything like any of these complaints. Remember this is supposed to be representative of most of the staff in the club, yet all we have is currently this one person posting.
Genuine ITKs wouldn’t say anything to break confidences or risk causing problems for whoever told them.
And don’t read that as me knowing anything, I’m just saying that’s how it works.
Post by: tomd2103 on February 15, 2024, 11:50:30 PM
I’m surprised how many people think this is total BS. I mean it’s a bit far fetched for someone to write four pages against Heck and Hatton just because one’s an American and they don’t like the crest?
I'm only following the flow from the people who would be ITK from these type of things. Some people on here have a lot of contact with insiders at the club and they haven't mentioned anything like any of these complaints. Remember this is supposed to be representative of most of the staff in the club, yet all we have is currently this one person posting.
Genuine ITKs wouldn’t say anything to break confidences or risk causing problems for whoever told them.
And don’t read that as me knowing anything, I’m just saying that’s how it works.
If it was as bad as it suggests in that letter then surely it would have got out by this point? It might just be me misunderstanding something, but why would the 'Aston Villa Staff' be writing a letter to the Fan Advisory Board?
Post by: Risso on February 16, 2024, 07:05:26 AM
Post by: sid1964 on February 16, 2024, 07:28:18 AM
I remember working at one large company in Birmingham, if you were asked to leave your job, security used to stand over you to make sure that you were not stealing any company property and then escorted you out of the building.
Also at the company in Wolverhampton, where the owner was protected by 2 well known brothers from that area, who when you were told to leave, within 2 minutes you had left the business (no HR, were employed or needed)!! - the background check on you was that they used to drive past your house to see where you lived, just in case of any problems in the future.
Has Mr. Heck been sacked yet? it will be interesting to see the club response to these allegations.
Post by: The Edge on February 16, 2024, 08:15:53 AM
Post by: Sexual Ealing on February 16, 2024, 08:18:38 AM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on February 16, 2024, 08:45:24 AM
Until the source of these allegations has been identified we have to take them with a pinch of salt. These are serious allegations and if evidence is forthcoming that they're true then Mr Heck should be escorted off the premises and an internal investigation launched. But right now this is just a distraction from our aims on the pitch. For all we know it could be coming from a jealous blue nose or a rival for the CL spot. As the old saying goes "you're never more than six feet from a man united fan" Right now we need to focus on what is happening on the pitch starting with a very tricky match against Fulham tomorrow.
I think that is the least plausible scenario out there (the jealous rival thing).
Post by: VillaTim on February 16, 2024, 09:02:29 AM
Post by: chrisw1 on February 16, 2024, 09:32:57 AM
If anything , throwing stuff like this onto Social Media will only strengthen Heck's position. Its a bizarre way of going about a grievanceYou think? He's in a stronger position now than he was a week ago?
ok.
Post by: Drummond on February 16, 2024, 09:52:42 AM
If anything , throwing stuff like this onto Social Media will only strengthen Heck's position. Its a bizarre way of going about a grievanceYou think? He's in a stronger position now than he was a week ago?
ok.
He's no weaker. Unless there's official stuff behind the scenes.
If this is genuine then it's someone very junior, because anyone senior wouldn't be stupid enough.
Post by: Des Little on February 16, 2024, 10:13:46 AM
Post by: john e on February 16, 2024, 10:19:24 AM
Post by: LeeB on February 16, 2024, 10:28:04 AM
Can we have a truth or lie poll and see what the majority of us think
I think he probably is, but I'm sceptical about these leaks. I base my thinking on American sports executives seeming to be absolute bellends in every field, even more so in their own sports than when they pop up over here.
Post by: astonvilla82 on February 16, 2024, 10:28:11 AM
Post by: chrisw1 on February 16, 2024, 10:34:45 AM
A similar thing happened with Brewdog. I can't recall the final outcome but there was certainly damage to the brand and a lot of scrambling by the owners.If anything , throwing stuff like this onto Social Media will only strengthen Heck's position. Its a bizarre way of going about a grievanceYou think? He's in a stronger position now than he was a week ago?
ok.
He's no weaker. Unless there's official stuff behind the scenes.
If this is genuine then it's someone very junior, because anyone senior wouldn't be stupid enough.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on February 16, 2024, 10:40:33 AM
Post by: Monty on February 16, 2024, 10:43:36 AM
Brewdog is a brand dedicated to, for and about absolute wankers.
Preach, sister.
Post by: VillaTim on February 16, 2024, 10:48:46 AM
Yes, on the face of it (going off all we have seen is this missive posted on X) it looks like insubordination and trouble making / attention seeking staff .If anything , throwing stuff like this onto Social Media will only strengthen Heck's position. Its a bizarre way of going about a grievanceYou think? He's in a stronger position now than he was a week ago?
ok.
Post by: Dogtanian on February 16, 2024, 11:17:50 AM
Can we have a truth or lie poll and see what the majority of us think
Is Michael Jackson told us - a lie becomes the truth! Which is weird, as for him the truth never seemed to become the truth.
Post by: tony scott on February 16, 2024, 11:35:39 AM
Post by: Sexual Ealing on February 16, 2024, 11:39:26 AM
I really miss Christian Purslow
I do not agree with tony scott.
Post by: The Edge on February 16, 2024, 11:42:58 AM
The most plausible is that the allegations are true but we have no way of knowing at the moment. If the allegations are false I'm trying to understand the motive behind it. Maybe he's just extremely unpopular and people are trying to knife him in the back. Again pure speculation.Until the source of these allegations has been identified we have to take them with a pinch of salt. These are serious allegations and if evidence is forthcoming that they're true then Mr Heck should be escorted off the premises and an internal investigation launched. But right now this is just a distraction from our aims on the pitch. For all we know it could be coming from a jealous blue nose or a rival for the CL spot. As the old saying goes "you're never more than six feet from a man united fan" Right now we need to focus on what is happening on the pitch starting with a very tricky match against Fulham tomorrow.
I think that is the least plausible scenario out there (the jealous rival thing).
Post by: VillaTim on February 16, 2024, 12:09:01 PM
I really miss Christian Purslowhe's one of us now . He'll be there tomorrow getting the badge in
Post by: Brazilian Villain on February 16, 2024, 12:14:29 PM
I really miss Christian Purslow
Don't it always seem to go, that you don't know what you've got 'til it's gone.
Post by: Dogtanian on February 16, 2024, 12:15:18 PM
I really miss Christian Purslow
Don't it always seem to go, that you don't know what you've got 'til it's gone.
Maybe Heck is Purslow's QUEEG.
Post by: cdward on February 16, 2024, 12:15:37 PM
The general advice is write a letter outlining your grievances, and present it to the company. Do you present it to Heck, knowing he will sack you on the spot. Do you present it to HR?
People have bills to pay, they may not be comfortable taking on Heck head on, they obviously feel the whistleblower approach is their best option.
The sweetheart deals are a concern too, and if there is significant money involved the whistleblowers will be sacrificed.
Post by: Concrete Tom on February 16, 2024, 12:23:48 PM
I really miss Christian Purslow
Don't it always seem to go, that you don't know what you've got 'til it's gone.
Maybe Heck is Purslow's QUEEG.
We are talking jape of the decade. We are talking April, May, June, July, and August Fool. Yes, that's right - I am Purslow.
Post by: Drummond on February 16, 2024, 12:51:03 PM
How do you go about airing a grievance with the most senior managers performance in the organisation (not including the owners), when you know the HR department are being trodden over too?
The general advice is write a letter outlining your grievances, and present it to the company. Do you present it to Heck, knowing he will sack you on the spot. Do you present it to HR?
People have bills to pay, they may not be comfortable taking on Heck head on, they obviously feel the whistleblower approach is their best option.
The sweetheart deals are a concern too, and if there is significant money involved the whistleblowers will be sacrificed.
You don't publish it on an anonymous Twitter account, because it achieves nothing, other than getting a few middle aged folks with nowt better to do discussing it.
Post by: VillaTim on February 16, 2024, 12:57:16 PM
How do you go about airing a grievance with the most senior managers performance in the organisation (not including the owners), when you know the HR department are being trodden over too?You follow the internal channels then if that doesn't work or you are fired you get an employment lawyer . If they fire you unfairly you will win your case.
The general advice is write a letter outlining your grievances, and present it to the company. Do you present it to Heck, knowing he will sack you on the spot. Do you present it to HR?
People have bills to pay, they may not be comfortable taking on Heck head on, they obviously feel the whistleblower approach is their best option.
The sweetheart deals are a concern too, and if there is significant money involved the whistleblowers will be sacrificed.
Post by: itmustbe_it is! on February 16, 2024, 01:10:39 PM
How do you go about airing a grievance with the most senior managers performance in the organisation (not including the owners), when you know the HR department are being trodden over too?You follow the internal channels then if that doesn't work or you are fired you get an employment lawyer . If they fire you unfairly you will win your case.
The general advice is write a letter outlining your grievances, and present it to the company. Do you present it to Heck, knowing he will sack you on the spot. Do you present it to HR?
People have bills to pay, they may not be comfortable taking on Heck head on, they obviously feel the whistleblower approach is their best option.
The sweetheart deals are a concern too, and if there is significant money involved the whistleblowers will be sacrificed.
Possibly, but it would take ages to even come to tribunal and you'd probably have had your house repossessed by then.
Post by: john e on February 16, 2024, 01:18:43 PM
How do you go about airing a grievance with the most senior managers performance in the organisation (not including the owners), when you know the HR department are being trodden over too?
The general advice is write a letter outlining your grievances, and present it to the company. Do you present it to Heck, knowing he will sack you on the spot. Do you present it to HR?
People have bills to pay, they may not be comfortable taking on Heck head on, they obviously feel the whistleblower approach is their best option.
The sweetheart deals are a concern too, and if there is significant money involved the whistleblowers will be sacrificed.
You don't publish it on an anonymous Twitter account, because it achieves nothing, other than getting a few middle aged folks with nowt better to do discussing it.
I think you underestimate the power of social media
Post by: Mister E on February 16, 2024, 01:48:16 PM
he's paving paradise ...I really miss Christian PurslowDon't it always seem to go, that you don't know what you've got 'til it's gone.
Post by: chrisw1 on February 16, 2024, 02:08:20 PM
Assuming it's genuine (which I believe it probably is) then it has cast a light on issues that the author / authors wanted raised. At the very least these matters will be being looked at very closely by the club and the HR team. If the allegations are true, it will make it incredibly difficult for Heck / his team to carry on with impunity. There will almost certainly be a lot of scrutiny these and any similar issues over the next year or so.How do you go about airing a grievance with the most senior managers performance in the organisation (not including the owners), when you know the HR department are being trodden over too?
The general advice is write a letter outlining your grievances, and present it to the company. Do you present it to Heck, knowing he will sack you on the spot. Do you present it to HR?
People have bills to pay, they may not be comfortable taking on Heck head on, they obviously feel the whistleblower approach is their best option.
The sweetheart deals are a concern too, and if there is significant money involved the whistleblowers will be sacrificed.
You don't publish it on an anonymous Twitter account, because it achieves nothing, other than getting a few middle aged folks with nowt better to do discussing it.
I'd say that so far it has achieved exactly what they will have hoped it would achieve.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on February 16, 2024, 02:09:38 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on February 16, 2024, 02:10:55 PM
Post by: chrisw1 on February 16, 2024, 02:11:32 PM
Been waiting to comment on that #AVFC staff document that was leaked yesterday.
Obviously some pretty serious allegations on there, but cant say that any of it surprised me.
Its important to say that they are only allegations, but based on my own experiences with the club over the years and speaking to a lot of people, I can imagine that kind of thing going on in high positions at the football club.
My opinion is that Unai Emery and the players have papered over cracks at the club this last 18 months with their incredible achievements.
I want the best for Villa, and for them to be the best they can be in every aspect, but I also want things to be done with the class that befits our wonderful club.
Post by: VillaTim on February 16, 2024, 02:13:06 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on February 16, 2024, 02:19:17 PM
hasn't it all been removed from social media now and the account deleted. I doubt it will have achieved anything whatsoever other than to remind the HR team of the dangers of social media use
It already has achieved something.
3 days ago, we had no idea. Now it's a different story.
I'm not really sure what relevance deleting the account would have? They've diffused the letter, it's been copied elsewhere, they're clearly not wanting to engage in back and forth talks with anyone. Close the account.
If I were a whistleblower and felt my options in the work place were pointless, that's exactly what I would do.
Post by: VillaTim on February 16, 2024, 02:35:50 PM
all very bizarre
Post by: VillaTim on February 16, 2024, 02:36:45 PM
A twitter post by Dan Bardell (a podcaster, Sky broadcaster, former Athletic podcaster...- do we need to do this every time?)Who
Been waiting to comment on that #AVFC staff document that was leaked yesterday.
Obviously some pretty serious allegations on there, but cant say that any of it surprised me.
Its important to say that they are only allegations, but based on my own experiences with the club over the years and speaking to a lot of people, I can imagine that kind of thing going on in high positions at the football club.
My opinion is that Unai Emery and the players have papered over cracks at the club this last 18 months with their incredible achievements.
I want the best for Villa, and for them to be the best they can be in every aspect, but I also want things to be done with the class that befits our wonderful club.
Post by: Toronto Villa on February 16, 2024, 02:38:05 PM
Post by: Risso on February 16, 2024, 02:50:55 PM
Post by: Paul.S on February 16, 2024, 02:52:58 PM
A twitter post by Dan Bardell (a podcaster, Sky broadcaster, former Athletic podcaster...- do we need to do this every time?)
Been waiting to comment on that #AVFC staff document that was leaked yesterday.
Obviously some pretty serious allegations on there, but cant say that any of it surprised me.
Its important to say that they are only allegations, but based on my own experiences with the club over the years and speaking to a lot of people, I can imagine that kind of thing going on in high positions at the football club.
My opinion is that Unai Emery and the players have papered over cracks at the club this last 18 months with their incredible achievements.
I want the best for Villa, and for them to be the best they can be in every aspect, but I also want things to be done with the class that befits our wonderful club.
Never heard of him.
Post by: London Villan on February 16, 2024, 02:58:59 PM
If it's not true, then Heck has nothing to worry about. If there's any of it that's true, then he's going to have to explain himself to Nas. Certainly none of his actions so far really make him stand out as a consumate professional. The way he got the North Stand story out was amateurish beyond belief, and the rebranding has become a complete fiasco.
Like his introductory video from Bodymoor - anorak on, ambiguous statements, oozing arrogance...
Post by: Dogtanian on February 16, 2024, 03:07:07 PM
I really miss Christian Purslow
Don't it always seem to go, that you don't know what you've got 'til it's gone.
Maybe Heck is Purslow's QUEEG.
We are talking jape of the decade. We are talking April, May, June, July, and August Fool. Yes, that's right - I am Purslow.
Appreciate what you've got. Cos basically, I'm fantastic.
Post by: Somniloquism on February 16, 2024, 03:07:09 PM
A twitter post by Dan Bardell (a podcaster, Sky broadcaster, former Athletic podcaster...- do we need to do this every time?)
Been waiting to comment on that #AVFC staff document that was leaked yesterday.
Obviously some pretty serious allegations on there, but cant say that any of it surprised me.
Its important to say that they are only allegations, but based on my own experiences with the club over the years and speaking to a lot of people, I can imagine that kind of thing going on in high positions at the football club.
My opinion is that Unai Emery and the players have papered over cracks at the club this last 18 months with their incredible achievements.
I want the best for Villa, and for them to be the best they can be in every aspect, but I also want things to be done with the class that befits our wonderful club.
Heck has only been there 9 months or so, so what cracks were there the previous 9 months that Emery has papered over?
Post by: Risso on February 16, 2024, 03:08:12 PM
Post by: Villan82 on February 16, 2024, 03:11:51 PM
If it's not true, then Heck has nothing to worry about. If there's any of it that's true, then he's going to have to explain himself to Nas. Certainly none of his actions so far really make him stand out as a consumate professional. The way he got the North Stand story out was amateurish beyond belief, and the rebranding has become a complete fiasco.
One decision, for me, really sums up Heck's time with us so far. The badge (even though the redevelopment is the one that is a bigger issue)
Parking, for a moment, how people feel about the crest designs and which one is objectively better, it was all done and dusted in November 2022 when the round design was chosen.
Chris Heck's first major decision last summer was to reopen the whole question of the badge. Can anybody hand on heart say this was a good decision? Here we are in Feb 2024 and we still haven't got a clear visual identity which must be having some impact on merch sales and which hasn't, in my opinion, really served the interests of the club. It has just led to another year of debate, arguments and ambiguity and whatever 'win' they would have got out of launching a visual rebrand has been squandered because we are all sick to death of it now. It will surely be damp squib now whenever they finally 'reveal' what he has gone with.
Post by: dave.woodhall on February 16, 2024, 03:12:04 PM
Post by: Risso on February 16, 2024, 03:23:23 PM
If it's not true, then Heck has nothing to worry about. If there's any of it that's true, then he's going to have to explain himself to Nas. Certainly none of his actions so far really make him stand out as a consumate professional. The way he got the North Stand story out was amateurish beyond belief, and the rebranding has become a complete fiasco.
One decision, for me, really sums up Heck's time with us so far. The badge (even though the redevelopment is the one that is a bigger issue)
Parking, for a moment, how people feel about the crest designs and which one is objectively better, it was all done and dusted in November 2022 when the round design was chosen.
Chris Heck's first major decision last summer was to reopen the whole question of the badge. Can anybody hand on heart say this was a good decision? Here we are in Feb 2024 and we still haven't got a clear visual identity which must be having some impact on merch sales and which hasn't, in my opinion, really served the interests of the club. It has just led to another year of debate, arguments and ambiguity and whatever 'win' they would have got out of launching a visual rebrand has been squandered because we are all sick to death of it now. It will surely be damp squib now whenever they finally 'reveal' what he has gone with.
Exactly.
The change from the round badge to a 'consultation' for the new badge - handled terribly
The way the new badge was revealed by a fan trawling the trademark site - embarrassing
The actual new badge itself with the drop shadow - almost universal agreement that it's terrible
The 150 anniversary badge and the way it was revealed on his personal Twitter - amateurish
The interview where he revealed he was parking the North Stand project - laughably bad.
And that's all the stuff he's supposed to be good at.
Post by: ChicagoLion on February 16, 2024, 03:33:03 PM
Post by: Brend'Watkins on February 16, 2024, 03:34:02 PM
Post by: chrisw1 on February 16, 2024, 03:41:36 PM
I've no real problem with ditching the old badge, I can see the logic behind that and the truth is that process was flawed too. The fact the YTS designed the new one on Microsoft paint is a bit of a pisser though.If it's not true, then Heck has nothing to worry about. If there's any of it that's true, then he's going to have to explain himself to Nas. Certainly none of his actions so far really make him stand out as a consumate professional. The way he got the North Stand story out was amateurish beyond belief, and the rebranding has become a complete fiasco.
One decision, for me, really sums up Heck's time with us so far. The badge (even though the redevelopment is the one that is a bigger issue)
Parking, for a moment, how people feel about the crest designs and which one is objectively better, it was all done and dusted in November 2022 when the round design was chosen.
Chris Heck's first major decision last summer was to reopen the whole question of the badge. Can anybody hand on heart say this was a good decision? Here we are in Feb 2024 and we still haven't got a clear visual identity which must be having some impact on merch sales and which hasn't, in my opinion, really served the interests of the club. It has just led to another year of debate, arguments and ambiguity and whatever 'win' they would have got out of launching a visual rebrand has been squandered because we are all sick to death of it now. It will surely be damp squib now whenever they finally 'reveal' what he has gone with.
Post by: Drummond on February 16, 2024, 03:45:14 PM
If it's not true, then Heck has nothing to worry about. If there's any of it that's true, then he's going to have to explain himself to Nas. Certainly none of his actions so far really make him stand out as a consumate professional. The way he got the North Stand story out was amateurish beyond belief, and the rebranding has become a complete fiasco.
One decision, for me, really sums up Heck's time with us so far. The badge (even though the redevelopment is the one that is a bigger issue)
Parking, for a moment, how people feel about the crest designs and which one is objectively better, it was all done and dusted in November 2022 when the round design was chosen.
Chris Heck's first major decision last summer was to reopen the whole question of the badge. Can anybody hand on heart say this was a good decision? Here we are in Feb 2024 and we still haven't got a clear visual identity which must be having some impact on merch sales and which hasn't, in my opinion, really served the interests of the club. It has just led to another year of debate, arguments and ambiguity and whatever 'win' they would have got out of launching a visual rebrand has been squandered because we are all sick to death of it now. It will surely be damp squib now whenever they finally 'reveal' what he has gone with.
Yes, the round one is shit and most people didn't like it, regardless of whether it was the one voted for (if you have 2 shit choices you pick the least shit). The lion faced the wrong way for a start.
Post by: VillaTim on February 16, 2024, 03:47:52 PM
It's a bit futile getting so hung up on the badge. Whatever design is finally agreed upon it's not set in stone from that point till eternity. If there's enough of an issue about whatever design is chosen with the fan base it will be changed again and again...the badge seems to be causing a disproportionate level of angst for sure
Post by: Risso on February 16, 2024, 03:49:02 PM
It's a bit futile getting so hung up on the badge. Whatever design is finally agreed upon it's not set in stone from that point till eternity. If there's enough of an issue about whatever design is chosen with the fan base it will be changed again and again...
It's not the design itself, it's the absolutely stupid way he's gone about everything.
Post by: Villan82 on February 16, 2024, 03:54:40 PM
It's a bit futile getting so hung up on the badge. Whatever design is finally agreed upon it's not set in stone from that point till eternity. If there's enough of an issue about whatever design is chosen with the fan base it will be changed again and again...
It's not the design itself, it's the absolutely stupid way he's gone about everything.
Thank you Risso. I even said 'parking how people feel about the design' but I think reading what is posted is gone out of fashion.
Post by: Toronto Villa on February 16, 2024, 04:08:22 PM
Post by: Nelly on February 16, 2024, 04:13:55 PM
I really miss Christian Purslow
Don't it always seem to go, that you don't know what you've got 'til it's gone.
Maybe Heck is Purslow's QUEEG.
We are talking jape of the decade. We are talking April, May, June, July, and August Fool. Yes, that's right - I am Purslow.
Appreciate what you've got. Cos basically, I'm fantastic.
This whole thing does seem like he's been secretly reading from the junior encyclopedia of how to run a football club.
Post by: nick harper on February 16, 2024, 04:14:45 PM
If there are problems at the top of a club, it usually filters down and affects all staff eventually.
Post by: Drummond on February 16, 2024, 04:15:01 PM
If it's not true, then Heck has nothing to worry about. If there's any of it that's true, then he's going to have to explain himself to Nas. Certainly none of his actions so far really make him stand out as a consumate professional. The way he got the North Stand story out was amateurish beyond belief, and the rebranding has become a complete fiasco.
One decision, for me, really sums up Heck's time with us so far. The badge (even though the redevelopment is the one that is a bigger issue)
Parking, for a moment, how people feel about the crest designs and which one is objectively better, it was all done and dusted in November 2022 when the round design was chosen.
Chris Heck's first major decision last summer was to reopen the whole question of the badge. Can anybody hand on heart say this was a good decision? Here we are in Feb 2024 and we still haven't got a clear visual identity which must be having some impact on merch sales and which hasn't, in my opinion, really served the interests of the club. It has just led to another year of debate, arguments and ambiguity and whatever 'win' they would have got out of launching a visual rebrand has been squandered because we are all sick to death of it now. It will surely be damp squib now whenever they finally 'reveal' what he has gone with.
Exactly.
The change from the round badge to a 'consultation' for the new badge - handled terribly
The way the new badge was revealed by a fan trawling the trademark site - embarrassing
The actual new badge itself with the drop shadow - almost universal agreement that it's terrible
The 150 anniversary badge and the way it was revealed on his personal Twitter - amateurish
The interview where he revealed he was parking the North Stand project - laughably bad.
And that's all the stuff he's supposed to be good at.
I'm not sure but have you mentioned it before? ;)
Post by: Mister E on February 16, 2024, 04:17:09 PM
the badge and stadium issues will pale into insignifcance if indeed he is creating this environment internally. The correlation to the communications disaster on all projects wouldn't be such a shock if those producing the work are all fucked off.That's exactly the point - "it's not what you do, it's the way that you do it".
If only a small part of the Twittered letter is true, the owners have no choice to but to sack him off, pronto. I'm sure that the EPL and the FA have clear guidelines on governance and good practice in business, and having robust HR guidelines that conform to legislation will be part of that. Organisations cannot operate effectively when a corrosive culture of rule-breaking, employee-denigration and a total flaunting of the basics of employment law exist.
Just look at Twitter for proof - $45bn dropped off its value as a result of Musk being an utter cnut.
Post by: Dante Lavelli on February 16, 2024, 04:18:06 PM
ps can someone explain the “Dan Bardell, who?” Joke?
Post by: Jon Crofts on February 16, 2024, 04:19:33 PM
Dan Bardell would’ve had interactions around the club and beyond the fan experience. If he isn’t suprised by the leaks then its bad news for the club. A bit gutting to be honest, as the football side is in the best shape for a generation.
ps can someone explain the “Dan Bardell, who?” Joke?
Can they not. Thanks.
Post by: eamonn on February 16, 2024, 04:25:51 PM
Post by: Percy McCarthy on February 16, 2024, 04:32:03 PM
If it's not true, then Heck has nothing to worry about. If there's any of it that's true, then he's going to have to explain himself to Nas. Certainly none of his actions so far really make him stand out as a consumate professional. The way he got the North Stand story out was amateurish beyond belief, and the rebranding has become a complete fiasco.
One decision, for me, really sums up Heck's time with us so far. The badge (even though the redevelopment is the one that is a bigger issue)
Parking, for a moment, how people feel about the crest designs and which one is objectively better, it was all done and dusted in November 2022 when the round design was chosen.
Chris Heck's first major decision last summer was to reopen the whole question of the badge. Can anybody hand on heart say this was a good decision? Here we are in Feb 2024 and we still haven't got a clear visual identity which must be having some impact on merch sales and which hasn't, in my opinion, really served the interests of the club. It has just led to another year of debate, arguments and ambiguity and whatever 'win' they would have got out of launching a visual rebrand has been squandered because we are all sick to death of it now. It will surely be damp squib now whenever they finally 'reveal' what he has gone with.
Exactly.
The change from the round badge to a 'consultation' for the new badge - handled terribly
The way the new badge was revealed by a fan trawling the trademark site - embarrassing
The actual new badge itself with the drop shadow - almost universal agreement that it's terrible
The 150 anniversary badge and the way it was revealed on his personal Twitter - amateurish
The interview where he revealed he was parking the North Stand project - laughably bad.
And that's all the stuff he's supposed to be good at.
I'm not sure but have you mentioned it before? ;)
I think it’s a good and worthwhile summary. Maybe we should all stop moaning about anything when we’ve done it the once, like the government perhaps?
Post by: pauliewalnuts on February 16, 2024, 04:58:04 PM
It's a bit futile getting so hung up on the badge. Whatever design is finally agreed upon it's not set in stone from that point till eternity. If there's enough of an issue about whatever design is chosen with the fan base it will be changed again and again...
It's not the design itself, it's the absolutely stupid way he's gone about everything.
Absolutely this.
End of the day, we can live with whatever they decide they want. Some of us will hate it but we’ll get over it soon enough.
What does rankle is some of the stuff that came out of the club during this process.
Acting as if the round badge was a Rotterdam memorial thing on the, err, 41st anniversary.
Telling us it was a commercial trial when it was clearly scrapped.
Pretending to consult with fans when they had already decided.
Thinking we’re so stupid, nobody would check trademark applications.
Presenting it to the FAB in a video then saying there wasn’t any negative feedback in a manner which suggests it was discussed, when actually, the FAB said it wasn’t.
Honestly, my problem with it is not about this design or that, it’s about being taken for idiots.
And let’s not forget, all this ^^^^ is just about the badge. There’s then the North Stand, the lower grounds, the terrace view etc etc.
Reading reports of the FAB meetings, it sounds very, very much to me like the fans are generally getting sneered at by these people.
I have massive respect for our owners and look forward to Heck and Hatton delivering amazing commercial results, but I just don’t trust this pair, my default setting is to initially not believe anything they tell us.
That’s pretty impressive going. Even Tom Fox maintained credibility longer than these.
Post by: VillaTim on February 16, 2024, 05:27:02 PM
Office working culture can very easily become very unpleasant where trust and open communication is breaking down.this is just normal in the UK i find
Post by: Jon Crofts on February 16, 2024, 06:23:22 PM
Office working culture can very easily become very unpleasant where trust and open communication is breaking down.this is just normal in the UK i find
Although it’s not specifically called out in the site rules can you do us all the courtesy of starting a sentence with a capital letter and ending sentences with a full stop or period if you’re of an American persuasion.
Your tomes are hardly streams of consciousness so it really isn’t a big ask, furthermore even if you are typing on a mobile I cannot think of an application that doesn’t capitalise the first letter of a sentence & add a full stop after a double space.
Thanks.
Post by: Chris Smith on February 16, 2024, 06:46:35 PM
Post by: brontebilly on February 16, 2024, 07:21:03 PM
Since getting rid of Gerrard we have been fairly ruthless in weeding out those players considered to be underperforming or surplus to requirements. If this statement has any basis in truth looks as though similar is happening on the commercial and administrative side.
The main underperformer is Chris Heck. Seems Gerrard esque in being proven utterly out of his depth very quickly. That's before these allegations.
Post by: astonvilla82 on February 16, 2024, 07:34:33 PM
your right,it isn't against site rulesOffice working culture can very easily become very unpleasant where trust and open communication is breaking down.this is just normal in the UK i find
Although it’s not specifically called out in the site rules can you do us all the courtesy of starting a sentence with a capital letter and ending sentences with a full stop or period if you’re of an American persuasion.
Your tomes are hardly streams of consciousness so it really isn’t a big ask, furthermore even if you are typing on a mobile I cannot think of an application that doesn’t capitalise the first letter of a sentence & add a full stop after a double space.
Thanks.
Post by: itmustbe_it is! on February 16, 2024, 08:32:51 PM
Office working culture can very easily become very unpleasant where trust and open communication is breaking down.this is just normal in the UK i find
Although it’s not specifically called out in the site rules , can you do us all the courtesy of starting a sentence with a capital letter and ending sentences with a full stop, or period if you’re of an American persuasion.
Your tomes are hardly streams of consciousness so it really isn’t a big ask ; furthermore even if you are typing on a mobile I cannot think of an application that doesn’t capitalise the first letter of a sentence and add a full stop after a double space.
Thanks.
FTFY.
Post by: N'ZMAV on February 16, 2024, 08:36:52 PM
Post by: Risso on February 16, 2024, 09:27:26 PM
Since getting rid of Gerrard we have been fairly ruthless in weeding out those players considered to be underperforming or surplus to requirements. If this statement has any basis in truth looks as though similar is happening on the commercial and administrative side.
There's a big difference between getting rid of Coutinho on £180K a week, and Pat on the purchase ledger in accounts.
Post by: Villa in Denmark on February 16, 2024, 09:45:16 PM
Have you considered the possibility that if the problem follows you around the problem might be you?Office working culture can very easily become very unpleasant where trust and open communication is breaking down.this is just normal in the UK i find
Post by: Mister E on February 17, 2024, 12:25:42 PM
https://www.theguardian.com/football/2024/feb/16/ashworth-and-wilcox-the-next-pieces-in-jigsaw-of-new-manchester-united
I wonder whether Heck is the best we can get, and I also question whether having him at the top of the structure is wise given that he seems like a loose cannon.
Post by: ChicagoLion on February 17, 2024, 12:34:07 PM
Post by: Skerra on February 17, 2024, 01:16:48 PM
Post by: AV82EC on February 17, 2024, 02:03:08 PM
Post by: Mister E on February 17, 2024, 02:11:36 PM
Fortunately with Monchi, Emery and Vidaganay, he’s hopefully not being allowed anywhere near the Football side of the club.Well yes, but he plays a pivotal role in the team's success through the commercial activities.
Post by: CT Villan on February 17, 2024, 05:41:09 PM
Heck appears to be a twat, but we don't know what successes he has lined up on the commercial side yet. For me he has until the summer to prove his business acumen, however any truth in the recently alleged transgressions should result in his immediate removal (and where appropriate, prosecution).
Post by: VillaTim on February 17, 2024, 05:43:49 PM
Post by: Risso on February 17, 2024, 05:49:17 PM
wasn't Heck hand picked by NSWE
Well who else would it have been?
Post by: VillaTim on February 17, 2024, 07:18:01 PM
Post by: VillaTim on February 17, 2024, 08:27:36 PM
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on February 18, 2024, 01:04:30 AM
Post by: Bad English on February 18, 2024, 04:17:00 AM
It's just another example of Bad English's influence on the forum.Apart from
"No RIP or putting football into perspective"
Who is Dan Bardell'?
What is 'bs' (and why don't you just write 'bullshit', we're not in the USA)?
nobody takes any notice of me whatsoever. :-)
Post by: ChicagoLion on February 18, 2024, 04:49:32 AM
Wrong, some of us have formed a cult and have chosen you as our leader.It's just another example of Bad English's influence on the forum.Apart from
"No RIP or putting football into perspective"
Who is Dan Bardell'?
What is 'bs' (and why don't you just write 'bullshit', we're not in the USA)?
nobody takes any notice of me whatsoever. :-)
FTFNRIPWTFIDB .
Post by: Risso on February 18, 2024, 07:31:11 AM
Post by: Mister E on February 18, 2024, 10:11:29 AM
Russ Dale 🦁
@russkyd11
20h
Aston Villa matchday revenue... £36m....
Spurs matchday revenue.....£106m.....
But a new stadium would be a terrible idea wouldn't it? 🙄
Can't move forwards if you're standing still.
#avfc
I don't know whether the numbers are right, but I'm guessing the 3x differential is probably not far off being.
Post by: VillaTim on February 18, 2024, 10:46:07 AM
On Twatter:Be about right and aligns to their overall turnover which is about X3 ours.
Russ Dale 🦁
@russkyd11
20h
Aston Villa matchday revenue... £36m....
Spurs matchday revenue.....£106m.....
But a new stadium would be a terrible idea wouldn't it? 🙄
Can't move forwards if you're standing still.
#avfc
I don't know whether the numbers are right, but I'm guessing the 3x differential is probably not far off being.
Post by: Risso on February 18, 2024, 10:48:56 AM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on February 18, 2024, 10:50:29 AM
Post by: john e on February 18, 2024, 11:12:14 AM
He was probably summoned round to Nas's gaff yesterday, and told to go and mix with the proles afterwards to try and regain a bit of goodwill.
He never bought me a pint the rotter
Post by: Sexual Ealing on February 18, 2024, 11:15:11 AM
Who is Russ Dale?
He's Dan Bardell, podcaster, Villa fan, occasionally on Sky Sports.
Post by: VillaTim on February 18, 2024, 11:24:09 AM
"i'm next cocksucker" at the barHe was probably summoned round to Nas's gaff yesterday, and told to go and mix with the proles afterwards to try and regain a bit of goodwill.
He never bought me a pint the rotter
Post by: frankmosswasmyuncle on February 18, 2024, 11:32:52 AM
Nor me!He was probably summoned round to Nas's gaff yesterday, and told to go and mix with the proles afterwards to try and regain a bit of goodwill.
He never bought me a pint the rotter
One thing I did notice...on my way back to the coach, had to pass the Fulham shop....the queues were massive, controlled by stewards and were clearly going to take some time to get through....also lads bringing barrels of beer to the bars at the away end as we all made our way out....for post match drinkies, obviously. So, clearly built in as part of the match experience...and not just for those "willing" to pay £120 extra for the privilege!!! Just for the regular punters not in a rush to get home.
Sorry, that's two things!
Post by: Ian. on February 18, 2024, 11:33:34 AM
Who is Russ Dale?
He sounds like a dog. A Russ Dale Terrier maybe?
Post by: Bad English on February 18, 2024, 12:04:53 PM
SWMBOHow could I forget?
Post by: eamonn on February 18, 2024, 12:11:22 PM
SWMBOHow could I forget?
Plus you've made "I see fans are leaving VP early "to beat the traffic" " (do I need double quotation marks there?) and "Giving the wankers" into regular match-thread bingo-phrases.
Your impact shouldn't be cheapened.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on February 18, 2024, 12:19:10 PM
SWMBO
Plus 'FTF' (and variations thereof).
Post by: CT Villan on February 18, 2024, 12:32:19 PM
it's mad lit, on god, no cap
Post by: Percy McCarthy on February 18, 2024, 02:06:37 PM
On Twatter:Be about right and aligns to their overall turnover which is about X3 ours.
Russ Dale 🦁
@russkyd11
20h
Aston Villa matchday revenue... £36m....
Spurs matchday revenue.....£106m.....
But a new stadium would be a terrible idea wouldn't it? 🙄
Can't move forwards if you're standing still.
#avfc
I don't know whether the numbers are right, but I'm guessing the 3x differential is probably not far off being.
It’s not 3 times ours.
It’s not far off though.
Post by: VillaTim on February 18, 2024, 02:26:35 PM
That's why i said about x3.On Twatter:Be about right and aligns to their overall turnover which is about X3 ours.
Russ Dale 🦁
@russkyd11
20h
Aston Villa matchday revenue... £36m....
Spurs matchday revenue.....£106m.....
But a new stadium would be a terrible idea wouldn't it? 🙄
Can't move forwards if you're standing still.
#avfc
I don't know whether the numbers are right, but I'm guessing the 3x differential is probably not far off being.
It’s not 3 times ours.
It’s not far off though.
Post by: andyh on February 18, 2024, 02:32:27 PM
On Twatter:And how many years do you need to maintain that to pay off the debt of the new stadium?
Russ Dale 🦁
@russkyd11
20h
Aston Villa matchday revenue... £36m....
Spurs matchday revenue.....£106m.....
But a new stadium would be a terrible idea wouldn't it? 🙄
Can't move forwards if you're standing still.
#avfc
I don't know whether the numbers are right, but I'm guessing the 3x differential is probably not far off being.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on February 18, 2024, 02:33:28 PM
That's why i said about x3.On Twatter:Be about right and aligns to their overall turnover which is about X3 ours.
Russ Dale 🦁
@russkyd11
20h
Aston Villa matchday revenue... £36m....
Spurs matchday revenue.....£106m.....
But a new stadium would be a terrible idea wouldn't it? 🙄
Can't move forwards if you're standing still.
#avfc
I don't know whether the numbers are right, but I'm guessing the 3x differential is probably not far off being.
It’s not 3 times ours.
It’s not far off though.
Yeah, the second sentence was an edit. I thought it was about double til I went and checked.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on February 18, 2024, 02:36:40 PM
On Twatter:And how many years do you need to maintain that to pay off the debt of the new stadium?
Russ Dale 🦁
@russkyd11
20h
Aston Villa matchday revenue... £36m....
Spurs matchday revenue.....£106m.....
But a new stadium would be a terrible idea wouldn't it? 🙄
Can't move forwards if you're standing still.
#avfc
I don't know whether the numbers are right, but I'm guessing the 3x differential is probably not far off being.
Depends who you owe it to I guess.
Post by: Risso on February 18, 2024, 03:05:46 PM
On Twatter:And how many years do you need to maintain that to pay off the debt of the new stadium?
Russ Dale 🦁
@russkyd11
20h
Aston Villa matchday revenue... £36m....
Spurs matchday revenue.....£106m.....
But a new stadium would be a terrible idea wouldn't it? 🙄
Can't move forwards if you're standing still.
#avfc
I don't know whether the numbers are right, but I'm guessing the 3x differential is probably not far off being.
Well at least as far as FFP goes, it doesn't matter. The increased income hits the P&L and affects FFP. The costs of building the new stand don't.
Post by: Beard82 on February 18, 2024, 03:11:08 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on February 18, 2024, 03:23:01 PM
I understand it is just part of the jigsaw but if 40,000 all bought a pint at £5, that is £200k per home game - and we’ll never get near that so this is mega optimistic numbers - that is 3.8m a year (and I bet after costs our margin is tiny on all that so profit would be way less.
Yeah, it adds to the pot, but the real money there is in corporate - corporate that is almost permanently sold out and therefore in short supply.
The Lower Grounds and Terrace View, even should they sell out every single match, would add a pinprick of revenue.
Driving all of this, though, is the number of people in the ground, that has got to increase and that’s what makes the stadium situation so weird.
Post by: VillaTim on February 18, 2024, 04:25:18 PM
I think our match day spend is I’ll be much higher this season. It would be even higher if they could find a way of serving people quicker I would probably spend a lot more if there was a chance of getting servedtake this to the Witton Upper thread.
Post by: aldridgeboy on February 18, 2024, 04:35:30 PM
I will never even try to get food or drink at a home game again after my one attempt this year. Just no point trying unless I miss last 20 mins of first half or first 15 mins of second
Post by: Gareth on February 18, 2024, 04:39:55 PM
Regular punters alone are nowhere near enough to provide much of an uplift.
I understand it is just part of the jigsaw but if 40,000 all bought a pint at £5, that is £200k per home game - and we’ll never get near that so this is mega optimistic numbers - that is 3.8m a year (and I bet after costs our margin is tiny on all that so profit would be way less.
Yeah, it adds to the pot, but the real money there is in corporate - corporate that is almost permanently sold out and therefore in short supply.
The Lower Grounds and Terrace View, even should they sell out every single match, would add a pinprick of revenue.
Driving all of this, though, is the number of people in the ground, that has got to increase and that’s what makes the stadium situation so weird.
Exactly this, there is no inclination to improve anything for us plebs when it’s the real money with the real margins that they want
Post by: Somniloquism on February 19, 2024, 09:54:26 PM
On Twatter:
Russ Dale 🦁
@russkyd11
20h
Aston Villa matchday revenue... £36m....
Spurs matchday revenue.....£106m.....
But a new stadium would be a terrible idea wouldn't it? 🙄
Can't move forwards if you're standing still.
#avfc
I don't know whether the numbers are right, but I'm guessing the 3x differential is probably not far off being.
Although as they have a season ticket price difference over ours of + £200 at he lower end and + £1200 for the rich seats, it it not just coming from the bigger stadium but what people are prepared to pay. They also charge £45-£55 just to be able to buy day to day tickets on the priority route (not sure if they reach general sale). You do get all but £10 back in vouchers, but that is vouchers to get £10 off the Spurs streaming subscription, and the rest in club shop vouchers.
With the way we have reacted to the offerings our club has tried to get extra money in, I can expect similar when we try to go down similar routes.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on February 19, 2024, 10:39:36 PM
On Twatter:
Russ Dale 🦁
@russkyd11
20h
Aston Villa matchday revenue... £36m....
Spurs matchday revenue.....£106m.....
But a new stadium would be a terrible idea wouldn't it? 🙄
Can't move forwards if you're standing still.
#avfc
I don't know whether the numbers are right, but I'm guessing the 3x differential is probably not far off being.
Although as they have a season ticket price difference over ours of + £200 at he lower end and + £1200 for the rich seats, it it not just coming from the bigger stadium but what people are prepared to pay. They also charge £45-£55 just to be able to buy day to day tickets on the priority route (not sure if they reach general sale). You do get all but £10 back in vouchers, but that is vouchers to get £10 off the Spurs streaming subscription, and the rest in club shop vouchers.
With the way we have reacted to the offerings our club has tried to get extra money in, I can expect similar when we try to go down similar routes.
I pay £80 just to be able to buy tickets for me and the kids.
Post by: Somniloquism on February 19, 2024, 10:59:31 PM
Post by: Percy McCarthy on February 20, 2024, 02:02:42 AM
I didn't realise we were doing paid memberships now being as DW has mentioned previously you don't have to pay to be on the ST list (Spurs ones include that as a perk, so no ST 5 years down the line if you are not paying £50 a year to keep on it). Not sure how many kids you have but they run £25 for kids memberships.
Two of brainwashing age. The others have completed their training. Membership is £40 for me, £20 each for the kids.
Post by: algy on February 20, 2024, 05:40:03 AM
I'm similar - pay £100/yr for me, my dad, and 1 child's membership which our 3 kids share. Can't really justify getting them all membership when we realistically can't get the kids to more than 1-2 games a season (needing Saturday 3pm kickoffs basically for us all to be able to get to VP & back by public transport)On Twatter:
Russ Dale 🦁
@russkyd11
20h
Aston Villa matchday revenue... £36m....
Spurs matchday revenue.....£106m.....
But a new stadium would be a terrible idea wouldn't it? 🙄
Can't move forwards if you're standing still.
#avfc
I don't know whether the numbers are right, but I'm guessing the 3x differential is probably not far off being.
Although as they have a season ticket price difference over ours of + £200 at he lower end and + £1200 for the rich seats, it it not just coming from the bigger stadium but what people are prepared to pay. They also charge £45-£55 just to be able to buy day to day tickets on the priority route (not sure if they reach general sale). You do get all but £10 back in vouchers, but that is vouchers to get £10 off the Spurs streaming subscription, and the rest in club shop vouchers.
With the way we have reacted to the offerings our club has tried to get extra money in, I can expect similar when we try to go down similar routes.
I pay £80 just to be able to buy tickets for me and the kids.
Post by: Holte L2 on February 20, 2024, 07:40:42 AM
I won't be doing that again!!
Post by: London Villan on February 20, 2024, 08:31:45 AM
Post by: Clampy on February 20, 2024, 08:35:33 AM
When are we going to see the improvements in every part of the ground, as promised in his dog walk video from Bodymoor? No changes in the Trinity, other than now having luke warm water in the sinks, rather than water directly from the Arctic. Still no way of people drying their hands without queueing.
I dont get the last line. If there is someone using the towel dispensers, then you have to wait.
Post by: London Villan on February 20, 2024, 08:36:49 AM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on February 20, 2024, 08:38:34 AM
Just fucking sort it out, it is so fucking annoying that there seems to still be lethargy in improving anything that doesn’t have pound notes attached to it.
Post by: Clampy on February 20, 2024, 08:40:47 AM
There are no towel dispensers - just two hand dryers...
Ah, ok. There's towel dispensers in the Upper Holte toilets. I presumed it was the same everywhere.
Post by: rob_bridge on February 20, 2024, 08:43:05 AM
Being honest when we were getting low 30k 10 years ago it was relatively easy to get served in Trinity but the whole catering thing has been an issue for longer. I remember a H&V article about it years ago.
The only way to generate a step up in income is to increase the ground capacity with special focus on corporate hospitality and/or garner far more global sponsorship deals. The former is being honest easier.
Post by: Smithy on February 20, 2024, 08:49:36 AM
On Twatter:
Russ Dale 🦁
@russkyd11
20h
Aston Villa matchday revenue... £36m....
Spurs matchday revenue.....£106m.....
But a new stadium would be a terrible idea wouldn't it? 🙄
Can't move forwards if you're standing still.
#avfc
I don't know whether the numbers are right, but I'm guessing the 3x differential is probably not far off being.
Although as they have a season ticket price difference over ours of + £200 at he lower end and + £1200 for the rich seats, it it not just coming from the bigger stadium but what people are prepared to pay. They also charge £45-£55 just to be able to buy day to day tickets on the priority route (not sure if they reach general sale). You do get all but £10 back in vouchers, but that is vouchers to get £10 off the Spurs streaming subscription, and the rest in club shop vouchers.
With the way we have reacted to the offerings our club has tried to get extra money in, I can expect similar when we try to go down similar routes.
Indeed. We could close a chunk of that revenue gap just by putting up the prices of our tickets and anything match-day related to what Spurs charge, and by playing more matches at home (which we're doing this season).
But can you imagine the carnage on here if we started charging two-grand or more for some of our season tickets? This season our most expensive season ticket is still cheaper than Spurs' CHEAPEST season ticket, by about 10%.
A new stadium doesn't close that revenue gap unless we start charging Spurs-style prices. And we can charge Spurs-style prices without moving to a new stadium, if we want to.
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on February 20, 2024, 08:53:40 AM
Post by: Dogtanian on February 20, 2024, 09:03:32 AM
Post by: frank black on February 20, 2024, 09:20:50 AM
They love their new stadium but hate the queues for a pint (apparently, but can’t imagine they’re as bad as ours). One of was a condescending idiot, so the cherry was on the cake when they lost.
Post by: RamboandBruno on February 20, 2024, 09:39:35 AM
I know the argument then is the tourist fans of the Manchester clubs and Liverpool, but Man U & Liverpool have 50+ years of cup winning and brand building and Man City can afford to keep their prices low.
Villa have a problem I feel as they are literally in danger of pricing loyalty out of their market and I’m not convinced there are another 10,000-20,000 ready to commit to season tickets year after year (I know I sound all flintstone here).
One thing i would say, the tap and go bar, pre order bar and outside bar, have made it much easier to get a beer and food in the lower holte, even at half time.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on February 20, 2024, 09:50:27 AM
Anyone remember that article years ago, something like ‘Why Villa and Not Everton’? It went into detail about our catchment area compared to other clubs. It could be a huge advantage.
Post by: Drummond on February 20, 2024, 09:54:57 AM
Post by: London Villan on February 20, 2024, 10:14:35 AM
We all know football is too expensive. But we all want success. It's almost impossible to have the latter without the former.
Expensive compared to what though? If it's football 20 years ago then yes, but if you compare it to equivalent entertainment options then probably not.
A basic seat at the NEC for a gig £60+
Mostertrucks at the NIA £50+
Big show at the Hippodrome £70+
Post by: dave.woodhall on February 20, 2024, 10:15:31 AM
We all know football is too expensive. But we all want success. It's almost impossible to have the latter without the former.
Expensive compared to what though? If it's football 20 years ago then yes, but if you compare it to equivalent entertainment options then probably not.
A basic seat at the NEC for a gig £60+
Mostertrucks at the NIA £50+
Big show at the Hippodrome £70+
You don't go to any of them every other week.
Post by: Dogtanian on February 20, 2024, 10:19:55 AM
We all know football is too expensive. But we all want success. It's almost impossible to have the latter without the former.
Expensive compared to what though? If it's football 20 years ago then yes, but if you compare it to equivalent entertainment options then probably not.
A basic seat at the NEC for a gig £60+
Mostertrucks at the NIA £50+
Big show at the Hippodrome £70+
You don't go to any of them every other week.
True, but they're also not soul-crushingly important to us, either.
Post by: rob_bridge on February 20, 2024, 10:20:49 AM
We all know football is too expensive. But we all want success. It's almost impossible to have the latter without the former.
Expensive compared to what though? If it's football 20 years ago then yes, but if you compare it to equivalent entertainment options then probably not.
A basic seat at the NEC for a gig £60+
Mostertrucks at the NIA £50+
Big show at the Hippodrome £70+
It is all relative.
Cheltenham Festival - cheapest standing is £50 and £7.50 a pint and the queues are much worse.
In the 2013-16 dark days me and the Missus used to pick up tickets for £15-£25 quid each on exchange sites. Trinity Lower, Holte Upper etc..
Pay 3 times that now only because people will pay.
The ground is full more or less every game - they made one mistake with Everton game.
Either existing punters pay more or we get more punters including richer Corporate ones.
Post by: London Villan on February 20, 2024, 10:30:17 AM
We all know football is too expensive. But we all want success. It's almost impossible to have the latter without the former.
Expensive compared to what though? If it's football 20 years ago then yes, but if you compare it to equivalent entertainment options then probably not.
A basic seat at the NEC for a gig £60+
Mostertrucks at the NIA £50+
Big show at the Hippodrome £70+
You don't go to any of them every other week.
And neither do the new fans they want to attract to games.
They want the once or twice-a-season fan, that will make a day of the event, go to the shop, spend in the stadium, be happy to "experience" the Terrace View or Holte Suite - that is where the money is.
Whether they are tourists that want to see any PL match, or "supporters" of Villa from far-flung places, whose numbers will grow if/when we actually win something.
Post by: ChicagoLion on February 20, 2024, 10:31:17 AM
I would pay not to go t any of the,.We all know football is too expensive. But we all want success. It's almost impossible to have the latter without the former.
Expensive compared to what though? If it's football 20 years ago then yes, but if you compare it to equivalent entertainment options then probably not.
A basic seat at the NEC for a gig £60+
Mostertrucks at the NIA £50+
Big show at the Hippodrome £70+
You don't go to any of them every other week.
Post by: frankmosswasmyuncle on February 20, 2024, 10:37:02 AM
There are no towel dispensers - just two hand dryers...I know this is a minor issue but it's a genuine "who the f**k thought this up?" reflecting a number of basic issues for fans atm....took out about 4 towel dispensers which worked perfectly well, replaced with two hand dryers which a lot don't bother queuing for because...there's a queue! it's totally impractical, a pain and I have people outside waiting for me to go to our seats...
Post by: Risso on February 20, 2024, 10:41:08 AM
When are we going to see the improvements in every part of the ground, as promised in his dog walk video from Bodymoor? No changes in the Trinity, other than now having luke warm water in the sinks, rather than water directly from the Arctic. Still no way of people drying their hands without queueing.
Yep it's all bullshit. "This isn't about one set of fans, it's about all fans". No it isn't. You've made the service vaguely bearable for the people prepared to pay daft prices for some shit food in the TV and LG, but in most of the stands the service and overall experience inclusing toilets is still absolutely dismal.
Post by: London Villan on February 20, 2024, 10:41:27 AM
I would pay not to go t any of the,.We all know football is too expensive. But we all want success. It's almost impossible to have the latter without the former.
Expensive compared to what though? If it's football 20 years ago then yes, but if you compare it to equivalent entertainment options then probably not.
A basic seat at the NEC for a gig £60+
Mostertrucks at the NIA £50+
Big show at the Hippodrome £70+
You don't go to any of them every other week.
Maybe not - but try getting a ticket to any big event these days, it's a nightmare.
Add cricket to that - ballots, waiting list, payment to get on the pre-sale list... a long way from test matches in the 80s and 90s where you could pretty much turn up on the day.
Post by: Chris Smith on February 20, 2024, 11:16:15 AM
I would pay not to go t any of the,.We all know football is too expensive. But we all want success. It's almost impossible to have the latter without the former.
Expensive compared to what though? If it's football 20 years ago then yes, but if you compare it to equivalent entertainment options then probably not.
A basic seat at the NEC for a gig £60+
Mostertrucks at the NIA £50+
Big show at the Hippodrome £70+
You don't go to any of them every other week.
Maybe not - but try getting a ticket to any big event these days, it's a nightmare.
Add cricket to that - ballots, waiting list, payment to get on the pre-sale list... a long way from test matches in the 80s and 90s where you could pretty much turn up on the day.
Again that’s not every other week, I’ve never had a problem getting a ticket for any non-international game at Edgbaston and it’s ‘relatively’ inexpensive.
Post by: Dogtanian on February 20, 2024, 11:32:32 AM
https://theathletic.com/5285601/2024/02/19/arsenal-season-ticket-increase/ (https://theathletic.com/5285601/2024/02/19/arsenal-season-ticket-increase/)
4-6% increase at the Arse.
"We are also continuing to make investments to improve the matchday experience for our supporters at Emirates Stadium."
"Arsenal announced a five per cent increase in season ticket prices and the reducing the number of games included in a season ticket from 26 to 22 in February 2023."
Post by: Gareth on February 20, 2024, 11:54:48 AM
My son turns 18 the week before we play Spurs so he moves up an age/price bracket and I paid £110 for tickets for me and him in the lower Holte. Getting very close to my tipping point.
I think that’s the same with a lot of people Chico & I think the club understand that but they will test that line, they will be perfectly fine pushing some over that tipping point whilst they are still confident they can back fill - maximising ticket revenue with the existing seats by pushing the prices up 10/15/20% a year but still selling out is cheaper than building a new stand.
Fully expect they will come up with new hospitality offferings that will see people booted out of season ticket seats…I have a great seat at the front of Witton Lane Upper, sure those seats will be targeted to make a hospitality offering at some point…I’ve said before if I was the club knowing Birmingham councils issues I’d be looking to purchase that bit of park over the road from the Witton, level it and whack up marquee or shipping containers as a hospitality zone.
As for catering & facilities…they have no inclination to improve anything for the existing fans, couldn’t care less about toilets, crowded concourses or catering offerings, there’s only minimal revenues attached …only hospitality with its big ticket prices.
Post by: ChicagoLion on February 20, 2024, 12:02:32 PM
But that is not how smart business people think.My son turns 18 the week before we play Spurs so he moves up an age/price bracket and I paid £110 for tickets for me and him in the lower Holte. Getting very close to my tipping point.
I think that’s the same with a lot of people Chico & I think the club understand that but they will test that line, they will be perfectly fine pushing some over that tipping point whilst they are still confident they can back fill - maximising ticket revenue with the existing seats by pushing the prices up 10/15/20% a year but still selling out is cheaper than building a new stand.
Fully expect they will come up with new hospitality offferings that will see people booted out of season ticket seats…I have a great seat at the front of Witton Lane Upper, sure those seats will be targeted to make a hospitality offering at some point…I’ve said before if I was the club knowing Birmingham councils issues I’d be looking to purchase that bit of park over the road from the Witton, level it and whack up marquee or shipping containers as a hospitality zone.
As for catering & facilities…they have no inclination to improve anything for the existing fans, couldn’t care less about toilets, crowded concourses or catering offerings, there’s only minimal revenues attached …only hospitality with its big ticket prices.
They have a captive audience for a few hours so first try and keep them for longer, then give them something to spend money on.
The big Tescos is now full of matchday Villa Fans buying food and drink, most people would not consider buying food and drink at the ground so they are losing tens of thousands every game.
Post by: artvandelay on February 20, 2024, 12:03:29 PM
This compares to £80 in the '1888 seats' or £68 in 'zone 1' to watch us lose to Newcastle on a Tuesday night.
Post by: Gareth on February 20, 2024, 12:42:08 PM
But that is not how smart business people think.My son turns 18 the week before we play Spurs so he moves up an age/price bracket and I paid £110 for tickets for me and him in the lower Holte. Getting very close to my tipping point.
I think that’s the same with a lot of people Chico & I think the club understand that but they will test that line, they will be perfectly fine pushing some over that tipping point whilst they are still confident they can back fill - maximising ticket revenue with the existing seats by pushing the prices up 10/15/20% a year but still selling out is cheaper than building a new stand.
Fully expect they will come up with new hospitality offferings that will see people booted out of season ticket seats…I have a great seat at the front of Witton Lane Upper, sure those seats will be targeted to make a hospitality offering at some point…I’ve said before if I was the club knowing Birmingham councils issues I’d be looking to purchase that bit of park over the road from the Witton, level it and whack up marquee or shipping containers as a hospitality zone.
As for catering & facilities…they have no inclination to improve anything for the existing fans, couldn’t care less about toilets, crowded concourses or catering offerings, there’s only minimal revenues attached …only hospitality with its big ticket prices.
They have a captive audience for a few hours so first try and keep them for longer, then give them something to spend money on.
The big Tescos is now full of matchday Villa Fans buying food and drink, most people would not consider buying food and drink at the ground so they are losing tens of thousands every game.
I don’t disagree but would they claw back that tens of thousands if they improve the offering or will those people still buy a £3 sandwich at Tesco? I don’t think you’ll ever create a culture where significant people want to be around the ground for hours other than the couple of games a season where the sun is out
Post by: Drummond on February 20, 2024, 12:50:04 PM
I would pay not to go t any of the,.We all know football is too expensive. But we all want success. It's almost impossible to have the latter without the former.
Expensive compared to what though? If it's football 20 years ago then yes, but if you compare it to equivalent entertainment options then probably not.
A basic seat at the NEC for a gig £60+
Mostertrucks at the NIA £50+
Big show at the Hippodrome £70+
You don't go to any of them every other week.
Great, I can do you no ticket for £20 each.
Post by: Villan82 on February 20, 2024, 12:51:17 PM
Post by: Somniloquism on February 20, 2024, 12:52:46 PM
For comparing to test cricket, my day one ticket at the test match behind the bowlers arm at Edgbaston was £72.50 (top price for that day). This gives me of course 7 hours of entertainment.
This compares to £80 in the '1888 seats' or £68 in 'zone 1' to watch us lose to Newcastle on a Tuesday night.
Do watching Cricket and "7 hours of entertainment" go together?
Post by: Chris Smith on February 20, 2024, 12:55:24 PM
For comparing to test cricket, my day one ticket at the test match behind the bowlers arm at Edgbaston was £72.50 (top price for that day). This gives me of course 7 hours of entertainment.
This compares to £80 in the '1888 seats' or £68 in 'zone 1' to watch us lose to Newcastle on a Tuesday night.
How does that compare to the best seats to watch England at Wembley?
Watching Villa has become very expensive but we should be making like for like comparisons otherwise it’s the equivalent of going to the Ritz and judging prices against your local Pizza Express.
Post by: rob_bridge on February 20, 2024, 01:31:11 PM
They won't create a culture of being at the ground spending money when they don't follow through on plans to provide such facilities for people who want a place to go and eat etc on match day
Indeed - the last 3 times (as weather allowed) I had a beer in the fans area outside the Trinity. Think they need (where they can) more of that - obviously with covering. The Forest game last season was great as they had an interview with Ken Swain, an excellent as a Villa legend and he played for both clubs.
Post by: Hookeysmith on February 20, 2024, 01:55:14 PM
Quote
This gives me of course 7 hours of entertainment.
This is a joke - right
No game if there is a sniff of rain - great entertainment my arse
Post by: pauliewalnuts on February 20, 2024, 04:01:01 PM
QuoteThis gives me of course 7 hours of entertainment.
This is a joke - right
No game if there is a sniff of rain - great entertainment my arse
Also even when there is play, it's half a mile away and you can barely see what's going on.
Plus you're surrounded by the sort of pissed up twats who go to the cricket*.
It's almost as bad as going to the rugby**.
* only joking, cricket fans.
** rugby can get in the sea, though, along with all the people who go to the matches.
Post by: Paul.S on February 20, 2024, 04:25:51 PM
Getting to that time of year again. I'm not expecting ours to be frozen. Not with all these badge redesigns we have to fund.
https://theathletic.com/5285601/2024/02/19/arsenal-season-ticket-increase/ (https://theathletic.com/5285601/2024/02/19/arsenal-season-ticket-increase/)
4-6% increase at the Arse.
"We are also continuing to make investments to improve the matchday experience for our supporters at Emirates Stadium."
"Arsenal announced a five per cent increase in season ticket prices and the reducing the number of games included in a season ticket from 26 to 22 in February 2023."
I’m expecting a double figured percentage rise again. I’ve got absolutely no evidence for this other than I think the club view us as a captive audience who will pay anything.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on February 20, 2024, 04:28:03 PM
QuoteThis gives me of course 7 hours of entertainment.
This is a joke - right
No game if there is a sniff of rain - great entertainment my arse
Also even when there is play, it's half a mile away and you can barely see what's going on.
Plus you're surrounded by the sort of pissed up twats who go to the cricket*.
It's almost as bad as going to the rugby**.
* only joking, cricket fans.
** rugby can get in the sea, though, along with all the people who go to the matches.
This message is endorsed by the Ealing Conglomerate.
Post by: Gareth on February 20, 2024, 04:32:41 PM
Getting to that time of year again. I'm not expecting ours to be frozen. Not with all these badge redesigns we have to fund.
https://theathletic.com/5285601/2024/02/19/arsenal-season-ticket-increase/ (https://theathletic.com/5285601/2024/02/19/arsenal-season-ticket-increase/)
4-6% increase at the Arse.
"We are also continuing to make investments to improve the matchday experience for our supporters at Emirates Stadium."
"Arsenal announced a five per cent increase in season ticket prices and the reducing the number of games included in a season ticket from 26 to 22 in February 2023."
I’m expecting a double figured percentage rise again. I’ve got absolutely no evidence for this other than I think the club view us as a captive audience who will pay anything.
I agree with Paul, double figures 10-15% increase across the board is my guess
Post by: Clampy on February 20, 2024, 05:16:41 PM
Post by: Dogtanian on February 20, 2024, 05:17:21 PM
Post by: Dogtanian on February 20, 2024, 05:19:09 PM
The cricket is not for me. The thought of sitting next to loads of piss heads dressed as traffic cones does not appeal.
I wouldn’t mind drinking, but the problem I have is that the alcohol is what a lot of the idiots are there for. The cricket is just a backdrop and excuse for it.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on February 20, 2024, 05:20:00 PM
I think there’d be uproar if it gets to double figures again.
On the other hand, if you're going to bang through a double figure percentage price increase, qualifying for the Champions League is absolutely the time to do it.
Heck is probably pacing around his office right now, going on about this and shouting "Let's screw those COCKSUCKERS for every penny we can!".
Post by: Dogtanian on February 20, 2024, 05:21:08 PM
Post by: Clampy on February 20, 2024, 05:22:21 PM
The cricket is not for me. The thought of sitting next to loads of piss heads dressed as traffic cones does not appeal.
I wouldn’t mind drinking, but the problem I have is that the alcohol is what a lot of the idiots are there for. The cricket is just a backdrop and excuse for it.
That's some away fans for you as well. Watch that ridiculous Davo's Diary as an example.
Post by: dave.woodhall on February 20, 2024, 05:38:45 PM
I think there’d be uproar if it gets to double figures again.
"If you don't want it there's thirty thousand who do..."
Post by: AV82EC on February 20, 2024, 05:52:20 PM
I think there’d be uproar if it gets to double figures again.
"If you don't want it there's thirty thousand who do..."
Its classic FOMO at the moment because the team are doing so well. Like others i'm expecting a double digit increase which whilst I can afford it i'm sure other may struggle. I'd be happier if people who sat in Z1 and 2's increases were more than those in say 3 or 4 as I'd imagine, and happy to be proved wrong, any increases may be more affordable on the basis you can already afford higher priced tickets.
In Z2 my ticket is currently £41 a game, I think that's about fair for a mid table team with higher aspirations but for one thats gets in the Champs League and is competing at the top end of table, Id say £45 to £50 in Z2 is more realistic for next season. But that's the "value" as I perceive it, others will of course be different.
Post by: Gareth on February 20, 2024, 05:53:46 PM
I think there’d be uproar if it gets to double figures again.
They aren’t here to reward loyalty, they have no care who sits on those seats so long as they pay
Post by: RamboandBruno on February 20, 2024, 10:11:57 PM
Thirty thousand cocksuckers looking to replace this cocksucker after the best part of four decades, but thats progress and all us cocksuckers better get with the goddam cocksucking programme.I think there’d be uproar if it gets to double figures again.
"If you don't want it there's thirty thousand who do..."
Post by: Brazilian Villain on February 20, 2024, 10:14:44 PM
I think there’d be uproar if it gets to double figures again.
Are we still talking about watching England at the cricket?
Post by: Rory on February 21, 2024, 12:49:40 AM
I think there’d be uproar if it gets to double figures again.
Are we still talking about watching England at the cricket?
Very good.
Edit: I'm an England cricket fan, just to clarify.
(I remember a joke I enjoyed about the England football team a few years ago that was greeted with nothing but 'better than Ireland' responses.)
Post by: RamboandBruno on February 21, 2024, 11:25:38 AM
Post by: HolteL4 on February 21, 2024, 04:56:39 PM
I think there’d be uproar if it gets to double figures again.
"If you don't want it there's thirty thousand who do..."
Surely they can't use that again after what he said about the reasons the North Stand got cancelled.... sorry Paused.
Post by: Gareth on February 21, 2024, 05:15:00 PM
I think there’d be uproar if it gets to double figures again.
"If you don't want it there's thirty thousand who do..."
Surely they can't use that again after what he said about the reasons the North Stand got cancelled.... sorry Paused.
They can use that until such time as the waiting list isn’t there or all those who genuinely want to buy a ticket have one.
Post by: Villan82 on February 21, 2024, 05:22:55 PM
I think there’d be uproar if it gets to double figures again.
"If you don't want it there's thirty thousand who do..."
Surely they can't use that again after what he said about the reasons the North Stand got cancelled.... sorry Paused.
They can use that until such time as the waiting list isn’t there or all those who genuinely want to buy a ticket have one.
This is why this decision is so damn frustrating. In my life Villa have had higher capacity crowds than our present capacity yet never have we had such consistently high attendances across multiple seasons as we have had under these owners. Never has their been a stronger case for redevelopment and they are pissing it away and very likely to actually drive fans away with extortionate price hikes.
Every time we are on the cusp of something really big we take a decision that undermines it and the NS cancellation has really sent a shiver up my spine for that reason
Post by: VillaTim on February 21, 2024, 06:35:44 PM
What i would expect is more normal seated areas converted to either Full Corporate or what i'd describe as Corporate Lite .
Post by: pauliewalnuts on February 21, 2024, 06:41:31 PM
I think there’d be uproar if it gets to double figures again.
Are we still talking about watching England at the cricket?
Very good.
Edit: I'm an England cricket fan, just to clarify.
(I remember a joke I enjoyed about the England football team a few years ago that was greeted with nothing but 'better than Ireland' responses.)
Martin McGuinness was a big fan of the England cricket team, too, weirdly.
Post by: Richard E on February 21, 2024, 06:47:45 PM
Post by: The Edge on February 21, 2024, 08:08:42 PM
I was thinking the same. Cancelling it sent out all the wrong vibes at precisely the wrong time. It could even lead to the list shrinking with people thinking fuck it I'm never going to get a season ticket.I think there’d be uproar if it gets to double figures again.
"If you don't want it there's thirty thousand who do..."
Surely they can't use that again after what he said about the reasons the North Stand got cancelled.... sorry Paused.
They can use that until such time as the waiting list isn’t there or all those who genuinely want to buy a ticket have one.
This is why this decision is so damn frustrating. In my life Villa have had higher capacity crowds than our present capacity yet never have we had such consistently high attendances across multiple seasons as we have had under these owners. Never has their been a stronger case for redevelopment and they are pissing it away and very likely to actually drive fans away with extortionate price hikes.
Every time we are on the cusp of something really big we take a decision that undermines it and the NS cancellation has really sent a shiver up my spine for that reason
Post by: Lastfootstamper on February 21, 2024, 08:14:27 PM
Post by: algy on February 21, 2024, 09:43:14 PM
England and Wales cricket team.I think there’d be uproar if it gets to double figures again.
Are we still talking about watching England at the cricket?
Very good.
Edit: I'm an England cricket fan, just to clarify.
(I remember a joke I enjoyed about the England football team a few years ago that was greeted with nothing but 'better than Ireland' responses.)
Martin McGuinness was a big fan of the England cricket team, too, weirdly.
Post by: Des Little on February 21, 2024, 09:46:08 PM
In line with the rate of inflation falling i am envisaging ST increases of circa 4-6% on average though some of the cheapest areas may see 7-10%.
What i would expect is more normal seated areas converted to either Full Corporate or what i'd describe as Corporate Lite .
Agreed. I’m expecting a Dear John letter any time soon regarding my seat in A5.
Post by: Lsvilla on February 21, 2024, 09:55:15 PM
What numbers are you ? I'm expecting similar. Row B 158/9.In line with the rate of inflation falling i am envisaging ST increases of circa 4-6% on average though some of the cheapest areas may see 7-10%.
What i would expect is more normal seated areas converted to either Full Corporate or what i'd describe as Corporate Lite .
Agreed. I’m expecting a Dear John letter any time soon regarding my seat in A5.
Post by: VillaTim on February 21, 2024, 10:20:34 PM
Post by: Rory on February 22, 2024, 03:06:07 AM
I think there’d be uproar if it gets to double figures again.
Are we still talking about watching England at the cricket?
Very good.
Edit: I'm an England cricket fan, just to clarify.
(I remember a joke I enjoyed about the England football team a few years ago that was greeted with nothing but 'better than Ireland' responses.)
Martin McGuinness was a big fan of the England cricket team, too, weirdly.
Really?
Maybe as a Catholic in NI he became a glutton for punishment.
Just read his Wikipedia page and saw he was a Man Utd fan, so fuck him 😁
Post by: Percy McCarthy on February 22, 2024, 05:48:16 AM
I think there’d be uproar if it gets to double figures again.
Are we still talking about watching England at the cricket?
Very good.
Edit: I'm an England cricket fan, just to clarify.
(I remember a joke I enjoyed about the England football team a few years ago that was greeted with nothing but 'better than Ireland' responses.)
Martin McGuinness was a big fan of the England cricket team, too, weirdly.
Really?
Maybe as a Catholic in NI he became a glutton for punishment.
Just read his Wikipedia page and saw he was a Man Utd fan, so fuck him 😁
It’s all Man Utd, Celtic etc over there. Bobby Sands MP’s fellow IRA members, glory hunters to a man I suspect, were sad that he missed Villa’s early eighties glory
Post by: Des Little on February 22, 2024, 06:20:18 AM
What numbers are you ? I'm expecting similar. Row B 158/9.In line with the rate of inflation falling i am envisaging ST increases of circa 4-6% on average though some of the cheapest areas may see 7-10%.
What i would expect is more normal seated areas converted to either Full Corporate or what i'd describe as Corporate Lite .
Agreed. I’m expecting a Dear John letter any time soon regarding my seat in A5.
F/164
Post by: Des Little on February 22, 2024, 06:23:16 AM
Post by: Towser on February 22, 2024, 06:40:35 AM
I am in row A and expecting a letter sooner rather than later, convinced they will upgrade our seats and won't want us sitting there.What numbers are you ? I'm expecting similar. Row B 158/9.In line with the rate of inflation falling i am envisaging ST increases of circa 4-6% on average though some of the cheapest areas may see 7-10%.
What i would expect is more normal seated areas converted to either Full Corporate or what i'd describe as Corporate Lite .
Agreed. I’m expecting a Dear John letter any time soon regarding my seat in A5.
Post by: N'ZMAV on February 22, 2024, 07:08:54 AM
nout buying that at all, 30k at a few years agos prices, maybe yeah, 30k at a new price, with 10% on top, not happening.I think there’d be uproar if it gets to double figures again.
"If you don't want it there's thirty thousand who do..."
Post by: VillaTim on February 22, 2024, 09:21:33 AM
Post by: amfy on February 22, 2024, 09:26:35 AM
30k on a waiting list yet we often don't sell out home games. Okaaaay.
Have you tried actually getting a ticket recently. There may be spaces, but it’s not because people aren’t trying to buy tickets.
Post by: Nev on February 22, 2024, 09:27:21 AM
The sudden jump in supporters at Woolwich, W Ham and Spurs after their move is almost definitely down to tourist fans.
Post by: Somniloquism on February 22, 2024, 09:29:16 AM
30k on a waiting list yet we often don't sell out home games. Okaaaay.
There is a difference between going on a list for a ticket for a season, and individual game tickets, especially if the latter is one seat here, the other in a totally different stand over there. Someone on the list for lower Holte with his two mates might not want to be on his todd in the Upper Trinity corner after awaiting tickets to become available at short notice.
Post by: Dogtanian on February 22, 2024, 09:35:55 AM
Watching the Spurs game the other day there was the common proliferation of Asian fans, quite a few brandishing Korean flags. Now let's say we signed Son or someone of equal stature, would we attract these fans? I think we would but not in the numbers they do for the simple reason of location. They can combine a visit to the football with a trip to one of the great cities of the world, we will never have that.
The sudden jump in supporters at Woolwich, W Ham and Spurs after their move is almost definitely down to tourist fans.
When I go on holiday, I often take a trip from where I am based to somewhere else to see something. We're hardly at the ends of the earth from London. Having spent the time and money to get to the UK from the east or America, a trip to good old Brum to see the Villa will be a life-affirming breeze.
Post by: VillaTim on February 22, 2024, 09:41:39 AM
The same logic would apply when ST come up as they aren't always where you want them. Point being the 30k ion the ST list won't all buy a ST if the opportunity arose, it's a much smaller number in reality.30k on a waiting list yet we often don't sell out home games. Okaaaay.
There is a difference between going on a list for a ticket for a season, and individual game tickets, especially if the latter is one seat here, the other in a totally different stand over there. Someone on the list for lower Holte with his two mates might not want to be on his todd in the Upper Trinity corner after awaiting tickets to become available at short notice.
Post by: VillaTim on February 22, 2024, 09:44:31 AM
Watching the Spurs game the other day there was the common proliferation of Asian fans, quite a few brandishing Korean flags. Now let's say we signed Son or someone of equal stature, would we attract these fans? I think we would but not in the numbers they do for the simple reason of location. They can combine a visit to the football with a trip to one of the great cities of the world, we will never have that.Correct , London is perfect for the tourists eg. go watch Spurs in the afternoon then go Phantom of The Opera in the evening as just an example
The sudden jump in supporters at Woolwich, W Ham and Spurs after their move is almost definitely down to tourist fans.
Post by: Somniloquism on February 22, 2024, 09:50:30 AM
The same logic would apply when ST come up as they aren't always where you want them. Point being the 30k ion the ST list won't all buy a ST if the opportunity arose, it's a much smaller number in reality.30k on a waiting list yet we often don't sell out home games. Okaaaay.
There is a difference between going on a list for a ticket for a season, and individual game tickets, especially if the latter is one seat here, the other in a totally different stand over there. Someone on the list for lower Holte with his two mates might not want to be on his todd in the Upper Trinity corner after awaiting tickets to become available at short notice.
Obviously it would be a smaller number, however unless every season ticket holder quit over the price rises, the likelihood is your one would be replaced with someone from the list if you gave it up. And then you might have to wait a few years to be able to get one again if you changed your mind.
So yes, 30k might be a "scare" figure, but it could still be 5k of definite people which is still probably several years of waiting unless another mass exodus happens.
Personally, stick with your principles and leave if the costs go up.
Post by: VillaTim on February 22, 2024, 10:03:08 AM
Yep agree.The same logic would apply when ST come up as they aren't always where you want them. Point being the 30k ion the ST list won't all buy a ST if the opportunity arose, it's a much smaller number in reality.30k on a waiting list yet we often don't sell out home games. Okaaaay.
There is a difference between going on a list for a ticket for a season, and individual game tickets, especially if the latter is one seat here, the other in a totally different stand over there. Someone on the list for lower Holte with his two mates might not want to be on his todd in the Upper Trinity corner after awaiting tickets to become available at short notice.
Obviously it would be a smaller number, however unless every season ticket holder quit over the price rises, the likelihood is your one would be replaced with someone from the list if you gave it up. And then you might have to wait a few years to be able to get one again if you changed your mind.
So yes, 30k might be a "scare" figure, but it could still be 5k of definite people which is still probably several years of waiting unless another mass exodus happens.
Personally, stick with your principles and leave if the costs go up.
Post by: Des Little on February 22, 2024, 10:05:13 AM
London is a different country to Birmingham in many ways, not least the draw of your daytripper football fan.
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on February 22, 2024, 10:14:45 AM
Watching the Spurs game the other day there was the common proliferation of Asian fans, quite a few brandishing Korean flags. Now let's say we signed Son or someone of equal stature, would we attract these fans? I think we would but not in the numbers they do for the simple reason of location. They can combine a visit to the football with a trip to one of the great cities of the world, we will never have that.
The sudden jump in supporters at Woolwich, W Ham and Spurs after their move is almost definitely down to tourist fans.
London has the largest Korean community in Europe ( New Malden to be precise) so there’s a fan base for Son virtually on Spurs’ doorstep. I also read the other day that 12m out of South Korea’s 51m population describe themselves as Spurs fans. If only 10% of them actually buy a shirt, that’s a pile of money.
Post by: VillaTim on February 22, 2024, 10:19:08 AM
What happens when Son moves onWatching the Spurs game the other day there was the common proliferation of Asian fans, quite a few brandishing Korean flags. Now let's say we signed Son or someone of equal stature, would we attract these fans? I think we would but not in the numbers they do for the simple reason of location. They can combine a visit to the football with a trip to one of the great cities of the world, we will never have that.
The sudden jump in supporters at Woolwich, W Ham and Spurs after their move is almost definitely down to tourist fans.
London has the largest Korean community in Europe ( New Malden to be precise) so there’s a fan base for Son virtually on Spurs’ doorstep. I also read the other day that 12m out of South Korea’s 51m population describe themselves as Spurs fans. If only 10% of them actually buy a shirt, that’s a pile of money.
Post by: Rigadon on February 22, 2024, 10:26:12 AM
Post by: Somniloquism on February 22, 2024, 10:30:16 AM
Has the negative Heck stuff been reported anywhere other than twitter yet?
Most decent journalist places need proof from multiple sources. However they also want to maintain access to the club for other stories as well. So I doubt they would run anything unless everything is rock-solid.
Post by: Des Little on February 22, 2024, 10:35:04 AM
Post by: Demitri_C on February 22, 2024, 10:46:29 AM
Watching the Spurs game the other day there was the common proliferation of Asian fans, quite a few brandishing Korean flags. Now let's say we signed Son or someone of equal stature, would we attract these fans? I think we would but not in the numbers they do for the simple reason of location. They can combine a visit to the football with a trip to one of the great cities of the world, we will never have that.
The sudden jump in supporters at Woolwich, W Ham and Spurs after their move is almost definitely down to tourist fans.
London has the largest Korean community in Europe ( New Malden to be precise) so there’s a fan base for Son virtually on Spurs’ doorstep. I also read the other day that 12m out of South Korea’s 51m population describe themselves as Spurs fans. If only 10% of them actually buy a shirt, that’s a pile of money.
Im suprised we dont have more egyptian fans to be honest with our links with the owner
Post by: Rigadon on February 22, 2024, 10:48:43 AM
Has the negative Heck stuff been reported anywhere other than twitter yet?
Most decent journalist places need proof from multiple sources. However they also want to maintain access to the club for other stories as well. So I doubt they would run anything unless everything is rock-solid.
So the club will no doubt sit on it I suppose (if there is an 'it' to sit on). No point denying stuff if unconfirmed in the first place and not being discussed anywhere in the main stream.
What about the stuff about the FFP? I also haven't read anything in the mainstream about that either.
'Drip-drip' negative vibes going on. But anybody can write anything on X I suppose.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on February 22, 2024, 10:59:06 AM
Im suprised we dont have more egyptian fans to be honest with our links with the owner
They're waiting for us to move to the Alexandria Stadium.
Post by: Somniloquism on February 22, 2024, 11:04:06 AM
What about the stuff about the FFP? I also haven't read anything in the mainstream about that either.
'Drip-drip' negative vibes going on. But anybody can write anything on X I suppose.
Are you talking about the UEFA report that someone linked on here? Or the few mentions from The Atlantic which appeared to be un-true? Neither were Twitter stuff afaik.
Post by: Clampy on February 22, 2024, 11:26:02 AM
Im suprised we dont have more egyptian fans to be honest with our links with the owner
They're waiting for us to move to the Alexandria Stadium.
Or waiting for us to re-sign Nigel Sphinx.
Post by: Des Little on February 22, 2024, 11:40:41 AM
Post by: LeeB on February 22, 2024, 11:42:28 AM
Post by: VillaTim on February 22, 2024, 11:51:01 AM
what a surpriseWhat about the stuff about the FFP? I also haven't read anything in the mainstream about that either.
'Drip-drip' negative vibes going on. But anybody can write anything on X I suppose.
Are you talking about the UEFA report that someone linked on here? Or the few mentions from The Atlantic which appeared to be un-true? Neither were Twitter stuff afaik.
Post by: Rigadon on February 22, 2024, 11:52:51 AM
What about the stuff about the FFP? I also haven't read anything in the mainstream about that either.
'Drip-drip' negative vibes going on. But anybody can write anything on X I suppose.
Are you talking about the UEFA report that someone linked on here? Or the few mentions from The Atlantic which appeared to be un-true? Neither were Twitter stuff afaik.
I suppose I’m like most on that I only take a passing interest in stuff outside of the football. I think I’m talking about the UEFA stuff. Must concentrate more!!
Post by: Dogtanian on February 22, 2024, 12:22:16 PM
The reason being that the Premier League required all clubs to submit their accounts in December, so that any penalties can be decided, appealed, and applied in this season. As we aren't one of the two clubs already going down that process then we do not have an FFP breach this season.
That's not saying everything is great and we won't have to tighten belts to comply this summer.
Post by: Hookeysmith on February 22, 2024, 01:14:23 PM
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on February 22, 2024, 01:56:41 PM
I would be surprised if we have not looked at the Japanese players who ply their trade across the better European leagues - purely for a marketing point of view it would make us a mint.
Ayase Ueda at Feyenoord knows the back of the net but as we prefer to do our shopping in Spain, Takefusa Kubo at Real Sociedad would be the obvious choice. Unai does like his wingers.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on February 22, 2024, 02:17:34 PM
I would be surprised if we have not looked at the Japanese players who ply their trade across the better European leagues - purely for a marketing point of view it would make us a mint.
Instead, we're looking at Nico and Iñaki Williams to tap into the Welsh market. Sums Heck's tenure up.
Post by: paul_e on February 22, 2024, 02:34:24 PM
I would be surprised if we have not looked at the Japanese players who ply their trade across the better European leagues - purely for a marketing point of view it would make us a mint.
Ayase Ueda at Feyenoord knows the back of the net but as we prefer to do our shopping in Spain, Takefusa Kubo at Real Sociedad would be the obvious choice. Unai does like his wingers.
I think we did get linked to Kubo last summer at one point so maybe he is on the radar at least.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on February 22, 2024, 03:57:13 PM
Bobby Sands was a Villa fan wasn’t he? Sure I’ve read that?
Yes. Hence my post above.
Post by: Smirker on February 22, 2024, 05:41:54 PM
Post by: Dogtanian on March 06, 2024, 02:50:14 PM
"Aston Villa and Acorns have a relationship that is world-renowned, which was brought to global attention some 16 years ago when the hospice’s name appeared on the front of those famous claret and blue shirts..."
It'll be funny next year when he does deals with other sponsors to be on the shirt when our main sponsor can't be.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on March 06, 2024, 02:53:34 PM
Another crest design? So, a third one? Is this right?
Hope so, if it means the second one is binned. Now, if people could post some mock-ups of what they'd like to see.
Post by: Villan82 on March 06, 2024, 03:00:50 PM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on March 06, 2024, 03:02:42 PM
I'd rather just bin Heck. Settle on a new crest that is predominantly in the club colours of claret and blue and get cracking on building our new stand. In short, get us to being as good off the pitch as we are on it.
Hello....Christian?
Post by: Drummond on March 06, 2024, 03:08:58 PM
He really does talk like a total bullshitter, doesn't he:
"Aston Villa and Acorns have a relationship that is world-renowned, which was brought to global attention some 16 years ago when the hospice’s name appeared on the front of those famous claret and blue shirts..."
It'll be funny next year when he does deals with other sponsors to be on the shirt when our main sponsor can't be.
I'm not sure what's wrong with that to be honest, it's exactly what we need to be doing. There's nobody else out there going to big us up, we have to do it ourselves.
And next year is next year, right now this strikes a really positive note.
Post by: Dogtanian on March 06, 2024, 03:16:26 PM
He really does talk like a total bullshitter, doesn't he:
"Aston Villa and Acorns have a relationship that is world-renowned, which was brought to global attention some 16 years ago when the hospice’s name appeared on the front of those famous claret and blue shirts..."
It'll be funny next year when he does deals with other sponsors to be on the shirt when our main sponsor can't be.
I'm not sure what's wrong with that to be honest, it's exactly what we need to be doing. There's nobody else out there going to big us up, we have to do it ourselves.
And next year is next year, right now this strikes a really positive note.
The act is really good and positive. But the bullshitting is two-bit.
Aston Villa's Acorns partnership is world renowned? Christ. It's like something Birmingham City would say and we'd all laugh at the idea. And that this bloke is the guy responsible for our image, but talking like Arthur Daley trying to 'big up' a clapped out Cortina is exactly what we don't need.
Post by: Risso on March 06, 2024, 03:18:52 PM
Post by: pablo_picasso on March 06, 2024, 03:23:26 PM
Or would that be a problem with that shitty betting company?
Post by: Sexual Ealing on March 06, 2024, 03:32:18 PM
Post by: FatSam on March 06, 2024, 03:48:30 PM
Another crest design? So, a third one? Is this right?Where are you reading this?
Post by: Dogtanian on March 06, 2024, 03:53:08 PM
Another crest design? So, a third one? Is this right?Where are you reading this?
I think it actually says it on the new crest.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on March 06, 2024, 05:33:52 PM
It would be nice if we could actually have a link on the acorns news page on the OS to be able to purchase the shirt too.
Or would that be a problem with that shitty betting company?
Of course it'd be a problem with them!
Post by: pauliewalnuts on March 06, 2024, 05:34:24 PM
He really does talk like a total bullshitter, doesn't he:
"Aston Villa and Acorns have a relationship that is world-renowned, which was brought to global attention some 16 years ago when the hospice’s name appeared on the front of those famous claret and blue shirts..."
It'll be funny next year when he does deals with other sponsors to be on the shirt when our main sponsor can't be.
I'm not sure what's wrong with that to be honest, it's exactly what we need to be doing. There's nobody else out there going to big us up, we have to do it ourselves.
And next year is next year, right now this strikes a really positive note.
The act is really good and positive. But the bullshitting is two-bit.
Aston Villa's Acorns partnership is world renowned? Christ. It's like something Birmingham City would say and we'd all laugh at the idea. And that this bloke is the guy responsible for our image, but talking like Arthur Daley trying to 'big up' a clapped out Cortina is exactly what we don't need.
He probably didn't even say it, anyway, it's probably from the pen of Tommy Jordan.
Post by: Nev on March 06, 2024, 06:04:09 PM
Post by: danno on March 06, 2024, 06:32:53 PM
It would be nice if we could actually have a link on the acorns news page on the OS to be able to purchase the shirt too.
Or would that be a problem with that shitty betting company?
Of course it'd be a problem with them!
Especially as they'd outsell the version with the betting firm on.
Post by: pablo_picasso on March 06, 2024, 06:59:44 PM
It would be nice if we could actually have a link on the acorns news page on the OS to be able to purchase the shirt too.
Or would that be a problem with that shitty betting company?
Of course it'd be a problem with them!
Fair enough.
A shame though.
I would buy one...
Post by: pauliewalnuts on March 06, 2024, 07:01:10 PM
It would be nice if we could actually have a link on the acorns news page on the OS to be able to purchase the shirt too.
Or would that be a problem with that shitty betting company?
Of course it'd be a problem with them!
Fair enough.
A shame though.
I would buy one...
So would i - which is the reason they'd have a problem with it, they pay millions a year for it to be their logo.
Post by: Villan82 on March 06, 2024, 07:47:33 PM
Heck seems to be the latest individual to rock up at Villa to make big decisions about things that are core to the club's identity- crest and stadium being the biggies.
Take Liverpool as an example. Like us, they have had changes of owner, changes of personnel but they have had the same visual identity and they have backed the redevelopment of Anfield (unethical as aspects may have been, that is a separate point). Spurs successfully rebranded about 15 or 16 years ago and that logo they have has become iconic. They of course also flattened WHL and rebuilt on the site - they are now in a different stratosphere to the Spurs we grew up with.
We can all see the potential of this club but we always seem to get lumbered with executives who have a corner shop mentality. Since last summer that is the vibe Heck has given me.
Maybe he will prove us wrong but so far you could not describe what he's done as representing a new sleek Villa that thinks big.
Post by: Ads on March 06, 2024, 09:55:13 PM
Post by: VILLA MOLE on March 06, 2024, 09:59:00 PM
Sat next to me in a bar. Any requests?
where does he buy his Cagoules ?
Post by: Drummond on March 06, 2024, 10:10:02 PM
Sat next to me in a bar. Any requests?
When's the new crest coming?
What's happening with the ground?
Can he get me a ticket for the final?
Post by: Ads on March 06, 2024, 10:13:53 PM
Post by: Des Little on March 06, 2024, 10:15:55 PM
Sat next to me in a bar. Any requests?
Which window is he knocking on later?
Post by: Brazilian Villain on March 06, 2024, 10:40:42 PM
Sat next to me in a bar. Any requests?
Can you find out if he speaks Spanish?
Aside from that, just repeatedly tell him how much you love the round badge.
Post by: LeeB on March 07, 2024, 11:01:38 AM
Sat next to me in a bar. Any requests?
Which window is he knocking on later?
He'll need a ladder by the look of him.
Post by: Axl Rose on March 07, 2024, 11:18:22 AM
Sat next to me in a bar. Any requests?
Which window is he knocking on later?
He'll need a ladder by the look of him.
😂
Post by: Border villan on March 09, 2024, 08:57:11 PM
Post by: eamonn on March 10, 2024, 01:42:09 AM
Post by: Demitri_C on March 27, 2024, 02:13:37 PM
Post by: Risso on March 27, 2024, 02:18:30 PM
Post by: luke95 on March 27, 2024, 02:26:25 PM
Post by: Des Little on March 27, 2024, 02:31:01 PM
Post by: Ads on March 27, 2024, 02:33:09 PM
Post by: AV82EC on March 27, 2024, 02:38:11 PM
Post by: nick harper on March 27, 2024, 02:44:25 PM
Post by: eamonn on March 27, 2024, 02:56:34 PM
Post by: AV82EC on March 27, 2024, 02:58:22 PM
They should sell it as once-in-a-lifetime. Cos next season, let's be honest, we'll just do a Newcastle - hard-luck story in Europe and finish 8th in the league.
Fucking hell that’s some proper Brummie pessimism right there.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on March 27, 2024, 02:59:29 PM
They should sell it as once-in-a-lifetime. Cos next season, let's be honest, we'll just do a Newcastle - hard-luck story in Europe and finish 8th in the league.
You're effectively saying 'you're on the wire and can't get back. Let's talk about the living dead'. To 2025 Villa. Sad. Could have walked in the sky, but we stare at the wall.
Post by: Paul.S on March 27, 2024, 03:21:47 PM
If social media is to be believed he isnt going to be very popular in nwxt few weeks
I don’t believe anything until it’s announced but if true that’s a massive understatement.
Post by: wozwebs on March 27, 2024, 03:25:27 PM
Post by: Villan82 on March 27, 2024, 03:31:09 PM
If social media is to be believed he isnt going to be very popular in nwxt few weeks
I don’t believe anything until it’s announced but if true that’s a massive understatement.
Oh he's a proper clever clogs this Chris Heck, something or other about the global, yellow badges, expanding when you are successful being stupid. I just wouldn't understand.
Post by: eamonn on March 27, 2024, 03:39:17 PM
They should sell it as once-in-a-lifetime. Cos next season, let's be honest, we'll just do a Newcastle - hard-luck story in Europe and finish 8th in the league.
You're effectively saying 'you're on the wire and can't get back. Let's talk about the living dead'. To 2025 Villa. Sad. Could have walked in the sky, but we stare at the wall.
Can just picture Heck butchering "Where's all the money gone?" on an out-of-tune expensive, acoustic guitar why he cries big fat tears.
Post by: Drummond on March 27, 2024, 04:20:36 PM
Where were those on the waiting list when the upper Trinity was closed in the Championship? Because those fans have now decided they want to come because we are in the Prem and doing well we've got to stump up the extra cash or risk losing our season tickets. If things weren't going so well on the pitch there would be severe backlash for Heck to endure. The thing with making it over £1,000 is if we do slide back to mid/lower table mediocrity as we all know we are capable of doing, I doubt there'll be many full houses let alone with an extra 10,000 as previously planned.
I was at home with 3 very young kids. One of them is now a Villa fan and wants to go to the Villa with his dad (who wants a season ticket again now he can a/ afford it and b/ has a bit more time).
Because the team are doing well, in pure business terms it drives up the price. It's shit but it's the capitalist world we live in.
I wish there were a price cap on home tickets as well as away.
Post by: Mister E on March 27, 2024, 04:25:42 PM
This is pretty much what I've been expecting, and the discussions on here about FFP, revenue, Chumps league, etc should make this no surprise at all.If social media is to be believed he isnt going to be very popular in nwxt few weeksI don’t believe anything until it’s announced but if true that’s a massive understatement.
Post by: PeterWithe on March 27, 2024, 04:41:29 PM
Quote
I hope you're enjoying the international break.
As you may know, a meeting was scheduled for Wednesday 27th to discuss ticket prices for the forthcoming season. Unfortunately this meeting will no longer be going ahead. The Club reached out on Monday to inform us "due to circumstances beyond our control we need to cancel Wednesday’s informal FAB. We will be in touch with an alternative in due course."
Prices increased by a minimum of 10% for adults last season. Plus, 15% for the current season. Some experienced significantly higher increases as a result of recategorization of zones and changes to concessions. Last year according to the Office for National Statistics, 38% of adults were spending more on everyday items. For match-goers, ticket prices are often proving an expense too far. Though inflation is falling, costs are are still rising and suporters will be pushed into an affordability crisis in terms of being able to watch matches. The rising tide of ticket prices is a real concern and the Football Supporters Assosciation will be raising this with the football authorities at their next meeting.
We will keep you posted.
Kind regards
Mo Razzaq
Chair & Club Liaision
Post by: Paul.S on March 27, 2024, 04:42:10 PM
This is pretty much what I've been expecting, and the discussions on here about FFP, revenue, Chumps league, etc should make this no surprise at all.If social media is to be believed he isnt going to be very popular in nwxt few weeksI don’t believe anything until it’s announced but if true that’s a massive understatement.
I expected a double figure percentage rise but more like 10%. 20% is an absolute p**s take considering the 10% hike last season. It doesn’t surprise me though as today’s game is all about the money. As every season goes by this game drifts away from what I first loved about it.
I’ve got a decision to make in the next few years I reckon.
Post by: Walmley_Villa on March 27, 2024, 04:47:03 PM
Post by: wozwebs on March 27, 2024, 04:50:24 PM
Where were those on the waiting list when the upper Trinity was closed in the Championship? Because those fans have now decided they want to come because we are in the Prem and doing well we've got to stump up the extra cash or risk losing our season tickets. If things weren't going so well on the pitch there would be severe backlash for Heck to endure. The thing with making it over £1,000 is if we do slide back to mid/lower table mediocrity as we all know we are capable of doing, I doubt there'll be many full houses let alone with an extra 10,000 as previously planned.
I was at home with 3 very young kids. One of them is now a Villa fan and wants to go to the Villa with his dad (who wants a season ticket again now he can a/ afford it and b/ has a bit more time).
Because the team are doing well, in pure business terms it drives up the price. It's shit but it's the capitalist world we live in.
I wish there were a price cap on home tickets as well as away.
Appreciate that and individual circumstances of course but there were over 10,000 less fans in who didn't want to watch us play Hull or Millwall in the Championship and when prices were decent too. I don't believe for one minute the 30,000 waiting list for season tickets. It's just a ruse to keep us renewing.
I've said before they don't even want season ticket holders anymore. New fans every week who want to spend in the club shop and buy corporate packages is what they are after now. Shame the way it's all going.
Post by: Ads on March 27, 2024, 04:57:32 PM
Post by: dave.woodhall on March 27, 2024, 06:09:44 PM
Post by: Demitri_C on March 27, 2024, 06:52:08 PM
Pure speculation on my part of course 🙂
Post by: pauliewalnuts on March 27, 2024, 07:05:46 PM
Hmm cancelling the meeting. So if i put 2 + 2 together that seems to suggest hecks bottled facing the fans on the price increases
Pure speculation on my part of course 🙂
I think if he was really worried about it (I doubt he is, doesn't strike me as the type to GAF), he just wouldn't turn up. Think that's happened in the past? Just Ben Hatton there? May be wrong though.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on March 27, 2024, 07:29:20 PM
Hmm cancelling the meeting. So if i put 2 + 2 together that seems to suggest hecks bottled facing the fans on the price increases
Pure speculation on my part of course 🙂
Announcing increases just days before such a vital home game wouldn't have been the smartest move.
Post by: London Villan on March 27, 2024, 07:34:46 PM
Post by: Skerra on March 27, 2024, 07:39:36 PM
Post by: The Edge on March 27, 2024, 07:41:40 PM
Bit like binning the new stadium just before we were playing to go top of the league.So true. It's almost like he's a plant put there by our nearest and dearest to wreck our mood every time we get a little bit excited about the future.
Post by: Demitri_C on March 27, 2024, 08:38:32 PM
Hmm cancelling the meeting. So if i put 2 + 2 together that seems to suggest hecks bottled facing the fans on the price increases
Pure speculation on my part of course 🙂
Announcing increases just days before such a vital home game wouldn't have been the smartest move.
Good point. Im still not convinced 100% its coincidence though
Post by: Demitri_C on March 27, 2024, 08:39:36 PM
Hmm cancelling the meeting. So if i put 2 + 2 together that seems to suggest hecks bottled facing the fans on the price increases
Pure speculation on my part of course 🙂
I think if he was really worried about it (I doubt he is, doesn't strike me as the type to GAF), he just wouldn't turn up. Think that's happened in the past? Just Ben Hatton there? May be wrong though.
Yeah im not sure. I think purslow was at near enough all of them when he was here if im not mistaken
Post by: dave.woodhall on March 27, 2024, 08:47:27 PM
Post by: Stinkin_Thinkin on March 27, 2024, 09:11:07 PM
Post by: Lsvilla on March 27, 2024, 09:31:57 PM
I think it's classic tactics by the club, spread the rumours of 20% rise, then when the official announcment comes of 15% the fans will go phew, could of been worse lads.Exactly what I said on the Season Tickets 23/24 thread a couple of weeks ago when these rumours first surfaced. Although I went for 12%.
Post by: FatSam on March 27, 2024, 09:46:43 PM
I think it's classic tactics by the club, spread the rumours of 20% rise, then when the official announcment comes of 15% the fans will go phew, could of been worse lads.Yes, that sounds plausible.
Post by: VillaTim on March 27, 2024, 10:03:09 PM
Upto 20% increase in season ticket prices if you believe the rumours?If true , he can shove that up his yank arse sideways .
Post by: Percy McCarthy on March 27, 2024, 11:03:52 PM
If true, we're about to see how many of the waiting list are ready for action
Me three.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on March 27, 2024, 11:09:13 PM
Where were those on the waiting list when the upper Trinity was closed in the Championship? Because those fans have now decided they want to come because we are in the Prem and doing well we've got to stump up the extra cash or risk losing our season tickets. If things weren't going so well on the pitch there would be severe backlash for Heck to endure. The thing with making it over £1,000 is if we do slide back to mid/lower table mediocrity as we all know we are capable of doing, I doubt there'll be many full houses let alone with an extra 10,000 as previously planned.
I had little kids and my wife worked weekends if you must know, and I was already shelling out £500 a month for childcare in the week, so Saturday’s could fuck off. Me and my boy came occasionally but he wasn’t that arsed from the age of three and over the next few years. Now he and his sister are into it we go pretty regular.
Post by: VillaTim on March 27, 2024, 11:16:35 PM
No way working class families can afford this nowadays . I feel sorry for anyone with the dilemma now .
Post by: LeeB on March 28, 2024, 09:40:54 AM
Where were those on the waiting list when the upper Trinity was closed in the Championship? Because those fans have now decided they want to come because we are in the Prem and doing well we've got to stump up the extra cash or risk losing our season tickets. If things weren't going so well on the pitch there would be severe backlash for Heck to endure. The thing with making it over £1,000 is if we do slide back to mid/lower table mediocrity as we all know we are capable of doing, I doubt there'll be many full houses let alone with an extra 10,000 as previously planned.
I had little kids and my wife worked weekends if you must know, and I was already shelling out £500 a month for childcare in the week, so Saturday’s could fuck off. Me and my boy came occasionally but he wasn’t that arsed from the age of three and over the next few years. Now he and his sister are into it we go pretty regular.
I was on my arse financially at the time struggling to keep the roof over our heads doing any jobs I could (remember following our piss poor defeat at home to QPR after hammering Wulvz working nights on a shit job in Snow Hill), thankfully landed a job atuned to my skills (stop laughing over there) just after the play off loss and by the end of the next season I was able to get in the door for season tickets just before it shut.
I consider myself very lucky.
Post by: Demitri_C on March 28, 2024, 10:16:46 AM
I think it's classic tactics by the club, spread the rumours of 20% rise, then when the official announcment comes of 15% the fans will go phew, could of been worse lads.
Good theory that wouldnt suprise me
Post by: VillaTim on March 28, 2024, 10:29:02 AM
15-20% is a piss take.
Post by: Mister E on March 28, 2024, 05:10:04 PM
I was expecting these tactics but i had in my head 10% and a 6% increase as announced by other clubs recently.it really isn't if the club needs to raise revenue; which it does.
15-20% is a piss take.
I'm not buying into having to pay more but I understand why they're doing it.
Post by: VillaTim on March 28, 2024, 05:34:41 PM
Of course its a piss take . It would be 3 years running of way above inflation increases . Everyone has a choice though some will renew , some won't.I was expecting these tactics but i had in my head 10% and a 6% increase as announced by other clubs recently.it really isn't if the club needs to raise revenue; which it does.
15-20% is a piss take.
I'm not buying into having to pay more but I understand why they're doing it.
Post by: dave.woodhall on March 28, 2024, 05:56:08 PM
Post by: Gareth on March 28, 2024, 06:00:18 PM
Why is everyone suddenly taking a rumour that has no basis in fact as Gospel?
It gives something to moan about Dave…no point in waiting for facts….thank god in 48 hours we’ll actually have a game to distract us :-)
Post by: Paul.S on March 28, 2024, 06:06:45 PM
I was expecting these tactics but i had in my head 10% and a 6% increase as announced by other clubs recently.it really isn't if the club needs to raise revenue; which it does.
15-20% is a piss take.
I'm not buying into having to pay more but I understand why they're doing it.
t’s a massive piss take if true but I understand as well. If we get to where we want it’ll be worth it but it’s a huge “if” and I just wonder where it all ends.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on March 28, 2024, 06:32:23 PM
Why is everyone suddenly taking a rumour that has no basis in fact as Gospel?
Especially odd when it's not good news.
Post by: OCD on March 28, 2024, 07:20:22 PM
Post by: VillaTim on March 28, 2024, 07:22:15 PM
Post by: OCD on March 28, 2024, 07:32:48 PM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on March 28, 2024, 07:39:18 PM
I imagine their starting prices was already much higher than ours.
I hope I don't have to dig out my calculator and explain why 10% of £700 is less than 6% of £1,500.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on March 28, 2024, 08:31:53 PM
I imagine their starting prices was already much higher than ours.
I hope I don't have to dig out my calculator and explain why 10% of £700 is less than 6% of £1,500.
I saw a thing on Reddit that said calculators deliberately get percentages wrong because of vaccinations so you're wrong. Here's a percentage I did when I was bored at work: 4.2%. I'm not saying that's what the percentage will be, but it's better than that 8% bullshit.
Post by: Gareth on March 28, 2024, 08:33:33 PM
I imagine their starting prices was already much higher than ours.
I hope I don't have to dig out my calculator and explain why 10% of £700 is less than 6% of £1,500.
I saw a thing on Reddit that said calculators deliberately get percentages wrong because of vaccinations so you're wrong. Here's a percentage I did when I was bored at work: 4.2%. I'm not saying that's what the percentage will be, but it's better than that 8% bullshit.
BOOBIES can never be wrong
Post by: Rodders on March 28, 2024, 08:46:30 PM
I imagine their starting prices was already much higher than ours.
I hope I don't have to dig out my calculator and explain why 10% of £700 is less than 6% of £1,500.
I saw a thing on Reddit that said calculators deliberately get percentages wrong because of vaccinations so you're wrong. Here's a percentage I did when I was bored at work: 4.2%. I'm not saying that's what the percentage will be, but it's better than that 8% bullshit.
BOOBIES can never be wrong
55378008 disagrees.
Post by: Ads on March 28, 2024, 09:06:45 PM
I believe that is checkmate, gentlemen.
Post by: Risso on March 28, 2024, 09:14:59 PM
Post by: Ads on March 28, 2024, 09:19:21 PM
Post by: TelfordVilla on March 28, 2024, 09:41:43 PM
( . Y . )Made me chuckle 😃
I believe that is checkmate, gentlemen.
Post by: Risso on March 28, 2024, 09:46:02 PM
If you can make it on a calculator, it's got to be mathsish.
Calculators don't usually have a letter Y!
Post by: Brazilian Villain on March 28, 2024, 10:07:44 PM
Check the innumerate lawyer...
In his heart of hearts he knows numbers are sexy, as are their purveyors. Although phone shop staff do wonder when I ask them for all their available SIMs, so I can pick the number that's easiest to remember/most mathematically pleasing. All the more so if they've asked why it is.
Post by: VillaTim on March 28, 2024, 11:01:42 PM
I get we have to boost our income but fleecing the fans will only add a drop in the ocean required and benchmarking our ticket prices against clubs who have regularly won trophies is where it gets dangerous .
Post by: Somniloquism on March 28, 2024, 11:07:05 PM
Just need to be careful when comparing ticket prices vs Clubs who have been delivering silverware regularly over the last 25 years .
I get we have to boost our income but fleecing the fans will only add a drop in the ocean required and benchmarking our ticket prices against clubs who have regularly won trophies is where it gets dangerous .
So we can use Spurs as the benchmark then?
Post by: Drummond on March 28, 2024, 11:39:23 PM
Post by: VillaTim on March 28, 2024, 11:45:01 PM
Haha yeah they are the outlier for sure , basically won fuck all but badge themselves up as serial title winners. There's the London factor plus a shiny new stadium smell so they'll argue that for their pricing . Guess they have made a champions league final which was funny watching them shit their pants in.Just need to be careful when comparing ticket prices vs Clubs who have been delivering silverware regularly over the last 25 years .
I get we have to boost our income but fleecing the fans will only add a drop in the ocean required and benchmarking our ticket prices against clubs who have regularly won trophies is where it gets dangerous .
So we can use Spurs as the benchmark then?
Post by: Skerra on March 29, 2024, 12:18:27 PM
Post by: ChicagoLion on March 29, 2024, 12:19:45 PM
Have to take into account that people in Brum don’t get London wages either.Or Korean.
Post by: Ads on March 29, 2024, 12:46:44 PM
If you can make it on a calculator, it's got to be mathsish.
Calculators don't usually have a letter Y!
Mine did at school
Post by: Ducksworthy on March 29, 2024, 01:01:39 PM
If you can make it on a calculator, it's got to be mathsish.
Calculators don't usually have a letter Y!
Mine did at school
If I recall, one used the pi symbol rather than a Y.
Post by: VillaTim on March 29, 2024, 08:54:49 PM
Have to take into account that people in Brum don’t get London wages either.Exactly this .
Post by: pauliewalnuts on March 29, 2024, 09:25:50 PM
Have to take into account that people in Brum don’t get London wages either.Exactly this .
There are plenty of people in the West Midlands who earn decent money.
Yes, London is awash with cash, but it's not like that means everyone else subsists on baked beans and scratchcards.
Post by: adrenachrome on March 29, 2024, 09:43:04 PM
Have to take into account that people in Brum don’t get London wages either.Exactly this .
There are plenty of people in the West Midlands who earn decent money.
Yes, London is awash with cash, but it's not like that means everyone else subsists on baked beans and scratchcards.
That's true, but if you walk through most of the main towns of Brum, it's a fucking disaster. Count the Vape Shops and Nail Bars.
Even Worcester has gone to fuck.
Post by: VillaTim on March 29, 2024, 10:41:31 PM
Those shops are all fronts for drug laundering money, add Turkish barbers to this list and baby reveal shops. Anyway that's probably for another thread.Have to take into account that people in Brum don’t get London wages either.Exactly this .
There are plenty of people in the West Midlands who earn decent money.
Yes, London is awash with cash, but it's not like that means everyone else subsists on baked beans and scratchcards.
That's true, but if you walk through most of the main towns of Brum, it's a fucking disaster. Count the Vape Shops and Nail Bars.
Even Worcester has gone to fuck.
In terms of pricing if we'd run some trophies already I'd be a bit more understanding of this hyper inflation model, but we haven't so it feels premature.
Post by: Skerra on March 30, 2024, 12:09:02 AM
Post by: tomd2103 on March 30, 2024, 12:56:27 AM
Paulie, can only speak for myself but my pension doesn’t get me that far in London or Brum come to that. I was there when Villa could nowhere fill the ground but, alas, if they go ahead with 10% or more increases, my long, long support at the ground will have to sadly come to an end. So, not because I don’t want to renew my season ticket but rather being priced out of it.
I think there is a limit as well where some people will say that they aren't going to pay a certain price whether they can afford it or not.
Post by: eamonn on March 30, 2024, 01:35:54 AM
Have to take into account that people in Brum don’t get London wages either.Exactly this .
There are plenty of people in the West Midlands who earn decent money.
Yes, London is awash with cash, but it's not like that means everyone else subsists on baked beans and scratchcards.
And briquettes.
Post by: Skerra on March 30, 2024, 11:25:45 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on March 30, 2024, 11:34:02 PM
And for the 3rd match running, due to health issues, my brother has not been able to attend and, for the 3rd match running, none of our 30,000 on the waiting list wanted to take the seat up!! Does make you wonder.
Single seats though innit.
Post by: VillaTim on March 30, 2024, 11:36:20 PM
Post by: Skerra on March 30, 2024, 11:56:06 PM
Post by: PeterWithesShin on March 31, 2024, 12:15:31 AM
Post by: ChicagoLion on March 31, 2024, 09:12:19 AM
Only tickets showing as available yesterday and this morning was LG/TV types. I also saw someone that couldn't go today saying the club hadn't made their seat available to buy through the resale option.They don’t unless the LG TV sell out.
Post by: Skerra on March 31, 2024, 10:12:51 AM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on March 31, 2024, 10:22:18 AM
Paulie, if I was on the 30,000 waiting list, I’d bust a gut for the seat. I’m not that big so one seat would be well enough for me!
I think it’s more complex than that. I’m more likely to buy a season ticket than I am go to a match last minute through the resale thing and buy a seat on my own - I genuinely can’t imagine ever doing that for anything that wasn’t a cup final or some such.
Post by: purpletrousers on March 31, 2024, 10:37:14 AM
And for the 3rd match running, due to health issues, my brother has not been able to attend and, for the 3rd match running, none of our 30,000 on the waiting list wanted to take the seat up!! Does make you wonder.
I’m confused, are the club accepting tickets back to be re-sold on the grounds of it being a (normal prices) sell out, but then not putting them up for re-sale, because there are o er priced options they wish to sell first?
Apart from the madness of empty seats which is obviously happening (chap next to me just isn’t savvy enough to do it, but can imagine the next pair along might, but sat next to 4 empty seats in the family zone)
My above summary can’t be right, or if it is, IT’s NOT RIGHT!!
(and they might even be breaching their own resale stuff???)
Agreed single tix less attractive but eg if KO time doesn’t suit my little one/s I might pass on a pair and pick up a single…
Post by: Dogtanian on March 31, 2024, 10:45:12 AM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on March 31, 2024, 10:50:38 AM
I thought it was in the T&Cs that the club only has to offer your returned ticket for sale if they have sold out?
Yes, and I don't think it's 'have to' more a case of they'll only consider it once the match is sold out. They clearly don't include LG and TV seats in that.
Post by: WassallVillain on March 31, 2024, 10:55:17 AM
Post by: Des Little on March 31, 2024, 12:14:51 PM
Post by: chrisw1 on March 31, 2024, 01:51:59 PM
That is pretty disgraceful. My ticket has never failed to sell on the few times I've put it up, but if they're now adopting that approach it becomes entirely unworkable. I thought previously they stopped selling TV & LG a few days before and then sold the seats as standard. Have they now stopped doing that in an attempt to squeeze a few more GA+ sales?Only tickets showing as available yesterday and this morning was LG/TV types. I also saw someone that couldn't go today saying the club hadn't made their seat available to buy through the resale option.They don’t unless the LG TV sell out.
Post by: Risso on March 31, 2024, 01:55:23 PM
That is pretty disgraceful. My ticket has never failed to sell on the few times I've put it up, but if they're now adopting that approach it becomes entirely unworkable. I thought previously they stopped selling TV & LG a few days before and then sold the seats as standard. Have they now stopped doing that in an attempt to squeeze a few more GA+ sales?
Yep, they were still trying to flog GA+ tickets around lunch time yesterday afternoon.
Post by: chrisw1 on March 31, 2024, 01:58:00 PM
Still desperately trying to make a silk purse out of a sow's ear.That is pretty disgraceful. My ticket has never failed to sell on the few times I've put it up, but if they're now adopting that approach it becomes entirely unworkable. I thought previously they stopped selling TV & LG a few days before and then sold the seats as standard. Have they now stopped doing that in an attempt to squeeze a few more GA+ sales?
Yep, they were still trying to flog GA+ tickets around lunch time yesterday afternoon.
Post by: tomd2103 on March 31, 2024, 02:05:28 PM
That is pretty disgraceful. My ticket has never failed to sell on the few times I've put it up, but if they're now adopting that approach it becomes entirely unworkable. I thought previously they stopped selling TV & LG a few days before and then sold the seats as standard. Have they now stopped doing that in an attempt to squeeze a few more GA+ sales?
Yep, they were still trying to flog GA+ tickets around lunch time yesterday afternoon.
I just think they are overpriced for what they are.
Post by: VillaTim on March 31, 2024, 02:36:25 PM
Post by: nordenvillain on March 31, 2024, 03:44:08 PM
Normally there's 3 of us, my 2 adult sons and myself. We are Claret members and have only managed to get seats in the Holte for 3 games so far out of the 10 league games that we've attended. The European games have been different, we've seen all 5 home games so far and managed to get in the Holte on 4 occasions, in fact for 2 of the games were in seats in K2 that were fantastic in the row right behind the exit stairs. I've been attending VP since 1959 and am virtually speechless in how the club are so poorly marketing the games to us, the fans. I live in Rochdale, so interact with friends who are STH's, and not, of Man City, Man United, Everton and Liverpool. With the exception of Man United, whose disregard for their fans is legendary, the others seem to listen to their fans more than Villa do. I know that Chris Heck came with a reputation for what he did at the Philadelphia 76's, but there is a different business model between the American sporting franchise and English football. I'm not a 'stick my head in the sand' and 'we've always done it this way' kind of guy, but I would be interested to know from others more attune with the American system whether you can succeed by not taking your fanbase with you. The disaster that is the cancellation of the North Stand rebuild and the imposition of the Lower Grounds & Terrace View without any apparent consultation or noticeable market research leaves me more than scratching my head. We would love to have ST's and are on the waiting list but is Mr Heck that concerned with true fans and what we think ?
P.S We get the train to and from Tame Bridge Parkway and last night whilst waiting for a northbound train on the platform, an empty "Football Special" train pulled into Witton going towards New Street - Hallelujah, at last a bit of common sense has been used. What I would add is that it was a 4 coach one, why not use a 6 coach one but it is a start I guess.
Post by: Border villan on March 31, 2024, 03:56:42 PM
Post by: Dogtanian on March 31, 2024, 04:03:24 PM
A few games ago in response to complaints about the racket(music?) pre game the volume was turned down to only ear splitting, yesterday it was again so loud you could not hold a conversation. Come on Heck get this sorted.
It is way too loud. The Holte was singing as the teams lined up, but the bloody PA was trying to drown us out.
Post by: VillaTim on March 31, 2024, 04:10:02 PM
Guess a lot of people may be away for Easter half term / school hols etc .
Post by: Exeter 77 on March 31, 2024, 07:41:40 PM
Post by: Chris Harte on April 02, 2024, 04:06:44 PM
It's not clear to me whether it has sold or not. It's a bit soon to receive my 80% of average ticket price yet, and the (lack of) detail on the site doesn't really help.
(https://i.ibb.co/vxZDzZn/Untitled.png) (https://ibb.co/vxZDzZn)
The icons in the top row are for a game earlier in the season that I managed to the sell the ticket on. The one below was for a game I'd attended. There's no key on the page to say what's what. I suspect the lack of a "left-arrow" icon on the Wolves ticket suggests is hasn't sold.
Post by: VillaTim on April 02, 2024, 04:59:13 PM
Post by: Skerra on April 02, 2024, 10:47:59 PM
Post by: ChicagoLion on April 03, 2024, 07:11:52 AM
In the past, if the Club put my ticket up for re-sale, it always sold. They’ve obviously changed the system and now have to sell out their extortionate tickets first. If that’s the case, it’s just another kick in the teeth for us supporters, sorry no, I meant customers!!Consumers!
We have to mentally separate our club and what it stands for from the cheapskate activity that now seems to pervade it’s contact with supporters.
Post by: rob_bridge on April 03, 2024, 08:27:09 AM
That is pretty disgraceful. My ticket has never failed to sell on the few times I've put it up, but if they're now adopting that approach it becomes entirely unworkable. I thought previously they stopped selling TV & LG a few days before and then sold the seats as standard. Have they now stopped doing that in an attempt to squeeze a few more GA+ sales?Only tickets showing as available yesterday and this morning was LG/TV types. I also saw someone that couldn't go today saying the club hadn't made their seat available to buy through the resale option.They don’t unless the LG TV sell out.
That is shite for people like me who can't get to many games but sometimes can nab a spare from season ticket non attendee - Leicester and Forest last season were 2 such instances.
Post by: Drummond on April 03, 2024, 08:39:34 AM
Post by: Gareth on April 03, 2024, 09:18:29 AM
It just encourages people to shift tickets on to mates etc. That and the black market.
Absolutely this, why bother trying to use their system that is not designed to help the customer
Post by: LeeS on April 03, 2024, 09:22:41 AM
Paulie, can only speak for myself but my pension doesn’t get me that far in London or Brum come to that. I was there when Villa could nowhere fill the ground but, alas, if they go ahead with 10% or more increases, my long, long support at the ground will have to sadly come to an end. So, not because I don’t want to renew my season ticket but rather being priced out of it.
Isn't the state pension going up by 8.5% this year? Along with the 10% last year too. I'm not being flippant, that is a serious question. That must help some pensioners, surely. Especially with fuel prices coming down.
Post by: VillaTim on April 03, 2024, 09:50:13 AM
It just encourages people to shift tickets on to mates etc. That and the black market.You can't really sell on the black market unless you're willing to trust somebody with your plastic card ST and then hope they send it you back afterwards.
Post by: London Villan on April 03, 2024, 10:15:51 AM
Post by: Flamingo Lane on April 03, 2024, 10:19:08 AM
Post by: DB on April 03, 2024, 10:53:18 AM
As a matter of interest, does anyone know how many Claret members there are? I'm one, and am expecting a big increase in the membership fee this summer.
I am and so is my son. Good value at the moment, as he loves the bits he gets when he renews.
Prob will go up or they may tier it.
Post by: Des Little on April 03, 2024, 11:16:56 AM
It just encourages people to shift tickets on to mates etc. That and the black market.
Exactly this. I wouldn't be impressed missing out on the resale money because of Purslow/Heck's vanity project at all.
Post by: algy on April 03, 2024, 11:25:53 AM
As a matter of interest, does anyone know how many Claret members there are? I'm one, and am expecting a big increase in the membership fee this summer.Yeah - me and my dad are members then we share another between the 3 kids. OK paying whatever it works out as - about £100 a season IIRC - so that we can all sit together and so on.
Hope it doesn't go up by much. It's affordable at the moment, but it is a big lump to find on top of tickets.
Post by: frank black on April 03, 2024, 11:31:19 AM
Paulie, can only speak for myself but my pension doesn’t get me that far in London or Brum come to that. I was there when Villa could nowhere fill the ground but, alas, if they go ahead with 10% or more increases, my long, long support at the ground will have to sadly come to an end. So, not because I don’t want to renew my season ticket but rather being priced out of it.
Isn't the state pension going up by 8.5% this year? Along with the 10% last year too. I'm not being flippant, that is a serious question. That must help some pensioners, surely. Especially with fuel prices coming down.
It does, but the frozen personal allowance results in getting it in one hand and it being taken from the other. Yes it’s extra money overall, but many are now paying tax whereas they weren’t before.
Anyhow, there are wealthy pensioners and also those that can’t afford it. A tough choice to be made by the club when it comes to concessions and looking at the way “entertainment” is charged in general, I’d expect most concessions to cease at some point. Probably just be some kids prices and that it.
Post by: LeeS on April 03, 2024, 12:23:24 PM
Paulie, can only speak for myself but my pension doesn’t get me that far in London or Brum come to that. I was there when Villa could nowhere fill the ground but, alas, if they go ahead with 10% or more increases, my long, long support at the ground will have to sadly come to an end. So, not because I don’t want to renew my season ticket but rather being priced out of it.
Isn't the state pension going up by 8.5% this year? Along with the 10% last year too. I'm not being flippant, that is a serious question. That must help some pensioners, surely. Especially with fuel prices coming down.
It does, but the frozen personal allowance results in getting it in one hand and it being taken from the other. Yes it’s extra money overall, but many are now paying tax whereas they weren’t before.
Anyhow, there are wealthy pensioners and also those that can’t afford it. A tough choice to be made by the club when it comes to concessions and looking at the way “entertainment” is charged in general, I’d expect most concessions to cease at some point. Probably just be some kids prices and that it.
Excellent point about the tax, Frank.
This whole thing about ticket process is driven by PSR. It is yet another unintended consequence - that it forces clubs like ours to price out their loyal fans. I bet no-one thought of that. Just like another recently invented "solution", VAR, I'd just ditch it and accept that sometimes clubs got into difficulty.
Post by: Dr Butler on April 03, 2024, 12:53:41 PM
Transfer the ticket to another reference and they send you an eticket which you can then share.
this is exactly what I do when I cannot make a game(usually midweek) works a treat.
UTV
The Doc
Post by: Duncan Shaw on April 03, 2024, 12:56:33 PM
Me and my lad too, expires in June. I reckon they will tier it too.As a matter of interest, does anyone know how many Claret members there are? I'm one, and am expecting a big increase in the membership fee this summer.Yeah - me and my dad are members then we share another between the 3 kids. OK paying whatever it works out as - about £100 a season IIRC - so that we can all sit together and so on.
Hope it doesn't go up by much. It's affordable at the moment, but it is a big lump to find on top of tickets.
Post by: Duncan Shaw on April 03, 2024, 01:07:00 PM
The concierge at our hotel (yes get me) asked where I was from "London" (easier than explaining where Epsom is) my answer. You Aresenal or Chelsea? No Aston Villa. Oh wow you doing very well this year, you like Emery? Blah blah blah good chat about the Villa. Anyway, then he said Barca are at home on Saturday, I can get you tickets if you want to go? My wife said surely it's sold out? He said we can always get tickets for tourists.
Walking round on the Saturday there were obviously thousands of people who had just arrived in for the game, shirts everywhere, the club shops in the City rammed with people spending. I know it's Barca and they are one of the very biggest, but that is the level that we will need to head towards to compete. It just blew my mind a bit how far ahead of us this is.
The likes of Heck know this and that will be his job to deliver it and if he does, it's going to be unpalatable at times for us Joe average punters who've been going down for years.
Post by: chrisw1 on April 03, 2024, 02:02:52 PM
Post by: Des Little on April 03, 2024, 02:23:29 PM
Post by: Villan82 on April 03, 2024, 03:16:33 PM
That is the head scratcher for me. If he's chasing the tourist dollar, what better way to get it than build a new stand where they can all go, at inflated prices and having already spent in the club shop? If he's waiting for miserable bastards like me to increase (or even begin) matchday spend then he's in for a very long wait.
I think it's a mix of he's played politics because it was Purslow's plan, he looks at what Chelsea squeeze out of a smaller ground than ours and he's just thinking of the accounts while he's here.
Should have gone ahead and built it. Would be ideal for where we could be two years from now.
Post by: VillaTim on April 03, 2024, 03:20:23 PM
Do you sell it via online ticket agencies or just amongst mates .Transfer the ticket to another reference and they send you an eticket which you can then share.
this is exactly what I do when I cannot make a game(usually midweek) works a treat.
UTV
The Doc
Post by: London Villan on April 03, 2024, 03:53:13 PM
But if you wanted to you could sell them on that way.
Post by: tomd2103 on April 03, 2024, 06:16:21 PM
Nothing wrong with tourist and corporate fans. If they'd built the new North we could have had 10k of them with little impact on the traditional match-going fans. Obviously a bit of seat shifting in the Trinity but that will happen ultimately anyway.
I just can't see it with the tourist angle unfortunately. In this country, London is a global city with hundreds of thousands of tourists milling about who want to see a Premier League game. Liverpool and Manchester United are the tourist attraction in those two cities.
I'm from Birmingham and I love our city, but we haven't got the volume of tourists in the city, let alone large numbers who want to watch a football game.
HS2 and a city centre ground could change that I suppose, but at what price?
Post by: London Villan on April 03, 2024, 06:41:09 PM
Post by: algy on April 03, 2024, 06:41:19 PM
I wonder if that's factored in to Heck's thinking. That currently we don't have the booking of tourists coming to the club to justify a big expansion, and we need to concentrate on the marketing side of things first - the 150th anniversary and whatnot being part of that - to get that interest. Tourists aren't going to magically turn up just because we have a big stand.Nothing wrong with tourist and corporate fans. If they'd built the new North we could have had 10k of them with little impact on the traditional match-going fans. Obviously a bit of seat shifting in the Trinity but that will happen ultimately anyway.
I just can't see it with the tourist angle unfortunately. In this country, London is a global city with hundreds of thousands of tourists milling about who want to see a Premier League game. Liverpool and Manchester United are the tourist attraction in those two cities.
I'm from Birmingham and I love our city, but we haven't got the volume of tourists in the city, let alone large numbers who want to watch a football game.
HS2 and a city centre ground could change that I suppose, but at what price?
I dunno, it's one possibility of many so may be something utterly different. Just a bit of random speculation.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on April 03, 2024, 06:46:55 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on April 03, 2024, 06:59:43 PM
Yes Manchester United and Liverpool are the tourist attraction in their cities but we would be the same in ours if we didn’t do stuff like go almost thirty years without winning anything.
Post by: dave.woodhall on April 03, 2024, 07:04:01 PM
Nothing wrong with tourist and corporate fans. If they'd built the new North we could have had 10k of them with little impact on the traditional match-going fans. Obviously a bit of seat shifting in the Trinity but that will happen ultimately anyway.
I just can't see it with the tourist angle unfortunately. In this country, London is a global city with hundreds of thousands of tourists milling about who want to see a Premier League game. Liverpool and Manchester United are the tourist attraction in those two cities.
I'm from Birmingham and I love our city, but we haven't got the volume of tourists in the city, let alone large numbers who want to watch a football game.
HS2 and a city centre ground could change that I suppose, but at what price?
Take a walk round New Street and the surroundings on a Saturday afternoon and see the number of weekenders.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on April 03, 2024, 07:05:17 PM
Post by: Dogtanian on April 03, 2024, 07:08:42 PM
Nothing wrong with tourist and corporate fans. If they'd built the new North we could have had 10k of them with little impact on the traditional match-going fans. Obviously a bit of seat shifting in the Trinity but that will happen ultimately anyway.
I just can't see it with the tourist angle unfortunately. In this country, London is a global city with hundreds of thousands of tourists milling about who want to see a Premier League game. Liverpool and Manchester United are the tourist attraction in those two cities.
I'm from Birmingham and I love our city, but we haven't got the volume of tourists in the city, let alone large numbers who want to watch a football game.
HS2 and a city centre ground could change that I suppose, but at what price?
Take a walk round New Street and the surroundings on a Saturday afternoon and see the number of weekenders.
Sorry, but why do you say this?
Loads of people visit Birmingham and the midlands. They don’t carry big signs about proclaiming themselves as tourists.
We are hardly at the arse end of the earth. We’re like just over an hour away on a train, it’s nothing. It’s like saying people won’t bother going to Versaille because it’s not in the centre of Paris.
Edit: was replying to tomd not Dave!
Post by: tomd2103 on April 03, 2024, 09:23:45 PM
Nothing wrong with tourist and corporate fans. If they'd built the new North we could have had 10k of them with little impact on the traditional match-going fans. Obviously a bit of seat shifting in the Trinity but that will happen ultimately anyway.
I just can't see it with the tourist angle unfortunately. In this country, London is a global city with hundreds of thousands of tourists milling about who want to see a Premier League game. Liverpool and Manchester United are the tourist attraction in those two cities.
I'm from Birmingham and I love our city, but we haven't got the volume of tourists in the city, let alone large numbers who want to watch a football game.
HS2 and a city centre ground could change that I suppose, but at what price?
Take a walk round New Street and the surroundings on a Saturday afternoon and see the number of weekenders.
I do have a walk round there from time to time and would guess that most of the people might be there for shopping, a theatre show or a concert at the NIA rather than to watch football Dave.
Post by: Lastfootstamper on April 03, 2024, 09:25:26 PM
Post by: tomd2103 on April 03, 2024, 09:39:54 PM
Nothing wrong with tourist and corporate fans. If they'd built the new North we could have had 10k of them with little impact on the traditional match-going fans. Obviously a bit of seat shifting in the Trinity but that will happen ultimately anyway.
I just can't see it with the tourist angle unfortunately. In this country, London is a global city with hundreds of thousands of tourists milling about who want to see a Premier League game. Liverpool and Manchester United are the tourist attraction in those two cities.
I'm from Birmingham and I love our city, but we haven't got the volume of tourists in the city, let alone large numbers who want to watch a football game.
HS2 and a city centre ground could change that I suppose, but at what price?
Take a walk round New Street and the surroundings on a Saturday afternoon and see the number of weekenders.
Sorry, but why do you say this?
Loads of people visit Birmingham and the midlands. They don’t carry big signs about proclaiming themselves as tourists.
We are hardly at the arse end of the earth. We’re like just over an hour away on a train, it’s nothing. It’s like saying people won’t bother going to Versaille because it’s not in the centre of Paris.
Edit: was replying to tomd not Dave!
I said it because I don't think there are as many tourists in Birmingham to bridge the gap with places like Barcelona and London!
I agree with the points made above that a period of success might well change things a bit.
Post by: Dante Lavelli on April 03, 2024, 10:01:41 PM
Joining the dots is the hard bit, but nothing the club couldn’t arrange with a decent partnership with hotels/airlines etc.
Post by: dave.woodhall on April 03, 2024, 10:37:29 PM
Post by: tomd2103 on April 03, 2024, 10:40:11 PM
I think you’re underselling Birmingham. It’s a decent base for a day visiting the Cotswolds, a day doing Shakespeare/warwick castle stuff then a day at the match followed by fancy grub in the city. Throw in a curry/theatre etc and that’s a decent weekend away. birmingham international being the hub that opens up loads of potential customers.
Joining the dots is the hard bit, but nothing the club couldn’t arrange with a decent partnership with hotels/airlines etc.
I'm not underselling the city at all. As I say, I'm from the city and like spending time in the city centre. I'm biased, but have always felt that it is a good weekend break, as it's one of the few cities where everything you might go for (shopping, hotels, concert at the NIA, theatres) are all walking distance from the main train station.
That said, the discussion is regarding people who are potentially going to come to the city to watch Villa. As others have said, maybe more will come if we have some success, maybe more would come if there were more tickets available, maybe more would come if we moved to a new ground in the city centre.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on April 03, 2024, 10:41:42 PM
I think you’re underselling Birmingham. It’s a decent base for a day visiting the Cotswolds, a day doing Shakespeare/warwick castle stuff then a day at the match followed by fancy grub in the city. Throw in a curry/theatre etc and that’s a decent weekend away. birmingham international being the hub that opens up loads of potential customers.
Joining the dots is the hard bit, but nothing the club couldn’t arrange with a decent partnership with hotels/airlines etc.
I'm not underselling the city at all. As I say, I'm from the city and like spending time in the city centre. I'm biased, but have always felt that it is a good weekend break, as it's one of the few cities where everything you might go for (shopping, hotels, concert at the NIA, theatres) are all walking distance from the main train station.
That said, the discussion is regarding people who are potentially going to come to the city to watch Villa. As others have said, maybe more will come if we have some success, maybe more would come if there were more tickets available, maybe more would come if we moved to a new ground in the city centre.
Surely the salient point is that, even if there were a few thousand 'outsiders' wanting to go to a match these days, they wouldn't be able to, because they wouldn't be able to get tickets.
Post by: Des Little on April 03, 2024, 10:57:49 PM
Post by: tomd2103 on April 03, 2024, 11:06:15 PM
I think you’re underselling Birmingham. It’s a decent base for a day visiting the Cotswolds, a day doing Shakespeare/warwick castle stuff then a day at the match followed by fancy grub in the city. Throw in a curry/theatre etc and that’s a decent weekend away. birmingham international being the hub that opens up loads of potential customers.
Joining the dots is the hard bit, but nothing the club couldn’t arrange with a decent partnership with hotels/airlines etc.
I'm not underselling the city at all. As I say, I'm from the city and like spending time in the city centre. I'm biased, but have always felt that it is a good weekend break, as it's one of the few cities where everything you might go for (shopping, hotels, concert at the NIA, theatres) are all walking distance from the main train station.
That said, the discussion is regarding people who are potentially going to come to the city to watch Villa. As others have said, maybe more will come if we have some success, maybe more would come if there were more tickets available, maybe more would come if we moved to a new ground in the city centre.
Surely the salient point is that, even if there were a few thousand 'outsiders' wanting to go to a match these days, they wouldn't be able to, because they wouldn't be able to get tickets.
True. Think the discussion was more about how do we attract more tourist type fans who will shell out mote on matchdays (presuming that is something we want to do!).
Obviously having available tickets is probably the first step. I guess the ideal scenario would be an increased capacity where ticket prices for existing fans can be kept relatively low, yet there would also be more 'experience' type tickets for day trippers.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on April 03, 2024, 11:07:00 PM
…unless of course they love the idea of all you can eat pick & mix, warm pissy lager and some cardboard nachos with rubber cheese.
Special guest appearance from club 'legends' - this week, David Norton, Paul Kerr and Dean Glover.
Post by: Des Little on April 03, 2024, 11:11:43 PM
Post by: VillaTim on April 03, 2024, 11:31:36 PM
All whilst sat in rows in a school canteen .…unless of course they love the idea of all you can eat pick & mix, warm pissy lager and some cardboard nachos with rubber cheese.
Special guest appearance from club 'legends' - this week, David Norton, Paul Kerr and Dean Glover.
Post by: Villan82 on April 03, 2024, 11:48:37 PM
The more I think about it, the more I believe that our Chris has properly shit the bed with this North Stand farce. I hope that in the fullness of time we’ll see that he was right, but I’m not so sure.
If he has shit the bed he is quite clearly wrong and needs to receive his P45 asap.
Post by: chrisw1 on April 04, 2024, 08:31:39 AM
…unless of course they love the idea of all you can eat pick & mix, warm pissy lager and some cardboard nachos with rubber cheese.
Tourists / Day trippers may well think £120-£140 is ok for a guaranteed ticket including food and drink as a one-off experience to see a historic club play a PL game. I guess the club needs to up it's marketing to attract them. Part of this will probably need to be improved transport links etc.
Post by: algy on April 04, 2024, 09:50:12 AM
Yeah, my wife's from Wrexham and absolutely loves Birmingham for pretty much what you were saying.I think you’re underselling Birmingham. It’s a decent base for a day visiting the Cotswolds, a day doing Shakespeare/warwick castle stuff then a day at the match followed by fancy grub in the city. Throw in a curry/theatre etc and that’s a decent weekend away. birmingham international being the hub that opens up loads of potential customers.
Joining the dots is the hard bit, but nothing the club couldn’t arrange with a decent partnership with hotels/airlines etc.
I'm not underselling the city at all. As I say, I'm from the city and like spending time in the city centre. I'm biased, but have always felt that it is a good weekend break, as it's one of the few cities where everything you might go for (shopping, hotels, concert at the NIA, theatres) are all walking distance from the main train station.
That said, the discussion is regarding people who are potentially going to come to the city to watch Villa. As others have said, maybe more will come if we have some success, maybe more would come if there were more tickets available, maybe more would come if we moved to a new ground in the city centre.
For a long weekend it's great - loads of options of stuff to do, pretty easy to navigate around, the city centre is more pleasant than Manchester etc. Plus it's an excellent base - relatively cheap, easy day trips to loads of places, loads of options for food & night entertainment.
Post by: eamonn on April 04, 2024, 10:05:22 AM
Ten years ago you'd have been laughed at for suggesting Birmingham as a tourist destination. Now we have queues to get into bars on Saturday afternoon and try getting a weekend restaurant table.
What's changed?
Post by: Nev on April 04, 2024, 10:37:29 AM
Ten years ago you'd have been laughed at for suggesting Birmingham as a tourist destination. Now we have queues to get into bars on Saturday afternoon and try getting a weekend restaurant table.
What's changed?
There's shopping at the Bullring but the rest of Town is predominantly hospitality now, some brilliant pubs (and The Square Peg) and top notch restaurants.
I'm always amazed at how busy it is when I'm in on a Saturday pre-match and you can quadruple that during Nov/Dec. It's fantastic, vibrant and colourful. It gets a bit more "Wild West" after 8 o'clock but so does every City Centre. Prior to the Brighton match at the end of last season the place was bathed in sunshine on a BH weekend, there were people smiling and enjoying themselves everywhere, it was awash with Claret and Blue and it struck me what a great place it had become.
Post by: tomd2103 on April 04, 2024, 11:23:56 AM
Ten years ago you'd have been laughed at for suggesting Birmingham as a tourist destination. Now we have queues to get into bars on Saturday afternoon and try getting a weekend restaurant table.
What's changed?
Probably more at home in the Birmingham News thread, but this gives a bit of an insight:
https://www.propertyinvestortoday.co.uk/breaking-news/2022/1/birmingham--why-the-youngest-city-in-europe-has-become-a-thriving-hub-for-students-graduates-and-young-urban-professionals
Post by: Risso on April 04, 2024, 11:24:34 AM
Post by: LeeB on April 04, 2024, 11:34:22 AM
We had a heated discussion on the subject be he was pretty adamant that compared to *spits* Manchester in terms of nightlife we're miles behind. He's always been a bit of that mind so I take it with a pinch of salt but he spends half his time up that way (where his Mrs is from) and half down here so he's probably better to judge.
Post by: Risso on April 04, 2024, 11:43:37 AM
My mate who knows the guy that owns the Hare and Hounds and various other luminaries was lamenting Brum the other week as a busted flush, and his Mrs's band won't bother coming here as the tickets don't sell and they're not alone.
We had a heated discussion on the subject be he was pretty adamant that compared to *spits* Manchester in terms of nightlife we're miles behind. He's always been a bit of that mind so I take it with a pinch of salt but he spends half his time up that way (where his Mrs is from) and half down here so he's probably better to judge.
I still go up there 2 or 3 times a year, and I don't think there's that much difference. Obviously Manchester is a smaller city, so it's punching above its weight compared to Brum, but in terms of offerings I think they're fairly similar. Of course Birmingham has got more in the end of very high end restaurants. As a city centre for going out, Leeds is (miles) better than both of them, mind.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on April 04, 2024, 11:46:43 AM
Absolutely the most underrated city we have.
Post by: Risso on April 04, 2024, 11:53:54 AM
Also, shout out for Newcastle as a great city for going out.
Absolutely the most underrated city we have.
Oh indeed. It's mental. When I went to last season's away game up there, the train up from London that we get on at Peterborough was rammed with stag and hen parties going up there for a night out. And it's like that on every single train, and there are about four trains an hour. It's a brilliant city, and I love the architecture and how easy it is to get around on foot.
Post by: tomd2103 on April 05, 2024, 10:52:18 AM
The more I think about it, the more I believe that our Chris has properly shit the bed with this North Stand farce. I hope that in the fullness of time we’ll see that he was right, but I’m not so sure.
Yeah, whilst it is fun to play fantasy football grounds, I guess we're better off just concentrating on what's happening on the pitch for the time being and see what unfolds.
I guess there will be some kind of timeframe involved though given that we were one of the grounds that were part of the Euro 2028 bid. Were we included in that on the proviso that the North Stand redevelopment was going ahead and the capacity would be over 50,000?
Post by: Risso on April 05, 2024, 10:53:10 AM
The more I think about it, the more I believe that our Chris has properly shit the bed with this North Stand farce. I hope that in the fullness of time we’ll see that he was right, but I’m not so sure.
Yeah, whilst it is fun to play fantasy football grounds, I guess we're better off just concentrating on what's happening on the pitch for the time being and see what unfolds.
I guess there will be some kind of timeframe involved though given that we were one of the grounds that were part of the Euro 2028 bid. Were we included in that on the proviso that the North Stand redevelopment was going ahead and the capacity would be over £50k?
Apparently not, no. The club have said the Euro situation is unchanged.
Post by: PeterWithe on April 05, 2024, 10:59:49 AM
Post by: AV82EC on April 05, 2024, 11:31:22 AM
If tourists are coming into Brum for a game (if they had tickets) surely that Aston is a £5 cab ride away is neither here nor there?
£5!! What is it a horse and cart?
Post by: Sexual Ealing on April 05, 2024, 11:49:32 AM
Also, shout out for Newcastle as a great city for going out.
Absolutely the most underrated city we have.
Oh indeed. It's mental. When I went to last season's away game up there, the train up from London that we get on at Peterborough was rammed with stag and hen parties going up there for a night out. And it's like that on every single train, and there are about four trains an hour. It's a brilliant city, and I love the architecture and how easy it is to get around on foot.
I've hated it every time I've been out in Newcastle. Wankers everywhere (including, but not exclusively stags & hens). It's like somebody went to Broad Street and said, 'let's make everywhere like this hellscape, but colder".
Post by: PeterWithe on April 05, 2024, 11:52:09 AM
If tourists are coming into Brum for a game (if they had tickets) surely that Aston is a £5 cab ride away is neither here nor there?
£5!! What is it a horse and cart?
Its about that, town to Aston. Its only 2 miles
Post by: LeeB on April 05, 2024, 11:52:23 AM
Also, shout out for Newcastle as a great city for going out.
Absolutely the most underrated city we have.
Oh indeed. It's mental. When I went to last season's away game up there, the train up from London that we get on at Peterborough was rammed with stag and hen parties going up there for a night out. And it's like that on every single train, and there are about four trains an hour. It's a brilliant city, and I love the architecture and how easy it is to get around on foot.
I've hated it every time I've been out in Newcastle. Wankers everywhere (including, but not exclusively stags & hens). It's like somebody went to Broad Street and said, 'let's make everywhere like this hellscape, but colder".
You see that's a fine example of someone who writes for a living showing what they can do without even trying, I can easily picture the worst night out ever from the words used.
Post by: Risso on April 05, 2024, 11:52:43 AM
Post by: PeterWithe on April 05, 2024, 11:54:44 AM
Post by: LeeB on April 05, 2024, 11:54:52 AM
Post by: Lastfootstamper on April 05, 2024, 12:06:44 PM
If tourists are coming into Brum for a game (if they had tickets) surely that Aston is a £5 cab ride away is neither here nor there?
£5!! What is it a horse and cart?
Its about that, town to Aston. Its only 2 miles
New Street station to VP is 11 quid in an Uber when there's not a game on.
Post by: eamonn on April 05, 2024, 12:14:10 PM
I liked it, even that moored party ship where you felt you were an unwilling cast member of an art house film.
Wow, that place is still going? I remember Tosker and Elaine getting it off the ground in the last ep of Our Friends In The North.
Post by: Risso on April 05, 2024, 12:39:28 PM
Newcastle is one of the few places in the UK I've not had a night out in, and I've never felt I've really missed out at all. Paddy's words merely confirm that.
Away trip and night out next season mate?!
Post by: Risso on April 05, 2024, 12:40:22 PM
I liked it, even that moored party ship where you felt you were an unwilling cast member of an art house film.
Wow, that place is still going? I remember Tosker and Elaine getting it off the ground in the last ep of Our Friends In The North.
No don’t think it’s there any more. The one with the spinning dance floor was brilliant.
Post by: Dogtanian on April 05, 2024, 12:41:18 PM
Newcastle is one of the few places in the UK I've not had a night out in, and I've never felt I've really missed out at all. Paddy's words merely confirm that.
Away trip and night out next season mate?!
I stayed there this season. I had a disappointing lasagne.
Post by: tomd2103 on April 05, 2024, 12:42:09 PM
Each to their own I guess.
I've got a friend up in Newcastle and have had quite a few nights out up there over the years. I think it's a great city to be honest.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on April 05, 2024, 12:42:53 PM
If tourists are coming into Brum for a game (if they had tickets) surely that Aston is a £5 cab ride away is neither here nor there?
They’ll have fun trying to get back after, mind.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on April 05, 2024, 12:45:47 PM
And they're TOO into football. Just shut up about it for five fucking minutes.
Post by: luke95 on April 05, 2024, 12:48:21 PM
If tourists are coming into Brum for a game (if they had tickets) surely that Aston is a £5 cab ride away is neither here nor there?
About £11/12 in a black cab , Colmore Row - Trinty Rd
Post by: Risso on April 05, 2024, 12:50:34 PM
I like the city. It's just 'a night out' there is like being trapped in TopShop with a load of pet shop escapees wearing impossible shoes.
And they're TOO into football. Just shut up about it for five fucking minutes.
I like people who are into football who aren't Man U or Liverpool fans.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on April 05, 2024, 12:54:03 PM
Post by: Bad English on April 05, 2024, 01:39:59 PM
Weirdly, two of my friends couldn't make the Spurs game and sold their seats through the re-sale process but those seats remained empty.They were probably there but stuck in the queue for a warm pint and a cold balti pie.
Post by: LeeB on April 05, 2024, 01:50:44 PM
Newcastle is one of the few places in the UK I've not had a night out in, and I've never felt I've really missed out at all. Paddy's words merely confirm that.
Away trip and night out next season mate?!
Your company would make a weekend in Small Heath pleasant so I'm all in brother.
Post by: Somniloquism on April 05, 2024, 05:43:02 PM
I liked it, even that moored party ship where you felt you were an unwilling cast member of an art house film.
Wow, that place is still going? I remember Tosker and Elaine getting it off the ground in the last ep of Our Friends In The North.
No don’t think it’s there any more. The one with the spinning dance floor was brilliant.
I might be thinking of a different one but wasn't that on the south bank so Gateshead?
Post by: Risso on April 05, 2024, 06:50:15 PM
I liked it, even that moored party ship where you felt you were an unwilling cast member of an art house film.
Wow, that place is still going? I remember Tosker and Elaine getting it off the ground in the last ep of Our Friends In The North.
No don’t think it’s there any more. The one with the spinning dance floor was brilliant.
I might be thinking of a different one but wasn't that on the south bank so Gateshead?
There were two different boats apparently, the Tuxedo Royale and the Tuxedo Princess. Both moored in the same place in Newcastle as far as I recall, but only one at a time. It was the Royale that had the revolving dancefloor I think, and that was the one that was there in the 90s.
Post by: algy on April 05, 2024, 07:50:41 PM
Post by: VillaTim on April 05, 2024, 08:00:08 PM
My mate who knows the guy that owns the Hare and Hounds and various other luminaries was lamenting Brum the other week as a busted flush, and his Mrs's band won't bother coming here as the tickets don't sell and they're not alone.hate to say it but Manchester is a better city to go out in than Brum in my opinion, some fantastic pubs .
We had a heated discussion on the subject be he was pretty adamant that compared to *spits* Manchester in terms of nightlife we're miles behind. He's always been a bit of that mind so I take it with a pinch of salt but he spends half his time up that way (where his Mrs is from) and half down here so he's probably better to judge.
Post by: VillaTim on April 05, 2024, 08:02:14 PM
I concur with SE - Newcastle, good city but crap night outDepends what you're after , its always a lively night out , plenty of bars etc . I think its decent as the odd visit to try somewhere new .
Post by: Brazilian Villain on April 05, 2024, 08:10:20 PM
Post by: VillaTim on April 05, 2024, 08:12:43 PM
I've never been to Newcastle, so will provide the definitive answer when I do go. Just need to pop to Topshop first.It's a heavy drinking type resort.
Best City i've been to in the UK lately is Belfast , brilliant for a weekend.
Post by: eamonn on April 05, 2024, 08:49:33 PM
I've never been to Newcastle, so will provide the definitive answer when I do go. Just need to pop to Topshop first.
Me neither. Up for it though, next season?
Post by: Risso on April 05, 2024, 09:09:16 PM
I've never been to Newcastle, so will provide the definitive answer when I do go. Just need to pop to Topshop first.
Don’t bother buying a jacket.
Post by: Rory on April 05, 2024, 10:03:03 PM
Post by: adrenachrome on April 05, 2024, 10:10:01 PM
I've never been to Newcastle, so will provide the definitive answer when I do go. Just need to pop to Topshop first.
Don’t bother buying a jacket.
Tops won't do it.
You have to expose your nipples to the north east wind to stand a chance of scoring.
Post by: VillaTim on April 05, 2024, 10:19:42 PM
Post by: Ducksworthy on April 05, 2024, 10:24:55 PM
I’ll also agree Manchester is a better night out pub-wise. It pains me to say, but Birmingham just doesn’t feel coherent enough to go out in or get around.
Post by: Risso on April 05, 2024, 10:27:25 PM
From my experience, Newcastle is very much relentless as a night out. Very “lads, lads, lads” - it has some nice pubs but whoever described it as something like a massive Broad Street is right.
I’ll also agree Manchester is a better night out pub-wise. It pains me to say, but Birmingham just doesn’t feel coherent enough to go out in or get around.
Manchester's mostly spread over different areas though. You've got Deansgate, Castlefield, Northern Quarter etc. Not really one big city centre like Leeds.
Post by: VillaTim on April 05, 2024, 10:35:49 PM
You can have a good night out in anyone of those Manchester areas without moving . Brum you've got Broad Street - no thanks . Digbeth - improving but work to do . Then where ? Manchester feels safer to me than Brum at night probably due to the large Uni influence.From my experience, Newcastle is very much relentless as a night out. Very “lads, lads, lads” - it has some nice pubs but whoever described it as something like a massive Broad Street is right.
I’ll also agree Manchester is a better night out pub-wise. It pains me to say, but Birmingham just doesn’t feel coherent enough to go out in or get around.
Manchester's mostly spread over different areas though. You've got Deansgate, Castlefield, Northern Quarter etc. Not really one big city centre like Leeds.
Post by: Aldridge Villa on April 05, 2024, 10:37:33 PM
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on April 06, 2024, 12:24:08 AM
Post by: Percy McCarthy on April 06, 2024, 12:52:58 AM
You can have a good night out in anyone of those Manchester areas without moving . Brum you've got Broad Street - no thanks . Digbeth - improving but work to do . Then where ? Manchester feels safer to me than Brum at night probably due to the large Uni influence.From my experience, Newcastle is very much relentless as a night out. Very “lads, lads, lads” - it has some nice pubs but whoever described it as something like a massive Broad Street is right.
I’ll also agree Manchester is a better night out pub-wise. It pains me to say, but Birmingham just doesn’t feel coherent enough to go out in or get around.
Manchester's mostly spread over different areas though. You've got Deansgate, Castlefield, Northern Quarter etc. Not really one big city centre like Leeds.
JQ, Moseley, Kings Heath, Harborne/Edgbaston.
Post by: dave.woodhall on April 06, 2024, 01:36:04 AM
You can have a good night out in anyone of those Manchester areas without moving . Brum you've got Broad Street - no thanks . Digbeth - improving but work to do . Then where ? Manchester feels safer to me than Brum at night probably due to the large Uni influence.From my experience, Newcastle is very much relentless as a night out. Very “lads, lads, lads” - it has some nice pubs but whoever described it as something like a massive Broad Street is right.
I’ll also agree Manchester is a better night out pub-wise. It pains me to say, but Birmingham just doesn’t feel coherent enough to go out in or get around.
Manchester's mostly spread over different areas though. You've got Deansgate, Castlefield, Northern Quarter etc. Not really one big city centre like Leeds.
JQ, Moseley, Kings Heath, Harborne/Edgbaston.
Hurst Street, Bennetts Hill/Temple Street, Constitution Hill.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on April 06, 2024, 02:12:01 AM
I see Chris is still too embarrassed to publish our home attendances. Can't think why..
All but Wolves are published. That will probably appear soon.
Post by: London Villan on April 06, 2024, 07:05:06 AM
Post by: RamboandBruno on April 06, 2024, 08:28:59 AM
Post by: VillaTim on April 06, 2024, 10:04:03 AM
Post by: Lastfootstamper on April 06, 2024, 11:10:09 AM
All that said, to this day I know people born within the city limits who never venture in to town because it's not the same as when they were 18, or think going to town means going to Broad Street. A few years ago, it was suggested we have our works Christmas drink around the JQ, but that plan bit the dust when nobody other than a couple of us had any idea of where to go. I think we ended up going to the casino at Resort's World.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on April 06, 2024, 01:51:23 PM
I've never been to Newcastle, so will provide the definitive answer when I do go. Just need to pop to Topshop first.
Don’t bother buying a jacket.
I was aware that wearing a jacket is seen as a little 'unmanly' there, even if it's -10 and snowing. However, I don't own any short sleeve shirts so I'd probably feel overdressed in my usual attire.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on April 06, 2024, 01:57:33 PM
I see Chris is still too embarrassed to publish our home attendances. Can't think why..
All but Wolves are published. That will probably appear soon.
Yeah, I'm aware he eventually publishes the numbers. Out of interest, any idea when we last sold out? From what I understand returned tickets only go back onto the market on the day of the game.
Post by: The Edge on April 06, 2024, 02:17:41 PM
Temple Street area is also quality these days. Mailbox, Brindley place, canal side, Had family down from the North East couple of weeks ago and they loved our nights out in brum. The city certainly does not deserve the bad rep it gets which mostly media driven.You can have a good night out in anyone of those Manchester areas without moving . Brum you've got Broad Street - no thanks . Digbeth - improving but work to do . Then where ? Manchester feels safer to me than Brum at night probably due to the large Uni influence.From my experience, Newcastle is very much relentless as a night out. Very “lads, lads, lads” - it has some nice pubs but whoever described it as something like a massive Broad Street is right.
I’ll also agree Manchester is a better night out pub-wise. It pains me to say, but Birmingham just doesn’t feel coherent enough to go out in or get around.
Manchester's mostly spread over different areas though. You've got Deansgate, Castlefield, Northern Quarter etc. Not really one big city centre like Leeds.
JQ, Moseley, Kings Heath, Harborne/Edgbaston.
Post by: VillaTim on April 06, 2024, 02:25:33 PM
Post by: tomd2103 on April 06, 2024, 08:40:08 PM
Temple Street area is also quality these days. Mailbox, Brindley place, canal side, Had family down from the North East couple of weeks ago and they loved our nights out in brum. The city certainly does not deserve the bad rep it gets which mostly media driven.You can have a good night out in anyone of those Manchester areas without moving . Brum you've got Broad Street - no thanks . Digbeth - improving but work to do . Then where ? Manchester feels safer to me than Brum at night probably due to the large Uni influence.From my experience, Newcastle is very much relentless as a night out. Very “lads, lads, lads” - it has some nice pubs but whoever described it as something like a massive Broad Street is right.
I’ll also agree Manchester is a better night out pub-wise. It pains me to say, but Birmingham just doesn’t feel coherent enough to go out in or get around.
Manchester's mostly spread over different areas though. You've got Deansgate, Castlefield, Northern Quarter etc. Not really one big city centre like Leeds.
JQ, Moseley, Kings Heath, Harborne/Edgbaston.
London and Manchester based media driven.
Post by: Chris Harte on April 07, 2024, 07:56:36 PM
I've also noticed the club don't seem bothered about reporting attendances.
The Wolves and Brentford gates are like state secrets, while the club didn't report the Ajax gate (although it was reported on BBC).
Post by: aj2k77 on April 07, 2024, 07:59:00 PM
Post by: Chris Harte on April 07, 2024, 08:10:38 PM
Reported incorrectly on the BBC, 30,210 lol.I did think that seemed a bit low, but with nothing else reported (admittedly I didn't look *that* hard).
Post by: colin69 on April 07, 2024, 08:38:37 PM
Post by: Louzie0 on April 07, 2024, 08:42:12 PM
Reported incorrectly on the BBC, 30,210 lol.I did think that seemed a bit low, but with nothing else reported (admittedly I didn't look *that* hard).
Guess The Crowd has gone with the figure quoted in The Times.
40,698. No idea where they got it from, but it’s more accurate than the official figure.
Post by: Des Little on April 07, 2024, 08:45:34 PM
Out of interest, did anyone put their tickets up for sale for the Brentford game only for the ticket not to sell? The same happened to me with the Wolves game.
I've also noticed the club don't seem bothered about reporting attendances.
The Wolves and Brentford gates are like state secrets, while the club didn't report the Ajax gate (although it was reported on BBC).
I didn’t bother, because the new rules mean that no games will completely sell out, with the possible exception of Liverpool. You’re better off selling your seat yourself.
Post by: Skerra on April 07, 2024, 08:46:39 PM
And yes, I’ve put up my ticket for resale 3 times in the last couple of months and got zilch back from the Club. Some shit going on somewhere along the line.
Post by: Louzie0 on April 07, 2024, 08:54:49 PM
When asked if they really had no idea how many people had been in VP for any given match unless the FA told them (and I was more polite than this suggests), I got no reply.
The FA have not published stadium capacity in their handbook for this season, for the first time in god knows how long.
So there’s been a change in the FA universe, but Villa should be able to say how many people are in VP at any given time, including well, football matches, or am I just being all health and safety, here?
Post by: ChicagoLion on April 07, 2024, 09:09:12 PM
Post by: VillaTim on April 07, 2024, 09:22:12 PM
Out of interest, did anyone put their tickets up for sale for the Brentford game only for the ticket not to sell? The same happened to me with the Wolves game.I put mine up for sale for Wolves and Brentford, neither sold . Generally mine has sold through the season. (work contract has kept me away this season mainly).
I've also noticed the club don't seem bothered about reporting attendances.
The Wolves and Brentford gates are like state secrets, while the club didn't report the Ajax gate (although it was reported on BBC).
Post by: Louzie0 on April 07, 2024, 09:30:12 PM
The suspicion is that the LG and HT are having a detrimental effect on attendances and he/they don’t want to publicise this.
It’s possible, CL, and it’s the inconsistency that grates for me, but then, I’m looking at attendance figures regularly with a purpose for H&V!
What is the difference (for VP communication systems) between matches when the attendance figure is quoted within 24 hours and others when it takes a month or more to publish? It’s definitely nothing to do with PL matches v whatever ( Europa Conf/FAC/Carabao).
Post by: VillaTim on April 07, 2024, 09:36:32 PM
Post by: Louzie0 on April 07, 2024, 09:42:21 PM
Remember when old Herbert played down the attendance figures week after week for HMRC purposes , allegedly your honour ;) .
I don’t think CH is clued into what fans like and would prefer but I’m sure he understands ‘customers’ - not so far from DD!
Post by: pablo_picasso on April 07, 2024, 10:10:14 PM
I thought it was meant to be Feb...
Post by: Sexual Ealing on April 07, 2024, 10:12:35 PM
Out of interest, did anyone put their tickets up for sale for the Brentford game only for the ticket not to sell? The same happened to me with the Wolves game.I put mine up for sale for Wolves and Brentford, neither sold . Generally mine has sold through the season. (work contract has kept me away this season mainly).
I've also noticed the club don't seem bothered about reporting attendances.
The Wolves and Brentford gates are like state secrets, while the club didn't report the Ajax gate (although it was reported on BBC).
That tartan paint won't collect itself!
Post by: VillaTim on April 07, 2024, 10:38:21 PM
I'm on the Sky Hooks contract this year .Out of interest, did anyone put their tickets up for sale for the Brentford game only for the ticket not to sell? The same happened to me with the Wolves game.I put mine up for sale for Wolves and Brentford, neither sold . Generally mine has sold through the season. (work contract has kept me away this season mainly).
I've also noticed the club don't seem bothered about reporting attendances.
The Wolves and Brentford gates are like state secrets, while the club didn't report the Ajax gate (although it was reported on BBC).
That tartan paint won't collect itself!
Post by: Sexual Ealing on April 07, 2024, 10:45:45 PM
I'm on the Sky Hooks contract this year .Out of interest, did anyone put their tickets up for sale for the Brentford game only for the ticket not to sell? The same happened to me with the Wolves game.I put mine up for sale for Wolves and Brentford, neither sold . Generally mine has sold through the season. (work contract has kept me away this season mainly).
I've also noticed the club don't seem bothered about reporting attendances.
The Wolves and Brentford gates are like state secrets, while the club didn't report the Ajax gate (although it was reported on BBC).
That tartan paint won't collect itself!
See, I had you pitched as a Channel 5 Tongs man.
Post by: sid1964 on April 24, 2024, 11:56:55 AM
The big six is who we're chasing and we're ready to kick the door down" - Aston Villa's president of business operations, Chris Heck, on the club's commercial ambitions
Post by: KNVillan on April 24, 2024, 12:01:03 PM
Interesting short video on SPORTS PRO on X
The big six is who we're chasing and we're ready to kick the door down" - Aston Villa's president of business operations, Chris Heck, on the club's commercial ambitions
Here is the link
https://twitter.com/SportsPro/status/1783080199778623533?t=SplSD1gvT_w1a7tqMFq2qw&s=19
Post by: Mister E on April 24, 2024, 12:03:48 PM
Interesting short video on SPORTS PRO on X... and yet, financially, we're still eons away - partly because of the London factor and partly because ManUre and Liverpool particularly have been brand-building and business-building for decades.
The big six is who we're chasing and we're ready to kick the door down" - Aston Villa's president of business operations, Chris Heck, on the club's commercial ambitions
Post by: Dogtanian on April 24, 2024, 12:30:37 PM
Post by: Toronto Villa on April 24, 2024, 12:35:00 PM
Interesting short video on SPORTS PRO on X... and yet, financially, we're still eons away - partly because of the London factor and partly because ManUre and Liverpool particularly have been brand-building and business-building for decades.
The big six is who we're chasing and we're ready to kick the door down" - Aston Villa's president of business operations, Chris Heck, on the club's commercial ambitions
Some things we can’t change. But things needs to happen in stages and if all what he is hinting at is true, coupled with the team entering the CL that is a monstrous leap from time he arrived and of course from when Emery took charge. After that, hopefully we can sustain our on field success and add a stadium plan that propels us further still. That’s the massive one which is why partnerships and V board appointment's have been announced. It’s all potentially very exciting.
Post by: Mister E on April 24, 2024, 01:19:00 PM
Hey, yes; totally agree.Some things we can’t change. But things needs to happen in stages and if all what he is hinting at is true, coupled with the team entering the CL that is a monstrous leap from time he arrived and of course from when Emery took charge. After that, hopefully we can sustain our on field success and add a stadium plan that propels us further still. That’s the massive one which is why partnerships and V board appointment's have been announced. It’s all potentially very exciting.Interesting short video on SPORTS PRO on X... and yet, financially, we're still eons away - partly because of the London factor and partly because ManUre and Liverpool particularly have been brand-building and business-building for decades.
The big six is who we're chasing and we're ready to kick the door down" - Aston Villa's president of business operations, Chris Heck, on the club's commercial ambitions
Post by: eamonn on April 24, 2024, 01:48:07 PM
The little swivels in the chair could also be inferred as his transmitting stong American-male energy on the topic at-hand.
Direct vocalised sharing of financial performance improvement further mark Heck as a corporate warrior with flex.
GO VILLANS!
Post by: Brazilian Villain on April 24, 2024, 01:52:38 PM
His nod to Caine's classic "blow the bloody doors off" line was a wonderful way to communicate with our fans who are heavily-anglicised culturally.
Hope it ends better than their little caper, even if Juventus away won't seem as daunting now.
Post by: cdward on April 24, 2024, 02:18:08 PM
This is not a one season wonder like Leicester, we are building the club up, on and off the field, to be in amongst the self proclaimed big six.
Although i don't really care much about advertising deals, shirt sponsor deals etc', it has to be taken seriously in todays market, so it's good to hear we are being successful there too.
Post by: Dogtanian on April 24, 2024, 02:27:46 PM
He is saying what we're all witnessing, but perhaps the media and others are not noticing.
This is not a one season wonder like Leicester, we are building the club up, on and off the field, to be in amongst the self proclaimed big six.
Although i don't really care much about advertising deals, shirt sponsor deals etc', it has to be taken seriously in todays market, so it's good to hear we are being successful there too.
It's laughable how people have been ignoring or dismissing what is happening at Villa. They are forced to accept we are doing well, but they attribute that entirely to 'lucking' into getting Emery. They have no idea of everything else that has been going on to get us to the point where we could convince someone like him to join us.
Aside from the Smith/Gerrard season, we have gotten higher up the table every season under these owners. It's very rare to see that level of consistent improvement. Emery was the missing piece football-wise. But the owners are determined to make the whole club world class. You don't hear them wanking about it to all and sundry when they haven't yet lifted a finger. They just get on with it and the evidence is there that it's working.
Post by: Stu82 on April 24, 2024, 02:52:31 PM
He is saying what we're all witnessing, but perhaps the media and others are not noticing.
This is not a one season wonder like Leicester, we are building the club up, on and off the field, to be in amongst the self proclaimed big six.
Although i don't really care much about advertising deals, shirt sponsor deals etc', it has to be taken seriously in todays market, so it's good to hear we are being successful there too.
It's laughable how people have been ignoring or dismissing what is happening at Villa. They are forced to accept we are doing well, but they attribute that entirely to 'lucking' into getting Emery. They have no idea of everything else that has been going on to get us to the point where we could convince someone like him to join us.
Aside from the Smith/Gerrard season, we have gotten higher up the table every season under these owners. It's very rare to see that level of consistent improvement. Emery was the missing piece football-wise. But the owners are determined to make the whole club world class. You don't hear them wanking about it to all and sundry when they haven't yet lifted a finger. They just get on with it and the evidence is there that it's working.
Spot on, we are very lucky to have the current custodians.
They know what they are doing.
Post by: Hookeysmith on April 24, 2024, 02:55:43 PM
He is saying what we're all witnessing, but perhaps the media and others are not noticing.
This is not a one season wonder like Leicester, we are building the club up, on and off the field, to be in amongst the self proclaimed big six.
Although i don't really care much about advertising deals, shirt sponsor deals etc', it has to be taken seriously in todays market, so it's good to hear we are being successful there too.
It's laughable how people have been ignoring or dismissing what is happening at Villa. They are forced to accept we are doing well, but they attribute that entirely to 'lucking' into getting Emery. They have no idea of everything else that has been going on to get us to the point where we could convince someone like him to join us.
Aside from the Smith/Gerrard season, we have gotten higher up the table every season under these owners. It's very rare to see that level of consistent improvement. Emery was the missing piece football-wise. But the owners are determined to make the whole club world class. You don't hear them wanking about it to all and sundry when they haven't yet lifted a finger. They just get on with it and the evidence is there that it's working.
Spot on, we are very lucky to have the current custodians.
They know what they are doing.
Totally agree - just wish the media was not so blinkered and biased
The Lion has awoke!
Post by: ChicagoLion on April 24, 2024, 03:12:35 PM
I am not sure I will be comfortable if /when they start fawning over us.
Post by: VillaTim on April 24, 2024, 03:13:48 PM
Post by: Border villan on April 24, 2024, 03:14:07 PM
He is saying what we're all witnessing, but perhaps the media and others are not noticing.
This is not a one season wonder like Leicester, we are building the club up, on and off the field, to be in amongst the self proclaimed big six.
Although i don't really care much about advertising deals, shirt sponsor deals etc', it has to be taken seriously in todays market, so it's good to hear we are being successful there too.
It's laughable how people have been ignoring or dismissing what is happening at Villa. They are forced to accept we are doing well, but they attribute that entirely to 'lucking' into getting Emery. They have no idea of everything else that has been going on to get us to the point where we could convince someone like him to join us.
Aside from the Smith/Gerrard season, we have gotten higher up the table every season under these owners. It's very rare to see that level of consistent improvement. Emery was the missing piece football-wise. But the owners are determined to make the whole club world class. You don't hear them wanking about it to all and sundry when they haven't yet lifted a finger. They just get on with it and the evidence is there that it's working.
Spot on, we are very lucky to have the current custodians.
They know what they are doing.
Totally agree - just wish the media was not so blinkered and biased
The Lion has awoke!
I am more than happy with us keeping under the radar. At the end of the season many “experts” will be scratching about trying not to eat humble pie.
Post by: Toronto Villa on April 24, 2024, 03:19:56 PM
Post by: paul_e on April 24, 2024, 03:35:55 PM
Post by: LeeB on April 24, 2024, 03:58:06 PM
What's interesting is that there is a massive difference between old and new media and how they treat us. Youtube channels and more recent regions (such as the US) are generally far more open to saying how fucking good we've been this season whereas the British Press, Sky, MotD, etc are finding it a lot harder to take that step.
And the Guardian has got it's fingers in it's ears and is going "la,la,la, I can't hear you"
Post by: tomd2103 on April 24, 2024, 04:02:46 PM
What's interesting is that there is a massive difference between old and new media and how they treat us. Youtube channels and more recent regions (such as the US) are generally far more open to saying how fucking good we've been this season whereas the British Press, Sky, MotD, etc are finding it a lot harder to take that step.
And the Guardian has got it's fingers in it's ears and is going "la,la,la, I can't hear you"
They just follow lazy stereotypes and don't really look deeper into things. Take the rumours about Unai Emery that they have been peddling recently, how much research have any of them done on the set up behind the scenes at Villa in terns of the way Emery shapes things and the link up with Real Union.
Instead it's just, "oh he'll probably leave as it's one of the big six innit" level of insight.
Post by: dave.woodhall on April 24, 2024, 04:08:47 PM
Post by: Risso on April 24, 2024, 04:09:13 PM
Post by: Toronto Villa on April 24, 2024, 04:12:44 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on April 24, 2024, 04:22:59 PM
Of the so called Big Six Spurs should not be in there purely on merit. They have won fuck all across the years the other 5 sides have hogged all the trophies. They are there purely on geography and, frankly, because it’s good radio for their inevitable fuck ups from every conceivable position of advantage.
People forget - Spurs have only won the title twice, and the last time they did it was closer to the reign of Queen Victoria than to today.
With them, it is.
1. London - so they've always received more media attention than they've deserved.
2. Repeated European competition qualification - including a CL final
3. Nice big stadium so they now generate way more revenue than lots of other similar clubs.
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on April 24, 2024, 04:26:17 PM
*vomits.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on April 24, 2024, 04:27:28 PM
To be fair to them, they've only been outside the top 6 twice in the last 14 years. It's 2 in the last 4 so it may be coming to an end but it was basically 10 years of consistent top 6's. 9 top 4's in the last 14 also, so I can see why they are included in the "big 6"*
*vomits.
Thanks Ossie.
Post by: AV82EC on April 24, 2024, 04:30:08 PM
Post by: Somniloquism on April 24, 2024, 04:31:03 PM
To be fair to them, they've only been outside the top 6 twice in the last 14 years. It's 2 in the last 4 so it may be coming to an end but it was basically 10 years of consistent top 6's. 9 top 4's in the last 14 also, so I can see why they are included in the "big 6"*
*vomits.
Funniest one was when most of the top clubs faltered so they soared to the top, just to be beaten by Leicester, and then bottle jobbed it so much they allowed Arsenal to then beat them to second.
(Downside, it was THAT season for us).
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on April 24, 2024, 04:31:20 PM
To be fair to them, they've only been outside the top 6 twice in the last 14 years. It's 2 in the last 4 so it may be coming to an end but it was basically 10 years of consistent top 6's. 9 top 4's in the last 14 also, so I can see why they are included in the "big 6"*
*vomits.
Thanks Ossie.
Tottingham will win de cup.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on April 24, 2024, 04:33:00 PM
In the 80s, it included Everton and occasionally us. I remember talk of a big 6 which included Sheffield Wednesday. Imagine 20 years ago suggesting Man City or Chelsea being in such a grouping. 20 years ago, Newcastle would have been included.
The fact we hear about it so much is driven in large part by the need to segment clubs in some way, the need to drive marketing.
I understand why it exists but it makes me want to vomit.
Especially the idea of Spurs in it, which makes me want to vomit AND shit the bed at the same time.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on April 24, 2024, 04:38:50 PM
As examples
Us 2.4m
Spurs 8.8m
Insta
Us 3.9m
Spurs 17m
Us old fuckers may think stuff like that is crap but it's a massive difference in reach, brand awareness and people potentially buying a shirt or something. I don't overly like it but it's the world we live in.
I'm hoping we're now going to be actlng like we belong up there.
Post by: Somniloquism on April 24, 2024, 04:42:28 PM
Post by: VillaTim on April 24, 2024, 04:42:38 PM
Sours have spent most of my life marketing themselves far far better than we have. Especially in this era now of social media. We spent most of the last decade being shit and irrelevant to the world, they spent most of it telling everyone how great they are and in the CL.Most of those Spurs numbers are from the Country where the ****** eat dogs for breakfast . Scum .
As examples
Us 2.4m
Spurs 8.8m
Insta
Us 3.9m
Spurs 17m
Us old fuckers may think stuff like that is crap but it's a massive difference in reach, brand awareness and people potentially buying a shirt or something. I don't overly like it but it's the world we live in.
I'm hoping we're now going to be actlng like we belong up there.
Post by: Olneythelonely on April 24, 2024, 04:43:43 PM
Sours have spent most of my life marketing themselves far far better than we have. Especially in this era now of social media. We spent most of the last decade being shit and irrelevant to the world, they spent most of it telling everyone how great they are and in the CL.Most of those Spurs numbers are from the Cpuntry where the ****** eat dogs for breakfast . Scum .
As examples
Us 2.4m
Spurs 8.8m
Insta
Us 3.9m
Spurs 17m
Us old fuckers may think stuff like that is crap but it's a massive difference in reach, brand awareness and people potentially buying a shirt or something. I don't overly like it but it's the world we live in.
I'm hoping we're now going to be actlng like we belong up there.
What a knob!
Post by: VillaTim on April 24, 2024, 04:47:19 PM
well they do and they haven't banned it yet !!Sours have spent most of my life marketing themselves far far better than we have. Especially in this era now of social media. We spent most of the last decade being shit and irrelevant to the world, they spent most of it telling everyone how great they are and in the CL.Most of those Spurs numbers are from the Cpuntry where the ****** eat dogs for breakfast . Scum .
As examples
Us 2.4m
Spurs 8.8m
Insta
Us 3.9m
Spurs 17m
Us old fuckers may think stuff like that is crap but it's a massive difference in reach, brand awareness and people potentially buying a shirt or something. I don't overly like it but it's the world we live in.
I'm hoping we're now going to be actlng like we belong up there.
What a knob!
Post by: OCD on April 24, 2024, 04:48:44 PM
Post by: Olneythelonely on April 24, 2024, 04:54:25 PM
well they do and they haven't banned it yet !!Sours have spent most of my life marketing themselves far far better than we have. Especially in this era now of social media. We spent most of the last decade being shit and irrelevant to the world, they spent most of it telling everyone how great they are and in the CL.Most of those Spurs numbers are from the Cpuntry where the ****** eat dogs for breakfast . Scum .
As examples
Us 2.4m
Spurs 8.8m
Insta
Us 3.9m
Spurs 17m
Us old fuckers may think stuff like that is crap but it's a massive difference in reach, brand awareness and people potentially buying a shirt or something. I don't overly like it but it's the world we live in.
I'm hoping we're now going to be actlng like we belong up there.
What a knob!
A minority do. And they’re making it illegal. I hope you’re vegetarian.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on April 24, 2024, 04:55:33 PM
well they do and they haven't banned it yet !!Sours have spent most of my life marketing themselves far far better than we have. Especially in this era now of social media. We spent most of the last decade being shit and irrelevant to the world, they spent most of it telling everyone how great they are and in the CL.Most of those Spurs numbers are from the Cpuntry where the ****** eat dogs for breakfast . Scum .
As examples
Us 2.4m
Spurs 8.8m
Insta
Us 3.9m
Spurs 17m
Us old fuckers may think stuff like that is crap but it's a massive difference in reach, brand awareness and people potentially buying a shirt or something. I don't overly like it but it's the world we live in.
I'm hoping we're now going to be actlng like we belong up there.
What a knob!
A minority do. And they’re making it illegal. I hope you’re vegetarian.
Or a dog. Which stands a chance.
Post by: dave.woodhall on April 24, 2024, 04:56:11 PM
Of the so called Big Six Spurs should not be in there purely on merit. They have won fuck all across the years the other 5 sides have hogged all the trophies. They are there purely on geography and, frankly, because it’s good radio for their inevitable fuck ups from every conceivable position of advantage.
People forget - Spurs have only won the title twice, and the last time they did it was closer to the reign of Queen Victoria than to today.
With them, it is.
1. London - so they've always received more media attention than they've deserved.
2. Repeated European competition qualification - including a CL final
3. Nice big stadium so they now generate way more revenue than lots of other similar clubs.
4. Saying they are. Give a journalist a line and they'll invariably accept it, especially if it's something they don't know much about. Lady Brady was good at peddling the woman in a man's world guff and saying they were the final Big Club to get into the Premier League.
Post by: Somniloquism on April 24, 2024, 04:57:25 PM
A minority do. And they’re making it illegal. I hope you’re vegetarian.
Too right, unless you are a vegetarian/vegan, I can't see how you can criticise some animals being eaten whilst eating other animals.
Post by: Smirker on April 24, 2024, 05:07:25 PM
In fact I'd say Wolves are bigger.
Its the height of cheek how they're considered part of this Big 6 club.
Most of it is down to location but a bit of it is being associated with Arsenal and being their shitty local rivals.
Post by: rjp on April 24, 2024, 05:12:26 PM
Post by: Gareth on April 24, 2024, 05:13:08 PM
I don't have hard evidence to back this up but I've always thought spuds get more attention than they deserve because a lot of the national journalists are from London and so a disproportionate percentage support them.
See also West Ham
Post by: Smirker on April 24, 2024, 05:15:40 PM
I don't have hard evidence to back this up but I've always thought spuds get more attention than they deserve because a lot of the national journalists are from London and so a disproportionate percentage support them.
Londoners are also ignorant to the rest of the country, especially here.
I remember Merson saying when he came here he thought we had won one FA Cup and it blew his head off when he learned it was actually 7.
If we had the London postcode we'd be Big 6.
No offence to any London Villa fans hehe x
Post by: eamonn on April 24, 2024, 05:21:03 PM
Of the so called Big Six Spurs should not be in there purely on merit. They have won fuck all across the years the other 5 sides have hogged all the trophies. They are there purely on geography and, frankly, because it’s good radio for their inevitable fuck ups from every conceivable position of advantage.
People forget - Spurs have only won the title twice, and the last time they did it was closer to the reign of Queen Victoria than to today.
With them, it is.
1. London - so they've always received more media attention than they've deserved.
2. Repeated European competition qualification - including a CL final
3. Nice big stadium so they now generate way more revenue than lots of other similar clubs.
4. Saying they are. Give a journalist a line and they'll invariably accept it, especially if it's something they don't know much about. Lady Brady was good at peddling the woman in a man's world guff and saying they were the final Big Club to get into the Premier League.
I think regardless of points 2 & 3, they'd still have a huge profile. The London thing is interesting - why is their profile so much bigger than West Ham? Spam's dramatic 1980 FA Cup win and their "class of 66" shtick gives them weight amongst those of a certain age but large spells outside the top flight and perhaps lacking a genuine East London rival has seen limits to their general appeal.
Spurs seem to have had high profile success at just enough intervals to make them puff-out their chest and shoulders. A UEFA Cup in both the 70's and 80's - back to back FA Cups the years we won the bigger trophies.
The 1981 FA Cup win is embedded in football/popular culture (see a few posts above someone referring to them as "Tott-ing-ham" - that's straight from the line sung by Ossie Ardiles in their song for that final).
Ricky Villa's solo winner in that final jogs much more memories than anything related to what the real Villa accomplished that year.
Fast-forward a decade and the cult of Gazza meant that their 1991 FA Cup semi-final/final win are also given huge coverage then and now comparatively to other finals of the era.
During these times they often seemed to have a star English player, from Hoddle to Waddle to Gascoigne. Enough to withstand a fairly dismal decade and a half from 1991 to the mid 00's.
Post by: VillaTim on April 24, 2024, 05:22:41 PM
Spurs are no bigger than Wolves or West Brom.Got a lot of high ranking supporters at the likes of BBC too which has helped with their profile building down the years
In fact I'd say Wolves are bigger.
Its the height of cheek how they're considered part of this Big 6 club.
Most of it is down to location but a bit of it is being associated with Arsenal and being their shitty local rivals.
Post by: eamonn on April 24, 2024, 05:23:45 PM
I don't have hard evidence to back this up but I've always thought spuds get more attention than they deserve because a lot of the national journalists are from London and so a disproportionate percentage support them.
Londoners are also ignorant to the rest of the country, especially here.
I remember Merson saying when he came here he thought we had won one FA Cup and it blew his head off when he learned it was actually 7.
If we had the London postcode we'd be Big 6.
No offence to any London Villa fans hehe x
Post-PL history now matters little to the modern fan/player. Ditto pre-war(s) history to players of the last 50 years.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on April 24, 2024, 05:27:13 PM
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on April 24, 2024, 05:27:27 PM
Sours have spent most of my life marketing themselves far far better than we have. Especially in this era now of social media. We spent most of the last decade being shit and irrelevant to the world, they spent most of it telling everyone how great they are and in the CL.Most of those Spurs numbers are from the Country where the ****** eat dogs for breakfast . Scum .
As examples
Us 2.4m
Spurs 8.8m
Insta
Us 3.9m
Spurs 17m
Us old fuckers may think stuff like that is crap but it's a massive difference in reach, brand awareness and people potentially buying a shirt or something. I don't overly like it but it's the world we live in.
I'm hoping we're now going to be actlng like we belong up there.
I'm sure it's only second to Cornflakes. Fuck me.
Post by: OCD on April 24, 2024, 05:28:26 PM
Post by: adrenachrome on April 24, 2024, 05:34:58 PM
That's ok because in future decades there will be people who will struggle to believe we went so long without winning things or that we briefly went down to the Championship.
Or that we briefly went down to Division 3.
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on April 24, 2024, 05:39:53 PM
Post by: tomd2103 on April 24, 2024, 05:45:42 PM
The 'big number' concept has been around for decades now, and membership has changed several times.
In the 80s, it included Everton and occasionally us. I remember talk of a big 6 which included Sheffield Wednesday. Imagine 20 years ago suggesting Man City or Chelsea being in such a grouping. 20 years ago, Newcastle would have been included.
The fact we hear about it so much is driven in large part by the need to segment clubs in some way, the need to drive marketing.
I understand why it exists but it makes me want to vomit.
Especially the idea of Spurs in it, which makes me want to vomit AND shit the bed at the same time.
When you look at the financial landscape, you do see that those six have pulled away from the rest over the past few years. Whenever any club has got near to being in that picture, their superior finances have meant that team gets stripped of its best players and sent back into the pack.
The tide seems to ge turning a bit now though. Manchester United and Chelsea are both a mess, Liverpool could well slip down after Klopp and a couple of players leave and Manchester City could be out of the picture for some time if they are punished properly.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on April 24, 2024, 05:51:51 PM
Main reason Spurs are considered the way they are compared to us is down to our own failings over the last few decades. That's what needs to be fixed, not trying to find reasons why Spurs are rated so highly.
Correct.
Post by: Nev on April 24, 2024, 05:51:52 PM
That's not to say that Hoddle wasn't a good player. Of course he was. Just not as good as Sid.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on April 24, 2024, 05:55:18 PM
You only need look as far as Glenn Hoddle, lauded then and still as a legend. I believe Sid was a better player but then that is subjective. Until you look at the facts and the objective facts are stark when it comes to honours.
That's not to say that Hoddle wasn't a good player. Of course he was. Just not as good as Sid.
I'm too young to remember peak Sid, but my impression was he was a different type of player from Hoddle. He could do everything, in that all-action midfielder way that England produces semi-regularly. Hoddle, particularly at that time, played in a way that was very unusual for an English player in the years after the Charles Hughes farrago.
I dunno, that's what I've always thought anyway.
Post by: Paul.S on April 24, 2024, 06:01:11 PM
You only need look as far as Glenn Hoddle, lauded then and still as a legend. I believe Sid was a better player but then that is subjective. Until you look at the facts and the objective facts are stark when it comes to honours.
That's not to say that Hoddle wasn't a good player. Of course he was. Just not as good as Sid.
No he wasn’t. Cowans is the best midfielder I’ve seen at our club. If I see one of the same level as him again we’ll all be very, very lucky.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on April 24, 2024, 06:05:20 PM
Post by: VillaTim on April 24, 2024, 06:07:15 PM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on April 24, 2024, 06:09:43 PM
For many years The Director General at BBC was a Spurs fan hence the over-emphasised hype they get on there that still pervades to this day.
They've even got an ex-Spurs player presenting MOTD.
Post by: eamonn on April 24, 2024, 06:10:30 PM
Post by: VillaTim on April 24, 2024, 06:11:42 PM
Couple of them .For many years The Director General at BBC was a Spurs fan hence the over-emphasised hype they get on there that still pervades to this day.
They've even got an ex-Spurs player presenting MOTD.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on April 24, 2024, 06:18:34 PM
https://www.tottenhamhotspurstadium.com/see-do/the-dare-skywalk
Post by: Simon Page on April 24, 2024, 06:19:16 PM
Post by: Toronto Villa on April 24, 2024, 06:22:49 PM
Post by: Demitri_C on April 24, 2024, 06:39:50 PM
I don't have hard evidence to back this up but I've always thought spuds get more attention than they deserve because a lot of the national journalists are from London and so a disproportionate percentage support them.
Londoners are also ignorant to the rest of the country, especially here.
I remember Merson saying when he came here he thought we had won one FA Cup and it blew his head off when he learned it was actually 7.
If we had the London postcode we'd be Big 6.
No offence to any London Villa fans hehe x
Cheeky sod 😂
Post by: LeeB on April 24, 2024, 06:39:50 PM
Post by: eamonn on April 24, 2024, 09:05:03 PM
I think he'll need to get someone a bit taller to kick any doors in.
He could borrow Xia's platform shoes.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on April 24, 2024, 10:42:29 PM
You only need look as far as Glenn Hoddle, lauded then and still as a legend. I believe Sid was a better player but then that is subjective. Until you look at the facts and the objective facts are stark when it comes to honours.
That's not to say that Hoddle wasn't a good player. Of course he was. Just not as good as Sid.
No he wasn’t. Cowans is the best midfielder I’ve seen at our club. If I see one of the same level as him again we’ll all be very, very lucky.
Sid was miles better. The Hoddle and Robson worship used to drive me mad. He was better than both of them.
Post by: Footy-Vill on April 24, 2024, 11:18:36 PM
Interesting short video on SPORTS PRO on X... and yet, financially, we're still eons away - partly because of the London factor and partly because ManUre and Liverpool particularly have been brand-building and business-building for decades.
The big six is who we're chasing and we're ready to kick the door down" - Aston Villa's president of business operations, Chris Heck, on the club's commercial ambitions
The current shirt sponsor ship deal front and sleeves see Villa 11th in league for money
Manchester City 87.5m
Manchester United 67.5m
Arsenal and Liverpool 60m
Totttenham 50m
Villa 10m
8m for BK 8 and 2m for trade nation sleeves sponsor.
Kit Manufacturer per season:
Man Utd Adidas 90m
Man City Puma 65m
Arsenal Adidas 60m
Chelsea Nike 60m
Liverpool Nike 30m
Totttenham Nike 30m
Villa only get 3m a season Castore
Heck has said :
"We have doubled our front-of-shirt deal, plus we have doubled our sleeve deal, plus we have doubled our kit deal"
What are the new kit manufacturers Adidas figures 'only' 6m? As that's double the current deal.
Shirt sponsor was 10m now 20m
Sleeve sponsor was 2m are they now saying 4m
Hecks talking sound bites embarrassing about kicking doors down if think that's competitive numbers as way off it
"It is time to share it is the Big Six we are chasing and quite frankly, we are ready to kick the door down.”
Post by: pauliewalnuts on April 24, 2024, 11:19:16 PM
For many years The Director General at BBC was a Spurs fan hence the over-emphasised hype they get on there that still pervades to this day.
They've even got an ex-Spurs player presenting MOTD.
And another one doing the One Show.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on April 24, 2024, 11:21:14 PM
Hecks talking sound bites embarrassing about kicking doors down if think that's competitive numbers as way off it
Did you think it was vulgar and a bit Studio 54 because his door kicking reference was a bit like "kicking her (or his) back doors in" saucy?
Post by: rob_bridge on April 24, 2024, 11:25:26 PM
You only need look as far as Glenn Hoddle, lauded then and still as a legend. I believe Sid was a better player but then that is subjective. Until you look at the facts and the objective facts are stark when it comes to honours.
That's not to say that Hoddle wasn't a good player. Of course he was. Just not as good as Sid.
No he wasn’t. Cowans is the best midfielder I’ve seen at our club. If I see one of the same level as him again we’ll all be very, very lucky.
Sid was miles better. The Hoddle and Robson worship used to drive me mad. He was better than both of them.
Objective facts puts Bruce who won far more than McGrath honurs wise - there is no person in the universe who would put him above McGrath in terms of a player.
Hoddle was a footballer's footballer, 20 ahead or 20 years behind the time. Take your pick.
Robson was a brilliant player 78-84ish - Sid matched him some of the time but overall wasn't as good. Better than him in twilight 89-91 mind
Post by: Footy-Vill on April 24, 2024, 11:32:41 PM
Hecks talking sound bites embarrassing about kicking doors down if think that's competitive numbers as way off it
Did you think it was vulgar and a bit Studio 54 because his door kicking reference was a bit like "kicking her (or his) back doors in" saucy?
Must we try and be disgusting with such vulgar and crude comment? It not even linked in any way.
The facts are the Adidas deal numbers need to be more than 6m comparing to the big six.
30m minimum and be competing
Post by: pauliewalnuts on April 24, 2024, 11:34:24 PM
Hecks talking sound bites embarrassing about kicking doors down if think that's competitive numbers as way off it
Did you think it was vulgar and a bit Studio 54 because his door kicking reference was a bit like "kicking her (or his) back doors in" saucy?
Must we try and be disgusting with such vulgar and crude comment? It not even linked in any way.
The facts are the Adidas deal numbers need to be more than 6m comparing to the big six.
30m minimum and be competing
I'm asking you, with your elevated moral standards, whether said standards were the driving force in disliking what Heck said. Or else, why are they "embarassing"?
Post by: Footy-Vill on April 24, 2024, 11:36:53 PM
Hecks talking sound bites embarrassing about kicking doors down if think that's competitive numbers as way off it
Did you think it was vulgar and a bit Studio 54 because his door kicking reference was a bit like "kicking her (or his) back doors in" saucy?
Must we try and be disgusting with such vulgar and crude comment? It not even linked in any way.
The facts are the Adidas deal numbers need to be more than 6m comparing to the big six.
30m minimum and be competing
I'm asking you, with your elevated moral standards, whether said standards were the driving force in disliking what Heck said. Or else, why are they "embarassing"?
Because the numbers on sponsorship aren't competing with the big six, it's just sounding off.It's doubling for us, which is great, but it's hardly the next level.
It's slow progress, but hey, we're talking as if we have elite sponsorship deals, which are what the other top clubs already have.
We are getting on the right track, but he's hardly threatening on those financial terms, so it's folly with his brash American talk. Trump did it to whip up a frenzy and that's what American business do.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on April 24, 2024, 11:41:10 PM
Hecks talking sound bites embarrassing about kicking doors down if think that's competitive numbers as way off it
Did you think it was vulgar and a bit Studio 54 because his door kicking reference was a bit like "kicking her (or his) back doors in" saucy?
Must we try and be disgusting with such vulgar and crude comment? It not even linked in any way.
The facts are the Adidas deal numbers need to be more than 6m comparing to the big six.
30m minimum and be competing
I'm asking you, with your elevated moral standards, whether said standards were the driving force in disliking what Heck said. Or else, why are they "embarassing"?
Because the numbers on sponsorship aren't competing with the big 6 so it's just sounding off.
It's doubling for us which is great but it's hardly next level
It's slow progress but Heck talking as if we are elite sponsorship deals.
It's his job, he has to drive the entire commercial function of the club to be much better. If he has doubled the shirt sponsor deal inside a year of being here, extracting us from BK8, and doing the same with Castore to a prestige deal with Adidas, then that is great. Kicking in the back doors (f'naar) of the 'big six' is EXACTLY what we should be doing.
I've got no time for the bloke on a lot of his stuff, but he seems to be getting the results on the income side of things.
If I went to my employer and told him I've binned a load of shit contracts and doubled the income on the new ones I've replaced then with, I'd expect him to be giving me a fucking massive pay rise. How's that embarrassing?
Post by: Footy-Vill on April 24, 2024, 11:43:18 PM
It not true and it's whopping up a frenzy when the contracts aren't competing in the bigger scheme of things so then it's not accurate for him to say we are kicking doors down
Post by: Footy-Vill on April 24, 2024, 11:46:27 PM
Post by: Toronto Villa on April 24, 2024, 11:58:35 PM
Post by: Ads on April 25, 2024, 12:00:06 AM
I also took the use of plus, not as a verbalised comma, but as in its double and then some more on top.
Post by: Toronto Villa on April 25, 2024, 12:06:52 AM
Post by: Drummond on April 25, 2024, 12:33:49 AM
If we spent a most of the last 14 uears in the top 6, most of which top 4, then we would have been in the "Big 6". If they'd have been mid table fodder that whole time then they wouldn't, revenue etc wouldn't make a difference. I think they obviously do get a lift up being in London and having London based journalists but ultimately it wouldn't matter if they didn't do it on the pitch. I think we're writing that off a little bit too much, however annoying it is. I think in 5 years we'll be very much a part of the conversation.
This is it.
We've been shit for a long time, yeah we got to a couple of finals but nobody expected us to win them.
The last time we threatened to have success was under MON and even then we didn't push on. We were on MOTD more, but that was it.
It takes time to be regarded as a 'big' 3,4,5,6 club, Chelsea and ManC bought their way to the top and have had sustained time winning trophies. Arsenal have been there or thereabouts for decades, see also Liverpool and ManU who have the legacy of success.
Spurs have had a number of years in the top parts of the league including Champions League (and a final no less) a big stadium and talking about, and showing ambition to continue it.
Other clubs who are trying are of course Newcastle because of their wealth and Champions League qualification, West Ham have big crowds now and have European success (if not League).
We are new to this sort of level, and need to sustain it, and actually win something, to be regarded as part of it. Newcastle aren't regarded that way, because they have tailed off thus season.
A big new stadium may help us, but also a redevelopment of part of Villa Park would help too.
Next season we hope to have Champions League, one of the very best managers, great owners, potentially a European Trophy, our 150th anniversary, adidas, and a player or two who have done well at the Euros. It's time.
Post by: sid1964 on April 25, 2024, 06:37:30 AM
We are miles behind the commercial deals of Man Utd, Liverpool, Arsenal etc.. and in truth we will never match their deals, even if we keep getting into a European competition each season.
We do not have the above clubs world wide appeal, so the major sponsors will not want us.
Post by: AV82EC on April 25, 2024, 06:52:27 AM
Post by: Villan For Life on April 25, 2024, 07:02:18 AM
If these commercial deals were so easy and straight forward to do, why were they not done previously, by Purslow and the previous gang?
We are miles behind the commercial deals of Man Utd, Liverpool, Arsenal etc.. and in truth we will never match their deals, even if we keep getting into a European competition each season.
We do not have the above clubs world wide appeal, so the major sponsors will not want us.
The value of these contracts is directly related to performance on the pitch. There’s no way Purslow could have attracted such deals when things on the pitch were not as positive as they currently are. Sponsors are taking a punt on us becoming an elite level club and I imagine that the deals have performance related bonuses built into them, so the better we do the more they pay.
Imagine how strong our negotiating position will be in a couple of years if we have a couple seasons Champions League qualification behind us? We’d be attracting better players and more commercial revenue. That is just the start.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on April 25, 2024, 07:04:00 AM
If you're knocking, you're not in control. You're asking for permission. We're kicking doors in, uninvited "knock-knock mother fucker" sort of way. Actually that would be funny, we knock, Kopites answer "who is..." BOOOM bost the half opened door right in his Norwegian/Cork mush. Have that, you soft ******.
I also took the use of plus, not as a verbalised comma, but as in its double and then some more on top.
Yes, the ‘plus’ thing was blatantly obvious to anyone with a shred of insight. As we know, footy is not a member of that particular club.
Post by: algy on April 25, 2024, 07:35:02 AM
If you're knocking, you're not in control. You're asking for permission. We're kicking doors in, uninvited "knock-knock mother fucker" sort of way. Actually that would be funny, we knock, Kopites answer "who is..." BOOOM bost the half opened door right in his Norwegian/Cork mush. Have that, you soft ******.Absolutely. He said plus on the last one too, and there was more of a pause after plus ... it was "We have doubled our front-of-shirt deal plus, we have doubled our sleeve deal plus, we have doubled our kit deal plus". Which makes me think that it's some mad American wording to suggest that they're all more than doubled.
I also took the use of plus, not as a verbalised comma, but as in its double and then some more on top.
To be fair to Heck, he's done a pretty good job on that side of things. I get what footy is saying, we're still miles off the pace commercially - but the deals we've got and sustained European qualification over a longer period of time will fix that. He can only work with what's there after all
Post by: Nev on April 25, 2024, 07:36:48 AM
Sorry but that’s needlessly negative. We’re starting to dip our toes in the world of larger sponsorships as we’ll likely qualify for the CL, do it a couple of times in a row and that changes things completely.
This the key, even now it's worth thinking about repeat qualification next season. Too many teams, like Newcastle have qualified then fallen away the following season. I know it's putting the cart before the horse but in terms of profile and commercial income, consecutive and indeed regular qualification is vital.
Post by: Demitri_C on April 25, 2024, 07:50:04 AM
Chelsea were getting small sponsorship deals pre roman. They were a very average club pre roman.
Post by: Dogtanian on April 25, 2024, 08:03:07 AM
Also, a lot of the income other clubs get is from the stadium, which we know we are not in a position to do for several years.
But, to put it in context, Spurs fan 'Kekerinho' declared yesterday on the Spurs forum:
"It took Aston Villa 4 years to get where it took us like 10+ years of 'sustainable investment' or some other bullshit financial term like that."
So we're not doing too badly...
And lets not forget that of all the clubs to have the celebrated 'five year plan', we bloody achieved ours! Rare as anything in football.
Post by: Footy-Vill on April 25, 2024, 08:13:58 AM
If you're knocking, you're not in control. You're asking for permission. We're kicking doors in, uninvited "knock-knock mother fucker" sort of way. Actually that would be funny, we knock, Kopites answer "who is..." BOOOM bost the half opened door right in his Norwegian/Cork mush. Have that, you soft ******.
I also took the use of plus, not as a verbalised comma, but as in its double and then some more on top.
Yes, the ‘plus’ thing was blatantly obvious to anyone with a shred of insight. As we know, footy is not a member of that particular club.
Regards figures I wasn't aware of the plus which may or may not be the actual case. If its more tham double current deals then that is a good job in that respect.
And regards the language used about kicking doors in its brash entertainment talk I just think it was a hype thing.
Post by: Olneythelonely on April 25, 2024, 08:27:25 AM
Regards figures I wasn't aware of the plusIf you're knocking, you're not in control. You're asking for permission. We're kicking doors in, uninvited "knock-knock mother fucker" sort of way. Actually that would be funny, we knock, Kopites answer "who is..." BOOOM bost the half opened door right in his Norwegian/Cork mush. Have that, you soft ******.
I also took the use of plus, not as a verbalised comma, but as in its double and then some more on top.
Yes, the ‘plus’ thing was blatantly obvious to anyone with a shred of insight. As we know, footy is not a member of that particular club.
Regards figures I wasn't aware of the plus which may or may not be the actual case. If its more tham double current deals then that is a good job in that respect.
And regards the language used about kicking doors in its brash entertainment talk I just think it was a hype thing.
I find it erotic. Sometimes I wish a big burly man would kick my door down (literally, you filthy gets) and take me in his big strong arms.
Post by: LeeB on April 25, 2024, 08:29:17 AM
Post by: Footy-Vill on April 25, 2024, 08:32:16 AM
Sorry but that’s needlessly negative. We’re starting to dip our toes in the world of larger sponsorships as we’ll likely qualify for the CL, do it a couple of times in a row and that changes things completely.
This the key, even now it's worth thinking about repeat qualification next season. Too many teams, like Newcastle have qualified then fallen away the following season. I know it's putting the cart before the horse but in terms of profile and commercial income, consecutive and indeed regular qualification is vital.
The Champions League is a must this season. It's imperative to the ambition
And I'd like to believe that this American Heck secured terms for that potential and a raise in sponsorship if we qualify for European Champions League. Otherwise the sponsors are getting a cheap deal
I'm a little concerned about how much he actually knows about football and his contacts and ideas, which may have worked well in American football but will not necessarily work for a Premier League club.
It all remains to be seen.
Post by: Dogtanian on April 25, 2024, 08:39:02 AM
Post by: Footy-Vill on April 25, 2024, 08:43:09 AM
Post by: Towser on April 25, 2024, 08:54:15 AM
Kicking down doors is a term used in the context of entering a building or room forcefully, typically by law enforcement, military, or emergency response teams.you are General Krulak and I claim my £5
Post by: Dave P on April 25, 2024, 09:11:21 AM
Post by: LeeB on April 25, 2024, 09:15:02 AM
Post by: Demitri_C on April 25, 2024, 09:15:38 AM
It takes time to do these things. We have to have success and look like we are going to be a good branding partner to companies, then they give us more money. That money helps us improve and get better, which means we can demand more money... you can't just decide overnight you're now worth the same as clubs that have been having much more success than us recently.
Also, a lot of the income other clubs get is from the stadium, which we know we are not in a position to do for several years.
But, to put it in context, Spurs fan 'Kekerinho' declared yesterday on the Spurs forum:
"It took Aston Villa 4 years to get where it took us like 10+ years of 'sustainable investment' or some other bullshit financial term like that."
So we're not doing too badly...
And lets not forget that of all the clubs to have the celebrated 'five year plan', we bloody achieved ours! Rare as anything in football.
But stamford Bridge isnt exactly up to scratch with regards to stadium either. Just its in a nice part of London but the stadium itself is shit
Post by: Dave P on April 25, 2024, 09:21:13 AM
And lets not forget that of all the clubs to have the celebrated 'five year plan', we bloody achieved ours! Rare as anything in football.
And this 5 year plan has included, amongst others, starting in the lower division, Steve Bruce, Steven Gerrard, Mbwana Samatta and Danny Drinkwater. An we are STILL on course.
Post by: LeeS on April 25, 2024, 09:25:39 AM
It takes time to do these things. We have to have success and look like we are going to be a good branding partner to
And lets not forget that of all the clubs to have the celebrated 'five year plan', we bloody achieved ours! Rare as anything in football.
I admire the optimism, Dogtanian, but we havent achieved our goal yet...
Post by: Dogtanian on April 25, 2024, 09:38:12 AM
It takes time to do these things. We have to have success and look like we are going to be a good branding partner to
And lets not forget that of all the clubs to have the celebrated 'five year plan', we bloody achieved ours! Rare as anything in football.
I admire the optimism, Dogtanian, but we havent achieved our goal yet...
The plan was to get back into european competition within 5 years. Year 5 we qualified for the conference league.
We haven't finished yet, but how many clubs get bought and the owners put in place a mythical 5 year plan that never gets achieved?
Post by: rob_bridge on April 25, 2024, 09:38:33 AM
People may say we will be miles away from teams like chelsea but how long will they be able to get these big contracts when they finishing 10th each year? It will slowly start get lower and ours will go up the more successful we are. If and its a big if we were getting CL in 4/5 seasons we are getting those big sponsership deals and more interest.
Chelsea were getting small sponsorship deals pre roman. They were a very average club pre roman.
They rightly or wrongly have had 20 years of not being an average club, have huge global reach/awareness - behind only ManU and Liverpool in England.
That will dissipate over time if they carry on being average but we years behind them commercially
Post by: Dogtanian on April 25, 2024, 09:49:15 AM
https://www.sportspromedia.com/news/aston-villa-shirt-kit-sponsor-betano-adidas-stadium-premier-league-chris-heck-interview/ (https://www.sportspromedia.com/news/aston-villa-shirt-kit-sponsor-betano-adidas-stadium-premier-league-chris-heck-interview/)
"We have grand plans to add well over 1,000, closer to 1,500 seats this summer, that are premium seating in products at Villa Park."
Post by: Footy-Vill on April 25, 2024, 09:50:40 AM
I said before should invite top celebrities to the matches.
Also promote our own top stars, especially Lehmann and Luiz, as a couple.
Emi Martinez, a world cup winner and world number one, can be used to promote the concept of being world class, same to how Prince William must be utilised as world figure and Aston Villa name.
All of these business prospects must be pursued and these are just some simple marketing ideas but would give Aston Villa plenty of growth exposure.
Post by: Nev on April 25, 2024, 09:54:59 AM
More on the Big Heck rallying cry here;
https://www.sportspromedia.com/news/aston-villa-shirt-kit-sponsor-betano-adidas-stadium-premier-league-chris-heck-interview/ (https://www.sportspromedia.com/news/aston-villa-shirt-kit-sponsor-betano-adidas-stadium-premier-league-chris-heck-interview/)
"We have grand plans to add well over 1,000, closer to 1,500 seats this summer, that are premium seating in products at Villa Park."
Add or take away from the standard seating offering?
Post by: Dogtanian on April 25, 2024, 09:58:08 AM
More on the Big Heck rallying cry here;
https://www.sportspromedia.com/news/aston-villa-shirt-kit-sponsor-betano-adidas-stadium-premier-league-chris-heck-interview/ (https://www.sportspromedia.com/news/aston-villa-shirt-kit-sponsor-betano-adidas-stadium-premier-league-chris-heck-interview/)
"We have grand plans to add well over 1,000, closer to 1,500 seats this summer, that are premium seating in products at Villa Park."
Add or take away from the standard seating offering?
I read it as additional, which seems to be in line with the talk of adding 2k extra seats to Villa Park this summer.
Post by: Footy-Vill on April 25, 2024, 09:59:20 AM
Of course some reserved for the royal fans.More on the Big Heck rallying cry here;
https://www.sportspromedia.com/news/aston-villa-shirt-kit-sponsor-betano-adidas-stadium-premier-league-chris-heck-interview/ (https://www.sportspromedia.com/news/aston-villa-shirt-kit-sponsor-betano-adidas-stadium-premier-league-chris-heck-interview/)
"We have grand plans to add well over 1,000, closer to 1,500 seats this summer, that are premium seating in products at Villa Park."
Add or take away from the standard seating offering?
Premium seating looking to get the movie stars and musicians in at that games!
Post by: Olneythelonely on April 25, 2024, 10:00:55 AM
More on the Big Heck rallying cry here;
https://www.sportspromedia.com/news/aston-villa-shirt-kit-sponsor-betano-adidas-stadium-premier-league-chris-heck-interview/ (https://www.sportspromedia.com/news/aston-villa-shirt-kit-sponsor-betano-adidas-stadium-premier-league-chris-heck-interview/)
"We have grand plans to add well over 1,000, closer to 1,500 seats this summer, that are premium seating in products at Villa Park."
Add or take away from the standard seating offering?
Premium seating looking to get the movie stars and musicians in at that games.
I’m hearing Mick Fleetwood and Michael Douglas have just bought season tickets.
Post by: Footy-Vill on April 25, 2024, 10:04:26 AM
More on the Big Heck rallying cry here;
https://www.sportspromedia.com/news/aston-villa-shirt-kit-sponsor-betano-adidas-stadium-premier-league-chris-heck-interview/ (https://www.sportspromedia.com/news/aston-villa-shirt-kit-sponsor-betano-adidas-stadium-premier-league-chris-heck-interview/)
"We have grand plans to add well over 1,000, closer to 1,500 seats this summer, that are premium seating in products at Villa Park."
Add or take away from the standard seating offering?
Premium seating looking to get the movie stars and musicians in at that games.
I’m hearing Mick Fleetwood and Michael Douglas have just bought season tickets.
Well I wouldn't be surprised if a big player like Taylor Swift will be involved in some capacity at Villa Park in the following years and seasons.
Not season tickets but celebrity exposure be it invite or a concert
Post by: Axl Rose on April 25, 2024, 10:05:08 AM
More on the Big Heck rallying cry here;
https://www.sportspromedia.com/news/aston-villa-shirt-kit-sponsor-betano-adidas-stadium-premier-league-chris-heck-interview/ (https://www.sportspromedia.com/news/aston-villa-shirt-kit-sponsor-betano-adidas-stadium-premier-league-chris-heck-interview/)
"We have grand plans to add well over 1,000, closer to 1,500 seats this summer, that are premium seating in products at Villa Park."
Add or take away from the standard seating offering?
Premium seating looking to get the movie stars and musicians in at that games.
I’m hearing Mick Fleetwood and Michael Douglas have just bought season tickets.
Well I wouldn't be surprised if Taylor Swift will be involved in some capacity at Villa Park in the following years and seasons.
Not season tickets but celebrity exposure be it invite or a concert
I fucking hope not
Post by: Footy-Vill on April 25, 2024, 10:08:23 AM
That's how it works on my understanding.
It's also about marketing and promotion so inviting big stars in turn raises profile.
Post by: danno on April 25, 2024, 10:08:36 AM
More on the Big Heck rallying cry here;
https://www.sportspromedia.com/news/aston-villa-shirt-kit-sponsor-betano-adidas-stadium-premier-league-chris-heck-interview/ (https://www.sportspromedia.com/news/aston-villa-shirt-kit-sponsor-betano-adidas-stadium-premier-league-chris-heck-interview/)
"We have grand plans to add well over 1,000, closer to 1,500 seats this summer, that are premium seating in products at Villa Park."
Add or take away from the standard seating offering?
Premium seating looking to get the movie stars and musicians in at that games.
I’m hearing Mick Fleetwood and Michael Douglas have just bought season tickets.
Well I wouldn't be surprised if Taylor Swift will be involved in some capacity at Villa Park in the following years and seasons.
Not season tickets but celebrity exposure be it invite or a concert
I fucking hope not
You and her got bad blood?
Post by: Brazilian Villain on April 25, 2024, 10:09:59 AM
Well I wouldn't be surprised if Taylor Swift will be involved in some capacity at Villa Park in the following years and seasons.
Not season tickets but celebrity exposure be it invite or a concert
I fucking hope not
Doubt she will, I heard she's dating Travis Chelsea.
Post by: Footy-Vill on April 25, 2024, 10:10:07 AM
Post by: Olneythelonely on April 25, 2024, 10:11:23 AM
It's just a theory and example it might not be the artist Taylor Swift just a popular example but I could see more musical folk being more involved at Villa Park.
I hate folk music.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on April 25, 2024, 10:12:03 AM
More on the Big Heck rallying cry here;
https://www.sportspromedia.com/news/aston-villa-shirt-kit-sponsor-betano-adidas-stadium-premier-league-chris-heck-interview/ (https://www.sportspromedia.com/news/aston-villa-shirt-kit-sponsor-betano-adidas-stadium-premier-league-chris-heck-interview/)
"We have grand plans to add well over 1,000, closer to 1,500 seats this summer, that are premium seating in products at Villa Park."
Add or take away from the standard seating offering?
I read it as additional, which seems to be in line with the talk of adding 2k extra seats to Villa Park this summer.
What will happen is they'll add the extra seats in poor, crammed in locations, and the extra 'premium' availability will be decent seats already existing.
Post by: Dogtanian on April 25, 2024, 10:12:09 AM
You and her got bad blood?
The kids call it beef. 8)
Post by: chrisw1 on April 25, 2024, 10:12:46 AM
“Our focus is on premium spaces. We have grand plans to add well over 1,000, closer to 1,500 seats this summer, that are premium seating in products at Villa Park. So that’s where we’re generating our revenue from our core fanbase by offering new things to purchase, as opposed to mandating a new purchase.”
Maybe they're going to be fairly modest with season ticket prices then, but will be converting more seating to 'premium.'
I'd guess the area behind the dug-out and maybe extending the area of the Middle Trinity 1874 seats and / or making them only available with a lounge. My big fear is the front of the Holte upper or rear of the lower. I think the only way they'll get real numbers on Terrace View will be linking it with the best seats in the stand and I'm concerned they may come to that conclusion.
Interesting times. They're going to have to break some eggs we just have to hope they don't go too far.
Post by: Chris Harte on April 25, 2024, 10:14:48 AM
More on the Big Heck rallying cry here;From that article I take that they adding Premium Seats only, which will reduce the number of general seats and reduce capacity overall. This is how they'll increase revenue in the short term. And it makes sense because I can't envisage how they'd fit more general seats in to the ground as it is currently.
https://www.sportspromedia.com/news/aston-villa-shirt-kit-sponsor-betano-adidas-stadium-premier-league-chris-heck-interview/ (https://www.sportspromedia.com/news/aston-villa-shirt-kit-sponsor-betano-adidas-stadium-premier-league-chris-heck-interview/)
"We have grand plans to add well over 1,000, closer to 1,500 seats this summer, that are premium seating in products at Villa Park."
Post by: Footy-Vill on April 25, 2024, 10:17:37 AM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on April 25, 2024, 10:19:28 AM
Post by: Risso on April 25, 2024, 10:31:29 AM
Post by: PeterWithe on April 25, 2024, 10:34:43 AM
Post by: chrisw1 on April 25, 2024, 10:34:57 AM
One concern - if they turn the centre of the Trinity, all three levels, into GA+ or some sort of hospitality seats, it is going to look absolutely shit on telly when half of them are empty every week.
It's all speculation, but you'd imagine Lower Trinity C4 & C5 are at risk, Mid Trinity B2, B3, B4 & B5. I'd think Trinity Upper is less likely but possibly the front of A4 & A5? If they do the unthinkable in the Holte, I'd guess front of K4 + parts of K3 & K5.
(https://i.ibb.co/q96rGWY/image.png) (https://ibb.co/q96rGWY)
Post by: Chris Harte on April 25, 2024, 10:35:14 AM
I reckon they'll put a big Leeds style catering marquee in the Holte End car park, and probably one in the North Stand car park as well.Well they'll have to put the corporate facilities somewhere, and without planning permission they need something temporary.
I just did a few sums and I reckon replacing 2,000 general seats with 1,500 corporate could generate somewhere between an extra £6 - £9 million a season, especially if we do qualify for the CL.
Post by: PeterWithe on April 25, 2024, 10:35:42 AM
It's just a theory and example it might not be the artist Taylor Swift just a popular example but I could see more musical folk being more involved at Villa Park.
I hate folk music.
Having Morris Dancers will add entertainment and a historical link to our glorious past. It will be great.
Post by: Dogtanian on April 25, 2024, 10:37:26 AM
I do find it odd that they haven't been announced yet, especially as the good feelings around the club are high.
Post by: chrisw1 on April 25, 2024, 10:41:49 AM
Post by: Chris Smith on April 25, 2024, 10:46:18 AM
I suspect they don't want any negativity de-railing the end of the season, particularly if some people are going to lose their seats. Probably sensible tbf.
That and they’re possibly waiting to see which European competition we are in as that might impact how they structure the pricing.
Post by: Gareth on April 25, 2024, 10:48:48 AM
Post by: Chris Smith on April 25, 2024, 10:50:07 AM
It's just a theory and example it might not be the artist Taylor Swift just a popular example but I could see more musical folk being more involved at Villa Park.
I hate folk music.
I hate modern music, disco boogie pop, they go on an' on an' on an' on an' on, how i wish they would stop.
Post by: Ads on April 25, 2024, 11:01:40 AM
I reckon they'll put a big Leeds style catering marquee in the Holte End car park, and probably one in the North Stand car park as well.
I was thinking the same. Was nice outside the Holte pub before Wolves. Felt they were missing a trick without a marquee for more ale/food. It was a good craic in Alkmaar under it. Would make far more than 10 or 12 motors parked in the spot they are.
In terms of 1500 extra seats, is it extra GA rather than additional? No planning, but then I'm not sure what designations you'd need on use for say converting the police box for example into a couple hundred GA seats etc.
Post by: PeterWithe on April 25, 2024, 11:09:14 AM
Post by: Sexual Ealing on April 25, 2024, 11:26:54 AM
Post by: VILLA MOLE on April 25, 2024, 11:28:28 AM
I've wondered if that area right underneath the WL stand roof could be utilised, around where the TV cameras are sited.
I think it is getting up there 😃
Post by: VILLA MOLE on April 25, 2024, 11:31:32 AM
Post by: chrisw1 on April 25, 2024, 11:40:35 AM
Can anyone remember the date the Season Ticket renewals started last year? I know it was April, but I'm sure it was before this point.Found the links. Last year prices were released 24-Apr - renewal window was until 31-May
I do find it odd that they haven't been announced yet, especially as the good feelings around the club are high.
22/23 prices were released 4-May - renewal window was until 8-Jun
I think it's reasonable for them to wait until early May.
Post by: danno on April 25, 2024, 11:58:06 AM
We're running this on Twitter: https://twitter.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1783430709094257023 in a contra deal with Aston Uni. I've never seen this before - are they an existing 'partner' or is it new?
Think we’ve been doing things with them a few years to be honest.
This for example is a great initiative, they go into schools and get any underprivileged kids free specs.🤓
https://www.aston.ac.uk/latest-news/aston-university-and-aston-villa-announce-launch-villa-vision
Post by: Sexual Ealing on April 25, 2024, 12:01:43 PM
Post by: pablo_picasso on April 25, 2024, 12:45:09 PM
Villa are going to be knocking on the door soon would be the more accurate statement needed.
Knocking on the door, handing in a polite & respectful letter to ask for their permission to join their little clique.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on April 25, 2024, 12:50:55 PM
Villa are going to be knocking on the door soon would be the more accurate statement needed.
Knocking on the door, handing in a polite & respectful letter to ask for their permission to join their little clique.
I doubt that, no nice nicey, we will be being demanding. We are always being demanding.
Post by: pablo_picasso on April 25, 2024, 12:54:43 PM
Villa are going to be knocking on the door soon would be the more accurate statement needed.
Knocking on the door, handing in a polite & respectful letter to ask for their permission to join their little clique.
I doubt that, no nice nicey, we will be being demanding. We are always being demanding.
So a sternly worded letter it is then...
Post by: Footy-Vill on April 25, 2024, 03:30:25 PM
Are we to do a thread on pre season as it's now confirmed
USA 🇺🇸
Columbus Crew (Ohio) - July 27
RB Leipzig (New York) - July 31
Club America (Chicago) - August 3
Post by: Sexual Ealing on April 25, 2024, 03:33:53 PM
I see the news about Pre season tour in America so I would think Heck is looking to grow this market.
Are we to do a thread on pre season as it's now confirmed
USA 🇺🇸
Columbus Crew (Ohio) - July 27
RB Leipzig (New York) - July 31
Club America (Chicago) - August 3
It's here mate: https://www.heroesandvillains.info/forumv3/index.php?topic=64693.0
Post by: Footy-Vill on April 25, 2024, 03:43:49 PM
Villa are going to be knocking on the door soon would be the more accurate statement needed.
Knocking on the door, handing in a polite & respectful letter to ask for their permission to join their little clique.
I doubt that, no nice nicey, we will be being demanding. We are always being demanding.
So a sternly worded letter it is then...
Knocking on the door means -to try to join a club or a group, or to try to become part of it.
Kicking the door in is not the correct term.
Heck is wanting to make an impact with words and he's implying Villa are breaking in with forceful entry.
I guess he wanted to say kick to relate it to football.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on April 25, 2024, 03:48:29 PM
Post by: pablo_picasso on April 25, 2024, 03:51:17 PM
Villa are going to be knocking on the door soon would be the more accurate statement needed.
Knocking on the door, handing in a polite & respectful letter to ask for their permission to join their little clique.
I doubt that, no nice nicey, we will be being demanding. We are always being demanding.
So a sternly worded letter it is then...
Knocking on the door means -to try to join a club or a group, or to try to become part of it.
Kicking the door in is not the correct term.
Heck is wanting to make an impact with words and he's implying Villa are breaking in with forceful entry.
I guess he wanted to say kick to relate it to football.
But what if they refuse to answer the door?
Do we stick a note in the letterbox?
Do we then have to phone in advance to make sure they are home?
I guess he said "kicking the door in" & not "knocking on the door" because we aren't asking for fucking permission to enter.
Post by: Olneythelonely on April 25, 2024, 03:52:41 PM
*getting horny again
Post by: Footy-Vill on April 25, 2024, 03:55:07 PM
Door breaching is the term.
Door breaching is a process used by military, police, or emergency services to force open closed or locked doors. A wide range of methods are available depending on the door's opening direction (inward or outward), construction materials, etc., and one or more of these methods may be used in any given situation.
In the United States, residential doors typically open inward while commercial building doors usually open outward.
Some breaching methods require specialized equipment and can be categorized as one of the following: mechanical breaching, ballistic breaching, hydraulic breaching, explosive breaching, or thermal breaching.
This explains Heck use of the words I guess.
Post by: Footy-Vill on April 25, 2024, 03:58:01 PM
Look at the end of the day Heck is going to make the odd error with his Americanism and brash talk I'm just here to deciifer what he would mean.
Post by: pablo_picasso on April 25, 2024, 04:03:47 PM
Nobody needs you to decipher what he means other than you.
Most of us know that "kicking the door in" is a metaphorical way of saying that we are going to break into their clique.
Post by: Footy-Vill on April 25, 2024, 04:16:09 PM
That is not the case as it's a league that determines who finish in the table.
Post by: Chris Smith on April 25, 2024, 04:21:26 PM
I can't regard it as a clique as that suggests it's a small close-knit group of people who do not readily allow others to join them.
That is not the case as it's a league that determines who finish in the table.
Do you have to make an effort to be so boringly obtuse or does it come naturally?
Post by: DB on April 25, 2024, 04:27:34 PM
https://x.com/villareport/status/1783512074166927367?s=61&t=xJ3Qpfj5c0SMrRQDwdeZJg
Post by: Olneythelonely on April 25, 2024, 04:29:07 PM
I can't regard it as a clique as that suggests it's a small close-knit group of people who do not readily allow others to join them.
That is not the case as it's a league that determines who finish in the table.
If this isn’t proof that there’s no neuro-divergence here, just a big old wind up, then I don’t know what is.
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on April 25, 2024, 04:31:23 PM
From X:
https://x.com/villareport/status/1783512074166927367?s=61&t=xJ3Qpfj5c0SMrRQDwdeZJg
Doesn't exactly sound like he's thinking about moving*
*I know, I know... slimey bastard could be saying one thing and doing another.
Post by: Toronto Villa on April 25, 2024, 04:31:59 PM
Villa are going to be knocking on the door soon would be the more accurate statement needed.
Knocking on the door, handing in a polite & respectful letter to ask for their permission to join their little clique.
I doubt that, no nice nicey, we will be being demanding. We are always being demanding.
In our way
Post by: Toronto Villa on April 25, 2024, 04:32:56 PM
From X:
https://x.com/villareport/status/1783512074166927367?s=61&t=xJ3Qpfj5c0SMrRQDwdeZJg
Doesn't exactly sound like he's thinking about moving*
*I know, I know... slimey bastard could be saying one thing and doing another.
Not immediately. But I believe that’s going to be the grand plan long term. These new board members haven’t been recruited to add 1500 seats.
Post by: London Villan on April 25, 2024, 04:38:56 PM
Post by: Demitri_C on April 25, 2024, 04:42:56 PM
I noticed in the interview he had a dig at old contracts that needed tidying up bet purslow would be pleased
Thats abit small time in my opinion. Trying to boost your own ego to get the fans on side. It wouldnt have been purslow only anyway. Surely process in place where the owners are involved too
Post by: Bully2345 on April 25, 2024, 04:54:34 PM
Post by: Nii Lamptey on April 25, 2024, 05:13:00 PM
Post by: Toronto Villa on April 25, 2024, 05:14:28 PM
Post by: London Villan on April 25, 2024, 05:20:29 PM
c4 and c5 (400 seats)
Press seats moving and more premium seats in the middle trinity (500 seats)
Re-instate the premium seats in the north (200 seats)
Centre/front rows of upper witton lane (400 seats)
Post by: pauliewalnuts on April 25, 2024, 05:21:11 PM
Heck: “Our core fanbase, our general admission ticket, we would like to give them a better experience, a grander experience without giving them the option to purchase more things but by changing their standard routine. So if that means keeping the prices similar to what they are, then so be it..”
.... apart from the extra premium seats, obvs.
Post by: London Villan on April 25, 2024, 05:25:16 PM
Post by: Toronto Villa on April 25, 2024, 05:35:44 PM
Thanks for your loyalty… now get lost while we whore ourselves out to tourists… or am i being overly cynical?
Probably. If you don’t think that’s the goal or going to happen as we get more popular then it’s not realistic. We cannot survive on our core fan base. For us to consistently compete at the top we need revenues from as many places as possible.
Post by: Toronto Villa on April 25, 2024, 05:37:09 PM
Heck: “Our core fanbase, our general admission ticket, we would like to give them a better experience, a grander experience without giving them the option to purchase more things but by changing their standard routine. So if that means keeping the prices similar to what they are, then so be it..”
.... apart from the extra premium seats, obvs.
Which one has to assume are not targeted to the core fan base but corporate visitors. We don’t have enough of those.
Post by: London Villan on April 25, 2024, 05:38:31 PM
Post by: paul_e on April 25, 2024, 05:39:12 PM
I noticed in the interview he had a dig at old contracts that needed tidying up bet purslow would be pleased
Thats abit small time in my opinion. Trying to boost your own ego to get the fans on side. It wouldnt have been purslow only anyway. Surely process in place where the owners are involved too
How is it small time to talk about terminating contracts early because they weren't good enough?
Post by: pauliewalnuts on April 25, 2024, 05:39:45 PM
I know. Just feels crap after being in those seats for so long. Be nice to be informed properly, not find out in a tweet, but there you go.
As someone else said, suspect it's because they don't want to piss on anyone's chips whilst a really successful season is still ongoing.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on April 25, 2024, 05:41:37 PM
Heck: “Our core fanbase, our general admission ticket, we would like to give them a better experience, a grander experience without giving them the option to purchase more things but by changing their standard routine. So if that means keeping the prices similar to what they are, then so be it..”
.... apart from the extra premium seats, obvs.
Which one has to assume are not targeted to the core fan base but corporate visitors. We don’t have enough of those.
No, we don't, but I was hinting at the people who currently occupy seats which are to become GA+ seats next season, they're certainly not getting a better experience for the same money.
The new seats won't be the ones which are corporate, it'll be the best ones currently in place, the new ones - which are probably going to be in some sort of corner somewhere - are certainly not going to be sold as corporate.
Post by: Lastfootstamper on April 25, 2024, 05:49:14 PM
Post by: Footy-Vill on April 25, 2024, 05:56:26 PM
I see the news about Pre season tour in America so I would think Heck is looking to grow this market.
Are we to do a thread on pre season as it's now confirmed
USA 🇺🇸
Columbus Crew (Ohio) - July 27
RB Leipzig (New York) - July 31
Club America (Chicago) - August 3
It's here mate: https://www.heroesandvillains.info/forumv3/index.php?topic=64693.0
Where is this without clicking on it ? I can't see it on main service user board ?
I clicked and wrote on it but it's not showing up on the main service user board
Post by: paul_e on April 25, 2024, 05:58:01 PM
I see the news about Pre season tour in America so I would think Heck is looking to grow this market.
Are we to do a thread on pre season as it's now confirmed
USA 🇺🇸
Columbus Crew (Ohio) - July 27
RB Leipzig (New York) - July 31
Club America (Chicago) - August 3
It's here mate: https://www.heroesandvillains.info/forumv3/index.php?topic=64693.0
Where is this without clicking on it ? I can't see it on main service user board ?
I clicked and wrote on it but it's not showing up on the main service user board
They're pre-season games so it shouldn't be difficult to guess that it might have been posted in the thread about pre-season.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on April 25, 2024, 06:50:12 PM
I see the news about Pre season tour in America so I would think Heck is looking to grow this market.
Are we to do a thread on pre season as it's now confirmed
USA 🇺🇸
Columbus Crew (Ohio) - July 27
RB Leipzig (New York) - July 31
Club America (Chicago) - August 3
It's here mate: https://www.heroesandvillains.info/forumv3/index.php?topic=64693.0
Where is this without clicking on it ? I can't see it on main service user board ?
I clicked and wrote on it but it's not showing up on the main service user board
They're pre-season games so it shouldn't be difficult to guess that it might have been posted in the thread about pre-season.
*slowly shakes head*
Post by: frank black on April 25, 2024, 06:56:08 PM
I'm not sure how it's been deployed so far, but has anybody lost their seat to GA+? They do seem to be more stuck out of the way in the wings than front and centre
I think they left it too late to turf out any of the existing season ticket holders. So they are currently in the spare parts.
I suspect they will now start to look at those in the prime spots, as an opportunity to increase revenue (sadly, it makes sense). I’m expecting to be one of those that receive the email and being offered a wonderful opportunity to relocate or cough up a fortune.
Post by: oldhill_avfc on April 25, 2024, 07:05:40 PM
I see the news about Pre season tour in America so I would think Heck is looking to grow this market.
Are we to do a thread on pre season as it's now confirmed
USA 🇺🇸
Columbus Crew (Ohio) - July 27
RB Leipzig (New York) - July 31
Club America (Chicago) - August 3
It's here mate: https://www.heroesandvillains.info/forumv3/index.php?topic=64693.0
Where is this without clicking on it ? I can't see it on main service user board ?
I clicked and wrote on it but it's not showing up on the main service user board
They're pre-season games so it shouldn't be difficult to guess that it might have been posted in the thread about pre-season.
*slowly shakes head*
Give it a rest guys.
He loves the Villa like the rest of us.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on April 25, 2024, 07:14:04 PM
I can't regard it as a clique as that suggests it's a small close-knit group of people who do not readily allow others to join them.
That is not the case as it's a league that determines who finish in the table.
If this isn’t proof that there’s no neuro-divergence here, just a big old wind up, then I don’t know what is.
My feelings exactly.
Post by: Drummond on April 25, 2024, 07:26:04 PM
I've wondered if that area right underneath the WL stand roof could be utilised, around where the TV cameras are sited.
I always thought the cameras were in the gantry and then realised they are actually in the stand,whrre the commentators also sit.
Post by: jon collett on April 25, 2024, 07:28:13 PM
Post by: Lastfootstamper on April 25, 2024, 07:30:12 PM
I've wondered if that area right underneath the WL stand roof could be utilised, around where the TV cameras are sited.
Funnily enough my brother suggested something like that only last week, akin to the Olympic Gallery at the old Wembley.
Post by: algy on April 25, 2024, 07:33:04 PM
He's probably concerned about her reputationMore on the Big Heck rallying cry here;
https://www.sportspromedia.com/news/aston-villa-shirt-kit-sponsor-betano-adidas-stadium-premier-league-chris-heck-interview/ (https://www.sportspromedia.com/news/aston-villa-shirt-kit-sponsor-betano-adidas-stadium-premier-league-chris-heck-interview/)
"We have grand plans to add well over 1,000, closer to 1,500 seats this summer, that are premium seating in products at Villa Park."
Add or take away from the standard seating offering?
Premium seating looking to get the movie stars and musicians in at that games.
I’m hearing Mick Fleetwood and Michael Douglas have just bought season tickets.
Well I wouldn't be surprised if Taylor Swift will be involved in some capacity at Villa Park in the following years and seasons.
Not season tickets but celebrity exposure be it invite or a concert
I fucking hope not
You and her got bad blood?
Post by: VillaTim on April 25, 2024, 07:40:35 PM
Sunday Bloody Super Sunday .
Post by: Stu on April 25, 2024, 08:00:38 PM
And this whole tiers of payment = better experiences feels rife these days, in so many different contexts. No ads on Prime? Pay us more money. Want quicker delivery and no service fees on Uber eats? Pay us more money. Want to get a pint at HT at VP? Pay us more money. On and on it goes.
Post by: VillaTim on April 25, 2024, 08:02:14 PM
Wait, so we’re staying at VP now and it’s going to be rebuilt? What? I can’t speak for others but I’m not sure people want a “grander” experience, whatever that means, they just want things to work properly.Welcome to Capitalism .
And this whole tiers of payment = better experiences feels rife these days, in so many different contexts. No ads on Prime? Pay us more money. Want quicker delivery and no service fees on Uber eats? Pay us more money. Want to get a pint at HT at VP? Pay us more money. On and on it goes.
Post by: Bad English on April 25, 2024, 08:03:26 PM
I agree with you Percy. I hope this is not considered as stalking. :-/I can't regard it as a clique as that suggests it's a small close-knit group of people who do not readily allow others to join them.
That is not the case as it's a league that determines who finish in the table.
If this isn’t proof that there’s no neuro-divergence here, just a big old wind up, then I don’t know what is.
My feelings exactly.
Post by: Stu on April 25, 2024, 08:13:34 PM
Post by: VILLA MOLE on April 25, 2024, 08:23:34 PM
Post by: London Villan on April 25, 2024, 08:24:22 PM
Post by: VILLA MOLE on April 25, 2024, 08:30:09 PM
Instead of by the sounds of things…
They were talking in terms of extra seats when they were not doing the North Stand . I hope someone asks them about that
Post by: Villan82 on April 25, 2024, 08:34:23 PM
Post by: VILLA MOLE on April 25, 2024, 08:40:14 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on April 25, 2024, 09:59:23 PM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on April 25, 2024, 10:35:29 PM
I’ve always thought what my match going experience really needs is a glass of Prosecco and a comfy padded seat. Super duper.
It won't be Prosecco, it'll be Cava.
Post by: Drummond on April 25, 2024, 11:14:09 PM
Post by: Footy-Vill on April 25, 2024, 11:29:12 PM
Prosecco is Italian.
Post by: Pat McMahon on April 25, 2024, 11:31:24 PM
Post by: Bad English on April 25, 2024, 11:32:18 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on April 25, 2024, 11:46:29 PM
Cava is Spanish
Prosecco is Italian.
NO WAY!
Post by: Brazilian Villain on April 25, 2024, 11:48:47 PM
Cava is Spanish
Prosecco is Italian.
NO WAY!
Wait till you hear Champagne is.......French.
Post by: Drummond on April 25, 2024, 11:50:50 PM
Cava is Spanish
Prosecco is Italian.
NO WAY!
Wait till you hear Champagne is.......French.
Fuuuuck offff! No?
Post by: Percy McCarthy on April 25, 2024, 11:54:22 PM
I agree with you Percy. I hope this is not considered as stalking. :-/I can't regard it as a clique as that suggests it's a small close-knit group of people who do not readily allow others to join them.
That is not the case as it's a league that determines who finish in the table.
If this isn’t proof that there’s no neuro-divergence here, just a big old wind up, then I don’t know what is.
My feelings exactly.
Well, you’re not jabbing at me in a conversation in which I’m not involved, so no.
Post by: Bad English on April 25, 2024, 11:57:44 PM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on April 26, 2024, 12:12:13 AM
Cava is Spanish
Prosecco is Italian.
NO WAY!
Wait till you hear Champagne is.......French.
Fuuuuck offff! No?
'Fraid so, I get no kick from informing you of this.
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on April 26, 2024, 12:12:17 AM
Post by: Percy McCarthy on April 26, 2024, 01:44:06 AM
Peace man. Fucks sake!
Jab.
Jab.
Someone jabs back.
‘Peace!’
Classic.
Post by: Rory on April 26, 2024, 01:45:04 AM
Cava is better than Prosecco.
I prefer Prosecco to Champagne, but then I am from Great Barr so, y'know...
Post by: Rory on April 26, 2024, 01:45:51 AM
Peace man. Fucks sake!
Jab.
Jab.
Someone jabs back.
‘Peace!’
Classic.
Can I jab you please, Perce?
I'm not French or anything.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on April 26, 2024, 01:57:49 AM
Peace man. Fucks sake!
Jab.
Jab.
Someone jabs back.
‘Peace!’
Classic.
Can I jab you please, Perce?
I'm not French or anything.
As long as you don’t gaslight me when I react.
Post by: Rory on April 26, 2024, 02:00:53 AM
Peace man. Fucks sake!
Jab.
Jab.
Someone jabs back.
‘Peace!’
Classic.
Can I jab you please, Perce?
I'm not French or anything.
As long as you don’t gaslight me when I react.
*jab*
...
What are you jabbing me for? 😉
(I'm not taking sides. We should all be friends.)
Post by: Bad English on April 26, 2024, 05:02:29 AM
I think you are taking all of this a little too seriously.Peace man. Fucks sake!
Jab.
Jab.
Someone jabs back.
‘Peace!’
Classic.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on April 26, 2024, 07:04:30 AM
I think you are taking all of this a little too seriously.Peace man. Fucks sake!
Jab.
Jab.
Someone jabs back.
‘Peace!’
Classic.
Of course. My fault. I reacted badly.
Textbook.
Post by: VILLA MOLE on April 26, 2024, 08:09:23 AM
Cava is better than Prosecco.
I prefer Prosecco to Champagne, but then I am from Great Barr so, y'know...
Absolutely 💪
Post by: stevo_st on April 26, 2024, 08:20:28 AM
Post by: Bad English on April 26, 2024, 09:13:00 AM
I give up mate. We had an exchange about a point of grammar on which we disagreed. As it is my day, job I felt the desire to push the point. You were adamant that I was wrong and explained rightly that you too have an excellent grasp of English and have written books and other people say you are right too. I still argue that my vision of the grammar point in question is perfectly valid and have shown many examples of it.I think you are taking all of this a little too seriously.Peace man. Fucks sake!
Jab.
Jab.
Someone jabs back.
‘Peace!’
Classic.
Of course. My fault. I reacted badly.
Textbook.
Yes, I laboured the point and indeed teased you with it, bringing up examples of usage that illustrate my point. You obviously didn't appreciate this and reacted by reiterating your English credentials (which I have never doubted) and do you know what? I did feel you were telling me I don't know my job (I am not an encyclopaedia of grammar and linguistics but I will defend my views like you do) so I banged on about it a bit.
Now, I'm being accused of gaslighting, stalking and who knows what else. If you want to be like that then there's nothing I can do about it but I thing it is all a bit out of proportion. There have been plenty of people having ding-dongs on here over the years and people end up getting over it and getting on for the most part.
I've asked for peace, which means I won't bring up is/are with you again as it was not my intention to be a ******. So I'm genuinely sorry if I've upset or annoyed you and hope that this will clear the air. I do not wish to fall out with you.
Post by: Risso on April 26, 2024, 09:13:00 AM
Post by: Bad English on April 26, 2024, 09:16:46 AM
A good crémant is where it’s at these days for meCrémant de Bourgogne. Some fantastic quality for under a tenner over here and worthy of many a Champagne. I served it at our wedding and we had 120 bottles "on ice" (do that with Champagne and you need a remortgage).
Post by: sid1964 on April 26, 2024, 09:22:55 AM
I don't think any money has been spent on them since the Holte End was rebuilt!!
Are they still going to use the Holte End car park as a fan zone before games?
Post by: PeterWithe on April 26, 2024, 09:30:20 AM
I give up mate. We had an exchange about a point of grammar on which we disagreed. As it is my day, job I felt the desire to push the point. You were adamant that I was wrong and explained rightly that you too have an excellent grasp of English and have written books and other people say you are right too. I still argue that my vision of the grammar point in question is perfectly valid and have shown many examples of it.I think you are taking all of this a little too seriously.Peace man. Fucks sake!
Jab.
Jab.
Someone jabs back.
‘Peace!’
Classic.
Of course. My fault. I reacted badly.
Textbook.
Yes, I laboured the point and indeed teased you with it, bringing up examples of usage that illustrate my point. You obviously didn't appreciate this and reacted by reiterating your English credentials (which I have never doubted) and do you know what? I did feel you were telling me I don't know my job (I am not an encyclopaedia of grammar and linguistics but I will defend my views like you do) so I banged on about it a bit.
Now, I'm being accused of gaslighting, stalking and who knows what else. If you want to be like that then there's nothing I can do about it but I thing it is all a bit out of proportion. There have been plenty of people having ding-dongs on here over the years and people end up getting over it and getting on for the most part.
I've asked for peace, which means I won't bring up is/are with you again as it was not my intention to be a ******. So I'm genuinely sorry if I've upset or annoyed you and hope that this will clear the air. I do not wish to fall out with you.
Ah come on, we is all friends....
Post by: Sexual Ealing on April 26, 2024, 09:31:32 AM
I give up mate. We had an exchange about a point of grammar on which we disagreed. As it is my day, jobI think you are taking all of this a little too seriously.Peace man. Fucks sake!
Jab.
Jab.
Someone jabs back.
‘Peace!’
Classic.
Of course. My fault. I reacted badly.
Textbook.
Erroneous comma. See me.
Post by: PeterWithe on April 26, 2024, 09:33:01 AM
I like an English sparkling wine. From England.
I think I remember a Southern farmer telling me that parts of Sussex and the area around Reims are all on the same tectonic plate, which is why we can grow decent grapes for sparkling wine.
Post by: LeeB on April 26, 2024, 09:34:11 AM
Post by: Bad English on April 26, 2024, 09:41:58 AM
They're on the same tectonic plate as Burgundy but I've yet to taste an English Chassagne-Montrachet or a Vosne-Rosmanée. :-DI like an English sparkling wine. From England.
I think I remember a Southern farmer telling me that parts of Sussex and the area around Reims are all on the same tectonic plate, which is why we can grow decent grapes for sparkling wine.
Post by: Risso on April 26, 2024, 09:45:32 AM
If you want to be like that then there's nothing I can do about it but Ithingthink it is all a bit out of proportion. There have been plenty of people having ding-dongs on here over the years and people end up getting over it and getting on for the most part.
D-
See me.
Post by: Bad English on April 26, 2024, 09:47:05 AM
FFS! :-DIf you want to be like that then there's nothing I can do about it but Ithingthink it is all a bit out of proportion. There have been plenty of people having ding-dongs on here over the years and people end up getting over it and getting on for the most part.
D-
See me.
Post by: Risso on April 26, 2024, 09:47:39 AM
They're on the same tectonic plate as Burgundy but I've yet to taste an English Chassagne-Montrachet or a Vosne-Rosmanée. :-DI like an English sparkling wine. From England.
I think I remember a Southern farmer telling me that parts of Sussex and the area around Reims are all on the same tectonic plate, which is why we can grow decent grapes for sparkling wine.
Me either! Surely it's more to do with soil types and climate than tectonic plates?
Post by: PeterWithe on April 26, 2024, 09:51:39 AM
Post by: AV82EC on April 26, 2024, 09:57:12 AM
Post by: Bad English on April 26, 2024, 09:57:53 AM
Post by: chrisw1 on April 26, 2024, 09:59:23 AM
Post by: Drummond on April 26, 2024, 10:00:17 AM
I like an English sparkling wine. From England.
If the grapes are grown here, then it is English. Not to be confused with 'British' wine which is, in fact, made from imported grapes (or grape juice/concentrate) and processed here.
There are some great English wines out there,i agree. Though they can be a tad expensive.
Post by: Risso on April 26, 2024, 10:01:55 AM
Well, I hope to try an English sparkling wine one day.
You should, the top ones are excellent, although as Drummond rightly says, not cheap.
Post by: Chris Harte on April 26, 2024, 10:09:51 AM
So where is Pomagne from...?Cava is Spanish
Prosecco is Italian.
NO WAY!
Wait till you hear Champagne is.......French.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on April 26, 2024, 10:23:32 AM
So where is Pomagne from...?Cava is Spanish
Prosecco is Italian.
NO WAY!
Wait till you hear Champagne is.......French.
Australia.
Post by: Drummond on April 26, 2024, 10:48:11 AM
Well, I hope to try an English sparkling wine one day.
You should, the top ones are excellent, although as Drummond rightly says, not cheap.
Gusbourne is very good.
Post by: Duncan Shaw on April 26, 2024, 10:50:46 AM
Post by: Steve67 on April 26, 2024, 11:46:38 AM
Got my step-daughter's wedding at Denbeigh's Vineyard in Surrey next Friday, so will be trying shit-loads of it ;D
Enjoy Duncan. I live in Lightwater.
Post by: Dogtanian on April 26, 2024, 01:56:55 PM
Post by: PeterWithe on April 26, 2024, 02:41:02 PM
Post by: ChicagoLion on April 26, 2024, 02:45:28 PM
Always thought it was German but I'm normally wrong.Along with Liebfraumilch.
But Piat D or is French though.
Post by: chrisw1 on April 26, 2024, 03:12:56 PM
Post by: Bad English on April 26, 2024, 03:19:14 PM
la francais adore le piat d'orNo they bleedin' don't!
Post by: chrisw1 on April 26, 2024, 03:32:08 PM
They must have thought we were such mugs in the 80's.la francais adore le piat d'orNo they bleedin' don't!
Post by: Percy McCarthy on April 26, 2024, 03:55:11 PM
I give up mate. We had an exchange about a point of grammar on which we disagreed. As it is my day, job I felt the desire to push the point. You were adamant that I was wrong and explained rightly that you too have an excellent grasp of English and have written books and other people say you are right too. I still argue that my vision of the grammar point in question is perfectly valid and have shown many examples of it.I think you are taking all of this a little too seriously.Peace man. Fucks sake!
Jab.
Jab.
Someone jabs back.
‘Peace!’
Classic.
Of course. My fault. I reacted badly.
Textbook.
Yes, I laboured the point and indeed teased you with it, bringing up examples of usage that illustrate my point. You obviously didn't appreciate this and reacted by reiterating your English credentials (which I have never doubted) and do you know what? I did feel you were telling me I don't know my job (I am not an encyclopaedia of grammar and linguistics but I will defend my views like you do) so I banged on about it a bit.
Now, I'm being accused of gaslighting, stalking and who knows what else. If you want to be like that then there's nothing I can do about it but I thing it is all a bit out of proportion. There have been plenty of people having ding-dongs on here over the years and people end up getting over it and getting on for the most part.
I've asked for peace, which means I won't bring up is/are with you again as it was not my intention to be a ******. So I'm genuinely sorry if I've upset or annoyed you and hope that this will clear the air. I do not wish to fall out with you.
Fair enough. I’m sorry too.
I would hate it if my taking offence meant people couldn’t strongly disagree with each other in the traditional H&V way. That’s not sarcasm by the way.
Consider me not fallen out with.
Post by: VILLA MOLE on April 26, 2024, 04:00:42 PM
Post by: Somniloquism on April 26, 2024, 04:07:11 PM
Blue Nun is French, though, yes?
Our French Teachers classroom had loads of empty wine bottles above the chalkboards (the boards were the rotating ones on a roller so had a large "shelf" above them). So I always though Blue Nun and Black Tower were French for ages as well as they appeared there.
Post by: Sdwbvf on April 26, 2024, 05:39:22 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on April 26, 2024, 06:47:21 PM
Just to be picky (it seems to be de riguer on here). The strata of chalk is the North Downs not South. The best sparklings are North Downs. Unfortunately i live on the chunk of North Downs that is suburban sprawl of Croydon. Got some good grapes till i copped the vines down though.
No need for the opening sentence, that's a perfect post for H&V, you're absolutely right!
Post by: Mister E on April 26, 2024, 06:50:51 PM
Yes, I like the Crémant de Bourgogne but the Crémant d'Alsace is also rather tasty and - as you say - very well-priced in France.A good crémant is where it’s at these days for meCrémant de Bourgogne. Some fantastic quality for under a tenner over here and worthy of many a Champagne. I served it at our wedding and we had 120 bottles "on ice" (do that with Champagne and you need a remortgage).
Post by: Mister E on April 26, 2024, 06:53:14 PM
Sussex and Champagne share the same soil and chalk features; hence the success of English sparkling wines from the Sussex area.I like an English sparkling wine. From England.I think I remember a Southern farmer telling me that parts of Sussex and the area around Reims are all on the same tectonic plate, which is why we can grow decent grapes for sparkling wine.
Post by: Des Little on April 26, 2024, 08:12:27 PM
Post by: VillaTim on April 26, 2024, 08:23:03 PM
Cava is better than Prosecco.But worse than Perry .
Post by: Risso on April 26, 2024, 08:25:28 PM
Just to be picky (it seems to be de riguer on here). The strata of chalk is the North Downs not South. The best sparklings are North Downs. Unfortunately i live on the chunk of North Downs that is suburban sprawl of Croydon. Got some good grapes till i copped the vines down though.
Just to be even more picky, it's 'de rigueur'. :)
Post by: Steve67 on April 26, 2024, 08:30:05 PM
Anyway back to Heck, how tall is he do we know ?
4 foot 7.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on April 26, 2024, 09:02:52 PM
Cava is better than Prosecco.
But worse than Perry .
Cómo?
Post by: Drummond on April 26, 2024, 09:09:11 PM
Cava is better than Prosecco.
But worse than Perry .
Cómo?
Here we go, it's the Garda correcting again.
Post by: Chris Harte on April 26, 2024, 09:09:34 PM
Tut.Cava is better than Prosecco.
But worse than Perry .
Cómo?
Surely it's "¿Cómo?" ;)
Post by: Brazilian Villain on April 26, 2024, 09:13:08 PM
Tut.Cava is better than Prosecco.
But worse than Perry .
Cómo?
Surely it's "¿Cómo?" ;)
Tsk, I deliberately omitted the ¿ so some people would just make a Perry Como connection, rather than signposting it was also a pun in Spanish.
Post by: Chris Harte on April 26, 2024, 09:14:55 PM
I missed the Perry Como reference. Too young, y'see.Tut.Cava is better than Prosecco.
But worse than Perry .
Cómo?
Surely it's "¿Cómo?" ;)
Tsk, I deliberately omitted the ¿ so some people would just make a Perry Como connection, rather than signposting it was also a pun in Spanish.
Post by: Drummond on April 26, 2024, 09:17:48 PM
Post by: algy on April 26, 2024, 09:18:36 PM
It worked, BV. I assumed it was the singer until someone quoted, noticed the accent on the ó and got a bit confused. Thought maybe we'd moved on from tectonic plates to lakes.Tut.Cava is better than Prosecco.
But worse than Perry .
Cómo?
Surely it's "¿Cómo?" ;)
Tsk, I deliberately omitted the ¿ so some people would just make a Perry Como connection, rather than realising it was also a pun in Spanish.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on April 26, 2024, 11:04:45 PM
I missed the Perry Como reference. Too young, y'see.Tut.Cava is better than Prosecco.
But worse than Perry .
Cómo?
Surely it's "¿Cómo?" ;)
Tsk, I deliberately omitted the ¿ so some people would just make a Perry Como connection, rather than signposting it was also a pun in Spanish.
Can you still get the number 7 bus there?
Post by: PeterWithe on April 27, 2024, 08:06:23 AM
Sussex and Champagne share the same soil and chalk features; hence the success of English sparkling wines from the Sussex area.I like an English sparkling wine. From England.I think I remember a Southern farmer telling me that parts of Sussex and the area around Reims are all on the same tectonic plate, which is why we can grow decent grapes for sparkling wine.
Yes I said that somewhere, I cant find it now.
Post by: Chap on April 27, 2024, 09:29:17 AM
I’ll get me coat!
Post by: Mister E on April 27, 2024, 09:43:48 AM
You did, but I only saw it after I'd posted.Yes I said that somewhere, I cant find it now.Sussex and Champagne share the same soil and chalk features; hence the success of English sparkling wines from the Sussex area.I like an English sparkling wine. From England.I think I remember a Southern farmer telling me that parts of Sussex and the area around Reims are all on the same tectonic plate, which is why we can grow decent grapes for sparkling wine.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on April 27, 2024, 09:47:12 AM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on April 27, 2024, 10:06:44 AM
Don’t forget Babycham!
No chance, he co-sings the title track on one of my favourite albums.
Post by: N'ZMAV on April 27, 2024, 10:14:46 AM
Imagine our contract ripping-up, business overlord Chris Heck thinking “I wonder what the fans think about me” and stumbling on this thread.he don't give a fuck.
Sadly, it may be better all round if he did.
Post by: algy on April 27, 2024, 10:49:27 AM
Imagine our contract ripping-up, business overlord Chris Heck thinking “I wonder what the fans think about me” and stumbling on this thread.He'd kick our collective back doors in.
Post by: Somniloquism on April 27, 2024, 10:53:50 AM
Imagine our contract ripping-up, business overlord Chris Heck thinking “I wonder what the fans think about me” and stumbling on this thread.
"Hmmm, all the fans seem to like sparkling wine, I wonder how much we can charge for that"
Post by: Villan82 on April 27, 2024, 10:54:01 AM
Post by: Ducksworthy on April 27, 2024, 07:25:47 PM
https://x.com/chrisheck76/status/1784274359495876998
Post by: Somniloquism on April 27, 2024, 07:29:25 PM
Post by: VILLA MOLE on April 27, 2024, 07:45:16 PM
Post by: Chris Harte on April 28, 2024, 12:29:09 AM
Man of the people Chris on the buses this evening:I'll 'ave you, Heck.
https://x.com/chrisheck76/status/1784274359495876998
Post by: Somniloquism on April 28, 2024, 12:31:04 AM
Man of the people Chris on the buses this evening:Great. Now get into the ground, buy a coffee, try to get some food to eat at the same time, get a drink at half time without missing 10-15 mins of the game & get one of your female colleagues to go to the loos at half time. Once you’ve done that, report back.
https://x.com/chrisheck76/status/1784274359495876998
The reply underneath it.
Quote
Great. Now get into the ground, buy a coffee, try to get some food to eat at the same time, get a drink at half time without missing 10-15 mins of the game & get one of your female colleagues to go to the loos at half time. Once you’ve done that, report back.
Post by: algy on April 28, 2024, 07:50:33 AM
Did he gets childrens discount?Hey, pick on someone your own size!
Post by: PeterWithe on April 28, 2024, 08:38:25 AM
Man of the people Chris on the buses this evening:
https://x.com/chrisheck76/status/1784274359495876998
I hope he got the driver to pull over and wait whilst he nipped in to 'have it orf' with a housewife.
Post by: dalians umbrella on April 28, 2024, 12:47:41 PM
Man of the people Chris on the buses this evening:
https://x.com/chrisheck76/status/1784274359495876998
I hope he got the driver to pull over and wait whilst he nipped in to 'have it orf' with a housewife.
#OnBrand
#OnTheBuses
Post by: Brazilian Villain on April 28, 2024, 12:55:19 PM
Man of the people Chris on the buses this evening:
https://x.com/chrisheck76/status/1784274359495876998
I hope he got the driver to pull over and wait whilst he nipped in to 'have it orf' with a housewife.
#OnBrand
#OnTheBuses
#DesperateHousewives
Post by: Dogtanian on May 08, 2024, 01:55:03 PM
https://www.ft.com/content/81eb92db-3e7d-4b45-a1a4-89f78530b87e (https://www.ft.com/content/81eb92db-3e7d-4b45-a1a4-89f78530b87e)
"Heck said it was vital to increase revenues to compete, highlighting opportunities in merchandise, sponsorship and expanding the club’s home stadium from roughly 42,600 seats to about 50,000"
:o
Post by: Somniloquism on May 08, 2024, 01:56:56 PM
Post by: pablo_picasso on May 08, 2024, 02:06:41 PM
Apparently we have new London Offices? And the Big Heck has been talking from them.
https://www.ft.com/content/81eb92db-3e7d-4b45-a1a4-89f78530b87e (https://www.ft.com/content/81eb92db-3e7d-4b45-a1a4-89f78530b87e)
"Heck said it was vital to increase revenues to compete, highlighting opportunities in merchandise, sponsorship and expanding the club’s home stadium from roughly 42,600 seats to about 50,000"
:o
So why cancel the plans that was about to do just that?
Half of Hecks problems stem from his own fucking mouth...
Post by: Drummond on May 08, 2024, 02:09:25 PM
Post by: Billy Walker on May 08, 2024, 02:33:20 PM
Apparently we have new London Offices? And the Big Heck has been talking from them.
https://www.ft.com/content/81eb92db-3e7d-4b45-a1a4-89f78530b87e (https://www.ft.com/content/81eb92db-3e7d-4b45-a1a4-89f78530b87e)
"Heck said it was vital to increase revenues to compete, highlighting opportunities in merchandise, sponsorship and expanding the club’s home stadium from roughly 42,600 seats to about 50,000"
:o
I remember suggesting to The General back in the day that the Club should invest in a London HQ - a hotel/training complex kind of thing. Aside from being a great investment for Randy/the Club portfolio-wise, it would have been an impressive facility to woo top signings, deal with the national media and to house our players for London matches. Ah, what might have been!
Post by: Dogtanian on May 08, 2024, 02:36:11 PM
Apparently we have new London Offices? And the Big Heck has been talking from them.
https://www.ft.com/content/81eb92db-3e7d-4b45-a1a4-89f78530b87e (https://www.ft.com/content/81eb92db-3e7d-4b45-a1a4-89f78530b87e)
"Heck said it was vital to increase revenues to compete, highlighting opportunities in merchandise, sponsorship and expanding the club’s home stadium from roughly 42,600 seats to about 50,000"
:o
I remember suggesting to The General back in the day that the Club should invest in a London HQ - a hotel/training complex kind of thing. Aside from being a great investment for Randy/the Club portfolio-wise, it would have been an impressive facility to woo top signings, deal with the national media and to house our players for London matches. Ah, what might have been!
It's probably a Regus office in Acton.
Post by: chrisw1 on May 08, 2024, 02:43:40 PM
Apparently we have new London Offices? And the Big Heck has been talking from them.
https://www.ft.com/content/81eb92db-3e7d-4b45-a1a4-89f78530b87e (https://www.ft.com/content/81eb92db-3e7d-4b45-a1a4-89f78530b87e)
"Heck said it was vital to increase revenues to compete, highlighting opportunities in merchandise, sponsorship and expanding the club’s home stadium from roughly 42,600 seats to about 50,000"
:o
https://archive.md/TJON2
Post by: VillaTim on May 08, 2024, 02:52:32 PM
Or just use The Landmark Hotel like Purslow used to .Apparently we have new London Offices? And the Big Heck has been talking from them.
https://www.ft.com/content/81eb92db-3e7d-4b45-a1a4-89f78530b87e (https://www.ft.com/content/81eb92db-3e7d-4b45-a1a4-89f78530b87e)
"Heck said it was vital to increase revenues to compete, highlighting opportunities in merchandise, sponsorship and expanding the club’s home stadium from roughly 42,600 seats to about 50,000"
:o
I remember suggesting to The General back in the day that the Club should invest in a London HQ - a hotel/training complex kind of thing. Aside from being a great investment for Randy/the Club portfolio-wise, it would have been an impressive facility to woo top signings, deal with the national media and to house our players for London matches. Ah, what might have been!
Post by: frankmosswasmyuncle on May 08, 2024, 02:57:17 PM
Post by: Demitri_C on May 08, 2024, 03:05:15 PM
Thats what we all want and need. We dont wanna to be a one season pony like Newcastle
Post by: Dogtanian on May 08, 2024, 03:07:41 PM
Like the we want to stay as CL club.
Thats what we all want and need. We dont wanna to be a one season pony like Newcastle
Not with those horse-punchers about, definitely not.
Post by: Villan82 on May 08, 2024, 03:09:17 PM
Wasn't the figure from 42600 to 50k from the revamped north stand which he cancelled? And stated he would replace with 2k seats?
Yes and due for completion for the 2026-27 season. His delay probably means, what, 2029 at the earliest now because of the Euros in '28
Post by: chrisw1 on May 08, 2024, 03:12:19 PM
I don't like either. It implies some kind of untouchability and certainly a huge amount of media bias and rhetoric follows.
No clubs in the PL have a God-given right to consider themselves forevermore elite and above the remaining 14/12. At times over the last 50 years Everton, Leeds, Blackburn. Forest, Ipswich, Sunderland, Sheffield Wednesday, West Ham etc will all have been in a position where they could have claimed to be big 6/8 but have fallen away.
For the good of the game we need to get away from perpetuating this 'big six' myth. There is no Premier League without all of the 20 clubs playing in it. I'm all for levelling out the TV money and prize money. There will always be a big financial gap, but we shouldn't be perpetuating this and making the gap ever wider.
Post by: dalians umbrella on May 08, 2024, 06:42:41 PM
https://archive.ph/TKzno
At Villa Park one afternoon, I went with Edens to visit the Lower Grounds, the all-you-can-eat dining area. Chris Heck, the club’s chief executive who formerly worked for the N.B.A.’s 76ers, suggested the idea for it shortly after he arrived in Birmingham last August. Touring the stadium, he stumbled on a decrepit ballroom-size space where ticket holders were permitted to gather. During the first game that the new venture was open for business, Heck says someone approached him on the concourse and took a swing at him — “because I took away the free space where he used to come and eat his sandwich.
After hearing how unpopular it was among supporters, I expected a dreary scene of a few people sitting at otherwise empty tables. Instead, the area was filled to capacity with some 800 fans. They were eating and drinking while a game played on several large screens. They certainly appeared to be enjoying themselves. According to Heck, the club would make 80,000 British pounds, or about $100,000, that afternoon. “We fill it up every game, so multiply that by 23,” he says.
Some of that money would doubtless end up being spent on making Aston Villa better: on players; or on importing more of the plyometric machines like the ones that Edens’s Bucks use in Milwaukee into Villa’s training facility; or on the scouting budget, perhaps. Lower Grounds would help defray the cost of trying to compete against some of the wealthiest owners and entities in the world. It would also, in some incremental way, make the business more valuable.
Those were ancillary benefits, but Edens insisted to me that they weren’t quite the point. He was convinced that the all-you-can-eat venue would improve the experience of attending a match, just as he felt confident that relieving the burden of the skiers trying to haul their kids’ stuff across the parking lot would be welcomed by club members at his Jackson Hole hotel. “Our fans are like, ‘We like tradition,’” Edens said. “And I tell them: ‘No, you don’t. You think you do, but you don’t.’ I mean, who doesn’t like a big-screen TV with plenty of food and beer?” Then he spread his arms wide and answered his own question: “Nobody.”
Post by: Sexual Ealing on May 08, 2024, 06:56:45 PM
Post by: Dogtanian on May 08, 2024, 07:00:20 PM
Sharing gate receipts and shirt sale revenue across the league? ::)
Post by: pablo_picasso on May 08, 2024, 08:58:26 PM
Quote
“Our fans are like, ‘We like tradition,’” Edens said. “And I tell them: ‘No, you don’t. You think you do, but you don’t."
What an arrogant c**t.
Post by: dave.woodhall on May 08, 2024, 09:04:08 PM
Post by: john2710 on May 08, 2024, 09:40:52 PM
My 29 year old Son, on the other hand likes to have several drinks at the game & probably afterwards if it was available. For him it's all part of the day. The club need to cater for both, but over time I'll be in the minority. The club will be actively trying to entice people who are prepared to pay more.
Post by: aldridgeboy on May 08, 2024, 09:56:51 PM
Last week I paid £55 for the Lower Grounds( Is it usually that price ?)
I absolutely loved it. Managed about 8 pints before/after the game, had a nice burger and chips and a huge bag of sweets. Service was instant. I thought it was worth every penny and will definitely do it again if I have a drink. I'm hardy a new fangled fan, Ive been going since 82. But I totally get the concept
The flip side is, I cant now go and just meet a friend if I'm not having a drink (well, I can, but at £55, Im just not going to). So I understand why a lot won't like the change as well
I wonder what the turnover is now in comparison to the £100k Heck quoted last year?
EDIT- Ive just seen its £80 usually, which makes a big difference actually
Post by: Mister E on May 08, 2024, 09:59:39 PM
I've never really been interested in drinking alcohol before, during or after a game. Other than a ticket the only thing I'd buy is a programme, which I never even open. If the club is looking to get extra revenue from me they'll be disappointed.I think you just summed it up perfectly, John. Us old-style game will not contribute enough to satisfy the financial expectations.
My 29 year old Son, on the other hand likes to have several drinks at the game & probably afterwards if it was available. For him it's all part of the day. The club need to cater for both, but over time I'll be in the minority. The club will be actively trying to entice people who are prepared to pay more.
Post by: Dante Lavelli on May 08, 2024, 10:21:29 PM
Post by: Percy McCarthy on May 09, 2024, 01:40:25 AM
Never mind the Big 6, it's free-loading, sandwich-eating c***suckers like me that he's coming for.
https://archive.ph/TKzno
At Villa Park one afternoon, I went with Edens to visit the Lower Grounds, the all-you-can-eat dining area. Chris Heck, the club’s chief executive who formerly worked for the N.B.A.’s 76ers, suggested the idea for it shortly after he arrived in Birmingham last August. Touring the stadium, he stumbled on a decrepit ballroom-size space where ticket holders were permitted to gather. During the first game that the new venture was open for business, Heck says someone approached him on the concourse and took a swing at him — “because I took away the free space where he used to come and eat his sandwich.
After hearing how unpopular it was among supporters, I expected a dreary scene of a few people sitting at otherwise empty tables. Instead, the area was filled to capacity with some 800 fans. They were eating and drinking while a game played on several large screens. They certainly appeared to be enjoying themselves. According to Heck, the club would make 80,000 British pounds, or about $100,000, that afternoon. “We fill it up every game, so multiply that by 23,” he says.
Some of that money would doubtless end up being spent on making Aston Villa better: on players; or on importing more of the plyometric machines like the ones that Edens’s Bucks use in Milwaukee into Villa’s training facility; or on the scouting budget, perhaps. Lower Grounds would help defray the cost of trying to compete against some of the wealthiest owners and entities in the world. It would also, in some incremental way, make the business more valuable.
Those were ancillary benefits, but Edens insisted to me that they weren’t quite the point. He was convinced that the all-you-can-eat venue would improve the experience of attending a match, just as he felt confident that relieving the burden of the skiers trying to haul their kids’ stuff across the parking lot would be welcomed by club members at his Jackson Hole hotel. “Our fans are like, ‘We like tradition,’” Edens said. “And I tell them: ‘No, you don’t. You think you do, but you don’t.’ I mean, who doesn’t like a big-screen TV with plenty of food and beer?” Then he spread his arms wide and answered his own question: “Nobody.”
Is it really that popular? I’d expect to see a bit more evidence on socmed if so.
Post by: adrenachrome on May 09, 2024, 02:33:10 AM
What we don't like is becoming increasingly irrelevant. Our fan demographic has changed dramatically in the last give years and a lot of them want the Lower Grounds-type 'experience'.
This is undoubtedly true.
It's been a long time coming, but now it is here. The time for opposing these initiatives has passed.
Post by: aldridgeboy on May 09, 2024, 10:10:45 AM
https://www.instagram.com/reel/C4sg-QeMK1M/?igsh=bnN6NTEyMWhsbGxk
Post by: tomd2103 on May 09, 2024, 10:20:27 AM
Just saw this from the Man U owner
https://www.instagram.com/reel/C4sg-QeMK1M/?igsh=bnN6NTEyMWhsbGxk
And there it is.
Post by: ChicagoLion on May 09, 2024, 10:20:39 AM
This bloke doesn’t get it and won’t ever get it.Quote“Our fans are like, ‘We like tradition,’” Edens said. “And I tell them: ‘No, you don’t. You think you do, but you don’t."
What an arrogant c**t.
Post by: Olneythelonely on May 09, 2024, 10:23:09 AM
Just saw this from the Man U owner
https://www.instagram.com/reel/C4sg-QeMK1M/?igsh=bnN6NTEyMWhsbGxk
“£2 on a burger at half time.”
What world do these arseholes live in?
Post by: dalians umbrella on May 09, 2024, 10:31:41 AM
This bloke doesn’t get it and won’t ever get it.Quote“Our fans are like, ‘We like tradition,’” Edens said. “And I tell them: ‘No, you don’t. You think you do, but you don’t."
What an arrogant c**t.
I'm not disagreeing with the sentiment, but does everyone realise it was Wes Edens saying this and not Heck?
Post by: PeterWithe on May 09, 2024, 10:33:17 AM
Just saw this from the Man U owner
https://www.instagram.com/reel/C4sg-QeMK1M/?igsh=bnN6NTEyMWhsbGxk
Nothing much of note there.
Post by: Bad English on May 09, 2024, 10:38:23 AM
Well, there is a devious and cunningly-disguised clue in 'Edens said' but who knows if people know what that means. ;-)This bloke doesn’t get it and won’t ever get it.Quote“Our fans are like, ‘We like tradition,’” .Edens said “And I tell them: ‘No, you don’t. You think you do, but you don’t."
What an arrogant c**t.
I'm not disagreeing with the sentiment, but does everyone realise it was Wes Edens saying this and not Heck?
Post by: Dogtanian on May 09, 2024, 10:39:31 AM
There's no way these people are sacrificing revenue growth by improving the 'customer' experience in order to appease our sense of history. Especially when the physical manifestation of that 150 years of history was built in the 1990s.
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on May 09, 2024, 10:46:11 AM
Post by: Villan82 on May 09, 2024, 11:04:33 AM
It's all continuing to point to a Villa Park rebuild. They're confident that if they knocked it down tomorrow and built something modern that gives a better experience we will all be happy with it afterwards.
There's no way these people are sacrificing revenue growth by improving the 'customer' experience in order to appease our sense of history. Especially when the physical manifestation of that 150 years of history was built in the 1990s.
I have this image of Heck getting a kick out of how much intrigue his statement has caused!
I literally have no clue what the future for Villa Park is.
Post by: dalians umbrella on May 09, 2024, 11:37:17 AM
Well, there is a devious and cunningly-disguised clue in 'Edens said' but who knows if people know what that means. ;-)This bloke doesn’t get it and won’t ever get it.Quote“Our fans are like, ‘We like tradition,’” .Edens said “And I tell them: ‘No, you don’t. You think you do, but you don’t."
What an arrogant c**t.
I'm not disagreeing with the sentiment, but does everyone realise it was Wes Edens saying this and not Heck?
I still suspect Chicago Lion might have been referring to Heck - maybe I'm just wrong.
Post by: Bad English on May 09, 2024, 11:43:16 AM
Post by: pablo_picasso on May 09, 2024, 11:45:51 AM
But that wasn't the issue with The Lower Grounds for most people kicking off about it. The issue is The Holte Suite was a service that was sold as part of your season ticket & this was being taken away mid season with no consultation, very little comminication & absolutely no respect.
IF, some communication was given in a timely manner, I very much doubt that most people would care too much about it.
Certainly not the bloke who "swung for me because he lost his place to eat his sandwiches."
What an incredibly disingenuous way of explaining why some people were irritated by the situation.
And then to be told that our opinions on "tradition" don't matter because we can get an extra £100k per match in a situation that actually has fuck all to do with tradition & everything to do with respecting your core fanbase.
And all it would have taken to ease ourselves into this change would have been a bit of communication, a bit of patience & a bit of respect.
Post by: Beard82 on May 09, 2024, 12:10:42 PM
But what I think they need to be careful about is the idea of this Great Old Historic club is and should be part of our Identity and "Brand". If you don't make changes sensitivity we risk losing that which from a Marketing Perspective is part of what sets us apart.
If I was head of marketing, I would be thinking about how we can modernize sensitively.
Post by: Dogtanian on May 09, 2024, 12:16:33 PM
Build a stadium like Spurs and the young generations will lap it up and love it, because they see things like that and then look at Villa and think we're old fashioned and crap.
Everton are a great case in point. The bloody Z Cars and 'Everton!' song they play at the start of every match... the old boys who've been going since ration books love it, yeah, but any kid going must think it's embarrassing crap.
In short, modern, big, and new will get more people through the door and more success on the pitch than trying to present the club as traditional.
Post by: LeeB on May 09, 2024, 12:18:06 PM
Post by: Pat Mustard on May 09, 2024, 12:25:08 PM
Who would have thought that giving seated service where you can actually purchase beer & food would be a desired commodity when the only only other alternative is to stand around a cold concourse waiting for 20 mins for a pie & beer that you have no time to eat & drink.
But that wasn't the issue with The Lower Grounds for most people kicking off about it. The issue is The Holte Suite was a service that was sold as part of your season ticket & this was being taken away mid season with no consultation, very little comminication & absolutely no respect.
IF, some communication was given in a timely manner, I very much doubt that most people would care too much about it.
Certainly not the bloke who "swung for me because he lost his place to eat his sandwiches."
What an incredibly disingenuous way of explaining why some people were irritated by the situation.
And then to be told that our opinions on "tradition" don't matter because we can get an extra £100k per match in a situation that actually has fuck all to do with tradition & everything to do with respecting your core fanbase.
And all it would have taken to ease ourselves into this change would have been a bit of communication, a bit of patience & a bit of respect.
Exactly. Looking at that piece, if I was being kind I'd call it revisionist - unkind and I would say someone is telling a few porky pies. The Holte Suite was not 'derelict' as I believe it was called, and had far more business than the current incarnation is attracting. We would go in there before probably 5 or 6 games a season to eat and get a few drinks - as a family I'd say conservatively spending £60-70 each time.
At the higher capacity it used to have, if there was an average spend of even £15 per head you have to knock that off the figures being quoted, then suddenly the 'Lower Grounds' isn't half as profitable as being made out. That's before you get to the loss of goodwill from taking away a benefit that we all had as season ticket holders without any consultation.
Post by: chrisw1 on May 09, 2024, 12:26:44 PM
Just saw this from the Man U ownerThis is all pretty reasonable - give people somewhere to have a pint after a game and some will use it.
https://www.instagram.com/reel/C4sg-QeMK1M/?igsh=bnN6NTEyMWhsbGxk
As for the Lower Grounds, it's news to me that it's selling out every week, I thought they were struggling to give it away?
I still don't have a problem with the concept though or them using that space, just the way they went about it was shit and on the back of taking the Holte Upper concourse felt a step too far.
Post by: Beard82 on May 09, 2024, 12:27:26 PM
It's why only the dickhead young ones support Man City, it's why kids are buying LP Players and Vinyl, it's why Craft Ale is a big business.
So I think it is a niche we should target - as everyone else goes after being the shiniest and best, we could go for those who are looking for things more meaningful.
A shinny new stadium is trumped by the next shinny new stadium - but ultimately they will all look dated in 20 years.
There is plenty we can do, like Villa Live to complement what we have - and upgrade what we have so you can buy a drink - but I don't think we need revolution just well targetted evolution building on what makes us special currently.
Post by: Dogtanian on May 09, 2024, 12:28:02 PM
Post by: London Villan on May 09, 2024, 12:39:26 PM
Now, while habits have changed, I'm sure there are few thousand fans who would quite happily spend a couple of hours having a beer, watching the next match on TV, in an environment that is pub-like. This alone would help the traffic problems.
Post by: Somniloquism on May 09, 2024, 12:46:49 PM
Post by: LeeB on May 09, 2024, 12:48:26 PM
There is a massive uptapped market, left by the dozens of pubs that used to cater for pre and post match drinks, in the proximity of the ground.
Now, while habits have changed, I'm sure there are few thousand fans who would quite happily spend a couple of hours having a beer, watching the next match on TV, in an environment that is pub-like. This alone would help the traffic problems.
You get the feeling they're reluctant to address it as it would eat into their other higher priced offerings. I suppose they'll say the Villa Live thing will but that will be pricey no doubt.
Post by: Villan82 on May 09, 2024, 02:04:43 PM
We can expect more premium seating, a tidy up and a few coats of paint.
Post by: john2710 on May 09, 2024, 02:07:04 PM
I'm sure there's some who won't be happy with whatever he says, but I think this clears up a few concerns.
Post by: Dogtanian on May 09, 2024, 02:07:13 PM
Post by: Villan82 on May 09, 2024, 02:11:28 PM
https://www.avfc.co.uk/news/2024/may/09/chris-heck-update/ (https://www.avfc.co.uk/news/2024/may/09/chris-heck-update/)
I'm sure there's some who won't be happy with whatever he says, but I think this clears up a few concerns.
In that interview there is not a hint of a single new General Admission seat at Villa Park in the next several seasons let alone plans for any new stand.
Post by: Dogtanian on May 09, 2024, 02:14:19 PM
Post by: Risso on May 09, 2024, 02:18:33 PM
In terms of short term plans for the ground - more premium seats, LED lights, and some premium offering in the North Stand car park. Take that, FFP!
Post by: sid1964 on May 09, 2024, 02:24:47 PM
Post by: frank black on May 09, 2024, 02:25:18 PM
Post by: Dogtanian on May 09, 2024, 02:25:25 PM
Why haven't they made bigger deals of this? Instead of burying it in a video most people aren't going to watch.
Post by: Dogtanian on May 09, 2024, 02:25:57 PM
He did say general admission up 5%, (reasonable) However I’ll hold my breath a little longer, as we don’t know the impact of additional premium options (which he never fails to mention)
He said renewals, so I suspect new season tickets may be higher.
Post by: dalians umbrella on May 09, 2024, 02:26:27 PM
He did say general admission up 5%, (reasonable) However I’ll hold my breath a little longer, as we don’t know the impact of additional premium options (which he never fails to mention)
Yes, the unanswered question for some of us is whether our seats will continue to be classed as general admission or whether we will a) be kicked out completely so someone else can buy them each game as part of a corporate package, b) get to keep our seat if we also pay a lot more for bundled-in access to a lounge with food and drink, or c) get to keep our seat if we pay a bit more for a padded seat and tie.
Post by: Dogtanian on May 09, 2024, 02:28:07 PM
Post by: Hookeysmith on May 09, 2024, 02:31:03 PM
I am as traditionalist as the next guy but unfortunately the world has changed, especially in media and entertainment. I have used this before but i try to watch a lot of live music and everytime you try to buy a ticket nowadays it is accompanied by the option to "upgrade" to the premium pack , meals, meet the band, etc etc.
If you are a massive fan of a certain band it is sometimes the only way to secure tickets.
I know a woman who paid £600 to see Pink at VP, A guy who paid £400 to see Springsteen and we and my missus paid £300 to see Pulp in Sheffield a while back.
Even cinema tickets are offering "premium packages"
I know guys from the old days that when all seaters came in got priced out of VP and never came back yet we are not short of people paying todays prices.
Its inevitible i suppose
Post by: VILLA MOLE on May 09, 2024, 02:37:05 PM
Interviewed by Gabby? Bet he had him on the ropes.
Proper paxman stuff
Post by: London Villan on May 09, 2024, 02:40:21 PM
Post by: Dogtanian on May 09, 2024, 02:45:51 PM
Especially some of the older ex-players who never had the income of the more recent ones.
I do think there is a lot of room to improve Villa TV if they wanted. At the minute it's like any other PR thing, but if you look at the number of podcasts people listen to for clubs, there's a market for more discussion and analysis stuff they could do. It's also an opportunity to more foreign language stuff if they really want to broaden our global appeal.
Post by: sid1964 on May 09, 2024, 02:46:02 PM
Heck is here to raise revenues for the club as per the remit he has been given by the 2 owners.
I thought he came across well in the interview, and it is good news about the club staying at Villa Park.
Post by: Villan82 on May 09, 2024, 02:47:38 PM
I do get the feeling that whatever this guy says or does folk on here and afar will find fault.
I am as traditionalist as the next guy but unfortunately the world has changed, especially in media and entertainment. I have used this before but i try to watch a lot of live music and everytime you try to buy a ticket nowadays it is accompanied by the option to "upgrade" to the premium pack , meals, meet the band, etc etc.
If you are a massive fan of a certain band it is sometimes the only way to secure tickets.
I know a woman who paid £600 to see Pink at VP, A guy who paid £400 to see Springsteen and we and my missus paid £300 to see Pulp in Sheffield a while back.
Even cinema tickets are offering "premium packages"
I know guys from the old days that when all seaters came in got priced out of VP and never came back yet we are not short of people paying todays prices.
Its inevitible i suppose
I 100% agree with the need for us to make more money. I 100% agree we are playing catch up and must bridge that gap. I agree we need more types of offering at the stadium
Now, I don't agree with his plan for doing these things. Surely the new stand was the best plan for doing these things but that looks dead and buried so instead he is going to tweak bits and bobs and cram it all into an already creaking structure. That's my problem with him.
Post by: RamboandBruno on May 09, 2024, 02:51:07 PM
Post by: Risso on May 09, 2024, 02:52:31 PM
Now, I don't agree with his plan for doing these things. Surely the new stand was the best plan for doing these things but that looks dead and buried so instead he is going to tweak bits and bobs and cram it all into an already creaking structure. That's my problem with him.
Same here. It's all a short term sticking plaster approach, that's only going to have a small affect on revenue. He talks about the next couple of years and the new shop and the extra premium seating. I can't see how that's going to materially affect our ability to compete at the top table in the medium term. What's the big plan? LED lights, I mean who on earth gives a chuff about that?
Post by: Dogtanian on May 09, 2024, 02:54:11 PM
In business, no decision is final while there is still time to change it.
Post by: CT Villan on May 09, 2024, 02:55:01 PM
I swear Heck looks like Alex McLeish's chubby brother in that video.
Post by: Dogtanian on May 09, 2024, 02:56:21 PM
Lots of tidbits in that rather forced interview. I'm happy we're staying at VP (during Heck's lifetime), though intrigued by what wasn't said, ie rebuilding and increasing capacity beyond the Holte.
I swear Heck looks like Alex McLeish's chubby brother in that video.
Big Eck and Big Heck.
Post by: CT Villan on May 09, 2024, 02:57:26 PM
Big Eck and Big Heck.
[applause]
Post by: Villan82 on May 09, 2024, 03:08:56 PM
Now, I don't agree with his plan for doing these things. Surely the new stand was the best plan for doing these things but that looks dead and buried so instead he is going to tweak bits and bobs and cram it all into an already creaking structure. That's my problem with him.
Same here. It's all a short term sticking plaster approach, that's only going to have a small affect on revenue. He talks about the next couple of years and the new shop and the extra premium seating. I can't see how that's going to materially affect our ability to compete at the top table in the medium term. What's the big plan? LED lights, I mean who on earth gives a chuff about that?
Absolutely mate. Or put it another way, 2026 will mark 20 years since Ellis sold up and because of the decision to cancel/pause the new stand, the stadium will look the exact same as it did the day Ellis sold to Lerner.
Three changes of ownership and no material improvement beyond more premium, a new shop, etc. I mean how much of our merch is sold online anyway? Will a bigger shop make a difference?
Post by: algy on May 09, 2024, 03:13:34 PM
There's a lot of complaints for the sake of it.
Complain that transport isn't good enough, but then complain that we're not trying to add 10,000 people on top of it trying to get away without having done anything to ameliorate the situation.
Saying Heck doesn't get the club, then complaining because he wants to stay at Villa Park and leave the Holte End as is bar basically turning it back in to a terrace again.
Complaining that the club was run like a corner shop, then also complaining because the club want to operate in exactly the same way that a proper business would.
I mean, the whole thing makes no sense. Finding fault for the sake of it.
--
Anyway, glad it looks like we're staying at Villa Park for the foreseeable, and installing rail seating in the Holte is a sensible move IMO. Expecting there to be more sponsorship "opportunities", putting corporate logos in stands and whatnot. The LED lights ... be interesting to see what the plan is there. Makes sense though, it's part of taking it from a football stadium in to a proper general purpose entertainment venue.
Post by: Brend'Watkins on May 09, 2024, 03:25:11 PM
Lots of tidbits in that rather forced interview. I'm happy we're staying at VP (during Heck's lifetime), though intrigued by what wasn't said, ie rebuilding and increasing capacity beyond the Holte.
I'm a titbits man myself.
Post by: eamonn on May 09, 2024, 03:25:23 PM
(https://i.imgflip.com/8cvrut.jpg)
(https://imgflip.com/i/8cvrut)
YES! Staying put, baby. All the thousands of words written about moving, people being persuaded it's the right thing, all for nowt. Villa Park 4eva!
Post by: Villan82 on May 09, 2024, 03:25:36 PM
Purslow's plans for Villa Live and the new stand factored all of that in. These plans, to the best of our knowledge, have been scrapped yet we still want to do these things? We are now apparently going to do it by cramming more into the existing structure.
If he addresses that issue here my main concerns would evaporate. But he hasn't and it just doesn't seem right, especially at this stage in the club's evolution.
Post by: caster troy on May 09, 2024, 03:25:43 PM
Post by: Villan82 on May 09, 2024, 03:26:18 PM
So no material increase in capacity for the next 3-4 years at least?
Yes, that's the main take away but more premium seats!
Post by: VILLA MOLE on May 09, 2024, 03:30:37 PM
Post by: chrisw1 on May 09, 2024, 03:53:58 PM
Looks like there's no short-term plans for expansion (surprise surprise) but I guess if the new premium seats sell well they may reconsider. This side of things seems very short-sighted to me, they could have done so much with the new North.
5% increase and acknowledging the misstep re the Holte is very good news.
It seems the premium seating will be a new lounge in the Witton, possibly with some specific padded seats, and probably an expansion to the 1874 padded section in the Trinity?
Post by: Dogtanian on May 09, 2024, 03:55:41 PM
Post by: dalians umbrella on May 09, 2024, 04:03:32 PM
It seems the premium seating will be a new lounge in the Witton, possibly with some specific padded seats, and probably an expansion to the 1874 padded section in the Trinity?
Is this a guess or have you heard anything?
Post by: chrisw1 on May 09, 2024, 04:07:28 PM
I'm sure somebody posted about them working on an unused lounge in the DE recently. The seating thing is entirely a guess. But I would imagine one thing they will have learn't with Terrace View is premium seats don't sell well if you accompany them with shit seats. That said, there aren't really many shit seats in the DE, so maybe it won't be an issue.
It seems the premium seating will be a new lounge in the Witton, possibly with some specific padded seats, and probably an expansion to the 1874 padded section in the Trinity?
Is this a guess or have you heard anything?
Post by: Hookeysmith on May 09, 2024, 04:08:08 PM
Even somewhere like the Ricoh only holds around 30K so where would all the 12K other current fans go in the period of our greatest success (assuming we achieve Champs league)
Its a pity our neighbours don't build a large stad................oh
Post by: chrisw1 on May 09, 2024, 04:11:14 PM
Post by: Hookeysmith on May 09, 2024, 04:12:41 PM
If only we had a plan to build a huge fucking stand that would increase our competitiveness in the very short term, maybe even 2 years.
But it wasnt really was it?
And to do it when we are at our most marketable was crazy
Post by: LeeB on May 09, 2024, 04:15:13 PM
If we had a large stadium close by that we could ground share then i would vote to move there whilst we did a "spurs - i dont mean bottle it ;)" and moved out whilst the ground was completely revamped with sections being removed etc that could not be done in a close season.
Even somewhere like the Ricoh only holds around 30K so where would all the 12K other current fans go in the period of our greatest success (assuming we achieve Champs league)
Its a pity our neighbours don't build a large stad................oh
We'll just have to wait until they build the Girodome and lodge there till we're done.
Post by: chrisw1 on May 09, 2024, 04:15:23 PM
What do you mean? We had planning permission and the redev was scheduled. It would have been completed by the Euros. It would have been big enough to massively increase our premium lounge space.If only we had a plan to build a huge fucking stand that would increase our competitiveness in the very short term, maybe even 2 years.
But it wasnt really was it?
And to do it when we are at our most marketable was crazy
Post by: claret+blue ed on May 09, 2024, 04:18:53 PM
The 5% increase in ST's is way off the 20% figures that were being banded about as well
Post by: cdward on May 09, 2024, 04:29:26 PM
Post by: Villan82 on May 09, 2024, 04:33:13 PM
What do you mean? We had planning permission and the redev was scheduled. It would have been completed by the Euros. It would have been big enough to massively increase our premium lounge space.If only we had a plan to build a huge fucking stand that would increase our competitiveness in the very short term, maybe even 2 years.
But it wasnt really was it?
And to do it when we are at our most marketable was crazy
Under the plan he scrapped we would have had a state of the art modern new stand ready for mid 2026!
If there isn't a case to redevelop now there never will be. If anything the way heck is going about if people who can't get seats might just give up on trying.
I really don't like this- should have pressed on with the development.
Post by: pablo_picasso on May 09, 2024, 04:36:30 PM
I still do not understand the need to stop increasing the stadium capacity when we need FFP revenue more than ever, just to cram in a few extra "prawn sandwich" seats dotted around the stadium.
No news about the crest either, which was supposed to be publicly released in Feb...
Post by: Drummond on May 09, 2024, 04:38:27 PM
Post by: oldhill_avfc on May 09, 2024, 04:39:05 PM
What do you mean? We had planning permission and the redev was scheduled. It would have been completed by the Euros. It would have been big enough to massively increase our premium lounge space.If only we had a plan to build a huge fucking stand that would increase our competitiveness in the very short term, maybe even 2 years.
But it wasnt really was it?
And to do it when we are at our most marketable was crazy
Under the plan he scrapped we would have had a state of the art modern new stand ready for mid 2026!
If there isn't a case to redevelop now there never will be. If anything the way heck is going about if people who can't get seats might just give up on trying.
I really don't like this- should have pressed on with the development.
The problem was most likely that redeveloping a quarter of the ground wasn’t worth it in isolation.
Post by: LeeS on May 09, 2024, 04:51:36 PM
Post by: Dazvillain on May 09, 2024, 04:53:13 PM
Thats superb news that we are staying at Villa Park. As is the 5% season ticket increase.
I still do not understand the need to stop increasing the stadium capacity when we need FFP revenue more than ever, just to cram in a few extra "prawn sandwich" seats dotted around the stadium.
No news about the crest either, which was supposed to be publicly released in Feb...
Although Gabby asked about ST prices, the answer was referred to as 5% to general admission….. I take that as match day tickets or basic ST seats in upper North . As for many new premium seating area and lots of new seats in Holte as well as rails , I think you’ll find that ST holders will pay premium prices for premium seats …… that is how they will increase this revenue stream without adding lots of seats
Post by: Chris Smith on May 09, 2024, 04:56:28 PM
Thats superb news that we are staying at Villa Park. As is the 5% season ticket increase.
I still do not understand the need to stop increasing the stadium capacity when we need FFP revenue more than ever, just to cram in a few extra "prawn sandwich" seats dotted around the stadium.
No news about the crest either, which was supposed to be publicly released in Feb...
I think there are a couple of obstacles to enlarging the ground. Firstly, while it’s happening attendances and therefore revenue is reduced. Secondly, the transport infrastructure is creaking at our current capacity, add any more without accompanying improvements to that and it will be gridlock.
Post by: eamonn on May 09, 2024, 05:00:10 PM
He says premyerr, everyone knows it's prem-ya.
Doug's pronunciation used to be a bit Hyacinth-Bucket, didn't it?
Post by: LeeS on May 09, 2024, 05:00:52 PM
Thats superb news that we are staying at Villa Park. As is the 5% season ticket increase.
I still do not understand the need to stop increasing the stadium capacity when we need FFP revenue more than ever, just to cram in a few extra "prawn sandwich" seats dotted around the stadium.
No news about the crest either, which was supposed to be publicly released in Feb...
I think there are a couple of obstacles to enlarging the ground. Firstly, while it’s happening attendances and therefore revenue is reduced. Secondly, the transport infrastructure is creaking at our current capacity, add any more without accompanying improvements to that and it will be gridlock.
Some of that is eased if people come early and/or stay later. That seems to be the plan.
Post by: chrisw1 on May 09, 2024, 05:09:02 PM
We shouldn't be putting off a development because the transport infrastructure may not be up to it in 2026. They're already trying shuttle buses and hoping to extend people's visits to spread the load. If the train stations aren't improved people will still find a way.Thats superb news that we are staying at Villa Park. As is the 5% season ticket increase.
I still do not understand the need to stop increasing the stadium capacity when we need FFP revenue more than ever, just to cram in a few extra "prawn sandwich" seats dotted around the stadium.
No news about the crest either, which was supposed to be publicly released in Feb...
I think there are a couple of obstacles to enlarging the ground. Firstly, while it’s happening attendances and therefore revenue is reduced. Secondly, the transport infrastructure is creaking at our current capacity, add any more without accompanying improvements to that and it will be gridlock.
As for revenue, I'm sure Risso has said in the past that you can allow for lost revenue due to redev works in FFP, so really it should be a non point?
Post by: pablo_picasso on May 09, 2024, 05:21:05 PM
Thats superb news that we are staying at Villa Park. As is the 5% season ticket increase.
I still do not understand the need to stop increasing the stadium capacity when we need FFP revenue more than ever, just to cram in a few extra "prawn sandwich" seats dotted around the stadium.
No news about the crest either, which was supposed to be publicly released in Feb...
I think there are a couple of obstacles to enlarging the ground. Firstly, while it’s happening attendances and therefore revenue is reduced. Secondly, the transport infrastructure is creaking at our current capacity, add any more without accompanying improvements to that and it will be gridlock.
Liverpools wasn't... I don't know how because Im not a structural engineer or an architect, but it's possible to build a stand without it affecting attendances.
Im not saying its going to be easy, especially if we have to shut down parts of the stadium, but if they are expecting Villa to dine at the top table from now on, when is it that we can improve the stadium?
We need to do it to help with whatever the fuck FFP is now called, but if we cant do it when we are successful, do we wait until we aren't to build the stadium? When its not actually needed...
As for transport, it seems they are trying to improve that with shuttles, pushing politicians to improve the trains & having fans arrive earlier & leave later to help ease the rushes.
Post by: Chris Smith on May 09, 2024, 05:23:39 PM
We shouldn't be putting off a development because the transport infrastructure may not be up to it in 2026. They're already trying shuttle buses and hoping to extend people's visits to spread the load. If the train stations aren't improved people will still find a way.Thats superb news that we are staying at Villa Park. As is the 5% season ticket increase.
I still do not understand the need to stop increasing the stadium capacity when we need FFP revenue more than ever, just to cram in a few extra "prawn sandwich" seats dotted around the stadium.
No news about the crest either, which was supposed to be publicly released in Feb...
I think there are a couple of obstacles to enlarging the ground. Firstly, while it’s happening attendances and therefore revenue is reduced. Secondly, the transport infrastructure is creaking at our current capacity, add any more without accompanying improvements to that and it will be gridlock.
As for revenue, I'm sure Risso has said in the past that you can allow for lost revenue due to redev works in FFP, so really it should be a non point?
“They’ll find a way” strikes me as a bit of wishful thinking. It would be negligent of the club to ignore their responsibilities to fans, local residents and the relevant authorities to just plough ahead without having an accompanying plan to mitigate the impact. Getting people to stagger departure and arrival times is a start but even if the shuttle buses and trains are improved there will still be an increase in the number of cars needing to park somewhere and as things stand I don’t see how the local area will cope.
Post by: pablo_picasso on May 09, 2024, 05:23:58 PM
Im genuinely not mate.
I need to work on my communication skills, lol...
Post by: Nii Lamptey on May 09, 2024, 05:25:14 PM
Thats superb news that we are staying at Villa Park. As is the 5% season ticket increase.
I still do not understand the need to stop increasing the stadium capacity when we need FFP revenue more than ever, just to cram in a few extra "prawn sandwich" seats dotted around the stadium.
No news about the crest either, which was supposed to be publicly released in Feb...
I think there are a couple of obstacles to enlarging the ground. Firstly, while it’s happening attendances and therefore revenue is reduced. Secondly, the transport infrastructure is creaking at our current capacity, add any more without accompanying improvements to that and it will be gridlock.
Liverpools wasn't... I don't know how because Im not a structural engineer or an architect, but it's possible to build a stand without it affecting attendances.
Im not saying its going to be easy, especially if we have to shut down parts of the stadium, but if they are expecting Villa to dine at the top table from now on, when is it that we can improve the stadium?
We need to do it to help with whatever the fuck FFP is now called, but if we cant do it when we are successful, do we wait until we aren't to build the stadium? When its not actually needed...
As for transport, it seems they are trying to improve that with shuttles, pushing politicians to improve the trains & having fans arrive earlier & leave later to help ease the rushes.
I seem to remember reading that the North Stand development is a different beast to the Liverpool redevelopment, as there is major structural work required to relocate services, etc before even thinking about building the new stand, thus putting the current one out of action entirely the second they break ground. :(
Post by: Chris Smith on May 09, 2024, 05:27:31 PM
Thats superb news that we are staying at Villa Park. As is the 5% season ticket increase.
I still do not understand the need to stop increasing the stadium capacity when we need FFP revenue more than ever, just to cram in a few extra "prawn sandwich" seats dotted around the stadium.
No news about the crest either, which was supposed to be publicly released in Feb...
I think there are a couple of obstacles to enlarging the ground. Firstly, while it’s happening attendances and therefore revenue is reduced. Secondly, the transport infrastructure is creaking at our current capacity, add any more without accompanying improvements to that and it will be gridlock.
Liverpools wasn't... I don't know how because Im not a structural engineer or an architect, but it's possible to build a stand without it affecting attendances.
Im not saying its going to be easy, especially if we have to shut down parts of the stadium, but if they are expecting Villa to dine at the top table from now on, when is it that we can improve the stadium?
We need to do it to help with whatever the fuck FFP is now called, but if we cant do it when we are successful, do we wait until we aren't to build the stadium? When its not actually needed...
As for transport, it seems they are trying to improve that with shuttles, pushing politicians to improve the trains & having fans arrive earlier & leave later to help ease the rushes.
I imagine that the Liverpool style change is far more complex compared to just knocking down and rebuilding and consequently requires a lot more in terms of planning. Perhaps that is why the new firm were brought in.
Post by: Chris Smith on May 09, 2024, 05:34:10 PM
Apologies Chris, reading that back it seems Im being a bit aggressive towards you.
Im genuinely not mate.
I need to work on my communication skills, lol...
Thanks for saying that but I try to, as far as possible, take things in good faith on this site so didn’t see anything to bother me.
I would love to see higher capacity but at the same time I know the issues we already have with transport etc and also I feel that we need to be good neighbours to local residents and businesses and not just plough on regardless.
Post by: dave.woodhall on May 09, 2024, 05:35:04 PM
Post by: London Villan on May 09, 2024, 05:39:43 PM
Post by: Villan82 on May 09, 2024, 05:45:00 PM
5% increases and staying at Villa Park. It seems a lot of people I Heard a lot of nonsense.
Walking us away from the biggest redevelopment since 2001 is still a major red flag for me that somethign else could well be happening.
I mean, it's so weird otherwise. He must know you don't just walk away from something so public as that was and no explanation.
I mean, a child can see that standing still in terms of the overall stadium is the worst of three options (1. redeveloping VP, 2. new stadium, 3. do as little as possible)
Post by: Risso on May 09, 2024, 05:54:38 PM
Post by: usav on May 09, 2024, 06:05:06 PM
5% increases and staying at Villa Park. It seems a lot of people I Heard a lot of nonsense.
Walking us away from the biggest redevelopment since 2001 is still a major red flag for me that somethign else could well be happening.
I mean, it's so weird otherwise. He must know you don't just walk away from something so public as that was and no explanation.
I mean, a child can see that standing still in terms of the overall stadium is the worst of three options (1. redeveloping VP, 2. new stadium, 3. do as little as possible)
Major red flag is a ltitle OTT. It seems to me they are going to try and maximise revenue streams with what they have and while making some minor changes. Keep an eye on progress on the pitch and then reasses expansion plans. It could also be that they have run the numbers and they don't think we are capable of filling a 50,000 seater stadium just yet.
Post by: andyh on May 09, 2024, 06:13:15 PM
He seems genuine. It seems the club has a plan.
It’s fashionable to moan about the ‘management’ or ‘leadership’, but for me I’m happy to enjoy the ride, have faith in our owners and see where they take us.
Post by: Villan82 on May 09, 2024, 06:19:35 PM
5% increases and staying at Villa Park. It seems a lot of people I Heard a lot of nonsense.
Walking us away from the biggest redevelopment since 2001 is still a major red flag for me that somethign else could well be happening.
I mean, it's so weird otherwise. He must know you don't just walk away from something so public as that was and no explanation.
I mean, a child can see that standing still in terms of the overall stadium is the worst of three options (1. redeveloping VP, 2. new stadium, 3. do as little as possible)
Major red flag is a ltitle OTT. It seems to me they are going to try and maximise revenue streams with what they have and while making some minor changes. Keep an eye on progress on the pitch and then reasses expansion plans. It could also be that they have run the numbers and they don't think we are capable of filling a 50,000 seater stadium just yet.
When were our average crowds this high though? When have we had demand like we have had? If you don't have a season ticket it's actually quite a challenge to get a ticket. And the team is likely to go from strength to strength next season.
Post by: Dogtanian on May 09, 2024, 06:23:54 PM
Post by: Percy McCarthy on May 09, 2024, 06:40:36 PM
Post by: DB on May 09, 2024, 07:35:14 PM
Thats superb news that we are staying at Villa Park. As is the 5% season ticket increase.
I still do not understand the need to stop increasing the stadium capacity when we need FFP revenue more than ever, just to cram in a few extra "prawn sandwich" seats dotted around the stadium.
No news about the crest either, which was supposed to be publicly released in Feb...
I think there are a couple of obstacles to enlarging the ground. Firstly, while it’s happening attendances and therefore revenue is reduced. Secondly, the transport infrastructure is creaking at our current capacity, add any more without accompanying improvements to that and it will be gridlock.
Liverpools wasn't... I don't know how because Im not a structural engineer or an architect, but it's possible to build a stand without it affecting attendances.
Im not saying its going to be easy, especially if we have to shut down parts of the stadium, but if they are expecting Villa to dine at the top table from now on, when is it that we can improve the stadium?
We need to do it to help with whatever the fuck FFP is now called, but if we cant do it when we are successful, do we wait until we aren't to build the stadium? When its not actually needed...
As for transport, it seems they are trying to improve that with shuttles, pushing politicians to improve the trains & having fans arrive earlier & leave later to help ease the rushes.
I imagine that the Liverpool style change is far more complex compared to just knocking down and rebuilding and consequently requires a lot more in terms of planning. Perhaps that is why the new firm were brought in.
Yeah, Liverpool just built a massive new tier on top of the old one, so they just built it while the old one was able to stay open. The North is a total rebuild.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on May 09, 2024, 07:46:29 PM
Post by: Dante Lavelli on May 09, 2024, 07:51:19 PM
After the final whistle at Brighton last week we went down to the bar under the stand and had a few pints and watched the Spurs Liverpool game which was being shown on a few screens. It didn’t cost us anything ( other than the usual rip off beer prices) , there was no street food or school dinner benches to sit at, no unnecessary frills, just somewhere to get a few pints down instead of queuing up for the train back into Brighton. It’s really not difficult, it just takes a club to approach it from a human perspective instead of seeing dollar signs in front of everything.
I didn’t think the bars were allowed to be open within the ground. Did I imagine that?
Post by: Chris Smith on May 09, 2024, 07:55:58 PM
When he referred to wanting people to stay two hours after the game, I found myself thinking, they already do, in a queue for the woeful train service.
Anything that helps staggers the times of fans leaving Aston will help with that though.
Post by: Chris Smith on May 09, 2024, 07:58:06 PM
After the final whistle at Brighton last week we went down to the bar under the stand and had a few pints and watched the Spurs Liverpool game which was being shown on a few screens. It didn’t cost us anything ( other than the usual rip off beer prices) , there was no street food or school dinner benches to sit at, no unnecessary frills, just somewhere to get a few pints down instead of queuing up for the train back into Brighton. It’s really not difficult, it just takes a club to approach it from a human perspective instead of seeing dollar signs in front of everything.
I didn’t think the bars were allowed to be open within the ground. Did I imagine that?
Before it went “premium” you could do exactly that in the Holte Suite
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on May 09, 2024, 11:16:12 PM
Post by: PeterWithesShin on May 09, 2024, 11:19:12 PM
Post by: Scott Nielsen on May 10, 2024, 04:03:50 AM
It also doesn't explain why they needed the investment from Atairos, and what's in it for them.
Atairos might just want to get in on the premier league action, along with so many other American PE firms.
Post by: London Villan on May 10, 2024, 05:50:11 AM
Post by: dave.woodhall on May 10, 2024, 07:22:01 AM
Sounds like we are going to have Trevor Burton concerts in the North stand car park.
Fine by me.
Post by: Demitri_C on May 10, 2024, 08:00:00 AM
I think the 20k ST waiting list for me is probably untrue
Post by: Villan82 on May 10, 2024, 08:04:53 AM
We have had average attendances well over 40k since we got back to the top tier and we are back dining in the top echelons of the league for the first time since the 90s.
If we want to compete at that level we need to grow off the pitch and the major stadium redevelopment is the obvious solution- what Heck has outlined is basically a tart up - if even that. So how do we compete long-term?
He came across better in his interview but, once again, the fundamental message has so many holes.
Post by: Demitri_C on May 10, 2024, 08:06:57 AM
Whether true or not that stand has to go sooner or later. It is too small and approaching 50 years, built at a time before all-seater stadia.
We have had average attendances well over 40k since we got back to the top tier and we are back dining in the top echelons of the league for the first time since the 90s.
If we want to compete at that level we need to grow off the pitch and the major stadium redevelopment is the obvious solution- what Heck has outlined is basically a tart up - if even that. So how do we compete long-term?
He came across better in his interview but, once again, the fundamental message has so many holes.
Agreed. Part of me does think that they want a full stadium for CL if we get there
I would imagine they have plans to ramp up prices for elite CL games and dont want to lose on the revenue
Post by: Villan82 on May 10, 2024, 08:10:51 AM
Whether true or not that stand has to go sooner or later. It is too small and approaching 50 years, built at a time before all-seater stadia.
We have had average attendances well over 40k since we got back to the top tier and we are back dining in the top echelons of the league for the first time since the 90s.
If we want to compete at that level we need to grow off the pitch and the major stadium redevelopment is the obvious solution- what Heck has outlined is basically a tart up - if even that. So how do we compete long-term?
He came across better in his interview but, once again, the fundamental message has so many holes.
Agreed. Part of me does think that they want a full stadium for CL if we get there
I would imagine they have plans to ramp up prices for elite CL games and dont want to lose on the revenue
I've seen us play in Europe during the rebuilding of the Witton, Holte and Trinity! What if we become champions league regulars? If that's their reason then no club would ever redevelop unless they were relegated which is so clearly nonsense.
Edit: more fundamentally, the redevelopment was a signal of a new era and most fans were excited for it to happen. As with the badge issue it just seems like Heck is a bit of a killjoy with this stuff.
Post by: Risso on May 10, 2024, 08:32:30 AM
Whether true or not that stand has to go sooner or later. It is too small and approaching 50 years, built at a time before all-seater stadia.
We have had average attendances well over 40k since we got back to the top tier and we are back dining in the top echelons of the league for the first time since the 90s.
If we want to compete at that level we need to grow off the pitch and the major stadium redevelopment is the obvious solution- what Heck has outlined is basically a tart up - if even that. So how do we compete long-term?
He came across better in his interview but, once again, the fundamental message has so many holes.
Agreed. Part of me does think that they want a full stadium for CL if we get there
I would imagine they have plans to ramp up prices for elite CL games and dont want to lose on the revenue
What about future revenue?
Post by: tomd2103 on May 10, 2024, 08:33:34 AM
Whether true or not that stand has to go sooner or later. It is too small and approaching 50 years, built at a time before all-seater stadia.
We have had average attendances well over 40k since we got back to the top tier and we are back dining in the top echelons of the league for the first time since the 90s.
If we want to compete at that level we need to grow off the pitch and the major stadium redevelopment is the obvious solution- what Heck has outlined is basically a tart up - if even that. So how do we compete long-term?
He came across better in his interview but, once again, the fundamental message has so many holes.
I know the interview was on the club's website and was with Gabby, so it was never going to be too taxing, but that is the question I would have liked him to be asked - if we are going to be staying at Villa Park, how are we going to generate the kind of revenue that enables us to compete at the elite levels on a regular basis?
To be fair to him, I thought he explained well that the football and business side of things are moving at two different speeds, with the former currently moving a lot faster than the latter, but would have liked a bit more detail on their strategy to build up the business side of things (though he did go into some detail with the kit sponsors etc.). Suppose it was never really going to be that kind of interview though.
Post by: PeterWithe on May 10, 2024, 08:38:02 AM
Post by: chrisw1 on May 10, 2024, 08:46:15 AM
Every stadium development will bring some problems. We're talking about 8k extra seats not doubling in size. The plan included massively increasing corporate / GA+ so it stands to reason that if you're adding 8k extra and maybe 6k of that is new corporate / GA+ (albeit not necessarily all in the new stand) you already have a more naturally staggered attendance and departure times. Add to that the additional facilities they will be providing in the warehouse and I assume elsewhere in the ground then there's a reasonable chance for most games peak arrivals and depatures won't change all that much.We shouldn't be putting off a development because the transport infrastructure may not be up to it in 2026. They're already trying shuttle buses and hoping to extend people's visits to spread the load. If the train stations aren't improved people will still find a way.Thats superb news that we are staying at Villa Park. As is the 5% season ticket increase.
I still do not understand the need to stop increasing the stadium capacity when we need FFP revenue more than ever, just to cram in a few extra "prawn sandwich" seats dotted around the stadium.
No news about the crest either, which was supposed to be publicly released in Feb...
I think there are a couple of obstacles to enlarging the ground. Firstly, while it’s happening attendances and therefore revenue is reduced. Secondly, the transport infrastructure is creaking at our current capacity, add any more without accompanying improvements to that and it will be gridlock.
As for revenue, I'm sure Risso has said in the past that you can allow for lost revenue due to redev works in FFP, so really it should be a non point?
“They’ll find a way” strikes me as a bit of wishful thinking. It would be negligent of the club to ignore their responsibilities to fans, local residents and the relevant authorities to just plough ahead without having an accompanying plan to mitigate the impact. Getting people to stagger departure and arrival times is a start but even if the shuttle buses and trains are improved there will still be an increase in the number of cars needing to park somewhere and as things stand I don’t see how the local area will cope.
Obviously travel is not great now but we're working on shuttle buses and hopefully the trains will catch up at some point. I just don't think our progress should be held up waiting for a better train station that may never come. We're doing our bit and either WMRE will follow up on their plans for upgrading Witton Station before the Euros or they won't, but that's out of our control.
Post by: The Edge on May 10, 2024, 02:25:10 PM
Post by: Toronto Villa on May 10, 2024, 02:27:23 PM
Post by: Villan82 on May 10, 2024, 02:50:15 PM
I don’t see anywhere that the North Stand being replaced has been scrapped altogether. Did I miss something? I’m sure the board, investors all look at it as a huge opportunity to elevate the club and add capacity. Just because it isn’t happened immediately doesn’t mean it is happening at all.
Was due to start this June.
In December Heck was asked by Villa TV and said 'we aren't doing that anymore'.
Post by: Toronto Villa on May 10, 2024, 02:58:16 PM
I don’t see anywhere that the North Stand being replaced has been scrapped altogether. Did I miss something? I’m sure the board, investors all look at it as a huge opportunity to elevate the club and add capacity. Just because it isn’t happened immediately doesn’t mean it is happening at all.
Was due to start this June.
In December Heck was asked by Villa TV and said 'we aren't doing that anymore'.
They paused on the original plans. We now have new investors so will likely have a longer term vision for the entire area. I doubt plans to improve upon the North has been scrapped for good.
Post by: Stu82 on May 10, 2024, 03:12:12 PM
Sounds like we are going to have Trevor Burton concerts in the North stand car park.
Fine by me.
Seen him a few times, great musician.
Post by: algy on May 10, 2024, 03:12:32 PM
I agree, TV. I'd suspect it's something closer to a pause. It really doesn't make sense to be playing in the middle of a building site for our 150th anniversary season.I don’t see anywhere that the North Stand being replaced has been scrapped altogether. Did I miss something? I’m sure the board, investors all look at it as a huge opportunity to elevate the club and add capacity. Just because it isn’t happened immediately doesn’t mean it is happening at all.
Was due to start this June.
In December Heck was asked by Villa TV and said 'we aren't doing that anymore'.
They paused on the original plans. We now have new investors so will likely have a longer term vision for the entire area. I doubt plans to improve upon the North has been scrapped for good.
Suspect we can get an awful lot done next season - e.g. Villa Live replacement, rail seating, etc - to get the infrastructure to cope with 50k crowds in place. Maybe a bit of the groundwork for the stand too.
Post by: Risso on May 10, 2024, 03:19:07 PM
Post by: Archbishop Herbert Cockthrottle on May 10, 2024, 03:36:14 PM
Get Steve Gibbons on as well and I might actually turn up for a game.Sounds like we are going to have Trevor Burton concerts in the North stand car park.
Fine by me.
Seen him a few times, great musician.
Post by: chrisw1 on May 10, 2024, 04:08:37 PM
I think the North Stand is dead as a plan to do it by itself. It might be part of a wider "knock the whole lot down and start again" project sometime in the future, but I reckon that'd be next decade at the earliest. Clearly the plan as it stands is just to squeeze as much revenue as possible from the existing infrastructure.Yep.
You will recall the post about the reason the stand development was called off was because of their lack of confidence in demand for GA+ tickets. It seems that that was right all along and the new investment was just a red herring.
This way they will force the sale of those premium seats as there won't be anything else available.
Post by: The Man With A Stick on May 10, 2024, 04:16:29 PM
It all just seems a little short-termist to me.
Post by: Villan82 on May 10, 2024, 04:23:05 PM
Post by: chrisw1 on May 10, 2024, 04:24:14 PM
I think cancelling it with no alternative plan is daft, but it is the owner's money, not mine.
I think maybe they feel a few thousand extra standard-priced seats just don't add that much income. Where I think it's short-sighted is that if people can't get standard-priced seats due to demand, how do we hook the next generation of fans?
Post by: Sexual Ealing on May 10, 2024, 04:42:03 PM
https://twitter.com/chrisheck76/status/1788954469083791774
Post by: Dogtanian on May 10, 2024, 04:46:02 PM
Post by: Villan82 on May 10, 2024, 04:48:02 PM
He's just posted this on Twitter. No idea of its significance beyond the Adidas logo.
https://twitter.com/chrisheck76/status/1788954469083791774
He does like an out of context tweet doesn't he.
Post by: chrisw1 on May 10, 2024, 04:55:00 PM
They haven't had actually announced the Adidas deal yet, have they?I think he just has!
Post by: dave.woodhall on May 10, 2024, 05:00:36 PM
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on May 10, 2024, 05:18:05 PM
He's just posted this on Twitter. No idea of its significance beyond the Adidas logo.
https://twitter.com/chrisheck76/status/1788954469083791774
No star. I like this Heck bloke.
Post by: ChicagoLion on May 10, 2024, 05:47:58 PM
It’s the new badge.He's just posted this on Twitter. No idea of its significance beyond the Adidas logo.
https://twitter.com/chrisheck76/status/1788954469083791774
No star. I like this Heck bloke.
Post by: Dogtanian on May 10, 2024, 05:56:49 PM
Post by: jon collett on May 10, 2024, 06:22:24 PM
They haven't had actually announced the Adidas deal yet, have they?
It was briefed to the Telegraph in January
Post by: pablo_picasso on May 10, 2024, 06:38:36 PM
He's just posted this on Twitter. No idea of its significance beyond the Adidas logo.
https://twitter.com/chrisheck76/status/1788954469083791774
But hey, look at that, they are working with our history & tradition with that graphic...
I thought we didn't want that... Even though we said we did with the proper crest consultation they ignored...
Post by: pauliewalnuts on May 10, 2024, 06:51:14 PM
Post by: Si on May 10, 2024, 08:05:12 PM
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on May 11, 2024, 12:35:40 AM
That's why we have a summer break.
Post by: algy on May 11, 2024, 11:09:27 AM
He's just posted this on Twitter. No idea of its significance beyond the Adidas logo.And the shape & outline of the new badge perhaps, around the Adidas logo.
https://twitter.com/chrisheck76/status/1788954469083791774
Post by: Villan82 on May 11, 2024, 11:20:40 AM
I guess when that bubble bursts we won't need more than 40k seats.
I think cancelling it with no alternative plan is daft, but it is the owner's money, not mine.
I think maybe they feel a few thousand extra standard-priced seats just don't add that much income. Where I think it's short-sighted is that if people can't get standard-priced seats due to demand, how do we hook the next generation of fans?
Agree with you. I also hope our bubble never bursts but if it does I wouldn't like to be in the shoes of Mr Heck as I think the unreal growth of the team on the pitch has created a major feel good feeling which is deflecting from some of the things under his remit.
Post by: eamonn on May 11, 2024, 02:18:56 PM
I think the North Stand is dead as a plan to do it by itself. It might be part of a wider "knock the whole lot down and start again" project sometime in the future, but I reckon that'd be next decade at the earliest. Clearly the plan as it stands is just to squeeze as much revenue as possible from the existing infrastructure.
So where do Atairos come in? Coming on-board now with their expertise around sporting infrastructure but not being part of anything similar with Villa until... the 2030s/later ?
Post by: nigel on May 11, 2024, 04:23:59 PM
I think the North Stand is dead as a plan to do it by itself. It might be part of a wider "knock the whole lot down and start again" project sometime in the future, but I reckon that'd be next decade at the earliest. Clearly the plan as it stands is just to squeeze as much revenue as possible from the existing infrastructure.
Yes, I think that, too.
I post several pages back that I wonder if it could possibly be a North Stand/Witton Lane combo on the cards.
Given that Heck said there are no plans to move adds to that theory.
They could mirror the 3 tier layout of Trinity Road.
If they did that, and were really adventurous, they could even wrap The Trinity into the new North Stand.
Leaving The Holte as a stand alone stand.
Post by: Villan82 on May 11, 2024, 05:11:51 PM
I think the North Stand is dead as a plan to do it by itself. It might be part of a wider "knock the whole lot down and start again" project sometime in the future, but I reckon that'd be next decade at the earliest. Clearly the plan as it stands is just to squeeze as much revenue as possible from the existing infrastructure.
Yes, I think that, too.
I post several pages back that I wonder if it could possibly be a North Stand/Witton Lane combo on the cards.
Given that Heck said there are no plans to move adds to that theory.
They could mirror the 3 tier layout of Trinity Road.
If they did that, and were really adventurous, they could even wrap The Trinity into the new North Stand.
Leaving The Holte as a stand alone stand.
That's the hope, that's the ideal scenario, but in that video he talks a lot about the next two summers and the only capacity increases mentioned are premium. Indeed, not a hint of anything major despite talking to Gabby for 20 minutes.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on May 11, 2024, 07:11:35 PM
They haven't had actually announced the Adidas deal yet, have they?I think he just has!
It’s a shoe in.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on May 16, 2024, 12:18:10 PM
https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-price-of-football/id1482886394
Post by: Villan82 on May 16, 2024, 12:27:17 PM
There's a bit on our slow-motion rebrand on Keiran Maguire's Price of Football podcast (around 11:30).
https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-price-of-football/id1482886394
Anything on our glacial redevelopment?
Post by: Sexual Ealing on May 16, 2024, 12:32:24 PM
Raises more questions than it answers.
Post by: chrisw1 on May 16, 2024, 12:35:41 PM
Post by: pablo_picasso on May 16, 2024, 01:47:35 PM
Nah, it's diverting enough for five minutes but there's nothing new apart from a suggestion that the reason we wanted to change the badge in the first place was that international fans might not know what AVFC meant, which the hosts poo-pooed. The discussion was prompted by an anonymous email from someone with inside knowledge of our banding/marketing dept, which said that we suddenly put a stop to the roll-out because they eventually realised how much it was going to cost to do it properly.
Raises more questions than it answers.
Didn't we only go to AVFC in the first place because that was the OS address?
Post by: eamonn on May 16, 2024, 01:58:58 PM
Post by: Nelly on May 16, 2024, 02:06:00 PM
Now we know what the new badge is, I honestly think we should just have kept the Lerner badge and carried on using the stand-alone lion at times. It's far better than the new one.
Fully agree. The new one looks like someone's GCSE project. For me the Lerner badge is justified and exonerated by this new one.
Post by: villadelph on May 16, 2024, 02:57:37 PM
Now we know what the new badge is, I honestly think we should just have kept the Lerner badge and carried on using the stand-alone lion at times. It's far better than the new one.
I think that's the plan with the new crest. I'm in Philadelphia, and similar to what he did with the Sixers, he continually whittled down the extras until it was a much more simplified logo. With the new lion having so much detail, it would be strange to get rid of the shield and have Aston Villa above the lion. I think in 2 years time, we'll see a standalone lion with Aston Villa underneath, which I would be fine with.
Post by: pablo_picasso on May 16, 2024, 03:03:45 PM
I just think it was copywrited (or whatever), because a fan created the 3d model with the Lino print lion & they wanted to make sure nobody could make any money from it...
Thats just my feeling/opinion btw. I don't have any "ITK" knowledge about it...
Post by: Risso on May 16, 2024, 03:10:53 PM
Post by: chrisw1 on May 16, 2024, 04:09:03 PM
I don't think we will use that detailed lion.The fan just used the Lerner detailed lion in his mock up, which is the same lion we will be using in sillouette.
I just think it was copywrited (or whatever), because a fan created the 3d model with the Lino print lion & they wanted to make sure nobody could make any money from it...
Thats just my feeling/opinion btw. I don't have any "ITK" knowledge about it...
(https://i.ibb.co/dp7V2Dr/New-Lion.png) (https://ibb.co/dp7V2Dr)
Also see here
https://www.designweek.co.uk/issues/4-april-10-april/aston-villa-unveils-new-someone-designed-crest/
Post by: pablo_picasso on May 16, 2024, 05:30:04 PM
I don't think we will use that detailed lion.The fan just used the Lerner detailed lion in his mock up, which is the same lion we will be using in sillouette.
I just think it was copywrited (or whatever), because a fan created the 3d model with the Lino print lion & they wanted to make sure nobody could make any money from it...
Thats just my feeling/opinion btw. I don't have any "ITK" knowledge about it...
(https://i.ibb.co/dp7V2Dr/New-Lion.png) (https://ibb.co/dp7V2Dr)
Also see here
https://www.designweek.co.uk/issues/4-april-10-april/aston-villa-unveils-new-someone-designed-crest/
Yeah, I know. I spoke about the artist & his design in the crest thread.
It's a design/piece of art that I really love. I think he did a fantastic job.
I understand how difficult Lino prints are to get right as I have made a few myself when I was experimenting & trying to find my own artistic niche.
Nothing like Christopher Wormell's Villa lion though. It just so happens that Lino prints weren't my niche, lol...😂
But I digress, when they first sent the designs to trademark them, the outline lion from Christopher Wormell was included, but the Lino print detailed version wasn't.
It was only after the fan created the 3D mockup with the Lino print lion that they then sent that detailed lion for trademark.
Post by: Dogtanian on May 20, 2024, 10:17:07 AM
https://www.marketingweek.com/aston-villa-club-rebrand/ (https://www.marketingweek.com/aston-villa-club-rebrand/)
Post by: chrisw1 on May 20, 2024, 10:32:01 AM
Post by: ChicagoLion on May 20, 2024, 10:33:08 AM
Post by: jon collett on May 20, 2024, 11:01:49 AM
Post by: London Villan on May 20, 2024, 11:04:46 AM
Post by: john e on May 20, 2024, 11:13:37 AM
seemed a decent enough chap
People were getting a photo with him including my kids even though they didn’t know who he was
He is small even I’m taller than him
Said we weren’t leaving VP ( I asked him )
He was with some important looking Asian fellas in smart suits maybe Japanese, he was definitely trying to impress them
Then Elmo turned up trying to get out of the palace car park and got mobbed ( more photos)
Post by: Keeno on May 20, 2024, 11:29:53 AM
An interview with Chris Heck on the re-brand and his first twelve months at Villa;
https://www.marketingweek.com/aston-villa-club-rebrand/ (https://www.marketingweek.com/aston-villa-club-rebrand/)
Thanks for sharing - standard trade media fare, obviously not as well informed on the sporting side of things and as you'd expect a lot of personal PR-ing being done, but a few interesting lines in there.
I know not everyone here/elsewhere is happy with how they've dealt with the badge and rebrand, but I do think his justification for the speed at which we've needed to move on this and issues like the kit supplier at least make sense, even if its not necessarily agreed with.
They have basically had this season, 9-10 months, to catch up with the exponential progress Emery and Monchi have made on the footballing side of things to keep us growing, and the gradual process you'd usually take here wasn't really an option.
“The club was run on efficiency as opposed to ambition" - really sums up the Ellis-Lerner-Purslow CEO years of the Club quite well. This clearly needed to be changed if we want to compete with the Sky 6. How this mantra then runs into the brick wall of PSR, it remains to be seen. You can see why we have been one of the most vocal teams against the current rules - for good reason, as it really scuppers any upward mover like us and protects the cabal at the top...
Obviously, the jury is still out and this time next year we'll be able to judge the job Heck has done off the pitch. But to be coming out of this season with CL revenues, Adidas, double the money from the front sponsor, is about as good as we could've hoped on the financial side of things and at least gives Emery/Monchi/Videgany the best possible chance to strengthen us this summer.
Post by: OCD on May 20, 2024, 11:38:05 AM
Post by: London Villan on May 20, 2024, 11:40:13 AM
Post by: Risso on May 20, 2024, 11:42:48 AM
Post by: Keeno on May 20, 2024, 11:43:42 AM
Binning the £100m investment in the ground and fudging the re-brand because of the existence of the lerner badge everywhere in the ground, would say efficiencies are still important....
Re the ground investment plans, if the Castore/BK8 deals had been badly negotiated and designed I dread to think what we'd got ourselves into on that... Feels like we dodged a bullet
Post by: London Villan on May 20, 2024, 11:46:32 AM
Post by: chrisw1 on May 20, 2024, 11:49:57 AM
They weren't necessarily badly negotiated. I'd guess they just reflected where we were as a club at the time they were agreed.Binning the £100m investment in the ground and fudging the re-brand because of the existence of the lerner badge everywhere in the ground, would say efficiencies are still important....
Re the ground investment plans, if the Castore/BK8 deals had been badly negotiated and designed I dread to think what we'd got ourselves into on that... Feels like we dodged a bullet
It's a bit easier to negotiate a stronger deal when we're in Europe, have an elite manager and at the time were on an incredible run that made CL look a decent possibility.
Post by: Villan82 on May 20, 2024, 11:50:42 AM
Binning the £100m investment in the ground and fudging the re-brand because of the existence of the lerner badge everywhere in the ground, would say efficiencies are still important....
Re the ground investment plans, if the Castore/BK8 deals had been badly negotiated and designed I dread to think what we'd got ourselves into on that... Feels like we dodged a bullet
Chalk and cheese.
The highlighted bits there were negotiated with us as a fairly newly promoted team that had finished 11th in the league and hadn't been in Europe for well over a decade.
It would be disappointing if we couldn't get better deals as a top 7 club that looked good to reach the top four for the first time in a generation.
As for the new stand, building materials are building materials, labour is labour. Supply and demand will always be the main issue there which is why delaying in this climate isn't going to improve our position on those.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on May 20, 2024, 11:52:19 AM
Post by: Ads on May 20, 2024, 12:07:39 PM
Post by: Sexual Ealing on May 20, 2024, 12:08:53 PM
Post by: Villan82 on May 20, 2024, 12:10:59 PM
Well he's got us about £50m more a year in sponsorship.
In a scenario where we dine at a table we haven't dined at since 1996. The top four. I am sure even a Tom Fox would have been bashing out the lucrative deals if Lambert had got us top four!
Post by: Ads on May 20, 2024, 12:14:22 PM
Post by: Ads on May 20, 2024, 12:15:29 PM
That's not a media strategy.
Putting 8 figure sums in print is the best media strategy I've ever seen from us. Beats Proud History/Bright Future.
Post by: chrisw1 on May 20, 2024, 12:25:20 PM
We qualified on Tuesday, these deals were agreed prior to that. They dwarf anything else we've ever done by a country mile.I'm sure you would agree they were negotiated from a position of significantly more strength compared to when the previous deals were agreed. I think it's reasonable to observe that point when people imply the previous deals were shite.
Post by: Ads on May 20, 2024, 12:26:37 PM
Post by: chrisw1 on May 20, 2024, 12:28:41 PM
And?That it should be taken into consideration when blowing smoke up Heck's arse or having a go at Purslows deals.
Fucking hell, is this stuff really so hard for you?
Post by: London Villan on May 20, 2024, 12:31:03 PM
18 months of brilliant performances have been the biggest driver in the deals - perhaps there should have been more bonuses in the deals, maybe there were?!
But there is no way Adidas would have touched us if we were still bobbing around in 15th place.
Post by: Ads on May 20, 2024, 12:32:44 PM
I fail to see the relevance of "position of strength". We're better than we were last year. We hadn't qualified for anything when these deals were agreed. They dwarf anything else. All factual, "easy" to follow stuff. Who cares who is in the seat*- it's Heck and good luck to him, as we're making more cash than we ever have and we absolutely need to as well.
* self evidently a few of you and I agree with LeeB.
Post by: Risso on May 20, 2024, 12:39:57 PM
I'm not as clever as you Chris, maybe use finger puppets or do a power point with them "whooooohes" to make it easier for me.
I fail to see the relevance of "position of strength". We're better than we were last year. We hadn't qualified for anything when these deals were agreed. They dwarf anything else. All factual, "easy" to follow stuff. Who cares who is in the seat*- it's Heck and good luck to him, as we're making more cash than we ever have and we absolutely need to as well.
* self evidently a few of you and I agree with LeeB.
Well we were in Europe for the first time and have hardly been out of the top 5 all season, so Europa League at the very least was looking likely.
Post by: Ads on May 20, 2024, 12:43:46 PM
Post by: Drummond on May 20, 2024, 12:44:05 PM
Post by: chrisw1 on May 20, 2024, 12:51:38 PM
I don't much like the new badge but understand the reasoning.
I don't much like Lower Grounds but understand the reasoning.
I'm very happy with the Adidas deal, I think it's great to have them as kit supplier. I'm also happy with the better shirt sponsorship deals. All a few of us have said is that he was negotiating from a significantly stronger position than Purslow was when he agreed the previous deals, so it's hardly surprising they're significantly better deals.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on May 20, 2024, 12:52:41 PM
Well we were in Europe for the first time and have hardly been out of the top 5 all season, so Europa League at the very least was looking likely.
Exactly, it's not as if he secured the Betano deal for Small Heath.
Post by: algy on May 20, 2024, 12:53:22 PM
The 'run based on efficiency rather than ambition' I'm sure strikes a chord with many. I'm more of an Ellis apologist than most on here, but even I can see that the corner shop mentality - which needed to go out of the window in the early 90s and was blatantly outdated by the time Lerner pulled up - has held us back significantly. The deals we seem to be doing with Adidas - especially with the seats and stuff - seem perfectly sensible.
I can also sit comfortably in saying that I thought (and said to anyone who'd listen to me) the new North Stand designs made Villa Park look like a bloody Asda at the time, and I still think they did now. I'm glad they've been scrapped. Hopefully the longer term plan is also based on ambition - to have the best ground in the country - rather than efficiency - to get to a 50k capacity ground 2 seasons quicker and a few million quid cheaper.
Post by: Dogtanian on May 20, 2024, 01:02:28 PM
As we we plan to compete with them, we will also have a plan to get our revenue up there too. I don't see how that's going to be possible without significant expansion to the stadium, so I am guessing they have an ultimate plan. They're just not telling us.
Post by: Risso on May 20, 2024, 01:04:04 PM
As we we plan to compete with them, we will also have a plan to get our revenue up there too. I don't see how that's going to be possible without significant expansion to the stadium, so I am guessing they have an ultimate plan. They're just not telling us.
They have to be, or the deal with Atairos looks completely pointless.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on May 20, 2024, 01:09:22 PM
Post by: Dogtanian on May 20, 2024, 01:11:26 PM
As we we plan to compete with them, we will also have a plan to get our revenue up there too. I don't see how that's going to be possible without significant expansion to the stadium, so I am guessing they have an ultimate plan. They're just not telling us.
They have to be, or the deal with Atairos looks completely pointless.
Exactly.
Look how they're treating the Adidas deal. We've all known it's happening, but they're milking it for all the marketing impact they can. It will be the same when they announce whatever they're doing with the stadium, it will be when the plans are ready and at the right time to create the marketing buzz they need.
They don't need to be announcing anything like that now as we already have the marketing buzz and focus from Champions League qualification and the current Adidas reveal campaign.
Post by: Richard E on May 20, 2024, 01:12:12 PM
Post by: chrisw1 on May 20, 2024, 01:12:55 PM
Basically I agree with Ads on all this. You can give it all the justifications and 'what ifs' you like, but in cold hard numbers Heck is doing a decent job.We would have been 50k by the 26/27 season. We're going to have to sort something pretty damn quick if you think we'll be up to 50k+ 2 seasons after that.
The 'run based on efficiency rather than ambition' I'm sure strikes a chord with many. I'm more of an Ellis apologist than most on here, but even I can see that the corner shop mentality - which needed to go out of the window in the early 90s and was blatantly outdated by the time Lerner pulled up - has held us back significantly. The deals we seem to be doing with Adidas - especially with the seats and stuff - seem perfectly sensible.
I can also sit comfortably in saying that I thought (and said to anyone who'd listen to me) the new North Stand designs made Villa Park look like a bloody Asda at the time, and I still think they did now. I'm glad they've been scrapped. Hopefully the longer term plan is also based on ambition - to have the best ground in the country - rather than efficiency - to get to a 50k capacity ground 2 seasons quicker and a few million quid cheaper.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on May 20, 2024, 01:21:18 PM
I'm not as clever as you Chris, maybe use finger puppets or do a power point with them "whooooohes" to make it easier for me.
I fail to see the relevance of "position of strength". We're better than we were last year. We hadn't qualified for anything when these deals were agreed. They dwarf anything else. All factual, "easy" to follow stuff. Who cares who is in the seat*- it's Heck and good luck to him, as we're making more cash than we ever have and we absolutely need to as well.
* self evidently a few of you and I agree with LeeB.
Well we were in Europe for the first time and have hardly been out of the top 5 all season, so Europa League at the very least was looking likely.
Indeed. There will be clauses in the contracts that further reward our final league position. Standard practice.
Post by: Smithy on May 20, 2024, 01:35:34 PM
As we we plan to compete with them, we will also have a plan to get our revenue up there too. I don't see how that's going to be possible without significant expansion to the stadium, so I am guessing they have an ultimate plan. They're just not telling us.
They have to be, or the deal with Atairos looks completely pointless.
Exactly.
Look how they're treating the Adidas deal. We've all known it's happening, but they're milking it for all the marketing impact they can. It will be the same when they announce whatever they're doing with the stadium, it will be when the plans are ready and at the right time to create the marketing buzz they need.
They don't need to be announcing anything like that now as we already have the marketing buzz and focus from Champions League qualification and the current Adidas reveal campaign.
Although I'm firmly in the camp that believes a new stadium is on the horizon, I do think people need to realise that selling out a 55,000 stadium for every home game only makes a SMALL dent in catching us up to the so-called "big 6" in terms of our ability to compete financially.
Selling out a big stadium was certainly a big factor in the wealth of a club 30 years ago, but these days it simply isn't. Deloitte does their "Football money league" thing every year, and in 2023, the average revenue for the top 20 clubs in Europe was just over £500m. Of that, less than £100m was "match day" revenue. So call it 20% if we're being generous. The other 80% is commercial and broadcast (both of which are over £200m on average). It's those latter two on which we need to make significant strides.
Now, Champions League qualification gives us a massive foot up, but we need to start making a serious dent in those areas, otherwise, we're always a 'slightly below average season' away from having to sell our best players. Having a bigger VP, or another stadium is not going to bridge that gap.
If we're going to compete financially with those "top 20" clubs, then we'll do it by improving our off the field activities, not by filling our ground every match day.
Post by: OCD on May 20, 2024, 01:38:51 PM
Post by: Smithy on May 20, 2024, 01:40:02 PM
I want our stadium improved (or a new one) alongside all the other improvements, absolutely, but I also recognise that if the aim is to compete financially, there is a LOT we can do to help ourselves before a single brick is laid.
Post by: Dogtanian on May 20, 2024, 01:48:22 PM
As we we plan to compete with them, we will also have a plan to get our revenue up there too. I don't see how that's going to be possible without significant expansion to the stadium, so I am guessing they have an ultimate plan. They're just not telling us.
They have to be, or the deal with Atairos looks completely pointless.
Exactly.
Look how they're treating the Adidas deal. We've all known it's happening, but they're milking it for all the marketing impact they can. It will be the same when they announce whatever they're doing with the stadium, it will be when the plans are ready and at the right time to create the marketing buzz they need.
They don't need to be announcing anything like that now as we already have the marketing buzz and focus from Champions League qualification and the current Adidas reveal campaign.
Although I'm firmly in the camp that believes a new stadium is on the horizon, I do think people need to realise that selling out a 55,000 stadium for every home game only makes a SMALL dent in catching us up to the so-called "big 6" in terms of our ability to compete financially.
Selling out a big stadium was certainly a big factor in the wealth of a club 30 years ago, but these days it simply isn't. Deloitte does their "Football money league" thing every year, and in 2023, the average revenue for the top 20 clubs in Europe was just over £500m. Of that, less than £100m was "match day" revenue. So call it 20% if we're being generous. The other 80% is commercial and broadcast (both of which are over £200m on average). It's those latter two on which we need to make significant strides.
Now, Champions League qualification gives us a massive foot up, but we need to start making a serious dent in those areas, otherwise, we're always a 'slightly below average season' away from having to sell our best players. Having a bigger VP, or another stadium is not going to bridge that gap.
If we're going to compete financially with those "top 20" clubs, then we'll do it by improving our off the field activities, not by filling our ground every match day.
You're right, it's not at all about the seats, it's about the overall revenue generation. Which you do need a new stadium for.
Chelsea have a great turnover for their stadium size, but their matchday revenue is not on the level of Spurs and Arsenal, two clubs who have far less revenue than them. They're the exception, not the standard.
Post by: Risso on May 20, 2024, 01:49:18 PM
Post by: London Villan on May 20, 2024, 01:53:37 PM
I do wonder who buys at that price - a Tom Boley-owned hospitality business that then re-sells it at a more believable figure??
Post by: Risso on May 20, 2024, 01:56:00 PM
Being able to sell a match ticket for £5000 per match also helps...
I do wonder who buys at that price - a Tom Boley-owned hospitality business that then re-sells it at a more believable figure??
London is absolutely dripping in ridiculous wealth. It's why modest terraced houses in quite nice areas sell for millions of pounds.
Post by: Smithy on May 20, 2024, 02:00:36 PM
As we we plan to compete with them, we will also have a plan to get our revenue up there too. I don't see how that's going to be possible without significant expansion to the stadium, so I am guessing they have an ultimate plan. They're just not telling us.
They have to be, or the deal with Atairos looks completely pointless.
Exactly.
Look how they're treating the Adidas deal. We've all known it's happening, but they're milking it for all the marketing impact they can. It will be the same when they announce whatever they're doing with the stadium, it will be when the plans are ready and at the right time to create the marketing buzz they need.
They don't need to be announcing anything like that now as we already have the marketing buzz and focus from Champions League qualification and the current Adidas reveal campaign.
Although I'm firmly in the camp that believes a new stadium is on the horizon, I do think people need to realise that selling out a 55,000 stadium for every home game only makes a SMALL dent in catching us up to the so-called "big 6" in terms of our ability to compete financially.
Selling out a big stadium was certainly a big factor in the wealth of a club 30 years ago, but these days it simply isn't. Deloitte does their "Football money league" thing every year, and in 2023, the average revenue for the top 20 clubs in Europe was just over £500m. Of that, less than £100m was "match day" revenue. So call it 20% if we're being generous. The other 80% is commercial and broadcast (both of which are over £200m on average). It's those latter two on which we need to make significant strides.
Now, Champions League qualification gives us a massive foot up, but we need to start making a serious dent in those areas, otherwise, we're always a 'slightly below average season' away from having to sell our best players. Having a bigger VP, or another stadium is not going to bridge that gap.
If we're going to compete financially with those "top 20" clubs, then we'll do it by improving our off the field activities, not by filling our ground every match day.
You're right, it's not at all about the seats, it's about the overall revenue generation. Which you do need a new stadium for.
Chelsea have a great turnover for their stadium size, but their matchday revenue is not on the level of Spurs and Arsenal, two clubs who have far less revenue than them. They're the exception, not the standard.
Of course, but Chelsea could close their stadium for an entire year, and their total commercial revenue would still be double our entire revenue.
I certainly wasn't suggesting that we "don't need to improve our stadium situation because Chelsea do fine with 40k capacity", just that they're a perfect example of the fact that the stadium revenue isn't what gets you into that exclusive group of top revenue clubs.
In precisely the same way that if Spurs had their brilliant stadium and match-day revenue, but OUR commercial revenue, they wouldn't be able to compete and they'd drop out of the 20 richest clubs.
A new or improved stadium is absolutely critical if we're serious about being a top 4 club for the long term, because the ability to bring in new fans, and create a brilliant experience for those who attend - but it's not what will get us to that position. Far from it.
Post by: Dogtanian on May 20, 2024, 02:07:58 PM
Of course, but Chelsea could close their stadium for an entire year, and their total commercial revenue would still be double our entire revenue.
I certainly wasn't suggesting that we "don't need to improve our stadium situation because Chelsea do fine with 40k capacity", just that they're a perfect example of the fact that the stadium revenue isn't what gets you into that exclusive group of top revenue clubs.
In precisely the same way that if Spurs had their brilliant stadium and match-day revenue, but OUR commercial revenue, they wouldn't be able to compete and they'd drop out of the 20 richest clubs.
A new or improved stadium is absolutely critical if we're serious about being a top 4 club for the long term, because the ability to bring in new fans, and create a brilliant experience for those who attend - but it's not what will get us to that position. Far from it.
Yes, there is more than one way to skin a cat, but if you look at how Chelsea got there, that door is now closed.
They have a massive profile and following that started twenty years ago when Abromovich spent billions buying success. They've had such success now over such a sustained period that they can sign commercial deals we can only dream of right now. But it came from buying that success.
We can't do it that way round. We can't get the profile or the following to sign those deals without winning large amounts of silverware. And we can't do that without increasing our revenue first.
The stadium is something that is in our own hands to do to our timeline, independent of success on the pitch. That's why it makes so much sense to do it now.
Anything else requires so many factors outside of our direct control that it would be madness to rely on it.
Post by: chrisw1 on May 20, 2024, 02:10:46 PM
The point of the North was we could add that amount of premium seats without hitting the general admission numbers.
I reckon the biggest downside of the current plan won't be so much the relocated season ticket holders, it will be the overall reduction in the number of available standard price tickets when demand is at it's absolute highest. I fear how that may impact on attracting the next generation of fans. Of course, the flip side is that it will push up demand for the GA+ spaces when that is all that's available.
Post by: purpletrousers on May 20, 2024, 02:34:28 PM
An extra 5k standard price seats doesn't do much. An extra 5k corporate / GA+ seats does a lot.
The point of the North was we could add that amount of premium seats without hitting the general admission numbers.
I reckon the biggest downside of the current plan won't be so much the relocated season ticket holders, it will be the overall reduction in the number of available standard price tickets when demand is at it's absolute highest. I fear how that may impact on attracting the next generation of fans. Of course, the flip side is that it will push up demand for the GA+ spaces when that is all that's available.
That feels like a sad reality.
Post by: Villan82 on May 20, 2024, 02:35:45 PM
Reading the article about the 'rebrand', and Heck's rationale for not going all in on the round badge, it's quite easy to imagine a scenario where he would argue strongly in favour of copying Chelsea rather than focussing on increased capacity and comfort with a new stand.
Post by: Dogtanian on May 20, 2024, 02:49:41 PM
And the North has needed doing for some time. It is cramped, poor facilities and far too narrow. The lower tier was designed for standing and is the only part of the ground to have had seats tacked onto the old terrace after the Taylor report. Therefore, you could argue, it has been out of date since before the Premier League era!.
Reading the article about the 'rebrand', and Heck's rationale for not going all in on the round badge, it's quite easy to imagine a scenario where he would argue strongly in favour of copying Chelsea rather than focussing on increased capacity and comfort with a new stand.
I don't think so, I think if you offered him a better offering to sell he's snap your hand off. It's just he'll have targets to meet and will be working at ways to spin plates to hit those targets.
Not even Chelsea want to have Chelsea's stadium, they're making the best of what they have because they haven't been able to sort a move and get something better. We're holding off in the hope of something better and because it will help us hit our revenue targets for the next two seasons.
Post by: hipkiss92 on May 20, 2024, 02:52:13 PM
It's all very well talking about not counting the pennies, but then he's cancelled a big project ie the North Stand that would have had a huge effect on our finances.
Delayed rather than cancelled, no? I can see why they would want to pause - 6,000 lots seats of capacity for 4 home champions league games (at least) is a lot of £££.
Post by: Stu82 on May 20, 2024, 02:52:24 PM
We are not restricted in the same way and I am sure that stadium development plans will
be announced in next 12 months.
All aspects of commercial income growth will be addressed.
Wes and Nas are not messing about.
Post by: chrisw1 on May 20, 2024, 02:55:41 PM
6,000 of the cheapest seats in the ground over 4 games isn't changing much tbh.It's all very well talking about not counting the pennies, but then he's cancelled a big project ie the North Stand that would have had a huge effect on our finances.
Delayed rather than cancelled, no? I can see why they would want to pause - 6,000 lots seats of capacity for 4 home champions league games (at least) is a lot of £££.
Post by: tomd2103 on May 20, 2024, 03:02:34 PM
And the North has needed doing for some time. It is cramped, poor facilities and far too narrow. The lower tier was designed for standing and is the only part of the ground to have had seats tacked onto the old terrace after the Taylor report. Therefore, you could argue, it has been out of date since before the Premier League era!.
Reading the article about the 'rebrand', and Heck's rationale for not going all in on the round badge, it's quite easy to imagine a scenario where he would argue strongly in favour of copying Chelsea rather than focussing on increased capacity and comfort with a new stand.
I usually go in the North Stand lower, but was in the upper for a few games this season. Wasn't a great experience to be honest, long queues to get in, crowded stairways and concourses to the point where they are almost dangerous and cramped seating.
Post by: Risso on May 20, 2024, 03:03:08 PM
6,000 of the cheapest seats in the ground over 4 games isn't changing much tbh.It's all very well talking about not counting the pennies, but then he's cancelled a big project ie the North Stand that would have had a huge effect on our finances.
Delayed rather than cancelled, no? I can see why they would want to pause - 6,000 lots seats of capacity for 4 home champions league games (at least) is a lot of £££.
Exactly. And in two years time, we could have had 10,000 extra paying customers, a mix of normal fans and premium corporate areas x 20 odd games depending on success, forever more. It all just seems very short term thinking to me. If they're going to announce a complete rebuild of the whole stadium in due course, then fair enough. I'd still have preferred a new ground, but accept that the emotional pull to the current ground is strong, and a new 50,000+ stadium on the current site would be better than doing nothing. But until we get a sniff of that is what's happening, then it is just doing nothing except papering over the cracks.
Post by: Keeno on May 20, 2024, 04:07:16 PM
His comments at the time definitely didn't signal 'cancelling', more delaying and reconsidering. And he's since mentioned multiple times we won't be leaving the site. So redevelopment really feels inevitable. I also think from an optics point of view, having one end of our ground a building site in our first season back in the Champions League would've looked pretty amateur hour.
Given that a new stadium doesn't seem likely I think the most realistic situation if they want to do more than just the North Stand would be for us to relocate for a season somewhere while larger work is carried out on VP. Might be a shit year at the Alexander Stadium on the cards...
Post by: Dogtanian on May 20, 2024, 04:17:00 PM
They would have said from the start that they need to be involved in the planning for any redevelopment, so it's no surprise that the plans were dumped as soon as their deal was announced. Whether it's new build, rebuild, or just new New North.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on May 20, 2024, 04:21:28 PM
Exactly. And in two years time, we could have had 10,000 extra paying customers, a mix of normal fans and premium corporate areas x 20 odd games depending on success, forever more.
Obviously the real money is in a stadium with multi-purpose facilities that can be used seven days a week, but I'd be interested to know if there's real demand for a tonne of new corporate boxes/seats/etc at Villa Park?
Post by: Dogtanian on May 20, 2024, 04:24:48 PM
Exactly. And in two years time, we could have had 10,000 extra paying customers, a mix of normal fans and premium corporate areas x 20 odd games depending on success, forever more.
Obviously the real money is in a stadium with multi-purpose facilities that can be used seven days a week, but I'd be interested to know if there's real demand for a tonne of new corporate boxes/seats/etc at Villa Park?
As people have mentioned, the trend is moving away from boxes. Boxes rely on a company buying them and then it's a done deal and who they invite comes.
If you have trendy hospitality areas and posh seats, you can break them down further and sell them with different options and packages at different prices. It's far more flexible and gives you the greatest chance of selling everything for the most money.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on May 20, 2024, 05:16:08 PM
Exactly. And in two years time, we could have had 10,000 extra paying customers, a mix of normal fans and premium corporate areas x 20 odd games depending on success, forever more.
Obviously the real money is in a stadium with multi-purpose facilities that can be used seven days a week, but I'd be interested to know if there's real demand for a tonne of new corporate boxes/seats/etc at Villa Park?
As people have mentioned, the trend is moving away from boxes. Boxes rely on a company buying them and then it's a done deal and who they invite comes.
If you have trendy hospitality areas and posh seats, you can break them down further and sell them with different options and packages at different prices. It's far more flexible and gives you the greatest chance of selling everything for the most money.
I get that but is there demand? Or put another way, is it companies taking out a table for x number of people for the season or a family treating a family member for their birthday? Is their a long waiting list for 'corporate entertainment'?
Heck speaks about how we need redevelopment to increase this type of revenue but until now I've yet to hear anybody confirm there's a big queue for it.
Post by: Dogtanian on May 20, 2024, 05:26:23 PM
Post by: Sexual Ealing on May 20, 2024, 05:28:06 PM
Post by: dave.woodhall on May 20, 2024, 05:40:36 PM
Post by: Drummond on May 20, 2024, 05:45:24 PM
Post by: chrisw1 on May 20, 2024, 05:46:48 PM
I throw this into the mix because no-one seems to know the answer - how much land do we now own?Do you mean around the ground?
This site plan was included in the planning application
(https://i.ibb.co/RcSr6Jc/image.png) (https://ibb.co/RcSr6Jc)
I think this link should work
http://eplanning.idox.birmingham.gov.uk/publisher/docs/BD826ED339AEEC7EA4F4CD6F3D32F5C3/Document-BD826ED339AEEC7EA4F4CD6F3D32F5C3.pdf
Post by: pauliewalnuts on May 20, 2024, 06:55:44 PM
Heck speaks about how we need redevelopment to increase this type of revenue but until now I've yet to hear anybody confirm there's a big queue for it.
I don't think for a nanosecond Heck, with his domain expertise and the raw data at his hands, plus the people who know how to use it to extract the value, is wrong on that.
I don't really like the bloke a huge amount given a few things he's done, but he's going to be spot on with this one.
Things like Terrace View and the Lower Grounds, the real purpose of introducing those wasn't to immediately generate a huge amount of revenue - the amounts they make will be relatively minuscule currently - it was more about getting us used to there being different levels of 'seated customers' rather than just seated fans and corporate fans, that space between the two.
Post by: ChicagoLion on May 20, 2024, 07:44:12 PM
I think the existing Corporate Hospitality is virtually sold out, the inbetween level seems to be where the focus is for lots of clubs on the understanding that there is only so far you can go (price wise) with the majority of the fan base.Exactly. And in two years time, we could have had 10,000 extra paying customers, a mix of normal fans and premium corporate areas x 20 odd games depending on success, forever more.
Obviously the real money is in a stadium with multi-purpose facilities that can be used seven days a week, but I'd be interested to know if there's real demand for a tonne of new corporate boxes/seats/etc at Villa Park?
As people have mentioned, the trend is moving away from boxes. Boxes rely on a company buying them and then it's a done deal and who they invite comes.
If you have trendy hospitality areas and posh seats, you can break them down further and sell them with different options and packages at different prices. It's far more flexible and gives you the greatest chance of selling everything for the most money.
I get that but is there demand? Or put another way, is it companies taking out a table for x number of people for the season or a family treating a family member for their birthday? Is their a long waiting list for 'corporate entertainment'?
Heck speaks about how we need redevelopment to increase this type of revenue but until now I've yet to hear anybody confirm there's a big queue for it.
As Dogtanian says, the lower level hospitality provides lots of flexibility to maximise £ per seat revenue.
Post by: London Villan on May 20, 2024, 07:59:26 PM
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on May 20, 2024, 08:07:04 PM
Not sure if it still the case, but 10 years ago the biggest buyers of boxes at Villa were the players.
I'm reminded of Doug sending Abdul out to find new clients.
Post by: Mister E on May 20, 2024, 08:19:00 PM
Things like Terrace View and the Lower Grounds, the real purpose of introducing those wasn't to immediately generate a huge amount of revenue - the amounts they make will be relatively minuscule currently - it was more about getting us used to there being different levels of 'seated customers' rather than just seated fans and corporate fans, that space between the two.Yeah, they were a 'sighting shot' for the evolution of a different business model.
Post by: dave.woodhall on May 20, 2024, 08:20:03 PM
I throw this into the mix because no-one seems to know the answer - how much land do we now own?Do you mean around the ground?
This site plan was included in the planning application
(https://i.ibb.co/RcSr6Jc/image.png) (https://ibb.co/RcSr6Jc)
I think this link should work
http://eplanning.idox.birmingham.gov.uk/publisher/docs/BD826ED339AEEC7EA4F4CD6F3D32F5C3/Document-BD826ED339AEEC7EA4F4CD6F3D32F5C3.pdf
I was thinking more around Aston. I know Doug bought some, Xia flogged some and I wondered what was left.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on May 20, 2024, 08:24:08 PM
I think the existing Corporate Hospitality is virtually sold out, the inbetween level seems to be where the focus is for lots of clubs on the understanding that there is only so far you can go (price wise) with the majority of the fan base.Exactly. And in two years time, we could have had 10,000 extra paying customers, a mix of normal fans and premium corporate areas x 20 odd games depending on success, forever more.
Obviously the real money is in a stadium with multi-purpose facilities that can be used seven days a week, but I'd be interested to know if there's real demand for a tonne of new corporate boxes/seats/etc at Villa Park?
As people have mentioned, the trend is moving away from boxes. Boxes rely on a company buying them and then it's a done deal and who they invite comes.
If you have trendy hospitality areas and posh seats, you can break them down further and sell them with different options and packages at different prices. It's far more flexible and gives you the greatest chance of selling everything for the most money.
I get that but is there demand? Or put another way, is it companies taking out a table for x number of people for the season or a family treating a family member for their birthday? Is their a long waiting list for 'corporate entertainment'?
Heck speaks about how we need redevelopment to increase this type of revenue but until now I've yet to hear anybody confirm there's a big queue for it.
As Dogtanian says, the lower level hospitality provides lots of flexibility to maximise £ per seat revenue.
Cheers, CL and Doggy, that's making a lot more sense. The corporate boxes I've been invited to at Benfica (copied by Arsenal) and Mrs RCF's cousin's box at Sporting have a private room with direct access to seats outside. As Paulie said, Heck will know his numbers and market so it's good to hear on a marketing point we have several offers available and ideally with corporate locked in for the season thus reducing the work and more importantly guaranteeing the revenue.
That said, I still think Terrace View is a piss take and poorly thought out even if it does bring in a few extra quid.
Post by: Dante Lavelli on May 20, 2024, 08:43:36 PM
Things like Terrace View and the Lower Grounds, the real purpose of introducing those wasn't to immediately generate a huge amount of revenue - the amounts they make will be relatively minuscule currently - it was more about getting us used to there being different levels of 'seated customers' rather than just seated fans and corporate fans, that space between the two.Yeah, they were a 'sighting shot' for the evolution of a different business model.
Same with Villa Live (lite). Test whether gigs/weddings etc are viable on non-match days without the cost of building the real thing.
Post by: Scott Nielsen on May 21, 2024, 04:41:51 AM
Atairos build and manage arenas and exhibition centres and have ploughed some money into the club.
We keep saying this and I understand why given Villa's press release. But when you look the Atairos portfolio, their profile is simply that of a typical growth PE firm.
https://www.atairos.com/partner-companies/
Post by: Dogtanian on May 21, 2024, 06:33:28 AM
Atairos build and manage arenas and exhibition centres and have ploughed some money into the club.
We keep saying this and I understand why given Villa's press release. But when you look the Atairos portfolio, their profile is simply that of a typical growth PE firm.
https://www.atairos.com/partner-companies/
Okay, sorry. To be correct we should say that Comcast own and operate stadiums and venues, and have invested in Aston Villa through their investment arm Atairos.
Post by: Scott Nielsen on May 21, 2024, 08:48:39 AM
There is not much stadium building/operating going on in the Atairos portfolio companies yet we seem, to a man, absolutely convinced that is the only reason they have invested in Villa. Whereas they, at least primarily, might just be another growth PE firm wanting a slice of the Premier League pie.
Post by: London Villan on May 21, 2024, 09:01:46 AM
Post by: Dogtanian on May 21, 2024, 09:19:06 AM
No need for you to be sorry. I just meant we are making a very big assumption based on a pretty short press release.
There is not much stadium building/operating going on in the Atairos portfolio companies yet we seem, to a man, absolutely convinced that is the only reason they have invested in Villa. Whereas they, at least primarily, might just be another growth PE firm wanting a slice of the Premier League pie.
I don't think it's based solely on a press release, it's lots of different bits of information.
- Atairos are the investment arm of a company that has built and manages sports venues.
- Our mega-rich owners let them buy into V Sports for £100m despite the fact that if they needed £100m to pay the bills they could easily cover it themselves.
- Comcast own and operate the 76ers stadium where Chris Heck was VP.
- Chris Heck shelved the new North within days of them becoming part owners.
- We've made board appointments all with experience in construction or new stadiums.
Add to that more general facts, such as;
- Everyone at the club is adamant that we are here to compete at the top.
- We are massively behind those clubs on match day revenue.
- Clubs we are already behind have already expanded, or are in the process of expanding, their stadiums to offer more high-end options: Arsenal, Spurs, Man City, Liverpool, Newcastle.
- The North Stand and the Doug Ellis are both in desperate need of upgrading as the facilities are poor.
- Comcast/Atairos are unlikely to invest in a project whose only opportunity to grow revenue is from finishing a few places higher in the Premier League or to get further in europe. They will want to see a plan for significant growth.
- Owners with no cash-flow problems do not sell 20% of their company for a small amount of money that will do little to grow the company. The deal really only makes sense if they're bringing something more to the table.
- Expanding the stadium to get more match day revenue is something that the club can control and push, whereas increasing revenue from commercial or on-pitch success is too reliant on outside factors.
Basically, the Atairos deal only makes sense if our owners desperately needed the cash, and then wouldn't make sense on their side as we all know £100m is pissed away in an instant in football.
Cancelling the New North only make sense if you can't afford it, don't have the ambition, or if you recognise that you need to go further.
(Yes, I know people will also say it makes sense if they don't think there is demand, but seriously if that's the case then they made a mistake buying the club and are now flogging a dead horse.)
Post by: ChicagoLion on May 21, 2024, 09:37:24 AM
Post by: LeeB on May 21, 2024, 09:53:02 AM
That all makes a lot of sense DogT.
I agree ChigL.
I approve of the gossip mag-ification of usernames.
Post by: Drummond on May 21, 2024, 10:00:05 AM
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on May 22, 2024, 10:28:47 AM
Post by: Stu82 on May 22, 2024, 10:43:01 AM
That's how I see it too.
Post by: OCD on May 22, 2024, 11:09:56 AM
Post by: Risso on May 22, 2024, 02:44:55 PM
While I agree with Dogtanian, they bought V Sports and there's likely to be infrastructure projects across the world. V Sports tried to start a franchise in Las Vegas for instance, and probably haven't given up on that. A new stadium there would be a huge project.
The Las Vegas project is dead in the water. The last franchise place was awarded to somebody else and there are no current plans for any further places. If there is in the future, then again they'll be competing gianst other cities with no guarantee of success.
At the moment, they've just bought into a loss making Premier League football team. They haven't done that to bankroll the losses, and will have an eye on making money, obviously. The way their "parent" Comcast has done that is by building new grounds and having mixed use developments.
Post by: Villan82 on May 22, 2024, 02:52:15 PM
While I agree with Dogtanian, they bought V Sports and there's likely to be infrastructure projects across the world. V Sports tried to start a franchise in Las Vegas for instance, and probably haven't given up on that. A new stadium there would be a huge project.
The Las Vegas project is dead in the water. The last franchise place was awarded to somebody else and there are no current plans for any further places. If there is in the future, then again they'll be competing gianst other cities with no guarantee of success.
At the moment, they've just bought into a loss making Premier League football team. They haven't done that to bankroll the losses, and will have an eye on making money, obviously. The way their "parent" Comcast has done that is by building new grounds and having mixed use developments.
I know you have to take what he says with a pinch of salt but Heck was adamant in that Gabhy video that we would never leave Villa Park and we'd never change the Holte. Why leave such a hostage to fortune?
Post by: Dogtanian on May 22, 2024, 03:09:14 PM
In my experience, the last thing you want is people talking about all sorts of things you may not even do. You get your decisions made in private and let people know in the right way at the right time.
I don't believe that whatever they're going to do is fully decided yet, and so he's right - there are no firm plans. And that will be the official line until they're ready to say something.
As for going back on what they've said, I don't think that's a big concern. Decisions get made and unmade and changed all the time in business. They'll just say that tried really hard to make it work without doing xxx, but in the end they realised that for the successful future of the club they had to make a big change.
Post by: chrisw1 on May 22, 2024, 03:12:02 PM
I think in 3-4 years time we'll think Heck has made a huge mistake.
Post by: Villan82 on May 22, 2024, 03:18:52 PM
By staying where we are we've pretty much kissed goodbye to any significant mixed-use development beyond a bit of primarily match day based leisure I'd think. I do wonder how we will compete financially in the long long term with better-located clubs. Even Everton will be eclipsing our stadium income shortly.
I think in 3-4 years time we'll think Heck has made a huge mistake.
I've been there since I saw the interview in December! At best it delayed us getting to that point by one year, at worst it has led to yet more indecision about it that will still be felt in a decade's time.
Post by: chrisw1 on May 22, 2024, 03:40:23 PM
I think you do have to take it with a pinch of salt.It's one thing deferring decisions whilst they consider options, it's another thing entirely to commission and release a video extolling the virtues of Villa Park, the Holte End and stating expressly that we won't move in his lifetime. There was no need to do any of that. He's nailed his colours to the mast completely. There's no prospect of us moving and I'm sure a total redev is also off the table. The best we can hope for is a revamped North development, but it doesn't look like that will be any time soon now they are spending money of the current stand.
In my experience, the last thing you want is people talking about all sorts of things you may not even do. You get your decisions made in private and let people know in the right way at the right time.
I don't believe that whatever they're going to do is fully decided yet, and so he's right - there are no firm plans. And that will be the official line until they're ready to say something.
As for going back on what they've said, I don't think that's a big concern. Decisions get made and unmade and changed all the time in business. They'll just say that tried really hard to make it work without doing xxx, but in the end they realised that for the successful future of the club they had to make a big change.
Post by: Dogtanian on May 22, 2024, 03:48:37 PM
And every marketing and sales person always tells the truth and never uses hyperbole.
Post by: Risso on May 22, 2024, 03:58:42 PM
Post by: Dogtanian on May 22, 2024, 04:03:41 PM
I do think Chris has got a point. There aren't many businesses where the customers are as emotionally attached to the product as football fans. There would be upset if they'd announced we were going to leave Villa, from the majority of fans I reckon. If they announce a move some time after categorically saying we're not moving because of how historic the ground is, then there would be absolute civil war. I just can't see that they'd knowingly do that.
People are going to be angry about what they were always going to be angry about. If they announced a move or rebuild now, it wouldn't matter what he said or when. The anger would be coming regardless.
I think it's much more likely that he doesn't expect anyone to remember that he said that. The fact that he said it certainly isn't going to impact any business decision and certainly can't be taken as any kind of promise.
Aside from anything else, it's not his promise to make. He doesn't own the club. It's absolutely meaningless.
Post by: chrisw1 on May 22, 2024, 04:22:51 PM
The reason they made the video is because we're not moving and the wanted to nip the rumours and speculation in the bud. If there was any doubt at all, they'd have just kept quiet or given some flannel about still considering what's best for the club etc.
Post by: Chris Smith on May 22, 2024, 04:30:04 PM
I do think Chris has got a point. There aren't many businesses where the customers are as emotionally attached to the product as football fans. There would be upset if they'd announced we were going to leave Villa, from the majority of fans I reckon. If they announce a move some time after categorically saying we're not moving because of how historic the ground is, then there would be absolute civil war. I just can't see that they'd knowingly do that.
People are going to be angry about what they were always going to be angry about. If they announced a move or rebuild now, it wouldn't matter what he said or when. The anger would be coming regardless.
I think it's much more likely that he doesn't expect anyone to remember that he said that. The fact that he said it certainly isn't going to impact any business decision and certainly can't be taken as any kind of promise.
Aside from anything else, it's not his promise to make. He doesn't own the club. It's absolutely meaningless.
He could not have made the statements in that video without getting the nod from the owners. I’m fairly sure that we will be staying at VP for the foreseeable.
Post by: dave.woodhall on May 22, 2024, 04:30:26 PM
Post by: Risso on May 22, 2024, 04:35:32 PM
I do think Chris has got a point. There aren't many businesses where the customers are as emotionally attached to the product as football fans. There would be upset if they'd announced we were going to leave Villa, from the majority of fans I reckon. If they announce a move some time after categorically saying we're not moving because of how historic the ground is, then there would be absolute civil war. I just can't see that they'd knowingly do that.
People are going to be angry about what they were always going to be angry about. If they announced a move or rebuild now, it wouldn't matter what he said or when. The anger would be coming regardless.
I think it's much more likely that he doesn't expect anyone to remember that he said that. The fact that he said it certainly isn't going to impact any business decision and certainly can't be taken as any kind of promise.
Aside from anything else, it's not his promise to make. He doesn't own the club. It's absolutely meaningless.
I don't buy that sorry. He's the CEO of the club and therefore whilst not the owner, his words do have meaning. And the easiest thing would be to simply say nothing.
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on May 22, 2024, 04:40:31 PM
They've made their business decision but you've obviously convinced yourself otherwise. Answer this, why make the video? There was absolutely no need for it. Non whatsoever. What senior business executive would knowingly make themselves and the owners look so disingenuous for the sake of it?
The reason they made the video is because we're not moving and the wanted to nip the rumours and speculation in the bud. If there was any doubt at all, they'd have just kept quiet or given some flannel about still considering what's best for the club etc.
Yeah, I was convinced we were moving until that video, and I'm a cynical prick. I don't see what he gains by stating it. Maybe in 5 years he can say well "so and so has changed" but plans anytime soon? Nah.
Post by: pablo_picasso on May 22, 2024, 04:42:15 PM
I do think Chris has got a point. There aren't many businesses where the customers are as emotionally attached to the product as football fans. There would be upset if they'd announced we were going to leave Villa, from the majority of fans I reckon. If they announce a move some time after categorically saying we're not moving because of how historic the ground is, then there would be absolute civil war. I just can't see that they'd knowingly do that.
Chris Heck doesn't give two fucks what regular Villa fans think.
If we aren't A+ tickets, or whatever they are called, he isn't interested.
Post by: LeeB on May 22, 2024, 04:59:50 PM
Post by: Dogtanian on May 22, 2024, 05:00:57 PM
I do think Chris has got a point. There aren't many businesses where the customers are as emotionally attached to the product as football fans. There would be upset if they'd announced we were going to leave Villa, from the majority of fans I reckon. If they announce a move some time after categorically saying we're not moving because of how historic the ground is, then there would be absolute civil war. I just can't see that they'd knowingly do that.
People are going to be angry about what they were always going to be angry about. If they announced a move or rebuild now, it wouldn't matter what he said or when. The anger would be coming regardless.
I think it's much more likely that he doesn't expect anyone to remember that he said that. The fact that he said it certainly isn't going to impact any business decision and certainly can't be taken as any kind of promise.
Aside from anything else, it's not his promise to make. He doesn't own the club. It's absolutely meaningless.
I don't buy that sorry. He's the CEO of the club and therefore whilst not the owner, his words do have meaning. And the easiest thing would be to simply say nothing.
Well not really. If the owners tell him tomorrow to move, he'll move. So it's literally not in his power to keep that promise. It would have been wiser to say nothing, definitely.
They will either move, rebuild, or knock down and rebuild stands. Thinking they're not going to do anything because they've made a video is a bit silly really.
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on May 22, 2024, 05:06:32 PM
Post by: chrisw1 on May 22, 2024, 05:18:29 PM
Isn't it sillier to think our CEO would categorically state we are not going to move if we were planning to move?
They will either move, rebuild, or knock down and rebuild stands. Thinking they're not going to do anything because they've made a video is a bit silly really.
Post by: Dogtanian on May 22, 2024, 05:33:25 PM
Isn't it sillier to think our CEO would categorically state we are not going to move if we were planning to move?
They will either move, rebuild, or knock down and rebuild stands. Thinking they're not going to do anything because they've made a video is a bit silly really.
What I’ve said is that what he said in the video is not going to affect the business decision. And that if it suits their plans to control the narrative they would have no qualms about going back on previous statements, yes.
Hardnosed business people don’t let these things get in the way of the right decision.
I’ve always said I think they will redevelop on the existing site. I think that’s the more straight forward solution. But attachment, sentimentality, fan response, PR videos, or previous statements won’t factor into it one bit.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on May 22, 2024, 05:37:19 PM
Post by: Dogtanian on May 22, 2024, 05:58:35 PM
The announcement of a stadium move would have been massive for him to make his own statement. The fact that he’s stated we are not moving in his lifetime pretty well puts the kybosh on anything happening within the next ten years in my view.
You give him ten years, eh? ;D
Post by: Sexual Ealing on May 22, 2024, 06:11:30 PM
The announcement of a stadium move would have been massive for him to make his own statement. The fact that he’s stated we are not moving in his lifetime pretty well puts the kybosh on anything happening within the next ten years in my view.
You give him ten years, eh? ;D
Agree. He won't be here in three years IMAO.
Post by: Chris Harte on May 22, 2024, 06:17:45 PM
The announcement of a stadium move would have been massive for him to make his own statement. The fact that he’s stated we are not moving in his lifetime pretty well puts the kybosh on anything happening within the next ten years in my view.I bet he's glad you're not his doctor.
I see Heck getting a lot of stick, but he's improved the kit deal, he's improved on the front-of-shirt deal and he's applying methods to bring in more matchday revenue.
I didn't like the reversal of the club badge, nor did I like the cancellation (or is it a postponement?) of the North Stand redevelopment, but maybe we should trust him on the deals alone. He said in the interview in December that he "loves history", and he's said there's no prospect of us leaving VP for a long time to come in the recent video.
I suspect there is more news to come. Not sure when the new board members with backgrounds in stadium builds and infrastructure started but I'm assuming their expertise hasn't fully had chance to be exploited yet.
Post by: Keeno on May 22, 2024, 06:55:54 PM
He may have flipped on some things and he may have flopped on others, but Heck has always categorically stated that we're not moving.
Indeed.
The most likely scenario to me is that we move away from VP for a year (or two) while major works are carried out on the ground.
Post by: astonvilla82 on May 22, 2024, 09:55:04 PM
We could do a ground share with another club, possibly one that holds in the region of 60 thousand spectators, anybody know of one getting built during the summer?He may have flipped on some things and he may have flopped on others, but Heck has always categorically stated that we're not moving.
Indeed.
The most likely scenario to me is that we move away from VP for a year (or two) while major works are carried out on the ground.
Post by: ChicagoLion on May 23, 2024, 08:44:08 AM
Yes the Wheels site is ready for development.We could do a ground share with another club, possibly one that holds in the region of 60 thousand spectators, anybody know of one getting built during the summer?He may have flipped on some things and he may have flopped on others, but Heck has always categorically stated that we're not moving.
Indeed.
The most likely scenario to me is that we move away from VP for a year (or two) while major works are carried out on the ground.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on May 23, 2024, 08:45:29 AM
He may have flipped on some things and he may have flopped on others, but Heck has always categorically stated that we're not moving.
Indeed.
The most likely scenario to me is that we move away from VP for a year (or two) while major works are carried out on the ground.
I think the only realistic place we could do that would be at Wolves. Not too far, not quite big enough but not that far off.
Post by: Risso on May 23, 2024, 08:49:50 AM
He may have flipped on some things and he may have flopped on others, but Heck has always categorically stated that we're not moving.
Indeed.
The most likely scenario to me is that we move away from VP for a year (or two) while major works are carried out on the ground.
I think the only realistic place we could do that would be at Wolves. Not too far, not quite big enough but not that far off.
Leicester maybe? Bit further away but will be 40,000 with the new stand.
Post by: London Villan on May 23, 2024, 08:50:57 AM
Post by: LeeB on May 23, 2024, 09:10:48 AM
He may have flipped on some things and he may have flopped on others, but Heck has always categorically stated that we're not moving.
Indeed.
The most likely scenario to me is that we move away from VP for a year (or two) while major works are carried out on the ground.
I think the only realistic place we could do that would be at Wolves. Not too far, not quite big enough but not that far off.
Leicester maybe? Bit further away but will be 40,000 with the new stand.
Coventry is a bit bigger than Wulvz and has the benefit of not being in the town and close to the motorway.
Or in Wolverhampton.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on May 23, 2024, 09:21:20 AM
He may have flipped on some things and he may have flopped on others, but Heck has always categorically stated that we're not moving.
Indeed.
The most likely scenario to me is that we move away from VP for a year (or two) while major works are carried out on the ground.
I think the only realistic place we could do that would be at Wolves. Not too far, not quite big enough but not that far off.
Leicester maybe? Bit further away but will be 40,000 with the new stand.
I reckon that'd be way too far away for them to consider tbh, Wolves is pretty easy to get to, on the local transport network and only a few miles away.
Obviously, it'd also mean time travelling back to 1975, which would pose a challenge.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on May 23, 2024, 09:22:32 AM
Surely it would be the Alexander Stadium, unused since the Commonwealth Games, add temporary stands at either end should get it up to around 35000...
It's not set up for football, though and I doubt they'd want to be fucking about with temporary stands, either. Plus it'd be truly awful watching football in an athletics stadium. I reckon 2 or 3 years playing there would do some significant damage.
Post by: LeeB on May 23, 2024, 09:33:30 AM
In which case, fair enough.
Post by: DB on May 23, 2024, 09:39:35 AM
Surely it would be the Alexander Stadium, unused since the Commonwealth Games, add temporary stands at either end should get it up to around 35000...
It's not set up for football, though and I doubt they'd want to be fucking about with temporary stands, either. Plus it'd be truly awful watching football in an athletics stadium. I reckon 2 or 3 years playing there would do some significant damage.
Barcelona are doing it.
Post by: algy on May 23, 2024, 09:40:00 AM
Surely it would be the Alexander Stadium, unused since the Commonwealth Games, add temporary stands at either end should get it up to around 35000...I'd wonder if it might be possible to use the Alex stadium for summer months only ...
So Mid March through to Mid October, play there whilst the weather's not too bad. Play the winter months at Villa Park. Alternate between the two until all the work's done.
Then you'd do the 'big' construction tasks in that ~6 month window, try to get part of the new stand(s) open, and do things that aren't impacted by supporters in the ground for the other ~6months.
We'd still play the majority of games each season at Villa Park, and the few games that we didn't play there would be in Perry Barr ... marginally further away than Wellington Road, but not massively so.
Post by: Villan82 on May 23, 2024, 09:42:17 AM
And long-term figure out a way to do the Witton Lane without needing to close the stand.
I think we are all falling into the trap of trying to find logic in the 'pause': it must be a new stadium instead, it must be because they can't afford to reduce capacity, it must be because they fear the atmosphere would suffer, it must be because they have decided 42,000 is enough for us, it must be because we need to play at another venue while the works are done.
Playing at another venue isn't going to be all that different to playing in front of a temporarily reduced capacity Villa Park - something we have done when the other stands were rebuilt.
Post by: Dogtanian on May 23, 2024, 09:49:45 AM
I suspect any local 30k stadium with good entertainment / hospitality facilities would do nicely. I think the Ricoh would fit this?
Post by: LeeB on May 23, 2024, 09:50:10 AM
Surely it would be the Alexander Stadium, unused since the Commonwealth Games, add temporary stands at either end should get it up to around 35000...
It's not set up for football, though and I doubt they'd want to be fucking about with temporary stands, either. Plus it'd be truly awful watching football in an athletics stadium. I reckon 2 or 3 years playing there would do some significant damage.
Barcelona are doing it.
That stadium has been used for football by Espanyol for ages though.
Post by: LeeB on May 23, 2024, 09:55:09 AM
Coventry, Leicester, Wolves, Perry Barr? How is playing at a 36,000 capacity Villa Park for 18 months a worse solution than any of those?
And long-term figure out a way to do the Witton Lane without needing to close the stand.
I think we are all falling into the trap of trying to find logic in the 'pause': it must be a new stadium instead, it must be because they can't afford to reduce capacity, it must be because they fear the atmosphere would suffer, it must be because they have decided 42,000 is enough for us, it must be because we need to play at another venue while the works are done.
Playing at another venue isn't going to be all that different to playing in front of a temporarily reduced capacity Villa Park - something we have done when the other stands were rebuilt.
Look, I know you really want a new North Stand, but the reason we'd 'move elsewhere' is to allow us to redevelop the whole site. It's not just about capacity, it's what that capacity is generating financially.
When you look at that footprint of the land we own, you think if we just moved the stadium 50 yards back towards Witton we'd solve a lot of problems.
Post by: PeterWithe on May 23, 2024, 09:55:25 AM
Post by: Dogtanian on May 23, 2024, 10:03:10 AM
Coventry, Leicester, Wolves, Perry Barr? How is playing at a 36,000 capacity Villa Park for 18 months a worse solution than any of those?
And long-term figure out a way to do the Witton Lane without needing to close the stand.
I think we are all falling into the trap of trying to find logic in the 'pause': it must be a new stadium instead, it must be because they can't afford to reduce capacity, it must be because they fear the atmosphere would suffer, it must be because they have decided 42,000 is enough for us, it must be because we need to play at another venue while the works are done.
Playing at another venue isn't going to be all that different to playing in front of a temporarily reduced capacity Villa Park - something we have done when the other stands were rebuilt.
Look, I know you really want a new North Stand, but the reason we'd 'move elsewhere' is to allow us to redevelop the whole site. It's not just about capacity, it's what that capacity is generating financially.
When you look at that footprint of the land we own, you think if we just moved the stadium 50 yards back towards Witton we'd solve a lot of problems.
Yep, we have a lot of land at Villa Park - enough to fit the Emirates or the Spurs Toilet in. It's just the shape it's in that causes the problem.
I'm pretty sure there is a solution to be found on the site, whether it's step by step stand replacement or an entire rebuild on the site.
Post by: Villan82 on May 23, 2024, 10:08:21 AM
Coventry, Leicester, Wolves, Perry Barr? How is playing at a 36,000 capacity Villa Park for 18 months a worse solution than any of those?
And long-term figure out a way to do the Witton Lane without needing to close the stand.
I think we are all falling into the trap of trying to find logic in the 'pause': it must be a new stadium instead, it must be because they can't afford to reduce capacity, it must be because they fear the atmosphere would suffer, it must be because they have decided 42,000 is enough for us, it must be because we need to play at another venue while the works are done.
Playing at another venue isn't going to be all that different to playing in front of a temporarily reduced capacity Villa Park - something we have done when the other stands were rebuilt.
Look, I know you really want a new North Stand, but the reason we'd 'move elsewhere' is to allow us to redevelop the whole site. It's not just about capacity, it's what that capacity is generating financially.
When you look at that footprint of the land we own, you think if we just moved the stadium 50 yards back towards Witton we'd solve a lot of problems.
I accept your point but to me it is a huge undertaking for a small gain? The true pinch point at Villa Park is the Holte Trinity corner and those two stands are currently our largest, most spacious stands and the Holte by far our grandest.
Shifting the whole site back will allow us make some gains but we'd be repalcing the two best stands currently to achieve those gains. Also, moving back towards Witton may bring the houses on nelson road into the mix. Would we have to acquire them? Also, if that is the plan, why are we investing in enlarging our club shop when under such a scheme we'd be demolishing it to move the whole stadium towards Witton?
Not trying to argue against what you outline, it it a good proposal, just that they are going about it a funny way if that is indeed the masterplan.
Which brings me back to my position that the best solution is also the simple one that we make our current worst stand our best stand and get to 50k without all that disruption.
Post by: Chris Harte on May 23, 2024, 10:12:14 AM
I think the PL have a rule about club's not staging home games in more than one "home" in any given season. They did give Spurs special dispensation to play at Wembley and their new home only because of building work overrunning and I think a safety certificate issue, but I can't imagine we'd be allowed to do what you describe, as otherwise reasonable an idea as it is.
I'd wonder if it might be possible to use the Alex stadium for summer months only ...
So Mid March through to Mid October, play there whilst the weather's not too bad. Play the winter months at Villa Park. Alternate between the two until all the work's done.
Then you'd do the 'big' construction tasks in that ~6 month window, try to get part of the new stand(s) open, and do things that aren't impacted by supporters in the ground for the other ~6months.
We'd still play the majority of games each season at Villa Park, and the few games that we didn't play there would be in Perry Barr ... marginally further away than Wellington Road, but not massively so.
Post by: Dogtanian on May 23, 2024, 10:27:43 AM
I did this abomination to see just how restrictive our site is. Even taking into account the inaccuracies of my fag packet methods, it gives a decent idea of both the potential and the problems.
Post by: Villan82 on May 23, 2024, 10:28:59 AM
Post by: Dogtanian on May 23, 2024, 10:32:04 AM
That would allow for potential work to be carried out while the original was still open, but I've no idea how feasible that would be managing a matchday with a construction site there.
Post by: LeeB on May 23, 2024, 10:37:00 AM
Post by: Neil Hawkes on May 23, 2024, 12:26:32 PM
Post by: chrisw1 on May 23, 2024, 12:29:19 PM
Why don't we have it all fully enclosed, with seats suspended from the roof?Whilst obviously a very sensible plan, are you allowed to have a closed roof in the PL?
Post by: Neil Hawkes on May 23, 2024, 12:35:19 PM
Bugger - when do we become M.City and do what we want?................(hopefully never)Why don't we have it all fully enclosed, with seats suspended from the roof?Whilst obviously a very sensible plan, are you allowed to have a closed roof in the PL?
Post by: LeeB on May 23, 2024, 12:54:05 PM
Why don't we have it all fully enclosed, with seats suspended from the roof?
Small time thinking, we should build the worlds first gyroscopic stadium with people on all sides .
Post by: Sexual Ealing on May 23, 2024, 01:02:52 PM
Why don't we have it all fully enclosed, with seats suspended from the roof?
Small time thinking, we should build the worlds first gyroscopic stadium with people on all sides .
I feel like we're *this* close to a lecture on how telescopic dampers and rigid stays hold the key to our new 'mobile' stadium.
Post by: AV82EC on May 23, 2024, 01:05:11 PM
Why don't we have it all fully enclosed, with seats suspended from the roof?
Small time thinking, we should build the worlds first gyroscopic stadium with people on all sides .
I feel like we're *this* close to a lecture on how telescopic dampers and rigid stays hold the key to our new 'mobile' stadium.
Well far be it from me as someone who knows nothing about gyroscopic engineering or any type of engineering for that matter to enlighten you further……
Post by: LeeB on May 23, 2024, 01:18:16 PM
Post by: Neil Hawkes on May 23, 2024, 01:20:54 PM
This is what we need: https://www.mattgyver.com/tutorials/2021/3/1/howls-moving-castle-animatedWhy don't we have it all fully enclosed, with seats suspended from the roof?
Small time thinking, we should build the worlds first gyroscopic stadium with people on all sides .
I feel like we're *this* close to a lecture on how telescopic dampers and rigid stays hold the key to our new 'mobile' stadium.
Post by: Hookeysmith on May 23, 2024, 02:34:54 PM
Quote
I see Heck getting a lot of stick, but he's improved the kit deal, he's improved on the front-of-shirt deal and he's applying methods to bring in more matchday revenue.
I didn't like the reversal of the club badge, nor did I like the cancellation (or is it a postponement?) of the North Stand redevelopment, but maybe we should trust him on the deals alone. He said in the interview in December that he "loves history", and he's said there's no prospect of us leaving VP for a long time to come in the recent video.
I suspect there is more news to come. Not sure when the new board members with backgrounds in stadium builds and infrastructure started but I'm assuming their expertise hasn't fully had chance to be exploited yet.
I think we should cut the guy some slack - considering he had probably never heard of us 18 months ago he has done all the above and more.
Rather than speculate we can only measure on what has actually been achieved and so far it / he has been a resounding success.
* Cannot wait to see the new kit - and all the other merch that will come with it
* Cannot wait to see the new seating
* Cannot wait to see the new store to sell it all in
At some point with all these experts signing up we will have a big reveal for the stadium plans - and i cannot wait!
Post by: VILLA MOLE on May 23, 2024, 02:58:55 PM
Post by: Hookeysmith on May 23, 2024, 06:11:33 PM
Bloody hell Hookey that is very positive 💪😃
Well i feel that the guy is light years ahead of Tom Fox, Ellis and Purslow with a huge successful track record so until there is a reason to doubt or criticise i think we should support him.
I really see a bright future
Post by: VillaTim on May 23, 2024, 06:18:10 PM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on May 23, 2024, 06:28:47 PM
Bloody hell Hookey that is very positive 💪😃
Whether or not it was overly positive, it may have been a little premature. ;)
Post by: Chris Harte on May 23, 2024, 06:29:05 PM
Heck is happily treating the loyal fans with contempt .How do we know that? How do you know that those moving won't be able to get similar, equivalent seats?
If anyone if going to be impacted by this it's the casual fan who will have a harder time getting their hands on tickets because there will be less for sale on a game-by-game basis.
Post by: VillaTim on May 23, 2024, 06:33:38 PM
Impacted fans are getting first dibs on any seats not renewed other than that (which wont be many) they will shunted into far more inferior seats . Defend that if you want but its not for me .Heck is happily treating the loyal fans with contempt .How do we know that? How do you know that those moving won't be able to get similar, equivalent seats?
If anyone if going to be impacted by this it's the casual fan who will have a harder time getting their hands on tickets because there will be less for sale on a game-by-game basis.
Post by: CT Villan on May 23, 2024, 06:39:44 PM
I agree that Heck should only be judged on his actual performance and not gossip or conjecture. We will have to wait and see.
Post by: Toronto Villa on May 23, 2024, 06:40:04 PM
Heck is happily treating the loyal fans with contempt .
Contempt would have been settling on the deals we had in place with Castore and BK8. Contempt would have been saying fuck it we’re moving Villa Park to a soulless site and calling it the Aldi Arena because they gave us a few quid. I get that the badge could and should have been handled better. And I don’t think for a second we have given up as a club on greater remodeling of the ground. It just might not happen now or the same concept as floated last year. I don’t disagree his communication on it could have been tidier. But by some he gets hammered for everything. Which I think is unfair. Because if you’re smashing him then you are criticizing to the same level Wes and Nas. Unless you think he acts in a rogue capacity without the knowledge and agreement of the owners. And if you think that you’re a little naive.
Post by: Chris Harte on May 23, 2024, 07:05:18 PM
They'll also have the pick of the seven or eight thousand seats that aren't season ticket/away end/hospitality seats. You don't know they'll be inferior at all. Some may.only have to move a few rows.Impacted fans are getting first dibs on any seats not renewed other than that (which wont be many) they will shunted into far more inferior seats . Defend that if you want but its not for me .Heck is happily treating the loyal fans with contempt .How do we know that? How do you know that those moving won't be able to get similar, equivalent seats?
If anyone if going to be impacted by this it's the casual fan who will have a harder time getting their hands on tickets because there will be less for sale on a game-by-game basis.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on May 23, 2024, 07:09:38 PM
Heck is happily treating the loyal fans with contempt .
Contempt would have been settling on the deals we had in place with Castore and BK8. Contempt would have been saying fuck it we’re moving Villa Park to a soulless site and calling it the Aldi Arena because they gave us a few quid. I get that the badge could and should have been handled better. And I don’t think for a second we have given up as a club on greater remodeling of the ground. It just might not happen now or the same concept as floated last year. I don’t disagree his communication on it could have been tidier. But by some he gets hammered for everything. Which I think is unfair. Because if you’re smashing him then you are criticizing to the same level Wes and Nas. Unless you think he acts in a rogue capacity without the knowledge and agreement of the owners. And if you think that you’re a little naive.
You've said this a couple of times. What's wrong with criticising the owners? They're not infallible.
I'm glad they're here, and that the relationship has been mutually beneficial so far, but if and when they start acting the C-word, they'll rightly get both barrels. Our relationship with them is commercial, transactional - we shouldn't be fooled into feeling gratitude to a couple of billionaires who are in it for their own reasons.
Post by: Nev on May 23, 2024, 07:10:32 PM
It's hard to swallow but loyalty and dedication through thick and thin have been rendered worthless.
Post by: Ads on May 23, 2024, 07:30:51 PM
Post by: Sexual Ealing on May 23, 2024, 07:33:17 PM
Whether they're in it for their own reasons or not- if you enjoyed last season (and you ought to have enjoyed more than any in 40 years) then there's only so many leavers they can pull to try and ensure it's repeated. This is one. That doesn't make it any less difficult for somebody moved from a beloved seat, but here is another consequence of FFP or whatever it calls itself.
I'm probably the only leaver that's still pullable.
I wasn't having a pop at them, just at TV's idea that any dissent is verboten.
Post by: Ads on May 23, 2024, 07:37:12 PM
Post by: pablo_picasso on May 23, 2024, 07:45:25 PM
Whether they're in it for their own reasons or not- if you enjoyed last season (and you ought to have enjoyed more than any in 40 years) then there's only so many leavers they can pull to try and ensure it's repeated. This is one. That doesn't make it any less difficult for somebody moved from a beloved seat, but here is another consequence of FFP or whatever it calls itself.
I wasn't having a pop at them, just at TV's idea that any dissent is verboten.
Indeed.
I don't see why some people see everything so black & white.
If we criticise Heck for the crest, then we cant give him credit for the adidas deal. Which is nonsense.
Some of what he has done is good. Some of what he has done is shit.
And the same goes for the owners. Or the manager. Or the players.
Not everything has to be ALL candy floss grass & lollipop trees. And not everything has to be ALL doom & gloom.
The truth is most often found in the middle.
Post by: Nii Lamptey on May 23, 2024, 07:57:03 PM
- Literally the only tangibly 'good' thing he's done so far is secure the Adidas deal, and let's face it, as a sportswear firm looking for a promising football team, (*fairly cheap to sign with large profit potential), an 'Unai Emery Champions League chasing Aston Villa' are pretty much a shoe-in, so you've got to question how difficult this actually was. Also, let's not tempt fate but we haven't actually SEEN the state of the kit yet - Not too promising considering the clusterfuck he's made of the badge!
Regarding season ticket prices/fans being moved, someone mentioned it earlier... It feels like it's getting to the point where ALL Premier League fans need to stage a super league level retaliation. On what planet should there be so much money flying around a sport (*made special BY THE FANS), where the fans are the ones who get royally shafted? That TV money should be used to subsidise ticket prices instead of just adding extra naughts to transfers and agents fees?!
God I wish we operated more like the Bundesliga here..... I love going to the Villa, but I'm not going to be taken for a mug much longer. If I get one of those letters (*I'm in row F of trinity upper), that could be it for me, which would be typical when all that effort of supporting that shambles over the years looks to finally be paying off.
Post by: VillaTim on May 23, 2024, 07:58:23 PM
Post by: garyellis on May 23, 2024, 07:59:13 PM
With the caveat that my club is unrecognisable from 5 years ago and that is due to the owners and managementWhether they're in it for their own reasons or not- if you enjoyed last season (and you ought to have enjoyed more than any in 40 years) then there's only so many leavers they can pull to try and ensure it's repeated. This is one. That doesn't make it any less difficult for somebody moved from a beloved seat, but here is another consequence of FFP or whatever it calls itself.
I wasn't having a pop at them, just at TV's idea that any dissent is verboten.
Indeed.
I don't see why some people see everything so black & white.
If we criticise Heck for the crest, then we cant give him credit for the adidas deal. Which is nonsense.
Some of what he has done is good. Some of what he has done is shit.
And the same goes for the owners. Or the manager. Or the players.
Not everything has to be ALL candy floss grass & lollipop trees. And not everything has to be ALL doom & gloom.
The truth is most often found in the middle.
Post by: Toronto Villa on May 23, 2024, 08:13:05 PM
Heck is happily treating the loyal fans with contempt .
Contempt would have been settling on the deals we had in place with Castore and BK8. Contempt would have been saying fuck it we’re moving Villa Park to a soulless site and calling it the Aldi Arena because they gave us a few quid. I get that the badge could and should have been handled better. And I don’t think for a second we have given up as a club on greater remodeling of the ground. It just might not happen now or the same concept as floated last year. I don’t disagree his communication on it could have been tidier. But by some he gets hammered for everything. Which I think is unfair. Because if you’re smashing him then you are criticizing to the same level Wes and Nas. Unless you think he acts in a rogue capacity without the knowledge and agreement of the owners. And if you think that you’re a little naive.
You've said this a couple of times. What's wrong with criticising the owners? They're not infallible.
I'm glad they're here, and that the relationship has been mutually beneficial so far, but if and when they start acting the C-word, they'll rightly get both barrels. Our relationship with them is commercial, transactional - we shouldn't be fooled into feeling gratitude to a couple of billionaires who are in it for their own reasons.
I have said that and there is nothing at all criticizing the owners. It's just that Heck tends to get the stick as if he's making those statements, decisions about the club and it's direction.
Post by: Chris Harte on May 23, 2024, 08:34:17 PM
The Adidas deal was a bloody tap in too given Sawaris is on the board and owns 6% etcI don't think it is a tap in. If it doesn't make business sense does Sawiris let it happen?
If Gerrard is still manager, does.Sawiris let it happen?
Post by: pauliewalnuts on May 23, 2024, 08:57:28 PM
Post by: Sexual Ealing on May 23, 2024, 09:04:49 PM
*I do know what I'm talking about, but I'm at my limit. I can't field any questions.
Edit: I'm not suggesting he makes executive decisions, just that he may wield some quite firm soft power.
Post by: nigel on May 23, 2024, 09:06:54 PM
The Adidas deal was a bloody tap in too given Sawaris is on the board and owns 6% etcI don't think it is a tap in. If it doesn't make business sense does Sawiris let it happen?
If Gerrard is still manager, does.Sawiris let it happen?
I think Sawaris is pretty ruthless when he needs to be.
He was at Fulham and, virtually, within minutes of the final whistle Gerrard was out and Purslow soon followed.
It was Sawaris in all the photos with Unai, so I’m guessing he did the negotiations on that front.
He must have spoken to Edens about this.
This pair don’t appear to fk about so some interesting times lie ahead.
Post by: Ads on May 23, 2024, 09:06:54 PM
He is the largest non-institutional shareholder. 6% is not piddling in this instance.*
*I do know what I'm talking about, but I'm at my limit. I can't field any questions.
Edit: I'm not suggesting he makes executive decisions, just that he may wield some quite firm soft power.
The fact he's on the board is of more significant relevance.
Post by: LeeB on May 23, 2024, 09:09:49 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on May 23, 2024, 09:10:43 PM
Firm Soft Power would be the title of my down tempo, introspective second solo album.
It's my name for my love-making style.
Post by: Ads on May 23, 2024, 09:10:44 PM
Firm Soft Power would be the title of my down tempo, introspective second solo album.
Why not The 6%?
Post by: Sexual Ealing on May 23, 2024, 09:11:25 PM
Firm Soft Power would be the title of my down tempo, introspective second solo album.
Why not The 6%?
That's my love-making style.
Post by: VillaTim on May 23, 2024, 09:42:22 PM
Being a shareholder in a company does not give you some automatic control over how the business is run, especially not on something so piddlingly small in terms of numbers to a company like Adidas.He's a main board Director at Adidas aswell as major shareholder. He has an absolute hand at the table and a big one .
Post by: Risso on May 23, 2024, 09:53:55 PM
Post by: VillaTim on May 23, 2024, 09:57:42 PM
Nas doesn't own 6% of Adidas, he has 3.34%.That's still a massive stake and he'd be a major voice there.
Post by: Ads on May 23, 2024, 09:59:23 PM
Post by: VillaTim on May 23, 2024, 10:00:27 PM
Post by: Villan82 on May 23, 2024, 10:02:16 PM
Of course our commercial deals will be better as we haven't been in such a position of strength in a very long time. i won't be cheering Heck just yet until the medium- to long-term vision for the stadium becomes clear as we will hit the glass ceiling again unless that changes.
I also found it a bit class-less the way he threw shade on the deals he inherited given they presumably reflect a club getting itself re-established in the league after a three year sojourn in Division 2.
Post by: Ads on May 23, 2024, 10:05:01 PM
Duh , he's on the main board at Adidas as well as being a majority shareholder .
I know, that's why I said his shareholding is neither here nor there and that ownership and control are distinct.
Shares = ownership. But tiny number.
Director = control of the company, albeit he's one of a load of them.
The later is more important to making decisions.
Post by: Risso on May 23, 2024, 10:06:36 PM
Duh , he's on the main board at Adidas as well as being a majority shareholder .
He's not a majority shareholder. Majority means >50%. He's the biggest single non-institutional investor. And he's not on the main executive board, he's on the supervisory board, as German companies have two distinct groups.
Post by: Ads on May 23, 2024, 10:09:15 PM
Post by: VillaTim on May 23, 2024, 10:15:44 PM
As you were. (no gap) .
Post by: Chris Harte on May 23, 2024, 10:15:53 PM
Eitherway, it's not a tap in and it's a massive new deal with probably the best sportswear manufacturer going.Throw in the Betano deal as well and I'd say Heck has done well.
Where I suspect Heck has fallen down is in his initial communications and the way we learned about the new North Stand not happening (yet?) as well as the nonsense with the club badge. You get only one chance to make a first impression, and to be fair he flunked it.
Some of us it seems are willing to see past that, and others are not.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on May 23, 2024, 10:19:36 PM
He's a major shareholder . And Director . He will therefore have significant influence . I accept google won't tell you that though .
As you were. (no gap) .
It wasn't a "tap in" as you initially described it, though, Tim, was it?
Post by: Steve67 on May 23, 2024, 10:22:08 PM
Post by: VillaTim on May 23, 2024, 10:22:22 PM
In my opinion it is a tap in 100%. Adidas (Sawaris) were always going to be our new kit supplier , as for the £** , as per above. Thank Emery & the team for the success on the pitch to make the figures look market rate.He's a major shareholder . And Director . He will therefore have significant influence . I accept google won't tell you that though .
As you were. (no gap) .
It wasn't a "tap in" as you initially described it, though, Tim, was it?
Post by: Chris Harte on May 23, 2024, 10:27:07 PM
If we were seventeenth in the Premier League (or worse) was Adidas always going to be our new kit supplier?In my opinion it is a tap in 100%. Adidas (Sawaris) were always going to be our new kit supplier , as for the £** , as per above. Thank Emery & the team for the success on the pitch to make the figures look market rate.He's a major shareholder . And Director . He will therefore have significant influence . I accept google won't tell you that though .
As you were. (no gap) .
It wasn't a "tap in" as you initially described it, though, Tim, was it?
Aston Villa, (in the scenario I describe above) a bit shit, bit of an half-arsed club. Will the people at Adidas really see it as a good bit of business for Adidas?
Post by: VillaTim on May 23, 2024, 10:33:40 PM
That's excatly my point. Because of success / Emery etc the new deal with Adidas is a tap in . I would think after the end of last season the deal was done fairly soon but too late for the Castore disaster .If we were seventeenth in the Premier League (or worse) was Adidas always going to be our new kit supplier?In my opinion it is a tap in 100%. Adidas (Sawaris) were always going to be our new kit supplier , as for the £** , as per above. Thank Emery & the team for the success on the pitch to make the figures look market rate.He's a major shareholder . And Director . He will therefore have significant influence . I accept google won't tell you that though .
As you were. (no gap) .
It wasn't a "tap in" as you initially described it, though, Tim, was it?
Aston Villa, (in the scenario I describe above) a bit shit, bit of an half-arsed club. Will the people at Adidas really see it as a good bit of business for Adidas?
Post by: Chris Harte on May 23, 2024, 10:36:10 PM
But we have been here before and ended up with Reebok.That's excatly my point. Because of success / Emery etc the new deal with Adidas is a tap in . I would think after the end of last season the deal was done fairly soon but too late for the Castore disaster .If we were seventeenth in the Premier League (or worse) was Adidas always going to be our new kit supplier?In my opinion it is a tap in 100%. Adidas (Sawaris) were always going to be our new kit supplier , as for the £** , as per above. Thank Emery & the team for the success on the pitch to make the figures look market rate.He's a major shareholder . And Director . He will therefore have significant influence . I accept google won't tell you that though .
As you were. (no gap) .
It wasn't a "tap in" as you initially described it, though, Tim, was it?
Aston Villa, (in the scenario I describe above) a bit shit, bit of an half-arsed club. Will the people at Adidas really see it as a good bit of business for Adidas?
Post by: VillaTim on May 23, 2024, 10:38:41 PM
Jeez bro l, do i have to keep spelling it out . Because of the Sawaris/Adidas factor .But we have been here before and ended up with Reebok.That's excatly my point. Because of success / Emery etc the new deal with Adidas is a tap in . I would think after the end of last season the deal was done fairly soon but too late for the Castore disaster .If we were seventeenth in the Premier League (or worse) was Adidas always going to be our new kit supplier?In my opinion it is a tap in 100%. Adidas (Sawaris) were always going to be our new kit supplier , as for the £** , as per above. Thank Emery & the team for the success on the pitch to make the figures look market rate.He's a major shareholder . And Director . He will therefore have significant influence . I accept google won't tell you that though .
As you were. (no gap) .
It wasn't a "tap in" as you initially described it, though, Tim, was it?
Aston Villa, (in the scenario I describe above) a bit shit, bit of an half-arsed club. Will the people at Adidas really see it as a good bit of business for Adidas?
Post by: Chris Harte on May 23, 2024, 10:47:14 PM
And, er, jeez bro, if the deal isn't good for Adidas, it doesn't happen. It's not like Adidas are looking and saying "oh look, one of our shareholders has bought a football club, let's supply their kit".Jeez bro l, do i have to keep spelling it out . Because of the Sawaris/Adidas factor .But we have been here before and ended up with Reebok.That's excatly my point. Because of success / Emery etc the new deal with Adidas is a tap in . I would think after the end of last season the deal was done fairly soon but too late for the Castore disaster .If we were seventeenth in the Premier League (or worse) was Adidas always going to be our new kit supplier?In my opinion it is a tap in 100%. Adidas (Sawaris) were always going to be our new kit supplier , as for the £** , as per above. Thank Emery & the team for the success on the pitch to make the figures look market rate.He's a major shareholder . And Director . He will therefore have significant influence . I accept google won't tell you that though .
As you were. (no gap) .
It wasn't a "tap in" as you initially described it, though, Tim, was it?
Aston Villa, (in the scenario I describe above) a bit shit, bit of an half-arsed club. Will the people at Adidas really see it as a good bit of business for Adidas?
Post by: VillaTim on May 23, 2024, 10:51:51 PM
Ok . ;).And, er, jeez bro, if the deal isn't good for Adidas, it doesn't happen. It's not like Adidas are looking and saying "oh look, one of our shareholders has bought a football club, let's supply their kit".Jeez bro l, do i have to keep spelling it out . Because of the Sawaris/Adidas factor .But we have been here before and ended up with Reebok.That's excatly my point. Because of success / Emery etc the new deal with Adidas is a tap in . I would think after the end of last season the deal was done fairly soon but too late for the Castore disaster .If we were seventeenth in the Premier League (or worse) was Adidas always going to be our new kit supplier?In my opinion it is a tap in 100%. Adidas (Sawaris) were always going to be our new kit supplier , as for the £** , as per above. Thank Emery & the team for the success on the pitch to make the figures look market rate.He's a major shareholder . And Director . He will therefore have significant influence . I accept google won't tell you that though .
As you were. (no gap) .
It wasn't a "tap in" as you initially described it, though, Tim, was it?
Aston Villa, (in the scenario I describe above) a bit shit, bit of an half-arsed club. Will the people at Adidas really see it as a good bit of business for Adidas?
Post by: Chris Harte on May 23, 2024, 11:03:42 PM
I reckon you still need Heck to make it happen, to grease the wheels.Ok . ;).And, er, jeez bro, if the deal isn't good for Adidas, it doesn't happen. It's not like Adidas are looking and saying "oh look, one of our shareholders has bought a football club, let's supply their kit".Jeez bro l, do i have to keep spelling it out . Because of the Sawaris/Adidas factor .But we have been here before and ended up with Reebok.That's excatly my point. Because of success / Emery etc the new deal with Adidas is a tap in . I would think after the end of last season the deal was done fairly soon but too late for the Castore disaster .If we were seventeenth in the Premier League (or worse) was Adidas always going to be our new kit supplier?In my opinion it is a tap in 100%. Adidas (Sawaris) were always going to be our new kit supplier , as for the £** , as per above. Thank Emery & the team for the success on the pitch to make the figures look market rate.He's a major shareholder . And Director . He will therefore have significant influence . I accept google won't tell you that though .
As you were. (no gap) .
It wasn't a "tap in" as you initially described it, though, Tim, was it?
Aston Villa, (in the scenario I describe above) a bit shit, bit of an half-arsed club. Will the people at Adidas really see it as a good bit of business for Adidas?
Post by: pauliewalnuts on May 23, 2024, 11:50:16 PM
Jeez bro l, do i have to keep spelling it out . Because of the Sawaris/Adidas factor .
No offence, but I'm not going to be paying much attention to anything you "spell out" if you can't start by spelling the guy's name correctly.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on May 24, 2024, 12:12:49 AM
Duh , he's on the main board at Adidas as well as being a majority shareholder .
He’s not a majority shareholder.
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on May 24, 2024, 12:21:15 AM
*I'm joking.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on May 24, 2024, 12:35:44 AM
Post by: algy on May 24, 2024, 07:43:47 AM
When we see the kits & merchandise we'll know how good a deal it is. Cos if Adidas are putting in the effort for us then Heck has done well. That's what we're aiming for, not just being able to get Adidas kits which even Small Heath can manage (if they pay for generic ones and print them up with the bollocks badge)
Post by: Dogtanian on May 24, 2024, 07:55:59 AM
I think he has done really well to get the deals he has, especially as both required getting out of an existing contract to do. But we can’t keep doing that every year, so I expect over the next twelve months he’s going to really have to work hard to find more revenue and show his value.
Post by: chrisw1 on May 24, 2024, 09:28:12 AM
Post by: Somniloquism on May 24, 2024, 09:39:33 AM
Post by: VillaTim on May 24, 2024, 09:46:57 AM
If the deal was such a tap-in, how come it has taken 5 years of ownership before he could get them in as our suppliers? (I mean he definitely has all the sway apparently).All about timing and being able to support the figures . No point signing a deal with Adidas when your Championship or finishing 17th . We can backup the numbers agreed now . A tap-in for Heck . Credit to Emery and the team .
Post by: LeeB on May 24, 2024, 09:46:58 AM
Being a shareholder in a company does not give you some automatic control over how the business is run, especially not on something so piddlingly small in terms of numbers to a company like Adidas.He's a main board Director at Adidas aswell as major shareholder. He has an absolute hand at the table and a big one .
Fat handed twat.
Post by: pablo_picasso on May 24, 2024, 09:55:18 AM
The biggest thing Heck would have done for the adidas deal was to get us out of the Castore deal. (But not the only thing before anyone jumps on me.) And without that, adidas doesn't happen.
Granted, he admits himself that the quality of that product was extremely poor, & we all saw that on the pitch ourselves, so that would have helped with those negotiations, but there was nothing to stop Castore saying "fuck you, stick it out".
But they didn't, for reasons of not wanting the publicity when we took them to court/they took us to court, or whatever, & it fell into place for our best season in over 30 years, to make the most money out of adidas.
So I think the adidas deal had a few elements helping it out. Good contacts. Timing. And Chris Heck.
Post by: Ads on May 24, 2024, 09:58:06 AM
How does our deal compare to Newcastle's?
Heck has said its our biggest sponsorship deal, so on that basis it's more than £20m a season. But I've not seen any figures beyond some random Twitter guff.
Post by: algy on May 24, 2024, 10:04:05 AM
If the deal was such a tap-in, how come it has taken 5 years of ownership before he could get them in as our suppliers? (I mean he definitely has all the sway apparently).NS might've been able to point him to the right doors to knock on, but everything else is going to have been because it makes sense for Adidas. There's a huge corporation, they aren't doing things as favours to one of their many shareholders.
Post by: Chris Harte on May 24, 2024, 10:08:14 AM
Post by: LeeB on May 24, 2024, 10:16:10 AM
All the fuss and hyperbole about 900 season ticket holders having to move in the name of progress, but when the North Stand redevelopment was stopped all the ire was about us not progressing as a result, even though had it gone ahead surely more season ticket holders would have been displaced.
Yes, nobody seemed to give the slightest shit about that.
Post by: Somniloquism on May 24, 2024, 10:16:45 AM
If the deal was such a tap-in, how come it has taken 5 years of ownership before he could get them in as our suppliers? (I mean he definitely has all the sway apparently).NS might've been able to point him to the right doors to knock on, but everything else is going to have been because it makes sense for Adidas. There's a huge corporation, they aren't doing things as favours to one of their many shareholders.
Well that is what VT has been hinting at? Remember they would have had to pay a lot less previously so they would have liked to pay lower costs.
Post by: Risso on May 24, 2024, 10:30:04 AM
All the fuss and hyperbole about 900 season ticket holders having to move in the name of progress, but when the North Stand redevelopment was stopped all the ire was about us not progressing as a result, even though had it gone ahead surely more season ticket holders would have been displaced.
Yes, nobody seemed to give the slightest shit about that.
That would have been an entirely different situation though. Some short term pain for long term gain. They'd have come back to more seats and miles better facilities.
Post by: Dogtanian on May 24, 2024, 11:23:16 AM
How does our deal compare to Newcastle's?
From what I have seen, Newcastle have been given Elite status. Due mostly to expectation on the sports-washing billions making them massive.
I don't think we are getting that status, which is the same as Arsenal, Juventus, Man U.
I would expect from what has been said that we will be Premium level - on the same footing as Ajax, Celtic, etc. To put this into Context, Leicester won the Premier League, FA Cup, and had consecutive top five finishes and apparently weren't given this level of deal.
The Premium clubs get custom shirt designs, a greater amount of the Adidas range available in their branding, kits in Adidas' online store and stored across Europe, as well as being in the global Adidas catalogue.
So I think we have definitely done well to get this deal.
Post by: Ads on May 24, 2024, 11:47:29 AM
Post by: LeeB on May 24, 2024, 11:53:30 AM
All the fuss and hyperbole about 900 season ticket holders having to move in the name of progress, but when the North Stand redevelopment was stopped all the ire was about us not progressing as a result, even though had it gone ahead surely more season ticket holders would have been displaced.
Yes, nobody seemed to give the slightest shit about that.
That would have been an entirely different situation though. Some short term pain for long term gain. They'd have come back to more seats and miles better facilities.
Yes it would be different alright, not a few rows away but to another part of the ground in a big scramble with thousands of others and very few options. And then no doubt welcomed back to the new stand at a significantly higher cost.
Post by: Drummond on May 24, 2024, 11:53:34 AM
All the fuss and hyperbole about 900 season ticket holders having to move in the name of progress, but when the North Stand redevelopment was stopped all the ire was about us not progressing as a result, even though had it gone ahead surely more season ticket holders would have been displaced.
Yes, nobody seemed to give the slightest shit about that.
That would have been an entirely different situation though. Some short term pain for long term gain. They'd have come back to more seats and miles better facilities.
Not for the people who would have to sit in another stand during ther process, and then be subject to a huge price hike if they did indeed get their choice of (presumably) non premium seating.
Post by: VillaTim on May 24, 2024, 12:08:38 PM
It's called "Progress" apparently.All the fuss and hyperbole about 900 season ticket holders having to move in the name of progress, but when the North Stand redevelopment was stopped all the ire was about us not progressing as a result, even though had it gone ahead surely more season ticket holders would have been displaced.
Yes, nobody seemed to give the slightest shit about that.
That would have been an entirely different situation though. Some short term pain for long term gain. They'd have come back to more seats and miles better facilities.
Yes it would be different alright, not a few rows away but to another part of the ground in a big scramble with thousands of others and very few options. And then no doubt welcomed back to the new stand at a significantly higher cost.
Post by: chrisw1 on May 24, 2024, 01:00:36 PM
I know they sell more shirts, but when they negotiated the deal they weren't even CL.
Post by: Gareth on May 24, 2024, 06:40:09 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on May 24, 2024, 06:43:20 PM
All the fuss and hyperbole about 900 season ticket holders having to move in the name of progress, but when the North Stand redevelopment was stopped all the ire was about us not progressing as a result, even though had it gone ahead surely more season ticket holders would have been displaced.
Yes, nobody seemed to give the slightest shit about that.
That would have been an entirely different situation though. Some short term pain for long term gain. They'd have come back to more seats and miles better facilities.
Not for the people who would have to sit in another stand during ther process, and then be subject to a huge price hike if they did indeed get their choice of (presumably) non premium seating.
That's pretty much unavoidable were we rebuilding part of the ground, though. Not sure what the club would be able to do to avoid that.
Post by: Drummond on May 24, 2024, 07:11:13 PM
Post by: chrisw1 on May 24, 2024, 07:45:23 PM
But wasn’t our deal done mid season when we exploited the Castore cock up to exit the deal that still had time to go….? Hardly gonna be elite in that circumstanceWe were in the top 4 and progressing well in the UCl. Surely better placed than the horse punchers were when they got their elite deal.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on May 24, 2024, 07:55:16 PM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on May 24, 2024, 08:47:06 PM
There's a reason for that. You are aware that every Geordie only owns one shirt and apart from the club shop there are no other clothing retailers in Newcastle?
In fact it's so hard to buy a jacket there that you'll never see bloke in one, no matter how cold it is.
Post by: algy on May 26, 2024, 06:01:08 AM
900 hospitality seats @ £300-£500 a pop = £270,000-£450,000 a matchAll the fuss and hyperbole about 900 season ticket holders having to move in the name of progress, but when the North Stand redevelopment was stopped all the ire was about us not progressing as a result, even though had it gone ahead surely more season ticket holders would have been displaced.
Yes, nobody seemed to give the slightest shit about that.
That would have been an entirely different situation though. Some short term pain for long term gain. They'd have come back to more seats and miles better facilities.
10000 normal seats at £30-£50 a pop = £300,000-£500,000 a match, but you have to provide infrastructure to cope with 10,000 extra people
Given loads have folk have been moaning about the difficulty in getting away from the ground after matches I think it's fairly obvious which is the better option of those 2 *right now*.
Long term gain etc etc.
Post by: Dogtanian on May 26, 2024, 07:22:10 AM
900 hospitality seats @ £300-£500 a pop = £270,000-£450,000 a match
10000 normal seats at £30-£50 a pop = £300,000-£500,000 a match, but you have to provide infrastructure to cope with 10,000 extra people
Given loads have folk have been moaning about the difficulty in getting away from the ground after matches I think it's fairly obvious which is the better option of those 2 *right now*.
Long term gain etc etc.
This is the key bit. Heck is tasked with getting our commercial revenue as high as he can, as quickly as he can, so we can fund improvements on the pitch.
Changes like this are low-hanging fruit compared to a new stand or more. The investment is lower, the timescale shorter, and far less barriers to implement.
They will milk this sort of thing for all its worth in the short term, but eventually they will have to rebuild at least a stand to continue. But by then they will have built up a customer base for it too.
Post by: ChicagoLion on May 26, 2024, 07:26:18 AM
Post by: Risso on May 26, 2024, 08:11:47 AM
900 hospitality seats @ £300-£500 a pop = £270,000-£450,000 a match
10000 normal seats at £30-£50 a pop = £300,000-£500,000 a match, but you have to provide infrastructure to cope with 10,000 extra people
Given loads have folk have been moaning about the difficulty in getting away from the ground after matches I think it's fairly obvious which is the better option of those 2 *right now*.
But that's not the correct way to look at it. There's nothing stopping them doing the extra few hundred seats at any point, that could have been done (less however many were in the North) at any time.
And a new stand very, very obviously isn't going to be 10,000 new cheap tickets like you suggest.
It would would probably be more like 2,000 people in full corporate paying say, £500 a match = £1,000,000 a match
3,000 GA+ paying £150 a match = £450,000 a match
5,000 standard fee, probably paying a minimum of £50 a match = £250,000 a match
So they could be doing the posher new seats now, and in two years, have a brand new stand bringing in tens of millions more a year than it does currently.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on May 26, 2024, 09:51:09 PM
https://x.com/avfc_vibes/status/1794819572434141311?s=46&t=GdM6cpVxe5IloByNCRheWA
Post by: Steve67 on May 26, 2024, 09:53:18 PM
Post by: Chris Harte on May 26, 2024, 09:53:58 PM
Post by: pablo_picasso on May 26, 2024, 09:55:57 PM
Post by: pablo_picasso on May 26, 2024, 10:03:30 PM
https://www.avfc.co.uk/news/2024/february/14/aston-villa-renews-partnership-with-cadbury-uk/ (https://www.avfc.co.uk/news/2024/february/14/aston-villa-renews-partnership-with-cadbury-uk/)
https://www.avfc.co.uk/news/2021/august/Villa-announce-partnership-with-Monster-Energy/ (https://www.avfc.co.uk/news/2021/august/Villa-announce-partnership-with-Monster-Energy/)
https://www.avfc.co.uk/news/2023/september/06/aston-villa-announce-corpay-partnership/ (https://www.avfc.co.uk/news/2023/september/06/aston-villa-announce-corpay-partnership/)
https://www.avfc.co.uk/partners/ (https://www.avfc.co.uk/partners/)
Post by: Percy McCarthy on May 26, 2024, 10:03:36 PM
Monster too...
I’m not sure but I think I’ve seen them linked before. Only a vague recollection though at most. A page in the programme maybe?
Post by: pablo_picasso on May 26, 2024, 10:05:47 PM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on May 26, 2024, 10:11:57 PM
Dunno about Cadbury, but what are Corpay? They sound like a Black Country bailifs.
Or a Lancashire PPV soap.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on May 26, 2024, 10:17:07 PM
Yeah, see my other post. 👍
Ta.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on May 26, 2024, 11:18:38 PM
Quote
Is Corpay a Black Country loans company?
Post by: Somniloquism on May 29, 2024, 12:04:29 PM
https://www.avfc.co.uk/news/2024/may/28/aston-villa-renews-partnership-with-trade-nation/
Post by: eamonn on May 29, 2024, 12:12:29 PM
Dunno about Cadbury, but what are Corpay? They sound like a Black Country bailifs.
Excellent!
Post by: Drummond on May 29, 2024, 01:28:40 PM
No figures in the renewal, but I wonder if there was a Champs League increase? Afterall the original deal before Heck joined was multi-year anyway.
https://www.avfc.co.uk/news/2024/may/28/aston-villa-renews-partnership-with-trade-nation/
The lion they're holding looks good.
Post by: purpletrousers on May 30, 2024, 06:05:27 PM
No figures in the renewal, but I wonder if there was a Champs League increase? Afterall the original deal before Heck joined was multi-year anyway.
https://www.avfc.co.uk/news/2024/may/28/aston-villa-renews-partnership-with-trade-nation/
The lion they're holding looks good.
The badge on the blazer looks good!
Talk about the answer hiding in plain view.
Was always the way to take ownership of the Lion.
Sorry I’ll stop saying it one day.
I find myself with the urge to type the word Dumkopf!
Post by: algy on May 30, 2024, 06:32:49 PM
I'm a fan of that blazer badge.No figures in the renewal, but I wonder if there was a Champs League increase? Afterall the original deal before Heck joined was multi-year anyway.
https://www.avfc.co.uk/news/2024/may/28/aston-villa-renews-partnership-with-trade-nation/
The lion they're holding looks good.
The badge on the blazer looks good!
Talk about the answer hiding in plain view.
Was always the way to take ownership of the Lion.
Sorry I’ll stop saying it one day.
I find myself with the urge to type the word Dumkopf!
Post by: VillaTim on May 30, 2024, 07:51:37 PM
Post by: purpletrousers on May 30, 2024, 09:23:06 PM
Aaaaaanyway. Sigh.
Post by: VILLA MOLE on May 30, 2024, 09:24:42 PM
Post by: purpletrousers on May 30, 2024, 09:26:17 PM
I think we all need to west blazers to games
If you’re buying I’m game. A couple for ages 3 & 5 too please, they’d love them. Still anxiously awaiting a fun zone update though :/
Post by: VILLA MOLE on May 30, 2024, 09:30:19 PM
I think we all need to west blazers to games
If you’re buying in game. A couple for ages 3 & 5 too please, they’d love them. Still anxiously awaiting a fun zone update though :/
we would be the smartest fans 💪😃
Post by: Brazilian Villain on May 30, 2024, 09:31:33 PM
I think we all need to wear blazers to games
Shall I order an extra Camp Hill one for you?
(https://www.clubcolours.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Camp-Hill-RC-rotated.jpg)
Post by: VILLA MOLE on May 30, 2024, 09:37:50 PM
Post by: Hillbilly on May 31, 2024, 05:28:37 AM
(https://i.ibb.co/M86zMbR/boater.webp) (https://ibb.co/M86zMbR)
Too much?
Post by: VILLA MOLE on May 31, 2024, 07:13:38 AM
Post by: Chap on May 31, 2024, 07:26:41 AM
And a straw boater...We could go punting down the River Tame for prematch entertainment.
(https://i.ibb.co/M86zMbR/boater.webp) (https://ibb.co/M86zMbR)
Too much?
Post by: purpletrousers on May 31, 2024, 07:42:45 AM
And a straw boater...
(https://i.ibb.co/M86zMbR/boater.webp) (https://ibb.co/M86zMbR)
Too much?
Pink blazers for the singing block is it?
Post by: HolteL4 on June 01, 2024, 10:02:40 AM
I don't see where the problem is with giving Heck some credit for this. Having NS on the Adidas board will have almost certainly helped, as he'd have been able to point Heck towards the right doors to knock ... but Adidas are going to do what's best for Adidas. They aren't going to pay above market rate for the deal, and they ain't committing people who are better deployed elsewhere.
When we see the kits & merchandise we'll know how good a deal it is. Cos if Adidas are putting in the effort for us then Heck has done well. That's what we're aiming for, not just being able to get Adidas kits which even Small Heath can manage (if they pay for generic ones and print them up with the bollocks badge)
I would say as others have pointed out Emery getting us champions league is the biggest factor in getting Adidas, Sawiris will have a influence as well, wouldn't be surprised if this was the easiest deal Heck has ever done Because of Champions League and Sawiris it's a bit like putting Haaland infront of goal with no goalkeeper there to beat.
Post by: Olneythelonely on June 01, 2024, 10:07:06 AM
Post by: algy on June 01, 2024, 10:21:50 AM
The Adidas deal was sorted way before Champions League was secured.Yep, and Adidas won't have done the deal unless it was good business for them. Whilst I'm sure having Sawiris about has helped to get Heck to the table in the first place, that's not the only part. He had to get us out of the Castore deal, and then sell the idea to Adidas - whose primary concern is making a huge profit, not catering to the whims of one shareholder (who, big as his stake is relative to others, still only owns a small percentage of the business)
Post by: eamonn on June 01, 2024, 10:45:20 AM
The Adidas deal was sorted way before Champions League was secured.
The Adidas deal was the big success-story of the season. After all, it's taken us longer to land them than qualify for Big Cup. A momentous achievement! Thanks Chris!! Go Villans!!!
Post by: john e on June 01, 2024, 01:10:24 PM
Are we still arguing about whether the Adidas deal was the tap in or not
Fuck me, what a pointless load pages and posts
I Love H&V for this level of nonsense
Post by: pauliewalnuts on June 01, 2024, 01:11:22 PM
I’ve just come back on this thread
Are we still arguing about whether the Adidas deal was the tap in or not
Fuck me, what a pointless load pages and posts
I Love H&V for this level of nonsense
If you think that's bad, this period after the Champions League final and before the Euros is going to be H&V GOLD.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on June 02, 2024, 09:35:23 AM
I’ve just come back on this thread
Are we still arguing about whether the Adidas deal was the tap in or not
Fuck me, what a pointless load pages and posts
I Love H&V for this level of nonsense
If you think that's bad, this period after the Champions League final and before the Euros is going to be H&V GOLD.
Chris Heck has the look of a man who wants to finger someone. Spread it.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on June 02, 2024, 09:58:49 AM
Chris Heck has the look of a man who wants to finger someone.
Mostly himself
*taps nose*
Post by: Sexual Ealing on June 02, 2024, 10:00:21 AM
Chris Heck has the look of a man who wants to finger someone.
Mostly himself
*taps nose*
Not with that finger, I hope.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on June 02, 2024, 10:04:22 AM
Chris Heck has the look of a man who wants to finger someone.
Mostly himself
*taps nose*
Not with that finger, I hope.
Up The Villan!
Post by: Drummond on June 02, 2024, 05:43:02 PM
I’ve just come back on this thread
Are we still arguing about whether the Adidas deal was the tap in or not
Fuck me, what a pointless load pages and posts
I Love H&V for this level of nonsense
If you think that's bad, this period after the Champions League final and before the Euros is going to be H&V GOLD.
Chris Heck has the look of a man who wants to finger someone. Spread it.
Why, has he got really fat fingers? Or did he run out of lube?
Post by: CT Villan on June 02, 2024, 06:09:15 PM
Chris Heck has the look of a man who wants to finger someone.
Mostly himself
*taps nose*
I hear Joachim Loew is his mentor...
Post by: Oklahoma on June 02, 2024, 07:28:57 PM
I like the new badge also and all the stuff around that, the new fonts and the lovely dark shade of claret.
While he's never going to please everyone with the decisions the club makes, Heck seems to be achieving a lot in a fairly short space of time, so well played to him for that.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on June 02, 2024, 07:29:51 PM
I like the new media coming out of Villa. The video quality is great.
I like the new badge also and all the stuff around that, the new fonts and the lovely dark shade of claret.
While he's never going to please everyone with the decisions the club makes, Heck seems to be achieving a lot in a fairly short space of time, so well played to him for that.
Hi Chris, great to have you on the site!
* I'm only joking.
Post by: Risso on June 02, 2024, 07:56:31 PM
I like the new media coming out of Villa. The video quality is great.
I like the new badge also and all the stuff around that, the new fonts and the lovely dark shade of claret.
While he's never going to please everyone with the decisions the club makes, Heck seems to be achieving a lot in a fairly short space of time, so well played to him for that.
Hi Chris, great to have you on the site!
* I'm only joking.
Yeah, it's not great.
Post by: dalians umbrella on June 02, 2024, 09:21:00 PM
I like the new media coming out of Villa. The video quality is great.
I like the new badge also and all the stuff around that, the new fonts and the lovely dark shade of claret.
While he's never going to please everyone with the decisions the club makes, Heck seems to be achieving a lot in a fairly short space of time, so well played to him for that.
Hi Chris, great to have you on the site!
* I'm only joking.
Yes, thanks for all the new seats in the bowl, Chris! I’ve been following the Villa brand since 1984 and am super-pumped for all the new corporate offerings this year!
Post by: Dogtanian on June 03, 2024, 09:55:52 AM
On the way to the Palace game, two kids walked past us and I thought they had some strange Villa training top on. But when I got a good look, I realised it was fucking Chelsea.
On the way back from the Palace game, two kids went past and one of them said something about West Ham. Luckily the other kid knew his shit and said that's not West Ham, it's Aston Villa.
The badge and the deeper claret will all be part in making sure that we are as unique as we can be. And yes, I know other people have shields, but circles are just as common. The new badge stands out far more amongst the pack.
As for the Adidas deal, as others have pointed out, they wouldn't be doing it if it didn't make sense for them. And they didn't do it because we got in the Champions League for next season.
They did it because the club are visibly on the up and have the backing in place to grow on and off the pitch over the next five years. So it's based on everything that has been done over the last six years and having successfully convinced Adidas that this is going to continue and they will benefit from partnering with us.
In short, the owners, Emery, and the team have given Heck a great product to sell. But you still need someone good to go out and sell it. That's his job, he's done it, fair play to him.
Post by: DeeBoy1 on June 03, 2024, 08:23:42 PM
Post by: Gareth on June 13, 2024, 08:05:36 AM
Post by: cdward on June 13, 2024, 08:10:39 AM
Inside Aston Villa’s £400m upgrade to be Champions League ready and crash ‘big six’
Exclusive: A first season in Europe’s top competition is just the start for a club desperate to enter elite of English and European football
The man running Aston Villa’s push to establish themselves permanently in English football’s elite is unequivocal about the club’s ambition: Villa want to get there within the next three years and when they do, they plan to stay there.
The first new English club in the modern Champions League – Villa, of course, won the European Cup in 1982 – since Leicester eight years ago, are in a summer of momentous change at Villa Park. The plan to boost their revenue to £400 million by 2027 has been devised by Chris Heck, president of business operations and a hire from the United States who is clear that the moment is to be seized.
“There has been such a gap between the [Premier League] big six and everyone else,” he tells Telegraph Sport. “What is it going to take for one or two clubs to enter into that realm? We have a plan to get there. We think we will be there in the next three years. We are definitely playing in that space, performance-wise. We are one of the top performing clubs in the world on the pitch. Our manager [Unai Emery] is arguably top group in the world.
“We have the infrastructure with an incredible fanbase in the Midlands. A brand that is being globalised and owners that are smart and capable to get us there. This is pretty exciting. Not many clubs have that opportunity and we are one of probably two.”
‘We have a plan for PSR’
We are chatting at Villa’s new central London offices where Heck, 55, is based for some of the week. At Villa Park, the club are about to announce what Heck says is the biggest hospitality push in European football: 18 new premium offerings, including private club space and other suites. On the pitch, Emery is preparing for the club’s first season in Uefa’s biggest club competition since Villa were defending champions in the 1982-83 season.
It means that Villa Park is undergoing a rapid and major upgrade to be completed before the new season begins on August 17. “Tens of millions of pounds” is the closest Heck will go to putting a figure on the hospitality renovation across three stands excluding the Holte End. A similar amount is being spent on the Bodymoor Heath training ground, including the building of a 40-room hotel for players and staff as well as new women’s team and academy facilities and new pitches laid.
Heck has been tasked by the club’s billionaire owners Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens to increase the club’s annual revenue to £400 million, which is the current figure they calculate for now is needed to live with Europe’s super-clubs.
Bigger revenue. High-spec hospitality. London offices for the biggest club in Birmingham. These are the kind of priorities that can prick the temper of fans. Yet this is the game now and both Manchester United and Liverpool have long had London bases. We meet a day after the Premier League AGM and Villa’s proposal to raise the permitted losses under profit and sustainability rules [PSR] to £135 million over three years has failed. Sawiris will himself go on to call PSR an “anti-competitive” obstacle to the ambitions of a club like his. It is Heck’s job to find a way round it.
The challenges of PSR compliancy are huge. Jhon Duran, the Colombian international striker signed from MLS last summer is a target for Chelsea. Douglas Luiz, another whom Villa would ordinarily not wish to lose, may move to Juventus for £18 million. Nevertheless, Weston McKennie and Samuel Iling-Junior would join Villa in the other direction and the Luiz fee would count immediately towards PSR compliancy.
“Our owners are very engaged on this as well as Unai,” Heck says. “What I would say is we have a plan.
“It’s a harder path than the big six. We have to be more creative and think differently, while they have sustainable businesses that they can just keep going. We think it will take us another three years to build that sustainable business. In the meantime we have some pretty capable individuals on the sporting side who are working very similarly to how I am working on the business side.”
Those are the sporting director Ramón Rodríguez Verdejo – aka Monchi – and director of football operations, Damian Vidagany, working alongside Emery, Villa’s transformative manager. Heck meanwhile has the task of taking Villa into a different league on the balance sheet – adding £200 million over four years.
“The first year we were successful,” he says. “We generated £50 million more and that’s our plan to generate £50 million more each year. That has never been done before and we are doing it. We are already well on our way. We were [on] £219 million [annual turnover] so what is the magic number to get to? We think it’s £400 million to get into the game of sustainability. We have a path to get there.
“We just came back from the league meetings. We know what we are up against and we almost feel that we have to do this on our own. Because these rules are not set up to reward an ambitious club. Or a challenger. It [changing the three-year permitted losses under PSR to a top limit of £135 million] didn’t go through. I don’t want to keep worrying about it.
“When something doesn’t evolve in 11 years and with the cost of living alone, you scratch your head. If the Bank of England says inflation of £105 million through an 11-year period [then £105 million] is now at £143 million. You would think we would follow that same logic but the league has decided not to. I don’t want to waste my time griping about it. I want to find a new path and I think that is where Aston Villa enters into that big club realm. We have to just get there. So how do you get there within the rules? Well, you try to work harder, and get smarter and be better at what you do.”
‘Not just one type of English football fan’
Heck came from a 33-year US sports marketing career in the NBA and Major League Soccer. He undoubtedly has a restless energy to push ahead. There is a new kit deal with Adidas – the first with the German giant, in which Sawiris is a significant shareholder, in the club’s history – and a front of shirt sponsor with the online gambling group, Betano.
The work at Villa Park will include transforming police holding cells in the North Stand, built to accommodate unruly fans, into a new suite. “The Cells” will be one of the 18 newly themed offerings encompassing 5,000 hospitality tickets across different price levels. There is a new superstore and “The Warehouse”, an adjoining matchday food and drink space which will eventually also become a 4,000-capacity concert venue.
For the US sports executive, British stadiums can be something of a step back in time although Heck is polite about that. He looked at Tottenham Hotspur and Fulham’s Riverside Stand as he sought to shape what Villa might do. “Premium meant [at Villa Park] you got a suite, 12 tickets and a rectangular table for a sit down like a family meal,” he says. “It’s wonderful and everyone enjoys themselves but that was the only option. My thought is ‘let’s give people more options and I bet you they are going to be interested’. There is not just one type of English football fan.”
There will be more season tickets – as per fans request – on sale next season and more the season after that although change has come at a cost. Around 900 season ticket holders have had to move seats. As for the big question of the proposed demolition of the North Stand for something bigger and better, the club’s view is that it simply did not make sense.
“How do you use what money you have best for the club?” Heck says. “We could knock down a stand, add seats and take 17 years to pay it off. That was the math. I thought [last November] this didn’t make very much sense. We don’t have the infrastructure to add 10,000 seats in the blink of an eye. We were also playing extremely well and had this vision in November we could be in the Champions League. Would we want to knock down a quarter of the stadium and then have this small venue of 36,000 seats to watch a Champions League club?”
‘He is leading this club somewhere new’
Instead the plan is to maximise the rapid success on the pitch as quickly as possible. “I appreciate it’s an inconvenience [for season ticket holders moved], I really do,” Heck says. “I just hope that we can be clear and that everybody understands what the big picture is. That is fans are first and the No 1 thing we want to deliver our fans is a winning team.”
There is, he says, no prospect of a move away from Villa Park. “First, it costs a lot of money. Second, it takes a lot of time. We are striking when the iron is hot. Not many people can start a project while you are playing well. You start the project and then expect to play well six to eight years later. We are playing well now. OK, how fast can we catch that train? We are saying we will catch that train – we have three more years. We are on the right pace after year one.”
Emery’s new contract means that he is no longer a head coach but a manager – and one in whom the owners and club have placed all trust. Not hard to see why with the struggles others have had to appoint a similarly transformative figure in that role. “He is truly our manager,” Heck says. “It means [the role change] that there is stability, that we have trust in Unai and we are working in conjunction with Unai.
“We have the same vision but he is leading this club to a place that we haven’t seen. You cannot underestimate this. He is a remarkable individual. Not only in how he works with players individually and as a team but also his support group with the coaches. We are running something that is transformational for the club. It really is.”
Within Villa there is clearly a strong sense that this one of the less heralded ownership revolutions. Outside of the Premier League big six only Villa, Newcastle, Leeds United, Blackburn and Leicester City have qualified for the post-1992 format Champions League group stages.
“It is not easy and it is not for the faint of heart but this has the makings of an incredible story happening in front of our eyes,” Heck says. “Why should everyone care? The big six is going to make room for one or two more clubs and we are going to be one of them.” This year is Villa’s 150 anniversary, and Heck points out they have the advantage of being the biggest club in the biggest English city outside Greater London.
“We are in a really interesting time of English football right now,” Heck says. “It has been a good decade of big six stability, meaning they have kept everyone out. Newcastle last year, us this year. I think it is changing and I wouldn’t bet against us.”
Post by: Gareth on June 13, 2024, 08:21:35 AM
Post by: sid1964 on June 13, 2024, 08:26:37 AM
I would imagine that in 3 years time IF the club keeps on an upward trajectory the club will be worth in excess of £1 billion
Post by: Villan82 on June 13, 2024, 08:38:20 AM
Post by: Nev on June 13, 2024, 08:45:01 AM
The point about different types of fan is also correct and we all know which ones are at the bottom of the list....
Post by: Dogtanian on June 13, 2024, 08:46:46 AM
And judging from that, turnover this season is around the £270m mark, which would put us at 16th in the world.
If we do add another £50m on top, that would only move us up one place! Which puts it a bit into perspective.
Also interesting is the 5k hospitality tickets. No idea what the current figure is, but that sounds like it's going to be a massive help in increasing matchday revenue.
Post by: Dogtanian on June 13, 2024, 08:50:52 AM
While the new stand may have taken 17 years to 'pay-off' as an investment, the point of it isn't to make a profit. It's effectively to convert money the owners can't currently spend on the team into matchday revenue that they can.
I'd take from this that any new developments are going to be after 2027 then, once the club has reached this 'sustainable' marker and we have more flexibility.
Post by: Risso on June 13, 2024, 08:57:43 AM
Very interesting, so the talk of the long-term stadium plan being sacrificed for the short-term target was correct.
And judging from that, turnover this season is around the £270m mark, which would put us at 16th in the world.
If we do add another £50m on top, that would only move us up one place! Which puts it a bit into perspective.
Also interesting is the 5k hospitality tickets. No idea what the current figure is, but that sounds like it's going to be a massive help in increasing matchday revenue.
Well our hospitality package has been hit with a 110% price increase, so we won't be renewing it, and neither will all the people we've got to know around us.
Post by: Dogtanian on June 13, 2024, 09:11:09 AM
Well our hospitality package has been hit with a 110% price increase, so we won't be renewing it, and neither will all the people we've got to know around us.
Sorry to hear that, must be gutting.
Post by: Risso on June 13, 2024, 09:16:07 AM
Post by: Dogtanian on June 13, 2024, 09:20:45 AM
Post by: chrisw1 on June 13, 2024, 09:21:55 AM
Post by: PeterWithe on June 13, 2024, 09:30:08 AM
Post by: PeterWithe on June 13, 2024, 09:30:49 AM
Yeah, was expecting a biggish increase, but not more than double, the twat.
Out of interest, are you offered a 'normal' ST ahead of the queue?
Post by: DB on June 13, 2024, 09:32:14 AM
Post by: Risso on June 13, 2024, 09:33:40 AM
Yeah, was expecting a biggish increase, but not more than double, the twat.
Out of interest, are you offered a 'normal' ST ahead of the queue?
Nope!
Post by: Gareth on June 13, 2024, 09:43:03 AM
Very interesting, so the talk of the long-term stadium plan being sacrificed for the short-term target was correct.
And judging from that, turnover this season is around the £270m mark, which would put us at 16th in the world.
If we do add another £50m on top, that would only move us up one place! Which puts it a bit into perspective.
Also interesting is the 5k hospitality tickets. No idea what the current figure is, but that sounds like it's going to be a massive help in increasing matchday revenue.
Well our hospitality package has been hit with a 110% price increase, so we won't be renewing it, and neither will all the people we've got to know around us.
That’s truly shit to increase by anything like that much….hate that like it or lump it approach to treating loyal customers
Post by: Dogtanian on June 13, 2024, 09:57:30 AM
Post by: Nunkin1965 on June 13, 2024, 10:00:28 AM
That's ridiculous 110%?Yeah, was expecting a biggish increase, but not more than double, the twat.
Out of interest, are you offered a 'normal' ST ahead of the queue?
Nope!
That's no way to treat loyal supporters.
Post by: ChicagoLion on June 13, 2024, 10:04:19 AM
Post by: UK Redsox on June 13, 2024, 10:10:31 AM
Were you offered the chance to downgrade your hospitality to something more GA+ ?
Post by: Brazilian Villain on June 13, 2024, 10:12:18 AM
Well our hospitality package has been hit with a 110% price increase, so we won't be renewing it, and neither will all the people we've got to know around us.
That is a ridiculous increase on what I assume was a pretty expensive package already. Pricing the middle-class fans out of the game seems a daft approach to adopt.
Post by: Chris Harte on June 13, 2024, 10:19:39 AM
I know its a very well trodden path but the fans Heck is going all out to attract at the inconvenience of everyone else, are the ones most likely to bail at the first sign on returning to being shit and least likely to play a part in creating the sort of atmosphere that makes the PL so saleable around the world. And so pays all the bills.It seems to me that Heck thinks he is putting in the infrastructure to see to it that we're never shit again.
It just seems so short-term, though. No apparent plan to make provision for an expanded family area (something a new NS would have allowed) to get more younger fans in to the habit.
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on June 13, 2024, 10:21:14 AM
Post by: Nev on June 13, 2024, 10:25:22 AM
Blimey, if the club are alienating supporters like Risso, what kind of people are they trying to attract ?
Were you offered the chance to downgrade your hospitality to something more GA+ ?
People with more money. It's all relative, I don't spend enough with a standard ST and it moves up the chain. Heck is there to increase revenue, keeping fans happy is really not a priority and their reasoning will always be the same, if you want success you need to pay for it.
Fans will walk away, from the Holte to hospitality, and in years to come, when that success melts away we will suddenly be vital to the Club again.
Post by: cdward on June 13, 2024, 10:27:42 AM
Unai is doing his bit by getting us in the CL and top 4, Heck is doing his bit, in year 1 revenue increased by £50m, so on target so far.
Unfortunately the prawn sandwich brigade comes with all this.
It's a double edged sword, we want sustainable success right at the top of the game, but don't want the corporate BS that goes with it.
It's all about compromise, if we're winning trophies can we put up with the rest.
As a non season ticket holder, it's easier to say yes, but i do feel season ticket holders will be hardest hit in all of this.
Post by: PeterWithe on June 13, 2024, 10:27:44 AM
Post by: algy on June 13, 2024, 10:59:07 AM
Perhaps the important bit we are missing is what timeframe Heck has been given for getting to his bonus figure of £400m turnover, if its in the next two years, then perhaps that sheds a little more light on why NS is cancelled.Yeah, I think in this case you can kind of see why the short term approach has been taken.
If our aim is to install ourselves as Champions League regulars, then we need the cash now so that we don't end up being forced in to selling one of our better players each season - which would make us an upmarket version of Brighton. Get up to whatever figure it is that we don't need to do that (£400m by the sound of things). Once we're there - that's when we start thinking longer term.
Post by: Dogtanian on June 13, 2024, 11:20:15 AM
That's where we are aiming to be
Post by: Flamingo Lane on June 13, 2024, 11:38:01 AM
Post by: Dante Lavelli on June 13, 2024, 11:42:16 AM
£150m divided by 40,000 seats = £3750/season or about £200 per game. That’s never going to happen so wonder where the rest will be generated.
Post by: Risso on June 13, 2024, 11:51:19 AM
In round numbers we need to find an extra £150m. Which revenue streams will he be targeting?
£150m divided by 40,000 seats = £3750/season or about £200 per game. That’s never going to happen so wonder where the rest will be logically be generated.
It's not all coming from tickets though, obviously we've got Champions League income this year, and hopefully for future years.
Post by: Dogtanian on June 13, 2024, 11:52:10 AM
In round numbers we need to find an extra £150m. Which revenue streams will he be targeting?
£150m divided by 40,000 seats = £3750/season or about £200 per game. That’s never going to happen so wonder where the rest will be logically be generated.
The plan isn't to get it all from matchday revenue. Taking his figures, we're about £270m now, and on-course to add £50m to that next season. So that's about £320m, leaving £80m shy of the target and two seasons to achieve it.
You have the new venue coming in 2026, so they'll be looking to exploit that. We will also need a new main sponsor that year, so the expectation will be that our profile will command a considerably larger fee there.
They're talking about making us a global brand, which means raising the profile and our success to build the fanbase abroad, which then means more shirt sales and things like Villa TV increase.
Post by: London Villan on June 13, 2024, 12:06:56 PM
Post by: Ads on June 13, 2024, 12:10:10 PM
Post by: LeeB on June 13, 2024, 12:12:17 PM
I think we'll sell a lot more gear under Adidas. Not £80m worth, but even snobs like me will pick up a jacket and shirt.
Me too, I don't buy lots of sportwear but when I do it's Adidas for clothes and usually Nike for trainers.
Post by: Dogtanian on June 13, 2024, 12:13:03 PM
I think we'll sell a lot more gear under Adidas. Not £80m worth, but even snobs like me will pick up a jacket and shirt.
I've already ordered £300+ of Adidas stuff simply because they did the deal, so they're already raking in the coin. 8)
Post by: Dante Lavelli on June 13, 2024, 12:15:48 PM
In round numbers we need to find an extra £150m. Which revenue streams will he be targeting?
£150m divided by 40,000 seats = £3750/season or about £200 per game. That’s never going to happen so wonder where the rest will be logically be generated.
The plan isn't to get it all from matchday revenue. Taking his figures, we're about £270m now, and on-course to add £50m to that next season. So that's about £320m, leaving £80m shy of the target and two seasons to achieve it.
You have the new venue coming in 2026, so they'll be looking to exploit that. We will also need a new main sponsor that year, so the expectation will be that our profile will command a considerably larger fee there.
They're talking about making us a global brand, which means raising the profile and our success to build the fanbase abroad, which then means more shirt sales and things like Villa TV increase.
Interesting. £80m seems much more obtainable across shirts, sponsorship and potentially a few more games on TV.
Born pessimist, but we’d be foolish to expect CL qualification as part of the plan. Consistent european qualification sounds more sustainable.
Post by: Ads on June 13, 2024, 12:16:05 PM
I think we'll sell a lot more gear under Adidas. Not £80m worth, but even snobs like me will pick up a jacket and shirt.
Me too, I don't buy lots of sportwear but when I do it's Adidas for clothes and usually Nike for trainers.
I'm hoping they bring out some Adidas specials for trainers. Would love a proper claret and blue pair.
Post by: AV82EC on June 13, 2024, 12:21:24 PM
Post by: Dogtanian on June 13, 2024, 12:28:18 PM
I’m glad he’s been open about what the business target is. To do that in the next 2-3 seasons is ambitious but there’s no doubt it’s achievable.
To put this into context;
| Man City | £702m |
| Man U | £633m |
| Liverpool | £580m |
| Spurs | £536m |
| Chelsea | £500m |
| Arsenal | £452m |
So still a long, long way to go!
Post by: Dogtanian on June 13, 2024, 12:47:40 PM
| 2013 | 147m |
| 2014 | 180m |
| 2015 | 196m |
| 2016 | 209m |
| 2017 | 306m |
| 2018 | 380m |
| 2019 | 460m |
| 2020 | 402m |
| 2021 | 361m |
| 2022 | 444m |
| 2023 | 549m |
>:(
Post by: eamonn on June 13, 2024, 12:55:14 PM
Emery’s new contract means that he is no longer a head coach but a manager – and one in whom the owners and club have placed all trust. Not hard to see why with the struggles others have had to appoint a similarly transformative figure in that role. “He is truly our manager,” Heck says. “It means [the role change] that there is stability, that we have trust in Unai and we are working in conjunction with Unai.
“We have the same vision but he is leading this club to a place that we haven’t seen. You cannot underestimate this. He is a remarkable individual. Not only in how he works with players individually and as a team but also his support group with the coaches. We are running something that is transformational for the club. It really is.”
Can someone explain what this means on a practical level - Unai now being our manager and not the head-coach. Does he have more say on transfers? I would have assumed that Monchi would run everything by him first anyway. It's often been said that Emery had nothing to do with the Duran purchase - now, will he have more oversight on the signing of youth prospects? What else will change in his job-description? He eats and sleeps Villa as it is...
“We are in a really interesting time of English football right now,” Heck says. “It has been a good decade of big six stability, meaning they have kept everyone out. Newcastle last year, us this year. I think it is changing and I wouldn’t bet against us.”
Did he mean to evoke Ron Saunders at the end, there?
Post by: Risso on June 13, 2024, 12:59:42 PM
What's frustrating is looking at the revenue of Spurs, considering they've won the sum total of fuck all in this period;
2013 147m 2014 180m 2015 196m 2016 209m 2017 306m 2018 380m 2019 460m 2020 402m 2021 361m 2022 444m 2023 549m
>:(
It's almost like having a massive new stadium has inflated their income forever.
Post by: Dante Lavelli on June 13, 2024, 01:02:17 PM
Post by: Dogtanian on June 13, 2024, 01:23:39 PM
Would Wembley be from 2017?
2017 was the last year at White Hart Lane.
2020 would have been the first accounts with the new stadium, but also with covid at the end of it.
Post by: Dogtanian on June 13, 2024, 01:26:42 PM
Post by: Chris Smith on June 13, 2024, 01:27:16 PM
What's frustrating is looking at the revenue of Spurs, considering they've won the sum total of fuck all in this period;
2013 147m 2014 180m 2015 196m 2016 209m 2017 306m 2018 380m 2019 460m 2020 402m 2021 361m 2022 444m 2023 549m
>:(
Comparing our finances to Spurs takes me back to the Ellis Out years on here.
Post by: eamonn on June 13, 2024, 01:42:59 PM
Post by: Toronto Villa on June 13, 2024, 01:46:46 PM
He’s absolutely right. Yes a new stand would have helped but it’s not a quick fix. We wouldn’t realize those revenues for a few years. But the rules are fucked now. I’m glad we are taking a stance.
Post by: Dogtanian on June 13, 2024, 01:49:21 PM
Yeah, fuck that shit until VillaDawg comes back.
Grrrrr. Don’t make me have to start marking my territory! >:(
Post by: eamonn on June 13, 2024, 02:37:57 PM
Post by: Villa in Denmark on June 13, 2024, 03:19:13 PM
Pissing up against lampposts?Yeah, fuck that shit until VillaDawg comes back.
Grrrrr. Don’t make me have to start marking my territory! >:(
Post by: Dogtanian on June 13, 2024, 03:21:11 PM
Post by: Hookeysmith on June 13, 2024, 05:30:06 PM
Our club can at least justify someway by the teams performance.
Post by: Bad English on June 13, 2024, 06:31:56 PM
In the "What have you bought?" thread or it didn't happen. ;-)I think we'll sell a lot more gear under Adidas. Not £80m worth, but even snobs like me will pick up a jacket and shirt.
I've already ordered £300+ of Adidas stuff simply because they did the deal, so they're already raking in the coin. 8)
Post by: The Edge on June 13, 2024, 06:52:06 PM
It makes sense, to be able to compete with "the big 6", Heck has estimated we need to generate £400m revenue per year, so an increase on current levels of £200m per yearJust using the phrase "the big 6" boiled my piss and a lot of other Villa fans i'm guessing. You can do one with that shit Mr Heck.
Unai is doing his bit by getting us in the CL and top 4, Heck is doing his bit, in year 1 revenue increased by £50m, so on target so far.
Unfortunately the prawn sandwich brigade comes with all this.
It's a double edged sword, we want sustainable success right at the top of the game, but don't want the corporate BS that goes with it.
It's all about compromise, if we're winning trophies can we put up with the rest.
As a non season ticket holder, it's easier to say yes, but i do feel season ticket holders will be hardest hit in all of this.
Post by: LeeB on June 13, 2024, 06:58:55 PM
Post by: The Edge on June 13, 2024, 06:59:53 PM
That just about sums up the absolute bullshit of the current set up in the PL. As much as I really hate them both Man U and Liverpool are on a different level to anyone else and are part of a global elite with the likes of Real Madrid and Barcelona. To see Man City's declared turnover supposedly ahead of those clubs is ridiculous.I’m glad he’s been open about what the business target is. To do that in the next 2-3 seasons is ambitious but there’s no doubt it’s achievable.
To put this into context;
Man City £702m Man U £633m Liverpool £580m Spurs £536m Chelsea £500m Arsenal £452m
So still a long, long way to go!
Post by: pablo_picasso on June 13, 2024, 07:07:43 PM
Post by: Dogtanian on June 13, 2024, 07:15:18 PM
Why does a Midlands club have a London office?
So we can work close to people we want to deal with, meet players and agents who travel to the UK, be close to the FA, etc.
It’s also more attractive to a lot of people as a place to work, so if we want to attract top people, it helps that we can offer them a base in the big city.
Post by: Risso on June 13, 2024, 07:21:40 PM
Why does a Midlands club have a London office?
All the big clubs do. The firm I used to work for had an office next to Man City on Old Park Lane, you always used to see players nipping into the Playboy club next door.
Post by: pablo_picasso on June 13, 2024, 07:35:01 PM
Is this something we have always had? Or has Heck set himself up there...
Post by: Dogtanian on June 13, 2024, 07:38:28 PM
Why the fuck would we need to be close to the FA?
Is this something we have always had? Or has Heck set himself up there...
Well, if you want to influence things and build good relations, it always helps to be able to buy lunches and dinners and talk regularly…
The article mentions I think Liverpool and Man United also have London offices.
Also, our owners spend most of their time in London when here, don’t they?
I don’t think it’s too abnormal a setup, for a business aiming to get close to half a billion turnover to have an office in the capital.
Post by: Drummond on June 13, 2024, 08:30:00 PM
Post by: FatSam on June 13, 2024, 08:34:42 PM
Why does a Midlands club have a London office?I think Manchester United have had a London office since the mid 90s. It doesn’t seem to have been a bad decision in terms of increasing their revenue.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on June 13, 2024, 08:36:10 PM
Chris Heck: “We just came back from the Premier League meetings. We know what we are up against & we almost feel that we have to do this on our own. Because these rules are not set up to reward an ambitious club — or a challenger. When something doesn’t evolve in 11 years & with the cost of living alone, you scratch your head..”
He’s absolutely right. Yes a new stand would have helped but it’s not a quick fix. We wouldn’t realize those revenues for a few years. But the rules are fucked now. I’m glad we are taking a stance.
We do have to get on with it. What next if we take legal action and get the PL to change their PSR rules? Fresh action next season against UEFA’s squad cost control rules?
Post by: London Villan on June 13, 2024, 08:37:11 PM
Post by: The Edge on June 13, 2024, 08:49:37 PM
London is the capital city, where the biggest deals are done, there are mosre influential people than anywhere else, and the place with the best transport links. Plus it's closer to the owners' bases and the money.Best transport links you say? Are you suggesting that the owners might be considering building a new stadium in that there London?
Post by: Chris Smith on June 13, 2024, 08:52:28 PM
Where is the office in the Smoke?
A Villa in Acton.
Post by: jon collett on June 14, 2024, 08:42:43 PM
Post by: Dante Lavelli on June 15, 2024, 08:28:28 AM
Why does a Midlands club have a London office?
Same reasons Liverpool and Man U do I guess. Theirs were seemingly shared and just off Tottenham Court Road (or used to be when I worked round the corner).
Post by: Risso on June 15, 2024, 08:32:51 AM
Post by: Dante Lavelli on June 15, 2024, 08:53:28 AM
A couple of meeting rooms, possibly some accommodation and close to some amazing restaurants.
More like Madmen than The Office.
Post by: tomd2103 on June 15, 2024, 09:46:58 AM
Why does a Midlands club have a London office?
Same reasons Liverpool and Man U do I guess. Theirs were seemingly shared and just off Tottenham Court Road (or used to be when I worked round the corner).
Makes sense for Man Utd and Liverpool to be close to a big chunk of their support base.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on June 15, 2024, 10:06:02 AM
Catching up with the big boys. Arsenal and Chelsea have had London offices for ages.
Pfft, Blues have one in New York.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on June 15, 2024, 10:10:30 AM
I would imagine it’s an office in the sense that there’s banks of desks with HR and accounts teams taping away on computers.
More like Madmen than The Office.
Yeah, having accountants in there would certainly imbue it with the glamour of 60s Madison Avenue, rather than an industrial estate in Slough.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on June 15, 2024, 10:54:38 AM
I would imagine it’s an office in the sense that there’s banks of desks with HR and accounts teams taping away on computers.
A couple of meeting rooms, possibly some accommodation and close to some amazing restaurants.
More like Madmen than The Office.
Where are you getting this ITK on what offices are like?
Post by: Villan82 on June 16, 2024, 04:03:58 PM
What's frustrating is looking at the revenue of Spurs, considering they've won the sum total of fuck all in this period;
2013 147m 2014 180m 2015 196m 2016 209m 2017 306m 2018 380m 2019 460m 2020 402m 2021 361m 2022 444m 2023 549m
>:(
It's almost like having a massive new stadium has inflated their income forever.
Nah Risso. Spurs are idiots. Didn't they hear? Expanding your capacity is a 'bad idea'. Paying for something over a 17 year period? Thankfully we have the man with the plan!
Post by: eamonn on June 16, 2024, 04:10:33 PM
I would imagine it’s an office in the sense that there’s banks of desks with HR and accounts teams taping away on computers.
More like Madmen than The Office.
Yeah, having accountants in there would certainly imbue it with the glamour of 60s Madison Avenue, rather than an industrial estate in Slough.
Sounds ideal, I'm looking to change jobs, maybe the Villa will have me.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on June 16, 2024, 04:14:15 PM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on June 16, 2024, 04:58:02 PM
I would imagine it’s an office in the sense that there’s banks of desks with HR and accounts teams taping away on computers.
More like Madmen than The Office.
Yeah, having accountants in there would certainly imbue it with the glamour of 60s Madison Avenue, rather than an industrial estate in Slough.
Sounds ideal, I'm looking to change jobs, maybe the Villa will have me.
It'll help that you're the spitting image of (a young) Don Draper.
Post by: eamonn on June 16, 2024, 06:26:27 PM
Post by: Risso on June 16, 2024, 06:38:15 PM
On the flipside maybe the cost has impacted what they can spend on the pitch. 6th, 7th, 4th, 8th, 5th since they moved. The seasons before moving, 5th, 3rd, 2nd, 3rd, 4th.
Whatever the reason for finishing lower (shit managers mostly I suspect) it's not that they haven't spent money.
Last 5 years they've been averaging about £120m a year on transfers which is a lot more than they spent before they moved. They're 4th on the net spend table for the last 5 years.
Post by: Ads on June 16, 2024, 06:40:37 PM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on June 16, 2024, 06:53:29 PM
Too kind. Probably a tad closer to Mark Draper...
He was a hit with the laydeez as well.
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FWzoILhXoAADrjs?format=jpg)
Post by: Percy McCarthy on June 16, 2024, 07:00:56 PM
Post by: Beard82 on June 16, 2024, 07:01:54 PM
What's frustrating is looking at the revenue of Spurs, considering they've won the sum total of fuck all in this period;
2013 147m 2014 180m 2015 196m 2016 209m 2017 306m 2018 380m 2019 460m 2020 402m 2021 361m 2022 444m 2023 549m
>:(
It's almost like having a massive new stadium has inflated their income forever.
Nah Risso. Spurs are idiots. Didn't they hear? Expanding your capacity is a 'bad idea'. Paying for something over a 17 year period? Thankfully we have the man with the plan!
Broadly speaking all of the sky 6 have seen similar levels of growth to that
Post by: Brazilian Villain on June 16, 2024, 07:12:31 PM
New commercial bloke coming in from Celtic apparently.
Adrian Filby's the name. https://x.com/celticrumours/status/1802370907198890364
Post by: eamonn on June 16, 2024, 08:53:40 PM
Too kind. Probably a tad closer to Mark Draper...
He was a hit with the laydeez as well.
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FWzoILhXoAADrjs?format=jpg)
Gorgeous people.
Post by: Toronto Villa on June 17, 2024, 01:39:30 AM
Quote
Key Celtic figure set for Aston Villa move
Celtic FC Commercial Director Adrian Filby is set to quit the Parkhead club to take up the same position with English Premier League side Aston Villa, GlasgowWorld can exclusively reveal.
The experienced backroom figure has been with the Hoops since 2008 in a second spell at Celtic Park, having previously worked as a Special Projects manager between 1997 and 2002 before leaving for a role in the Scottish media industry. The University of Strathclyde graduate, who is also a qualified chartered accountant, departs after just short of 16 years in his second spell with the club.
As commercial director, Filby worked closely with former Celtic chief executive Peter Lawwell, now the club's chairman, and current chief executive officer Michael Nicholson.
In March 2020, Celtic signed what they believe is the most lucrative kit sponsorship deal in Scottish sport history with adidas. Introducing the five year deal, estimated to be worth in the region of £30m, Peter Lawwell said: “This is a hugely significant new partnership for Celtic and our supporters and allows us to look to the future with confidence. To be able to create this fantastic new relationship demonstrates the strength and stability of the Club and the power of our enduring story.
“I would like to congratulate everyone at Celtic and adidas who have worked to deliver this fantastic new partnership between two of the world’s great sporting institutions, in particular, our commercial director Adrian Filby."
In 2022, Filby struck a deal with Ladbrokes to be the in-stadium betting partner at Celtic Park and renewed an agreement with Forbes Bespoke Suits last year to continue as the Club’s Official Tailoring Partner. He oversaw the signing of a four-year partnership with EA Sports to become the exclusive Official Video Game Partner of the Scottish Premiership Champions.
Traditionally, the role of commercial director in an organisation is to deal with such tasks as billing, the organisation of labour, analysing costs and negotiating material prices. A commercial director would also usually oversee all commercial and managerial aspects of projects to ensure they are completed on time and under budget.
Post by: eamonn on June 17, 2024, 10:13:29 AM
Post by: cdward on June 17, 2024, 10:25:51 AM
Where is the office in the Smoke?
A Villa in Acton.
..and it's Acton Villa, Acton Villa FC
Post by: Risso on June 17, 2024, 10:35:53 AM
An addition to Heck’s team it appearsQuoteKey Celtic figure set for Aston Villa move
Celtic FC Commercial Director Adrian Filby is set to quit the Parkhead club to take up the same position with English Premier League side Aston Villa, GlasgowWorld can exclusively reveal.
The experienced backroom figure has been with the Hoops since 2008 in a second spell at Celtic Park, having previously worked as a Special Projects manager between 1997 and 2002 before leaving for a role in the Scottish media industry. The University of Strathclyde graduate, who is also a qualified chartered accountant, departs after just short of 16 years in his second spell with the club.
As commercial director, Filby worked closely with former Celtic chief executive Peter Lawwell, now the club's chairman, and current chief executive officer Michael Nicholson.
In March 2020, Celtic signed what they believe is the most lucrative kit sponsorship deal in Scottish sport history with adidas. Introducing the five year deal, estimated to be worth in the region of £30m, Peter Lawwell said: “This is a hugely significant new partnership for Celtic and our supporters and allows us to look to the future with confidence. To be able to create this fantastic new relationship demonstrates the strength and stability of the Club and the power of our enduring story.
“I would like to congratulate everyone at Celtic and adidas who have worked to deliver this fantastic new partnership between two of the world’s great sporting institutions, in particular, our commercial director Adrian Filby."
In 2022, Filby struck a deal with Ladbrokes to be the in-stadium betting partner at Celtic Park and renewed an agreement with Forbes Bespoke Suits last year to continue as the Club’s Official Tailoring Partner. He oversaw the signing of a four-year partnership with EA Sports to become the exclusive Official Video Game Partner of the Scottish Premiership Champions.
Traditionally, the role of commercial director in an organisation is to deal with such tasks as billing, the organisation of labour, analysing costs and negotiating material prices. A commercial director would also usually oversee all commercial and managerial aspects of projects to ensure they are completed on time and under budget.
We only brought somebody in less than two years ago to do that role, somebody called Ron Erskine. He joined at the same time as the Ben bloke who came from Blackpool.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on June 17, 2024, 11:29:39 AM
He's done well for himself. An accountant named Adrian has to work hard for cachet.
You can never have too many accountants. He appears to enjoy his food, he makes Gary Sambrook look svelte.
Post by: Smithy on June 17, 2024, 11:43:56 AM
What's frustrating is looking at the revenue of Spurs, considering they've won the sum total of fuck all in this period;
2013 147m 2014 180m 2015 196m 2016 209m 2017 306m 2018 380m 2019 460m 2020 402m 2021 361m 2022 444m 2023 549m
>:(
It's almost like having a massive new stadium has inflated their income forever.
Nah Risso. Spurs are idiots. Didn't they hear? Expanding your capacity is a 'bad idea'. Paying for something over a 17 year period? Thankfully we have the man with the plan!
Broadly speaking all of the sky 6 have seen similar levels of growth to that
That's a big figure, but Spurs match receipts were £117.6m. They didn't jump £200m a year off the back of a new stadium, they did it with better commercial revenue (£230m) and £50m from their last Champions League campaign in 2022-23 (for getting to last 16). Reuters did a good write-up on the figures when they were released a few months ago.
Post by: Dogtanian on June 17, 2024, 11:55:06 AM
Okay, so £50m may come from the CL campaign, but if the stadium is helping them spend on better quality players and pay higher wages, then it's a factor in that success.
The same with commercial deals. Would they be getting the same deals they are now if they were operating out of a southern Bescott?
The stadium definitely elevates the profile of the club and makes them more attractive, which helps in getting people to want to work with them and do deals.
Post by: Risso on June 17, 2024, 11:59:19 AM
That's a big figure, but Spurs match receipts were £117.6m. They didn't jump £200m a year off the back of a new stadium, they did it with better commercial revenue (£230m) and £50m from their last Champions League campaign in 2022-23 (for getting to last 16). Reuters did a good write-up on the figures when they were released a few months ago.
In 2017, match receipts were £40m, so they've still nearly tripled.
Post by: Smithy on June 17, 2024, 12:02:29 PM
Yes, there are undoubtedly many aspects to that revenue, not just the stadium, but I don't think it's so easy to separate it out.
Okay, so £50m may come from the CL campaign, but if the stadium is helping them spend on better quality players and pay higher wages, then it's a factor in that success.
The same with commercial deals. Would they be getting the same deals they are now if they were operating out of a southern Bescott?
The stadium definitely elevates the profile of the club and makes them more attractive, which helps in getting people to want to work with them and do deals.
To be clear, I'm not in the "we don't need a bigger stadium camp". I'm 100% open to the idea of a stadium move, if it's good for the club and the fans. I just don't like to see fans pointing to clubs with new stadiums and saying "THAT's why they make so much money". Yes, a new, big, high-profile stadium has plenty of other (sometimes intangible) benefits - and the actual match-day revenue and bums on seats definitely improve the finances, but in the modern game, the other off-field activities FAR outweigh them, financially speaking.
Chelsea also turned over half a billion in their last figures, and their stadium is smaller than ours.
Post by: Risso on June 17, 2024, 12:08:14 PM
Post by: pablo_picasso on June 17, 2024, 12:23:03 PM
Chelsea also turned over half a billion in their last figures, and their stadium is smaller than ours.
But their profits are over-inflated for a club their size, with a stadium their size, by the fact that they were allowed to spend billions of pounds in transfer fees, which created success on the pitch, which then allowed them to command high sponsorship deals & to cattle together some of the best young talent in the world so they could make high profits on them via their youth academy farm.
Without that initial spending, they are basically Norwich.
And with that loophole now closed, it doesn't matter what size their stadium is because they already have the over-inflated profits that make it almost impossible for newcomers to catch them from a commercial standpoint...
Post by: Smithy on June 17, 2024, 12:25:17 PM
But the new Spurs stadium HAS massively increased their turnover. It's not all of their turnover, obviously, but it has made a huge difference to their finances.
The only thing I've seen is the increase in match day revenue (which is still only 20% of their total revenue, in the bigger stadium), and a report which says they make about £5m from each non-sporting event they host (though I can't get a good number for how many of those there are).
Again, I'm not denying it's made a difference, or that a big new stadium would play an important part of the club's growth. I just dispute how big that difference has been for Spurs, or how big a difference it would make for us. If Spurs are making another £100m+ a year from hosting events at their 'multipurpose stadium', then so be it - I'm happy to be proven wrong. But I haven't seen anything definitive on that?
However, even if we build our own similar multi-purpose stadium, we're unlikely to get the same sort of revenue because we're not in London. In much the same way we don't charge Spurs prices for our season tickets.
Post by: Smithy on June 17, 2024, 12:33:07 PM
Chelsea also turned over half a billion in their last figures, and their stadium is smaller than ours.
But their profits are over-inflated for a club their size, with a stadium their size, by the fact that they were allowed to spend billions of pounds in transfer fees, which created success on the pitch, which then allowed them to command high sponsorship deals & to cattle together some of the best young talent in the world so they could make high profits on them via their youth academy farm.
Without that initial spending, they are basically Norwich.
And with that loophole now closed, it doesn't matter what size their stadium is because they already have the over-inflated profits that make it almost impossible for newcomers to catch them from a commercial standpoint...
Of course, I agree completely with your assessment of how Chelsea have got here.
However, I disagree that they can't be caught - commercially speaking. It will take a while, but with consistent(ish) success on the pitch, I'd be surprised if our commercial revenues didn't get close to theirs in the next four or five years - maybe sooner if the on-pitch success really takes off.
Yes, a new/bigger stadium will make a difference, but not a decisive one. We don't close that gap on teams like Chelsea and Spurs by having a 50k+ state of the art stadium. That's simply not how it works. If size of stadium was a major determining factor in commercial success, then Sunderland wouldn't have spent four of the last six seasons in League One.
Post by: Risso on June 17, 2024, 12:39:42 PM
2023 - £117m gate receipts PLUS ANOTHER £55m - staging non-football stuff like NFL
Now there are in inconsistencies in there depending on what European competition was involved, but still, that's an extra £132m income. Even if you knock off (a complete guess) of £25m for Champions League gate receipts compared to Europa League, it's still well over £100m.
Of course all of that includes a London premium as well, but still, the decision to effectively do nothing at Villa is extremely short termist.
Post by: Drummond on June 17, 2024, 12:40:32 PM
Post by: ChicagoLion on June 17, 2024, 12:54:02 PM
Post by: Smithy on June 17, 2024, 12:54:58 PM
2017 - £40m gate receipts
2023 - £117m gate receipts PLUS ANOTHER £55m - staging non-football stuff like NFL
Now there are in inconsistencies in there depending on what European competition was involved, but still, that's an extra £132m income. Even if you knock off (a complete guess) of £25m for Champions League gate receipts compared to Europa League, it's still well over £100m.
Of course all of that includes a London premium as well, but still, the decision to effectively do nothing at Villa is extremely short termist.
Yep, those are big numbers, and would be hugely valuable to us if we could get them too. That's about £1,800 in revenue per seat during the season for the Spurs. We're at about £450 per seat (roughly). So even with a bigger capacity, we're all going to have to start paying Spurs prices if we want that sort of revenue from our stadium.
But even if we COULD get another £130m a year from our own stadium (which would be lovely, but I very much doubt we could), we're STILL over TWO HUNDRED million behind them on other revenue, mainly on the commercial side. That's the bit I think we need to focus on first, especially given our current resurgence and the profile we'll have this coming season. We need to make a serious dent on the commercial side.
Again, for the record, I'm in favour of a new all-singing all-dancing stadium that allows us to have 50K+ fans at all home games. I just don't see it as a major factor in us being able to compete financially, certainly not in the next three or four years, anyway.
Post by: algy on June 17, 2024, 01:09:34 PM
2017 - £40m gate receiptsMy hope is that the decision to hold off with the North Stand redevelopment is a short-term one rather than a long-term one. I don't think there's anything wrong with going for a short-term strategy right now. Mainly because we've just had Atairos come on board, and they may well be able to inform us of how to make the most of any new North Stand. In which case delaying for a year or two loses some potential revenue in the short term, but might mean that over those 17 years or whatever it is more financially productive for the club.
2023 - £117m gate receipts PLUS ANOTHER £55m - staging non-football stuff like NFL
Now there are in inconsistencies in there depending on what European competition was involved, but still, that's an extra £132m income. Even if you knock off (a complete guess) of £25m for Champions League gate receipts compared to Europa League, it's still well over £100m.
Of course all of that includes a London premium as well, but still, the decision to effectively do nothing at Villa is extremely short termist.
In my mind we do either need to expand Villa Park or move if we're to keep up, and all the noises have been for staying put. In which case, I think it's absolutely a good idea to make sure we get what we're doing right.
Post by: Risso on June 17, 2024, 01:11:37 PM
Again, for the record, I'm in favour of a new all-singing all-dancing stadium that allows us to have 50K+ fans at all home games. I just don't see it as a major factor in us being able to compete financially, certainly not in the next three or four years, anyway.
Well, obviously it wouldn't be in the years it takes to build, but then every year afterwards, it IS a major factor in being able to compete financially.
Post by: ChicagoLion on June 17, 2024, 01:12:29 PM
Post by: eamonn on June 17, 2024, 01:29:46 PM
I wonder if it is possible to reduce the amount of ground closure whilst the new stand is being constructed.
I think it's been mentioned before that building behind the North Stand for as long as possible without impacting the existing seats is hard to do because of all the utilites/cables that need to be sorted and removed - i.e it's a whole no-go area for the duration of construction.
Post by: pablo_picasso on June 17, 2024, 01:31:06 PM
Chelsea also turned over half a billion in their last figures, and their stadium is smaller than ours.
But their profits are over-inflated for a club their size, with a stadium their size, by the fact that they were allowed to spend billions of pounds in transfer fees, which created success on the pitch, which then allowed them to command high sponsorship deals & to cattle together some of the best young talent in the world so they could make high profits on them via their youth academy farm.
Without that initial spending, they are basically Norwich.
And with that loophole now closed, it doesn't matter what size their stadium is because they already have the over-inflated profits that make it almost impossible for newcomers to catch them from a commercial standpoint...
Of course, I agree completely with your assessment of how Chelsea have got here.
However, I disagree that they can't be caught - commercially speaking. It will take a while, but with consistent(ish) success on the pitch, I'd be surprised if our commercial revenues didn't get close to theirs in the next four or five years - maybe sooner if the on-pitch success really takes off.
Yes, a new/bigger stadium will make a difference, but not a decisive one. We don't close that gap on teams like Chelsea and Spurs by having a 50k+ state of the art stadium. That's simply not how it works. If size of stadium was a major determining factor in commercial success, then Sunderland wouldn't have spent four of the last six seasons in League One.
Im not so positive that we can catch them commercially, unless there are some rule changes, or the success/failure of each club is such that it tips the balance of wealthy sponsors in favour of one & against the other.
Not impossible, but the way the rules are set to help keep the status quo, it's going to be very difficult
Im not so sure we can do this £400M by 2027 either. Not unless rules change.
Take a look at where we are currently with the new adidas deal for several years, the Betano deal for two years, prize money for league & Champions League, etc. All great. But all are bumps in the finances right now. We aren't going to suddenly get a shit ton more money from adidas in 2026 because that deal has already been agreed. We might drop money when the Betano deal ends because betting companies simply paid more. And we would have to keep getting 4th spot & Champions League money just to stay still. And I don't think the relative peanuts we are getting from Hecks new 'Cells', 'Lower Grounds', etc, are going to make much of a dent in the grand scheme of things.
Don't get me wrong, I admit I know almost nothing about finances & all it entails, especially in the footballing sense, so I may be way off the mark. I hope I am, but I have my doubts about 2027 targets being met.
Fuck it, Im gonna step back from the convo. I just wanted to answer your Chelsea sized ground point... 👍
Post by: Percy McCarthy on June 17, 2024, 02:32:55 PM
I mean, I’m always optimistic about the size of this club and I’m looking forward to seeing how far we can go, but it will take hard work, imaginative marketing.and, dare I say it, creative accounting.
Post by: Hookeysmith on June 17, 2024, 02:52:05 PM
Post by: London Villan on June 17, 2024, 03:12:31 PM
Post by: Dogtanian on June 17, 2024, 04:37:52 PM
https://www.avfc.co.uk/news/2024/june/17/villa-announce-carlsberg-marston-s-brewing-company-partnership/ (https://www.avfc.co.uk/news/2024/june/17/villa-announce-carlsberg-marston-s-brewing-company-partnership/)
I'm assuming these chaps are giving us much more money.
Post by: Risso on June 17, 2024, 04:57:45 PM
But they're serving Carlsberg. Does not compute.
Post by: Chris Smith on June 17, 2024, 05:13:49 PM
"The partnership with CMBC marks a significant step in improving the matchday experience for Aston Villa fans."
But they're serving Carlsberg. Does not compute.
I’m not a lager drinker but I’m sure I read that it was probably the best one in the world.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on June 17, 2024, 05:21:38 PM
Post by: Gareth on June 17, 2024, 05:26:26 PM
"The partnership with CMBC marks a significant step in improving the matchday experience for Aston Villa fans."
But they're serving Carlsberg. Does not compute.
Carlsberg served totally incompetenty like all previous drinks
Post by: Toronto Villa on June 17, 2024, 05:26:29 PM
Post by: Clampy on June 17, 2024, 05:31:46 PM
Post by: Risso on June 17, 2024, 05:39:20 PM
Maybe serving Carlsberg will bring the queues down.
And thereby removing the queues for the toilets as well.
Post by: Edvard Remberg on June 17, 2024, 05:39:33 PM
Post by: Steve67 on June 17, 2024, 05:52:13 PM
1664 is pretty good as a lager
I agree, nice stuff. Agree with others though, no matter what drunk is being served, it needs to be served better. Great that we are moving forward though.
Post by: frankmosswasmyuncle on June 17, 2024, 05:59:39 PM
What's happened to beer? :-(
Post by: Percy McCarthy on June 17, 2024, 06:02:47 PM
1664 is pretty good as a lager
I agree, nice stuff. Agree with others though, no matter what drunk is being served, it needs to be served better. Great that we are moving forward though.
How should the sober people be served?
*wink*
Post by: Dante Lavelli on June 17, 2024, 06:07:03 PM
Unless he’s keeping it shit so the GA+ deals look better value.
Post by: The Edge on June 17, 2024, 06:23:16 PM
With a lot of suspicion.1664 is pretty good as a lager
I agree, nice stuff. Agree with others though, no matter what drunk is being served, it needs to be served better. Great that we are moving forward though.
How should the sober people be served?
*wink*
Post by: Dogtanian on June 17, 2024, 06:24:21 PM
If Heck’s main plan is to sweat the existing assets then you’d think serving beer well and in big quantities would be an easy win.
Unless he’s keeping it shit so the GA+ deals look better value.
Well, they are building new bars for all these suites they’re putting in, so I’m guessing they anticipate extra sales.
Post by: Billy Walker on June 17, 2024, 06:31:09 PM
^^ Agreed. We can easily see the path to revenue of £300m for next season. Harder to see another £100m after that with TV revenues plateauing, unless we increase capacity, move, or there is a populous demographic willing to pay ridiculous ticket prices.
I mean, I’m always optimistic about the size of this club and I’m looking forward to seeing how far we can go, but it will take hard work, imaginative marketing.and, dare I say it, creative accounting.
A separate training kit sponsor, and a sponsor for Bodymoor Heath are two relatively large revenue generators yet to be tapped - hopefully we're looking into things like this.
Post by: Gareth on June 17, 2024, 06:37:01 PM
If Heck’s main plan is to sweat the existing assets then you’d think serving beer well and in big quantities would be an easy win.
Unless he’s keeping it shit so the GA+ deals look better value.
Well, they are building new bars for all these suites they’re putting in, so I’m guessing they anticipate extra sales.
Bet they don’t improve a thing in pleb class though
Post by: Dogtanian on June 17, 2024, 06:38:09 PM
Post by: Villa in Denmark on June 17, 2024, 07:49:02 PM
1664 is pretty good as a lagerIsn't that Kronenberg?
Having said that Carlsberg 1883 is quite good but I think you can only get that other here.
Post by: Beard82 on June 17, 2024, 07:50:40 PM
Ah 1664 is a lovely, if were ever lucky enough to have any in the fridge - I ask my 8 year old to get me a "can of numbers" which always tickles me1664 is pretty good as a lager
I agree, nice stuff. Agree with others though, no matter what drunk is being served, it needs to be served better. Great that we are moving forward though.
How should the sober people be served?
*wink*
ah -
Post by: PeterWithesShin on June 17, 2024, 07:58:01 PM
Post by: Somniloquism on June 17, 2024, 08:03:40 PM
Lager and cider.
What's happened to beer? :-(
Good explanation here.
Post by: Villa in Denmark on June 17, 2024, 08:17:05 PM
1664 in the UK is Heineken. Elsewhere it's Carlsberg.OK thanks for the info.
Never realised that the Kronenbourg brand was owned by Carlsberg.
Post by: Edvard Remberg on June 17, 2024, 08:24:08 PM
Didn't know that either.1664 in the UK is Heineken. Elsewhere it's Carlsberg.OK thanks for the info.
Never realised that the Kronenbourg brand was owned by Carlsberg.
Are they similar tasting?
Post by: Villa in Denmark on June 17, 2024, 08:27:02 PM
Kronenbourg Blanc is streets ahead of standard Carlsberg.Didn't know that either.1664 in the UK is Heineken. Elsewhere it's Carlsberg.OK thanks for the info.
Never realised that the Kronenbourg brand was owned by Carlsberg.
Are they similar tasting?
As said 1883 is OK as is Carls Special.
Carlsberg also brew some half decent beers under the Jacobsen label.
Post by: Drummond on June 17, 2024, 08:52:42 PM
Post by: PeterWithe on June 17, 2024, 09:57:24 PM
Post by: Ads on June 17, 2024, 10:00:37 PM
Post by: Villa in Denmark on June 17, 2024, 10:10:29 PM
Was it Carlsberg who used to brew Elephant beer in the 90's? Carlsberg Export is very nice, the normal stuff probably the worst stuff on the market outside of Australian brands.Still on sale over here.
Hangover in waiting.
Post by: VillaTim on June 17, 2024, 10:18:09 PM
Was it Carlsberg who used to brew Elephant beer in the 90's? Carlsberg Export is very nice, the normal stuff probably the worst stuff on the market outside of Australian brands.Carling is the worst thing on the market globally.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on June 17, 2024, 10:34:03 PM
Was it Carlsberg who used to brew Elephant beer in the 90's? Carlsberg Export is very nice, the normal stuff probably the worst stuff on the market outside of Australian brands.
Carling is the worst thing on the market globally.
I'd say Sands or Kalik in the Bahamas. Dreadful beers.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on June 17, 2024, 10:38:53 PM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on June 17, 2024, 10:42:40 PM
Mexico's beer isn't good.
I like Modelo Negra.
Post by: Drummond on June 17, 2024, 11:11:22 PM
Post by: PeterWithe on June 18, 2024, 08:25:06 AM
Carlsberg own..... 1664, Brooklyn Lager, Estrella, Erdinger, Hobgoblin, San Miguel, Holsten Pills, Somersby, Shipyard, Tetleys
It will be great to have such a wide choice of beers that you cant buy before the game kicks off again.
Post by: Holte L2 on June 18, 2024, 12:26:47 PM
Mexico's beer isn't good.
I like Dos Equis.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on June 18, 2024, 12:30:49 PM
Mexico's beer isn't good.
I like Dos Equis.
I like pina coladas, and getting caught in the rain.
Post by: Bad English on June 18, 2024, 12:40:39 PM
Post by: CLEEVE on June 18, 2024, 01:15:19 PM
I have been a long time viewer of this forum but felt the need to post .
Looking at the stadium map, it appears the GA+ has sold well in the lower North Stand but elsewhere sales look poor. Will these unsold GA+ be a wake up call and will they then be released to us 'normal' supporters or held back for match day sales?.
I have asked where I am on the waiting list for standard admission but been told it's private for internal use
Post by: Dogtanian on June 18, 2024, 01:20:02 PM
I think the GA+ seats will remain as GA+. They're not going to sell any new season tickets this year, though.
Post by: eamonn on June 18, 2024, 02:30:21 PM
What was the name of that pub down Curzon Street way that was one of the first selling Sol in a bottle with a quarter of lime in the neck? They had a room with a dentist's chair and some lass with tequila and tonic water in holsters would pour it into your mouth and spin you right round baby right round like a record baby. Late Eighties, early Nineties?
Sounds amaze. Is this what Gazza was re-enacting prior to Euro'96? Sir Graham went to great lengths to make him join the Villa.
Post by: Dogtanian on June 18, 2024, 04:53:25 PM
https://x.com/JUSTIN_AVFC_/status/1803077007980347884 (https://x.com/JUSTIN_AVFC_/status/1803077007980347884)
Post by: villadelph on June 18, 2024, 05:13:00 PM
Some of the images of the new shop look good. Hard to gauge the size of it;
https://x.com/JUSTIN_AVFC_/status/1803077007980347884 (https://x.com/JUSTIN_AVFC_/status/1803077007980347884)
Looks fantastic!
Post by: Brazilian Villain on June 18, 2024, 05:40:00 PM
Post by: Drummond on June 18, 2024, 05:43:10 PM
Post by: Hookeysmith on June 18, 2024, 05:44:08 PM
Some of the images of the new shop look good. Hard to gauge the size of it;
https://x.com/JUSTIN_AVFC_/status/1803077007980347884 (https://x.com/JUSTIN_AVFC_/status/1803077007980347884)
Looks fantastic!
Surely that is just a render and not real photographs?
I would not call it fantastic personally - but thats me
Post by: Ads on June 18, 2024, 05:45:12 PM
Post by: john e on June 18, 2024, 06:05:35 PM
Years ago they had a massive picture of the clock end at Highbury 81 on the wall behind the tills
and I was on it
Post by: dalians umbrella on June 18, 2024, 06:07:33 PM
a little know fact about the club shop but important none the less
Years ago they had a massive picture of the clock end at Highbury 81 on the wall behind the tills
and I was on it
Like Harold Lloyd?
Post by: Dogtanian on June 18, 2024, 06:12:51 PM
https://www.avfc.co.uk/video/3eb6cb1e-422e-44f9-93a5-5bb95e4f88cb (https://www.avfc.co.uk/video/3eb6cb1e-422e-44f9-93a5-5bb95e4f88cb)
Post by: john e on June 18, 2024, 06:15:43 PM
a little know fact about the club shop but important none the less
Years ago they had a massive picture of the clock end at Highbury 81 on the wall behind the tills
and I was on it
Like Harold Lloyd?
Yes, but Not quite as famous
Post by: Bad English on June 18, 2024, 06:27:25 PM
Update from Big Heck on shop and hospitality;The 'Doug Ellis'? It's the Witton Lane. Sort it out Heck!
https://www.avfc.co.uk/video/3eb6cb1e-422e-44f9-93a5-5bb95e4f88cb (https://www.avfc.co.uk/video/3eb6cb1e-422e-44f9-93a5-5bb95e4f88cb)
Post by: London Villan on June 18, 2024, 06:40:47 PM
Post by: eamonn on June 18, 2024, 11:00:25 PM
Any mention of sorting the basics, like being able to wash and dry your hands in the toilets, or it taking less than 20 mins to buy a beer?
Only if you pay extra for it.
Post by: Drummond on June 18, 2024, 11:03:35 PM
Any mention of sorting the basics, like being able to wash and dry your hands in the toilets, or it taking less than 20 mins to buy a beer?
Only if you pay extra for it.
We're the Ryanair of football. They'll be asking us to stand to watch the game next...
Post by: dalians umbrella on June 18, 2024, 11:07:28 PM
Any mention of sorting the basics, like being able to wash and dry your hands in the toilets, or it taking less than 20 mins to buy a beer?
If you explain to The club why you need to dry your hands, and pay them 20 quid, they will give you a paper towel.
Post by: PeterWithe on June 18, 2024, 11:34:57 PM
What was the name of that pub down Curzon Street way that was one of the first selling Sol in a bottle with a quarter of lime in the neck? They had a room with a dentist's chair and some lass with tequila and tonic water in holsters would pour it into your mouth and spin you right round baby right round like a record baby. Late Eighties, early Nineties?
Railway.
I just missed a half-ender hitting me outside there in 1987 after we'd beaten that lot 2.1. Somewhere under Millenium Point now.
Post by: artvandelay on June 19, 2024, 12:40:27 AM
1664 in the UK is Heineken. Elsewhere it's Carlsberg.Not anymore- Carlsberg in the UK now too (as of the last couple months) . If you have any old 1664 they're mild collector items
Post by: Percy McCarthy on June 19, 2024, 01:31:55 AM
What was the name of that pub down Curzon Street way that was one of the first selling Sol in a bottle with a quarter of lime in the neck? They had a room with a dentist's chair and some lass with tequila and tonic water in holsters would pour it into your mouth and spin you right round baby right round like a record baby. Late Eighties, early Nineties?
Railway.
I just missed a half-ender hitting me outside there in 1987 after we'd beaten that lot 2.1. Somewhere under Millenium Point now.
I remember The Railway, but BE’s era passed me by. PW’s 1987 reminisces strike a chord though. I think of it as the Vietnam game. We got the upper hand I’d say, although I wasn’t by The Railway.
One of my Zulu mates says ‘every dog has his day’ when I remind him of these occasions, but it’s surprising how many days we had in the golden age of the Zulus.
Post by: The Edge on June 19, 2024, 10:00:01 AM
We're just lucky they couldn't find Sherlock Street.What was the name of that pub down Curzon Street way that was one of the first selling Sol in a bottle with a quarter of lime in the neck? They had a room with a dentist's chair and some lass with tequila and tonic water in holsters would pour it into your mouth and spin you right round baby right round like a record baby. Late Eighties, early Nineties?
Railway.
I just missed a half-ender hitting me outside there in 1987 after we'd beaten that lot 2.1. Somewhere under Millenium Point now.
I remember The Railway, but BE’s era passed me by. PW’s 1987 reminisces strike a chord though. I think of it as the Vietnam game. We got the upper hand I’d say, although I wasn’t by The Railway.
One of my Zulu mates says ‘every dog has his day’ when I remind him of these occasions, but it’s surprising how many days we had in the golden age of the Zulus.
Post by: eamonn on June 19, 2024, 12:14:37 PM
Post by: Chris Harte on June 19, 2024, 12:51:27 PM
It's clear that Unai has made Heck's job a lot easier.
Post by: Drummond on June 19, 2024, 01:06:27 PM
Carlsberg
1664
Angelo Poretti
Brooklyn
Somersby Cider
https://x.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1803383900187537647
Post by: Nev on June 19, 2024, 01:15:07 PM
So, the drinks we're selling are...
Carlsberg
1664
Angelo Poretti
Brooklyn
Somersby Cider
https://x.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1803383900187537647
Trying not to sell more like....
Post by: ChicagoLion on June 19, 2024, 05:32:22 PM
It will give the disinterested staff a change of beer taps to stare blankly at.So, the drinks we're selling are...
Carlsberg
1664
Angelo Poretti
Brooklyn
Somersby Cider
https://x.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1803383900187537647
Trying not to sell more like....
Post by: Gareth on June 19, 2024, 06:18:03 PM
It will give the disinterested staff a change of beer taps to stare blankly at.So, the drinks we're selling are...
Carlsberg
1664
Angelo Poretti
Brooklyn
Somersby Cider
https://x.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1803383900187537647
Trying not to sell more like....
Or cans to open and pour badly (Witton upper)
Post by: LeeB on June 19, 2024, 06:20:49 PM
It will give the disinterested staff a change of beer taps to stare blankly at.So, the drinks we're selling are...
Carlsberg
1664
Angelo Poretti
Brooklyn
Somersby Cider
https://x.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1803383900187537647
Trying not to sell more like....
Or cans to open and pour badly (Witton upper)
In the little space that opened in the North Stand for a while this season the little bar had one bloke serving cans, and the next customer was helping pour the orders for him to speed up the queue.
It was very civilised.
Post by: London Villan on June 19, 2024, 06:27:45 PM
Post by: Goldenballs on June 19, 2024, 06:53:05 PM
It will give the disinterested staff a change of beer taps to stare blankly at.So, the drinks we're selling are...
Carlsberg
1664
Angelo Poretti
Brooklyn
Somersby Cider
https://x.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1803383900187537647
Trying not to sell more like....
Or cans to open and pour badly (Witton upper)
In the little space that opened in the North Stand for a while this season the little bar had one bloke serving cans, and the next customer was helping pour the orders for him to speed up the queue.
It was very civilised.
We went in there a few times, it was really good.
Post by: LeeB on June 19, 2024, 06:54:37 PM
Post by: Goldenballs on June 19, 2024, 06:56:46 PM
Post by: Percy McCarthy on June 19, 2024, 07:16:16 PM
Update corporate hospitality:
Went to Villa today and spent 2 hours to view options and get an update at one of the hospitality events they are holding there last and this week :
Boxes there are a waiting list of players who want the boxes so those who do not renew they will still on .
Directors lounge still too early to say but with the options at the moment offered some have decided to drop down levels . Remember these are at circa £17k a seat now .
82 lounge renamed 82 champions lounge where I was last year . Uptake had been very strong but not sold out yet . This despite it being £6240 a seat .
New Villains lounge and 150 club in Doug Ellis all have a waiting list on 😱 big interest . The Villains lounge have to say looks very impressive but starts at £5800 plus vat a seat .
The Cells lounge is almost sold out in the North stand actually only 4 seats left . Huge take up in a short space of time at £1700 a seat for a seat with a lounge access only . Food and beer not included .
The Terrace View and Lower Grounds classed as general admission seats with hospitality are selling very strong and almost sold out 😱
All of the other packages are selling well which I have to admit is still a surprise .
The ground looks like a building site and the north stand and Doug Ellis are having gangways aligned and north stand has new blue seats completed . Upper claret not sorted yet !
The new lounges are all being worked on with new kitchens and cellars being refitted to improve the infrastructure which has been Lacking . I am not a builder but there seems a lot to be done for kick off .
Despite all the rumblings the staff are very supportive of Chris Heck and his vision . As I said he has a mandate to improve revenue and will not be apologising for it .
Whilst it’s not ideal and a bit of an end of an era as not everyone will be together next season I will be going back into 82 . If the food and facilities match the brochure then at least that’s a postive but my own seat is a Great view .
They have said they are working on the facilities and ground increases to be ready for 2028 ! But it won’t be a new north stand but architects are in place drawing up the options , the goal has not changed to be a European championship venue for 2028 !
Post by: eamonn on June 19, 2024, 07:59:59 PM
Post by: CLEEVE on June 19, 2024, 08:12:55 PM
Certainly sounds like no expense spared. The wonga burning holes in NSWE's pockets that they can't spend on players, going on our home instead.
Yes , for those wanting corporate
You can guarantee the facilities in the peasant areas will not be upgraded.
Post by: Beard82 on June 19, 2024, 09:16:33 PM
You not seen - were getting 6 different beers that we cant buy because the queue is too longCertainly sounds like no expense spared. The wonga burning holes in NSWE's pockets that they can't spend on players, going on our home instead.
Yes , for those wanting corporate
You can guarantee the facilities in the peasant areas will not be upgraded.
Post by: Skerra on June 19, 2024, 11:24:58 PM
Post by: Drummond on June 20, 2024, 12:32:39 AM
Post by: CLEEVE on June 20, 2024, 09:46:29 AM
Post by: London Villan on June 20, 2024, 12:25:12 PM
Create thousands of premium seats with massive prices - sell the on to a co-owned business at the high prices, who then sell them on to regular punters at more reasonable rates.
Post by: Risso on June 20, 2024, 12:31:09 PM
I do wonder if it's another FFP/PSR dodge.
Create thousands of premium seats with massive prices - sell the on to a co-owned business at the high prices, who then sell them on to regular punters at more reasonable rates.
That's one of the daftest ideas I've ever seen on here to be fair.
Post by: London Villan on June 20, 2024, 02:23:04 PM
Post by: Chris Smith on June 20, 2024, 02:32:58 PM
My gut feeling about the Cells is that they will all go to these corporate experience folks who will sell them on to any fans, home or away. I see trouble ahead.
I know someone who has bought a ticket in there with his mate. He’s on the waiting but not getting much closer to being able to buy one so they’ve opted for this instead.
Post by: Gareth on June 20, 2024, 02:45:44 PM
My gut feeling about the Cells is that they will all go to these corporate experience folks who will sell them on to any fans, home or away. I see trouble ahead.
I know someone who has bought a ticket in there with his mate. He’s on the waiting but not getting much closer to being able to buy one so they’ve opted for this instead.
You can’t under estimate the feel good factor from this season - think this is the first year in a few where we haven’t had the conversation of do we renew or not (always going to lol)….be very interesting if come next summer we have finished mid table and made no impact in the 3 cups whether the desire for tickets is so high
Ps - our season won’t go that way
Post by: Percy McCarthy on June 20, 2024, 05:24:10 PM
Post by: eamonn on June 20, 2024, 06:00:46 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on June 20, 2024, 06:09:56 PM
Percy, I'm loving the way you avoid quotathons with simple rabbit-ears and I hope other posters follow suit.
Me too.
Post by: Bad English on June 20, 2024, 06:28:43 PM
^^Percy, I'm loving the way you avoid quotathons with simple rabbit-ears and I hope other posters follow suit.
Me too.
Post by: The Edge on June 20, 2024, 07:59:12 PM
^^^^Percy, I'm loving the way you avoid quotathons with simple rabbit-ears and I hope other posters follow suit.
Me too.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on June 20, 2024, 08:00:51 PM
Percy, I'm loving the way you avoid quotathons with simple rabbit-ears and I hope other posters follow suit.
Yeah, good stuff from Perce, leaves more room for the punathons.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on June 20, 2024, 08:09:46 PM
Post by: Gareth on June 20, 2024, 09:00:54 PM
^^ over-estimate.
^^ stand corrected:-)
Post by: VILLA MOLE on June 20, 2024, 09:39:14 PM
^^ over-estimate.
^^ stand corrected:-)
Not really bunny ears are they though 👀😃
Post by: PeterWithesShin on June 20, 2024, 09:42:15 PM
(>.<)
(")_(")
Post by: Percy McCarthy on June 20, 2024, 09:57:10 PM
^^ over-estimate.
^^ stand corrected:-)
Haha! Sorry for the pedantry, pet peeve.
Post by: Rory on June 21, 2024, 12:28:10 AM
(\_/)
(>.<)
(")_(")
Awww would you look at the little fella!
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on June 21, 2024, 12:49:47 AM
(\_/)
(>.<)
(")_(")
Awww would you look at the little fella!
( -_•)︻デ═一
Post by: eamonn on June 21, 2024, 10:28:54 AM
Post by: dalians umbrella on June 21, 2024, 11:16:36 AM
^^Percy, I'm loving the way you avoid quotathons with simple rabbit-ears and I hope other posters follow suit.
Me too.
^^
#UnqouteMeHappy
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on June 21, 2024, 12:54:24 PM
Is that Pikachu with a sniper gun?
I wouldn't put it past him.
Post by: UK Redsox on June 21, 2024, 12:59:56 PM
Percy, I'm loving the way you avoid quotathons with simple rabbit-ears and I hope other posters follow suit.
^^ only works when replying to the post immediately above and if someone else doesn't post a few seconds before you
Post by: eamonn on June 21, 2024, 01:02:49 PM
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on June 21, 2024, 01:07:17 PM
↓↓ This person doesn't know what they're talking about.
Post by: LeeB on June 21, 2024, 01:41:16 PM
I'm going to Minority Report this shit.
↓↓ This person doesn't know what they're talking about.
Well I've just read the short story you refer to in the last fortnight so that blows your theory up, pre-cog my arse.
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on June 21, 2024, 03:45:48 PM
I'm going to Minority Report this shit.
↓↓ This person doesn't know what they're talking about.
Well I've just read the short story you refer to in the last fortnight so that blows your theory up, pre-cog my arse.
Haha, I'm just bald and refuse to get out of the bath.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on June 21, 2024, 06:00:18 PM
Haha, I'm just bald and refuse to get out of the bath.
If I were bald, I wouldn't either.
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on June 21, 2024, 06:24:49 PM
Haha, I'm just bald and refuse to get out of the bath.
If I were bald, I wouldn't either.
SAVAGE.
Post by: eamonn on June 22, 2024, 12:27:03 PM
Post by: Drummond on June 22, 2024, 02:02:21 PM
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on June 22, 2024, 03:23:12 PM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on June 23, 2024, 01:29:00 AM
Haha *slowly cries into my tea*.
You come across as sound, you'll be fine. Just remember not to grow a beard to "compensate", that's particularly tragic.
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on June 23, 2024, 02:05:28 AM
Haha *slowly cries into my tea*.
You come across as sound, you'll be fine. Just remember not to grow a beard to "compensate", that's particularly tragic.
I had to shave my beard off recently for a jaw/neck ultrasound and it really wasn't pleasant viewing. I looked like a tortoise had shagged a thumb. Maybe I'll try and mix it up and see if I can pull off a sort of Bronson/Dr. Robotnik.
Post by: LeeB on June 23, 2024, 10:08:51 AM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on June 23, 2024, 11:09:24 AM
Haha *slowly cries into my tea*.
You come across as sound, you'll be fine. Just remember not to grow a beard to "compensate", that's particularly tragic.
*nervous laugh*
Post by: pauliewalnuts on June 23, 2024, 11:09:46 AM
Haha *slowly cries into my tea*.
You come across as sound, you'll be fine. Just remember not to grow a beard to "compensate", that's particularly tragic.
I had to shave my beard off recently for a jaw/neck ultrasound and it really wasn't pleasant viewing. I looked like a tortoise had shagged a thumb. Maybe I'll try and mix it up and see if I can pull off a sort of Bronson/Dr. Robotnik.
That's the thing about beards, great for hiding multiple chins.
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on June 23, 2024, 12:49:32 PM
Haha *slowly cries into my tea*.
You come across as sound, you'll be fine. Just remember not to grow a beard to "compensate", that's particularly tragic.
I had to shave my beard off recently for a jaw/neck ultrasound and it really wasn't pleasant viewing. I looked like a tortoise had shagged a thumb. Maybe I'll try and mix it up and see if I can pull off a sort of Bronson/Dr. Robotnik.
That's the thing about beards, great for hiding multiple chins.
Definitely, I'm about a 2.5/10 without a beard, and I reckon I may just scrape to a 3 with one.
I had never heard of Grange Hill Bronson but I can give it a go. I was thinking more 'butter yourself up for the guards' Bronson.
Post by: Dogtanian on June 27, 2024, 03:50:14 PM
It says there is also a new Villa podcast, live pre-match shows for home fixtures, and some live Women's matches.
Isn't Villa TV now included in season ticket package too?
Looks like they're trying to build the audience up which I guess will help with sponsorship and the like.
Post by: LeeB on June 28, 2024, 10:44:06 AM
Haha *slowly cries into my tea*.
You come across as sound, you'll be fine. Just remember not to grow a beard to "compensate", that's particularly tragic.
I had to shave my beard off recently for a jaw/neck ultrasound and it really wasn't pleasant viewing. I looked like a tortoise had shagged a thumb. Maybe I'll try and mix it up and see if I can pull off a sort of Bronson/Dr. Robotnik.
That's the thing about beards, great for hiding multiple chins.
Definitely, I'm about a 2.5/10 without a beard, and I reckon I may just scrape to a 3 with one.
I had never heard of Grange Hill Bronson but I can give it a go. I was thinking more 'butter yourself up for the guards' Bronson.
Post by: Dogtanian on July 01, 2024, 09:47:38 AM
https://www.thedrum.com/news/2024/07/01/aston-villa-rolls-out-new-fans-first-identity-it-repositions-global-brand (https://www.thedrum.com/news/2024/07/01/aston-villa-rolls-out-new-fans-first-identity-it-repositions-global-brand)
I like that we have taken design and merchandising in-house. Hopefully the new store will have some really good stuff in it, rather than the usual cheap tat.
Though if there isn’t a new claret and blue dinosaur I will be annoyed. >:(
Post by: eamonn on July 01, 2024, 10:00:42 AM
Post by: Dogtanian on July 01, 2024, 10:02:31 AM
Hopefully a muskehound would placate.
Well, they’re Spanish, so it could happen!
Post by: DeKuip on July 01, 2024, 10:20:20 AM
Another article on our re-brand;
https://www.thedrum.com/news/2024/07/01/aston-villa-rolls-out-new-fans-first-identity-it-repositions-global-brand (https://www.thedrum.com/news/2024/07/01/aston-villa-rolls-out-new-fans-first-identity-it-repositions-global-brand)
I like that we have taken design and merchandising in-house. Hopefully the new store will have some really good stuff in it, rather than the usual cheap tat.
Though if there isn’t a new claret and blue dinosaur I will be annoyed. >:(
What a load of shite that article is and what an ever bigger load of shite that badge is.
The only thing I’ll ever buy with that badge on it is my season ticket and match tickets… although I reserve the right to also purchase cup final programmes if I have any money left come next spring.
Post by: Villan82 on July 01, 2024, 11:12:18 AM
Another article on our re-brand;
https://www.thedrum.com/news/2024/07/01/aston-villa-rolls-out-new-fans-first-identity-it-repositions-global-brand (https://www.thedrum.com/news/2024/07/01/aston-villa-rolls-out-new-fans-first-identity-it-repositions-global-brand)
I like that we have taken design and merchandising in-house. Hopefully the new store will have some really good stuff in it, rather than the usual cheap tat.
Though if there isn’t a new claret and blue dinosaur I will be annoyed. >:(
What a load of shite that article is and what an ever bigger load of shite that badge is.
The only thing I’ll ever buy with that badge on it is my season ticket and match tickets… although I reserve the right to also purchase cup final programmes if I have any money left come next spring.
Correct DeKuip.
1. Talks big but acts small-time.
2. Lies to suit his own agenda.
3. Changes the identity on a whim to suit his tastes
Next he will be telling us he invented the overhead kick.
Post by: Dogtanian on July 01, 2024, 12:34:20 PM
:P
Post by: LeeB on July 01, 2024, 12:36:45 PM
it's a fucking badge.
Post by: eamonn on July 01, 2024, 01:15:00 PM
…is there nothing to be said for the club taking control of it’s own image and products then?
:P
No but there may be something to be said for another mass.
Post by: Dogtanian on July 01, 2024, 01:20:26 PM
…is there nothing to be said for the club taking control of it’s own image and products then?
:P
No but there may be something to be said for another mass.
Chris Heck, he gives good mass.
Post by: pablo_picasso on July 01, 2024, 01:30:13 PM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on July 01, 2024, 01:34:20 PM
"Fans-first", my arse...
I'm glad you didn't omit the first 'r'.
Post by: pablo_picasso on July 01, 2024, 01:36:53 PM
Post by: CT Villan on July 01, 2024, 02:45:55 PM
Quote
Heck says he doesn’t know why this suite of work [for the backwards lion and round badge] was droppedBullshit !
Post by: Gareth on July 01, 2024, 02:46:55 PM
There's seems to be a great effort to be outraged in some way.
it's a fucking badge.
Agreed…like kits / walk out music etc it’s purely a matter of personal preference will never please all
Post by: sid1964 on July 01, 2024, 02:58:35 PM
He is doing the job that he has been employed to do by the current owners of this club.
Post by: Chris Harte on July 01, 2024, 03:06:38 PM
Post by: Ads on July 01, 2024, 05:17:46 PM
Another article on our re-brand;
https://www.thedrum.com/news/2024/07/01/aston-villa-rolls-out-new-fans-first-identity-it-repositions-global-brand (https://www.thedrum.com/news/2024/07/01/aston-villa-rolls-out-new-fans-first-identity-it-repositions-global-brand)
I like that we have taken design and merchandising in-house. Hopefully the new store will have some really good stuff in it, rather than the usual cheap tat.
Though if there isn’t a new claret and blue dinosaur I will be annoyed. >:(
What a load of shite that article is and what an ever bigger load of shite that badge is.
The only thing I’ll ever buy with that badge on it is my season ticket and match tickets… although I reserve the right to also purchase cup final programmes if I have any money left come next spring.
First year I'll buy merchandise since 2008.
Post by: LeeB on July 01, 2024, 05:45:03 PM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on July 01, 2024, 08:06:50 PM
I can't speak for others. I just don't like this new badge. I thought they'd nailed it with the circular one on the kit last season,
Couldn't agree more.
Post by: Smithy on July 01, 2024, 08:16:17 PM
Post by: The Edge on July 01, 2024, 08:32:28 PM
Another article on our re-brand;Chris Heck will win me over if they start selling claret and blue dinosaurs. They've been extinct for 65 million years.
https://www.thedrum.com/news/2024/07/01/aston-villa-rolls-out-new-fans-first-identity-it-repositions-global-brand (https://www.thedrum.com/news/2024/07/01/aston-villa-rolls-out-new-fans-first-identity-it-repositions-global-brand)
I like that we have taken design and merchandising in-house. Hopefully the new store will have some really good stuff in it, rather than the usual cheap tat.
Though if there isn’t a new claret and blue dinosaur I will be annoyed. >:(
I'll get my coat.
Post by: The Edge on July 01, 2024, 08:44:15 PM
I must say I agree about the round badge we had last season. I really liked that and would of happily kept it. But it's just a badge. I am more bothered by what's going on with the stadium. With the current plethora of corporate packages it looks like we will end up with a smaller capacity despite being told we would be getting an extra 2,500/3,000 seats which didn't seem plausible from the off. I was looking forward to seeing the Villa Park getting expanded to match the upsurge in first team achievements and me being able to buy season tickets with my lads. Mr Heck has pissed all over that little dream of mine.I can't speak for others. I just don't like this new badge. I thought they'd nailed it with the circular one on the kit last season,
Couldn't agree more.
Post by: Dogtanian on July 01, 2024, 08:50:59 PM
Another article on our re-brand;Chris Heck will win me over if they start selling claret and blue dinosaurs. They've been extinct for 65 million years.
https://www.thedrum.com/news/2024/07/01/aston-villa-rolls-out-new-fans-first-identity-it-repositions-global-brand (https://www.thedrum.com/news/2024/07/01/aston-villa-rolls-out-new-fans-first-identity-it-repositions-global-brand)
I like that we have taken design and merchandising in-house. Hopefully the new store will have some really good stuff in it, rather than the usual cheap tat.
Though if there isn’t a new claret and blue dinosaur I will be annoyed. >:(
I'll get my coat.
With the current ticket pricing, they may very well be funding dinosaur cloning! :P
Post by: Villa in Denmark on July 01, 2024, 08:55:27 PM
Post by: Tuscans on July 01, 2024, 09:01:49 PM
I can't speak for others. I just don't like this new badge. I thought they'd nailed it with the circular one on the kit last season, but given they've got rid of that they may have well as stuck with the Lerner one.Shield for me. Just think it has more presence, authority etc....more regal I suppose.
Post by: Risso on July 01, 2024, 09:02:14 PM
Post by: Dogtanian on July 01, 2024, 09:22:29 PM
I thought Ellis was the original claret and blue dinosaur?
No, but he did invent the Triassic period.
Post by: LeeB on July 01, 2024, 09:31:34 PM
I thought Ellis was the original claret and blue dinosaur?
No, but he did invent the Triassic period.
And he put ticket prices up after the Chicxulub impact event.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on July 01, 2024, 09:40:07 PM
I thought Ellis was the original claret and blue dinosaur?
No, but he did invent the Triassic period.
Doug thought Triassic was someone recommending a new kit supplier.
Post by: algy on July 05, 2024, 09:31:36 PM
https://www.crossingbroad.com/2024/07/this-isnt-wrexham-a-q-a-with-former-sixers-president-chris-heck-now-running-business-operations-for-the-premier-leagues-aston-villa.html
Post by: andyh on July 06, 2024, 09:50:00 AM
A good insight to the thought process and reasoning behind some of the things he has done.
There is a ruthlessness about him, and, to be frank, if we want to play with the big boys, the club needs.
I love the fact his first thought was to protect the season ticket ticket holders and then absolutely maximise revenue from those that can afford it, or more importantly, WANT to pay premium prices.
He gets it.
He will make mistakes, or make decisions we don’t like, but it’s with the best of intent, and that’s to make our club successful.
Post by: London Villan on July 06, 2024, 11:58:25 AM
If you are reading Chris, can you fix the toilets in the Trinity, so there is at least a basic level of hygiene (hot water, clean the stinking troughs and give people the ability to dry their hands). And the fix the queues to by a drink.
Thank you!
Post by: Toronto Villa on July 06, 2024, 01:13:15 PM
Excellent interview.
A good insight to the thought process and reasoning behind some of the things he has done.
There is a ruthlessness about him, and, to be frank, if we want to play with the big boys, the club needs.
I love the fact his first thought was to protect the season ticket ticket holders and then absolutely maximise revenue from those that can afford it, or more importantly, WANT to pay premium prices.
He gets it.
He will make mistakes, or make decisions we don’t like, but it’s with the best of intent, and that’s to make our club successful.
He gets why he got criticized and accepts it. But he also realized that it comes with the territory and the job. What I won’t do is broad brush criticize what he does based on a few issues that are important but not the total sum of his remit. He’s come here to grow revenues and he has done that and will continue to do that. I’ve referenced the Philadelphia story in the past. He absolutely rubbed people the wrong way, but there is no doubt what he left behind as a “brand” was significantly better than what he found. So it’s a long road for us to catch up with the sides that are almost FFP immune. But if we want to compete for the best players and trophies every season, we need to get there and it won’t always be pretty.
Post by: Ads on July 06, 2024, 01:17:22 PM
Quote
this isn’t Wrexham. This is the Philadelphia Eagles in a city of a similar size, if there were no Sixers, no Phillies, no Flyers, and no Union. Oh, and no college teams. It’s massive. Absolutely massive
For them, the Dogheads, the Stripey Filth we are the yard stick. The dream. Whereas we as a club, don't consider or think about them at all. They literally do not exist in our owners thinking.
Post by: Dante Lavelli on July 06, 2024, 01:23:05 PM
CB: I’d be remiss if I didn’t ask you about the Sixers arena plan and Comcast sports complex redevelopment. I can tell by the way you’re smiling that you have thoughts on this.
Heck: (laughs) My thoughts are there’s a reason I’m not in Philadelphia anymore. Never, ever, ever underestimate Comcast. I don’t think that was (pauses)… understood by everyone in Philadelphia sports. Listen, it’s not my problem anymore. I wish everybody the best. I love Philly as a sports town, the best. Incredible. I just hope everybody wins. I hope this parade is for all.
Post by: The Edge on July 06, 2024, 03:09:03 PM
Sounds like he dips into the social media world…I'll do my best
If you are reading Chris, can you fix the toilets in the Trinity, so there is at least a basic level of hygiene (hot water, clean the stinking troughs and give people the ability to dry their hands). And the fix the queues to by a drink.
Thank you!
Yours sincerely
Chris.
Post by: CT Villan on July 06, 2024, 03:20:07 PM
Any idea what this refers to?
CB: I’d be remiss if I didn’t ask you about the Sixers arena plan and Comcast sports complex redevelopment. I can tell by the way you’re smiling that you have thoughts on this.
Heck: (laughs) My thoughts are there’s a reason I’m not in Philadelphia anymore. Never, ever, ever underestimate Comcast. I don’t think that was (pauses)… understood by everyone in Philadelphia sports. Listen, it’s not my problem anymore. I wish everybody the best. I love Philly as a sports town, the best. Incredible. I just hope everybody wins. I hope this parade is for all.
These may help explain it a little...
https://whyy.org/articles/south-philly-sports-complex-comcast-spectacor-master-plan/
https://www.phillyvoice.com/phillies-sports-complex-development-comcast-spectacor-south-philly/
Post by: Nii Lamptey on July 06, 2024, 03:59:06 PM
Sounds like he dips into the social media world…
If you are reading Chris, can you fix the toilets in the Trinity, so there is at least a basic level of hygiene (hot water, clean the stinking troughs and give people the ability to dry their hands). And the fix the queues to by a drink.
Thank you!
I'd like to see those stainless steel urinals ripped out and replaced with the classic porcelain urinals that you see at other grounds/pubs.
WAY less splashback (*and not just your own splashback) - Feckin horrible, especially if you're wearing shorts!
Post by: pablo_picasso on July 19, 2024, 04:27:01 PM
(https://i.ibb.co/tC2L2Qd/IMG-0191.jpg)
That is absolutely fantastic news, so well done to everybody involved, including Chris Heck.
Post by: Somniloquism on July 19, 2024, 04:46:22 PM
Post by: PeterWithesShin on July 19, 2024, 04:49:14 PM
Post by: Tuscans on July 19, 2024, 04:49:53 PM
What did AC Milan do this since 2021 to get the growth? I can understand Leverkusen.https://brandfinance.com/insights/ac-milan-brand-identity-at-the-centre-of-growth
Post by: Tuscans on July 19, 2024, 05:02:48 PM
Aston Villa is delighted to announce JD as the club's new Official Retail Partner.
The international sportswear retailer has signed a multi-year agreement to stock official Aston Villa products online and in select stores nationwide. This marks the beginning of a dynamic collaboration aimed at enhancing the fan experience, delivering a diverse range of Aston Villa products and expanding the club’s retail footprint.
This partnership will not only secure an increased retail reach but will also increase the club's ability to meet demand for official products.
Aston Villa x JD
Chris Heck, President of Business Operations, said: "This partnership with JD, a leading global sport and fashion retailer, is going to make a big difference to the way we approach our retail operation.
"Their international reach, alongside their huge presence in the UK, will allow us to showcase our retail offering on a world-wide scale alongside our revamped store at Villa Park.”
Commenting on the partnership, JD Global Managing Director Michael Armstrong added: “Aston Villa is an historic club and a brilliant addition to our growing presence in the English topflight of football.
“Our partnership will allow JD to further improve the consumer experience for Villa fans and those in the area.”
To celebrate the new partnership between JD and Aston Villa, JD has put together a short cinematic film which draws together the playfulness of youth today and the future of Aston Villa.
Official Aston Villa kit and clothing will be available both instore and online at www.jdsports.com
Post by: Drummond on July 19, 2024, 05:20:52 PM
Post by: Toronto Villa on July 19, 2024, 05:22:42 PM
Post by: jwarry on July 19, 2024, 05:23:35 PM
There are things that Chris Heck should be criticized for. And some of it like communication on certain items probably was by design on his part. But he’s not beyond being questioned as I imagine he accepts. But he needs to be commended on some of the deals we have struck commercially that we have never seen under anyone previously at our club. And there is still a long way to go. Not all of it will be popular. But most, if not all of it, will help finance our attempts to give Emery/Monchi what they need to create club that contends for the PL, in the CL and in domestic cup competitions.
Yep
Post by: ChicagoLion on July 19, 2024, 05:26:23 PM
Post by: villadelph on July 19, 2024, 05:28:50 PM
Heck would not be getting any of this done if it wasn’t for the success on the pitch.
Well, we've grown more than Newcastle and Leicester didn't experience this level of growth when they were in their pomp a few years ago.. you still have to give Heck credit.
Post by: andyh on July 19, 2024, 05:29:13 PM
No talk about profits for the owners, shareholders etc.
We have moved into a world where we are owned and operated by absolute top class, sporting and business professionals.
It’s bloody wonderful.
Post by: ChicagoLion on July 19, 2024, 05:31:53 PM
Sure, I don’t think Leicester could ever get near us commercially.Heck would not be getting any of this done if it wasn’t for the success on the pitch.
Well, we've grown more than Newcastle and Leicester didn't experience this level of growth when they were in their pomp a few years ago.. you still have to give Heck credit.
Newcastle has some branding issues to put it mildly.
Post by: pablo_picasso on July 19, 2024, 05:33:06 PM
There are things that Chris Heck should be criticized for. And some of it like communication on certain items probably was by design on his part. But he’s not beyond being questioned as I imagine he accepts. But he needs to be commended on some of the deals we have struck commercially that we have never seen under anyone previously at our club. And there is still a long way to go. Not all of it will be popular. But most, if not all of it, will help finance our attempts to give Emery/Monchi what they need to create a club that contends for the PL, in the CL and in domestic cup competitions.
I agree with this & as I eluded to on the previous page, I am no big fan of Heck & have criticised him for a few things so far, but I do agree with what you are saying here about this deal & giving him some praise for a change. Credit where it's due.
And it's nice to be able to do that too. I would much rather praise than criticise, given the circumstances.
He also takes partial credit for our growth on the previous page graphic too. He takes a large part of the credit for the last year's growth too. I think he is taking advantage of the Champions League level that the players & manager have got us to pretty well & some of the deals lately have been excellent.
It's been a bit of a superb all round club effort.
Which is really nice...
Post by: Dogtanian on July 19, 2024, 05:59:38 PM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on July 19, 2024, 06:04:06 PM
Post by: garyellis on July 19, 2024, 06:08:47 PM
So far so good..
Post by: pauliewalnuts on July 19, 2024, 06:57:06 PM
Post by: Gareth on July 19, 2024, 07:09:36 PM
Absolutely can't wait till we get toilets worthy of the 20th century rather than the Victorian period. Maybe then we can aim for 21st century toilets sometime in 50 years time.
Armitage Shanks Official Porcelain Supplier to Aston Villa in a multi year deal
Post by: Brazilian Villain on July 19, 2024, 07:17:09 PM
Absolutely can't wait till we get toilets worthy of the 20th century rather than the Victorian period. Maybe then we can aim for 21st century toilets sometime in 50 years time.
Armitage Shanks Official Porcelain Supplier to Aston Villa in a multi year deal
Now we're Champions League, we should be aiming for Kohler.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on July 19, 2024, 07:21:18 PM
Post by: charleeco7 on July 19, 2024, 09:13:00 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on July 19, 2024, 09:44:38 PM
(https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcS7pqcYiM7t7Xy31ahfuega-Mevv9RSCCG9lw&s)
That is exactly what I thought I’d post when I saw Armitage Shanks mentioned
Post by: PeterWithe on July 20, 2024, 11:13:01 AM
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on July 21, 2024, 01:28:14 PM
https://www.instagram.com/reel/C89GUM7O55B/?igsh=bXlsMWkzcW41cThk
Post by: Jon Crofts on July 21, 2024, 01:40:19 PM
This would be nice.
https://www.instagram.com/reel/C89GUM7O55B/?igsh=bXlsMWkzcW41cThk
The imbeciles in the Trinity Upper can barely take the lid off a bottle, that video has clusterfuck written all over it.
Post by: Gareth on July 21, 2024, 05:03:04 PM
This would be nice.
https://www.instagram.com/reel/C89GUM7O55B/?igsh=bXlsMWkzcW41cThk
The imbeciles in the Trinity Upper can barely take the lid off a bottle, that video has clusterfuck written all over it.
Likewise in Ellis Upper where opening a can and pouting it slowly is the limit
Post by: Mister E on July 21, 2024, 05:10:01 PM
tell them to kiss off.This would be nice.
https://www.instagram.com/reel/C89GUM7O55B/?igsh=bXlsMWkzcW41cThk (https://www.instagram.com/reel/C89GUM7O55B/?igsh=bXlsMWkzcW41cThk)
The imbeciles in the Trinity Upper can barely take the lid off a bottle, that video has clusterfuck written all over it.
Likewise in Ellis Upper where opening a can and pouting it slowly is the limit
Post by: Hookeysmith on July 21, 2024, 08:18:27 PM
Absolutely can't wait till we get toilets worthy of the 20th century rather than the Victorian period. Maybe then we can aim for 21st century toilets sometime in 50 years time.
Armitage Shanks Official Porcelain Supplier to Aston Villa in a multi year deal
We may laugh but red filth have John Deere official tractor and mower partnered.
It's what we have to do to catch the sky 6 up....other than cheating
Post by: Somniloquism on July 23, 2024, 04:42:23 PM
https://www.manutd.com/en/partners/global
Some do seem dodgy though. Why would Manure need a blockchain or an online financial trading platform?
Post by: jwarry on July 23, 2024, 04:44:15 PM
Post by: Smithy on July 23, 2024, 05:46:12 PM
Not sure which redfilth you mean. But you do have a point although I do wonder how much of these "deals" are actual money coming into Manure, and how much is just the items being severely discounted / given for free.
https://www.manutd.com/en/partners/global (https://www.manutd.com/en/partners/global)
Some do seem dodgy though. Why would Manure need a blockchain or an online financial trading platform?
For context, the "Visit Malta" sponsor, near the bottom of that list, is a £20m 3-year deal. Tezos (the blockchain supplier) is £20m a YEAR.
So, as much as we like to mock (and yes, we do like to mock), three or four of these types of deals make a MASSIVE difference to your ability to compete financially at the top end. We don't have the profile to get those sorts of deals - yet - but it's coming...
EDIT: Cadbury is the one to annoys me, we should be all over them, and yes I know it's Modelez owned now, but it's still a local brand...
Post by: chrisw1 on July 23, 2024, 06:00:00 PM
Although a very simple design it does look good - particularly the darker shade of claret. I reckon this will comfortably be our record year for shirt sales. It would be good if we can get to 300k+ and start bridging the gap with the likes of Newcastle and Everton.
Post by: Dogtanian on July 23, 2024, 06:02:29 PM
This is what we need to be doing going forward.
Post by: Dogtanian on July 30, 2024, 08:42:15 AM
https://www.avfc.co.uk/news/2024/july/30/150th-anniversary-sticker-album-launches-/ (https://www.avfc.co.uk/news/2024/july/30/150th-anniversary-sticker-album-launches-/)
Post by: Somniloquism on July 30, 2024, 08:57:15 AM
Post by: Dave P on July 30, 2024, 09:14:09 AM
(https://i.ibb.co/vC5PrzD/Micah-Richards.jpg) (https://ibb.co/vC5PrzD)
Post by: ADVILLAFAN on July 30, 2024, 09:22:37 AM
Post by: Somniloquism on July 30, 2024, 09:38:53 AM
Post by: Risso on July 30, 2024, 10:03:03 AM
Post by: Ads on July 30, 2024, 10:19:57 AM
Post by: chrisw1 on July 30, 2024, 10:20:58 AM
Post by: Somniloquism on July 30, 2024, 10:28:28 AM
Post by: pablo_picasso on July 30, 2024, 10:29:54 AM
I don't know where else to put this, but I think this is a great idea;
https://www.avfc.co.uk/news/2024/july/30/150th-anniversary-sticker-album-launches-/ (https://www.avfc.co.uk/news/2024/july/30/150th-anniversary-sticker-album-launches-/)
They are using the decent lion-print lion on the crest of that.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on July 30, 2024, 11:18:17 AM
For those who don't go to the matches and are ordering online, the season subs seems to be almost twice the cost of the 19 programmes bought individually. Usually ordering in bulk is supposed to save you money.
What's the postage for 1 issue compared to the season sub?
Post by: Drummond on July 30, 2024, 11:30:59 AM
For those who don't go to the matches and are ordering online, the season subs seems to be almost twice the cost of the 19 programmes bought individually. Usually ordering in bulk is supposed to save you money.
What's the postage for 1 issue compared to the season sub?
Full subs £135 inc postage
Match by Match £4 plus £3.25 p&p per game. Plus cost of sticker album at £4 plus £3.25 p&p = £145
Post by: Beard82 on July 30, 2024, 11:34:14 AM
I'd do the full subscription upfront now - be great to know who is starting every game before the season starts. That way we don't have to bother going to the ones with Olsen in goal.For those who don't go to the matches and are ordering online, the season subs seems to be almost twice the cost of the 19 programmes bought individually. Usually ordering in bulk is supposed to save you money.
What's the postage for 1 issue compared to the season sub?
Full subs £135 inc postage
Match by Match £4 plus £3.25 p&p per game. Plus cost of sticker album at £4 plus £3.25 p&p = £145
Post by: chrisw1 on July 30, 2024, 11:44:01 AM
£3.25 P&P for an A5 envelope? Bloody hell.For those who don't go to the matches and are ordering online, the season subs seems to be almost twice the cost of the 19 programmes bought individually. Usually ordering in bulk is supposed to save you money.
What's the postage for 1 issue compared to the season sub?
Full subs £135 inc postage
Match by Match £4 plus £3.25 p&p per game. Plus cost of sticker album at £4 plus £3.25 p&p = £145
Post by: PeterWithesShin on July 30, 2024, 11:49:09 AM
Post by: Smithy on July 30, 2024, 11:53:17 AM
£3.25 P&P for an A5 envelope? Bloody hell.For those who don't go to the matches and are ordering online, the season subs seems to be almost twice the cost of the 19 programmes bought individually. Usually ordering in bulk is supposed to save you money.
What's the postage for 1 issue compared to the season sub?
Full subs £135 inc postage
Match by Match £4 plus £3.25 p&p per game. Plus cost of sticker album at £4 plus £3.25 p&p = £145
A large letter via Royal Mail these days (anything over 100g, which this almost certainly would be), is £2.10, minimum. If you want to send it tracked (which most ecommerce stores do these days), then it's £3.50 minimum. Anyone charging you less than £3 to ship anything - no matter how small - has either factored the shipping cost into the price, or is using one of the dodgy couriers.
I ship a lot of stuff in the day job, and shipping prices have gone up loads in the last three or four years. I know people who've kept the shipping as it was (around £1.99), but added the extra cost into the price of the products, because they worry the "true cost" of shipping will put people off at checkout when they're buying lower value goods at less than £20-25.
£3.25 is probably a true-ish estimate of the cost, but even if it's a little higher than you expected, it certainly won't be a place they're "making" money.
Post by: algy on July 30, 2024, 12:08:22 PM
Really I'd see it as an investment. Order the season bundle, then just pick out the last programme of the season. Go straight to the page that lists all the results, bookings, sendings off, and so on*. Place a few bets before the opening match, you'll easy make that £145 back.I'd do the full subscription upfront now - be great to know who is starting every game before the season starts. That way we don't have to bother going to the ones with Olsen in goal.For those who don't go to the matches and are ordering online, the season subs seems to be almost twice the cost of the 19 programmes bought individually. Usually ordering in bulk is supposed to save you money.
What's the postage for 1 issue compared to the season sub?
Full subs £135 inc postage
Match by Match £4 plus £3.25 p&p per game. Plus cost of sticker album at £4 plus £3.25 p&p = £145
* I assume there's still such a page - I haven't bothered with matchday programmes since they stopped doing Villa Vouchers.
Post by: dave.woodhall on July 30, 2024, 12:38:00 PM
Post by: Hookeysmith on July 30, 2024, 01:24:13 PM
Post by: Dogtanian on July 30, 2024, 01:36:22 PM
I don't have a problem with the price. The people who go to every game and buy a programme will still do so, the subscriptions aren't for them. They're for people who for whatever reason are happy to pay for the convenience of having them delivered.
The club won't be making any more money from this than they will if they sold the same amount of programmes themselves at the ground. Once you factor in the handling and picking and shipping of this, £3 or so a unit isn't surprising.
Private Eye is going to be a completely different kettle of fish, it will be significantly lighter for a start, has a circulation of over 200k, and will be distributed by a company specialising in shipping magazines that benefits from tremendous economies of scale that just won't exist for football programmes.
Post by: Chap on July 30, 2024, 08:15:36 PM
And Razzle is £5.99 perIs Razzle still going?. Just asking for a friend!wankMonth ::)
Post by: Clampy on July 30, 2024, 08:24:45 PM
Post by: Tuscans on August 01, 2024, 05:48:37 PM
Post by: eamonn on August 01, 2024, 05:51:26 PM
I do believe Adrian Mole kept Big and Bouncy under his pillow.
And Brain-Box Henderson ran out of ruler when measuring his thing.
Post by: Tuscans on August 01, 2024, 05:51:55 PM
Post by: Toronto Villa on August 01, 2024, 06:08:20 PM
This is a good look at it
https://x.com/lmechegaray/status/1819057704729538867?s=46
Post by: Exeter 77 on August 01, 2024, 07:11:08 PM
I do believe Adrian Mole kept Big and Bouncy under his pillow.Under his mattress with the red phone bill.
Post by: Hookeysmith on August 01, 2024, 08:56:17 PM
We need to take the top performers from Kobe in Japan and really market it
Post by: PeterWithe on August 01, 2024, 09:27:30 PM
Post by: ChicagoLion on August 02, 2024, 05:16:50 AM
In the reports of last nights game, when talking about the sparse crowd, they said we were the 12th most popular PL side in the states. Surely that’s the start of it.I reckon in Chicago we are 4th.
Post by: Dante Lavelli on August 02, 2024, 06:33:13 AM
In the reports of last nights game, when talking about the sparse crowd, they said we were the 12th most popular PL side in the states. Surely that’s the start of it.
12thn is pretty poor, especially when Guzan was an integral part of the squad for years. Have other clubs extensively toured (like we are starting to do now) or did our nadir in the championship years coincide with soccer becoming popular?
It makes sense to target this market ahead of others (Asia for example) when we heck and Wes with established connections they can harvest.
Post by: Mister E on August 02, 2024, 07:17:48 AM
The far east should be our next target. Just look at the following spurs have in South Korea just because of Son.I remember back in the 1990's suggesting we purchase Nakata, the Japanese footballer, not only because he was quite good but also for his marketing value.
We need to take the top performers from Kobe in Japan and really market it
I don't think Doug quite saw it...
Post by: Hookeysmith on August 02, 2024, 11:20:01 AM
He was that poor Red filth were actually refunded the transfer fee.
Reported that they sold over a million shirts in China - it may be exploitation but i think football teams have long fell off the moral high ground.
Post by: Duncan Shaw on August 02, 2024, 12:03:29 PM
Post by: ChicagoLion on August 02, 2024, 12:09:30 PM
We were in New York for a long weekend at the start of July and walking around, I saw that City have their own store (maybe on 5th Ave, certainly close) and I said to my wife - this is what we are up against, this is the level of exposure and marketing we need to get to (she was obviously not interested in the slightest and somewhat bemused!) City are huge there now, but this is a good start, credit where it is due!They have only just opened that shop, so no one will know if its commercially viable or even reflects great support for Citeh in the States.
I would suggest its just another part of the hugely expensive money no object sports washing propaganda machine.
Citeh are not huge there now (compared to Real Madrid, Celtic, Barcelona Manure, Liverpool etc) but they would like everyone to think they are.
Post by: Duncan Shaw on August 02, 2024, 12:16:32 PM
We were in New York for a long weekend at the start of July and walking around, I saw that City have their own store (maybe on 5th Ave, certainly close) and I said to my wife - this is what we are up against, this is the level of exposure and marketing we need to get to (she was obviously not interested in the slightest and somewhat bemused!) City are huge there now, but this is a good start, credit where it is due!They have only just opened that shop, so no one will know if its commercially viable or even reflects great support for Citeh in the States.
I would suggest its just another part of the hugely expensive money no object sports washing propaganda machine.
Citeh are not huge there now (compared to Real Madrid, Celtic, Barcelona Manure, Liverpool etc) but they would like everyone to think they are.
That's good to know! We were only there briefly, and I saw lots of shirts and the shop was very in my face, and then saw some footage of their tour there, so assumed a big following. But anyway - we still need to apsire to being huge there :D
Post by: Drummond on August 02, 2024, 12:24:01 PM
I listed to The Rest is Football podcast earlier, and they highlighted the number of deals that City have done between their own clubs over the last few years; this is what we're up against and trying to replicate.
Post by: ChicagoLion on August 02, 2024, 12:33:35 PM
It's part of the City empire though. They are in so many countries, with fingers in so many pies it's scary.They have limitless amounts of money, only other Oil States can compete at that level. They are trying to buy status and give the appearance of a huge global fan base in a fake it until you make it play.
I listed to The Rest is Football podcast earlier, and they highlighted the number of deals that City have done between their own clubs over the last few years; this is what we're up against and trying to replicate.
I saw an article saying their Brand value is significantly greater than Liverpool or Manure, despite the fact that they have no where near the same amount of fans. I wonder who sponsored the article. I do not think we are trying to replicate because we will always have a commercial imperative, which is not the case with Citeh its much more cynical than that..
Post by: Drummond on August 02, 2024, 12:38:57 PM
Post by: john e on August 02, 2024, 04:01:11 PM
Why would say a Chinese person buy an official football club shirt when there are so many good quality fakes over there for next to nothing,
They are probably all made on china anyway, I doubt any of them are buying a football shirt where any of the money goes to the actual club
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on August 02, 2024, 05:20:18 PM
Post by: pelty on August 02, 2024, 06:18:46 PM
It's part of the City empire though. They are in so many countries, with fingers in so many pies it's scary.They have limitless amounts of money, only other Oil States can compete at that level. They are trying to buy status and give the appearance of a huge global fan base in a fake it until you make it play.
I listed to The Rest is Football podcast earlier, and they highlighted the number of deals that City have done between their own clubs over the last few years; this is what we're up against and trying to replicate.
I saw an article saying their Brand value is significantly greater than Liverpool or Manure, despite the fact that they have no where near the same amount of fans. I wonder who sponsored the article. I do not think we are trying to replicate because we will always have a commercial imperative, which is not the case with Citeh its much more cynical than that..
To all of this, I would argue that City are a pretty big brand over here. Not to the level of the more established clubs, maybe, but I see people in their kits quite a bit (when I actually see people in kits which is not all that often). It is all anecdotal, of course, but I see them roughly the same amount as those other clubs with the exception of RM. Let's face it, by the time the Premier League began to make inroads in the US and be easily available, City were on the up, so many in the US saw a club "fully-formed" or close to it. The thing missing at that time was a huge star the likes of Beckham, Ronaldo, etc., but now with Haaland (who is a limited footballer, but is striking in a couple senses of the word) there is a real "face of the franchise" (to use an Americanism). The Aguero goal was in 2012 after all, so as America began to really start to pay attention, City were champions.
Post by: Ads on August 02, 2024, 06:44:45 PM
something thats always confused me when it’s quoted about millions of shirt sales abroad
Why would say a Chinese person buy an official football club shirt when there are so many good quality fakes over there for next to nothing,
They are probably all made on china anyway, I doubt any of them are buying a football shirt where any of the money goes to the actual club
Prestige for the middle classes. Same reason they flock to Bicester.
Post by: astonvilla82 on August 02, 2024, 07:34:34 PM
I’m reliably informed the areas around the Wilton Lane stand remain largely a building site and hospitality will be lucky to be available for the first home game.Was down collecting a shirt last week and was told all the hospitality boxes were being gutted,so that's gives them three weeks for completion
Post by: Gareth on August 02, 2024, 09:23:29 PM
I’m reliably informed the areas around the Wilton Lane stand remain largely a building site and hospitality will be lucky to be available for the first home game.
Hopefully they’ve got portaloos….will be an upgrade on the normal matchday bogs in Witton Upper…check could charge us Bog+ prices
Post by: Percy McCarthy on August 03, 2024, 03:45:56 AM
Post by: Walmley_Villa on August 03, 2024, 09:09:06 AM
Post by: OCD on August 05, 2024, 11:06:29 AM
Post by: eamonn on August 05, 2024, 11:21:56 AM
Let's hope we see the same level of success (but without the question marks over integrity).
I'm not sure that's possible (the integrity bit).
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on August 05, 2024, 02:49:48 PM
Doug would have had us launching from Greaves Square in Pool Farm.
Post by: paul_e on August 05, 2024, 04:19:41 PM
I don’t have a problem with this guy. A lot of what’s happened so far under him is great. Never in a million years would I have expected to see Aston Villa kit and sponsorship launches beaming from the main screens on Times Square. He’s making us very relevant finally. The only think I’m confused about is the stadium expansion delay.
Doug would have had us launching from Greaves Square in Pool Farm.
Same. I think he's come under some really harsh criticism given he's only just passed a year at the club.
Post by: Dogtanian on August 05, 2024, 04:40:55 PM
10 x Normal salt-of-the-earth tickets left.
38 x Corner Flag tickets left £300 pp.
15 x Gas Lamp tickets left £300 pp.
1 x The Cells £144 pp.
1 x Lower Grounds £210 pp.
42 x Terrace View £144 pp.
Will be interesting how much goes in the three weeks left, and how well it does with less august visitors than the Arse.
Post by: chrisw1 on August 05, 2024, 04:42:46 PM
Post by: Dogtanian on August 05, 2024, 04:49:36 PM
That lot there is worth £23k in revenue. If it went to normal tickets, it'd go for less than £8k.
The Aston is sold out at £960 pp, as is the Sports Bar at £336 a go, the 82 Club at £480, the Star and Lion at £300, the McGregors at £600, and Villans at £540.
No idea on the capacities of those yet, but that's going to be a significant leap in gate receipts.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on August 05, 2024, 06:32:19 PM
I don’t have a problem with this guy. A lot of what’s happened so far under him is great. Never in a million years would I have expected to see Aston Villa kit and sponsorship launches beaming from the main screens on Times Square. He’s making us very relevant finally. The only think I’m confused about is the stadium expansion delay.
Doug would have had us launching from Greaves Square in Pool Farm.
Same. I think he's come under some really harsh criticism given he's only just passed a year at the club.
Exactly, it's not his fault he has next to no understanding or respect for the customers, he's an executive, it's his job to work the numbers.
Post by: Villan82 on August 05, 2024, 06:40:15 PM
I don’t have a problem with this guy. A lot of what’s happened so far under him is great. Never in a million years would I have expected to see Aston Villa kit and sponsorship launches beaming from the main screens on Times Square. He’s making us very relevant finally. The only think I’m confused about is the stadium expansion delay.
Doug would have had us launching from Greaves Square in Pool Farm.
Yes but that is the most important thing under his remit. Year on year we have less paying match day customers than Man Utd, Man City, Arsenal, Liverpool, Spurs, West Ham, Newcastle (and soon Everton). That is something we need to bridge and it is something we were meant to be addressing right now. It's probably 5 years off (if it will ever happen) and it will definitely come back to haunt us if we just stick as we are. I want us up there competing permanently and I can't see it without getting to at least 50k asap
Oh, and he also lied about the badge situation and why he pushed through what he wanted without consultation but that is a small thing compared to the dicking around with Villa Park's future.
Great job on the kits, though. Excellent on that.
Post by: paul_e on August 05, 2024, 07:31:27 PM
I don’t have a problem with this guy. A lot of what’s happened so far under him is great. Never in a million years would I have expected to see Aston Villa kit and sponsorship launches beaming from the main screens on Times Square. He’s making us very relevant finally. The only think I’m confused about is the stadium expansion delay.
Doug would have had us launching from Greaves Square in Pool Farm.
Same. I think he's come under some really harsh criticism given he's only just passed a year at the club.
Exactly, it's not his fault he has next to no understanding or respect for the customers, he's an executive, it's his job to work the numbers.
Or is he experienced enough at the job that needs to be done (turning us from a big regional club in the UK into a global sports brand) that he knew it was going to upset people regardless so he just got all the ugliness out of the way as soon as possible?
I don't know but I don't think many of his decisions will have been made without someone knowing it would cause complaints.
Post by: andyh on August 05, 2024, 07:33:00 PM
We were in New York for a long weekend at the start of July and walking around, I saw that City have their own store (maybe on 5th Ave, certainly close) and I said to my wife - this is what we are up against, this is the level of exposure and marketing we need to get to (she was obviously not interested in the slightest and somewhat bemused!) City are huge there now, but this is a good start, credit where it is due!The Rags have a store in NY ?
Post by: PeterWithesShin on August 05, 2024, 07:41:33 PM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on August 05, 2024, 07:47:11 PM
The Rags have a store in NY ?
It's located on Floor 1, 280 Park Avenue.
Post by: Dogtanian on August 17, 2024, 06:35:35 AM
https://x.com/KateTracey12/status/1824128946654355642 (https://x.com/KateTracey12/status/1824128946654355642)
Post by: Tuscans on August 22, 2024, 02:34:43 PM
https://www.avfc.co.uk/video/53e7a7da-2a50-4508-b09e-2e88a0c36492
https://x.com/i/status/1826613264756650099
Post by: Toronto Villa on August 22, 2024, 02:42:37 PM
Post by: London Villan on August 22, 2024, 02:43:51 PM
Post by: Border villan on August 22, 2024, 02:53:59 PM
Post by: rob_bridge on August 22, 2024, 03:00:00 PM
Interesting to see what this kid's zone will be like.
Wonder if they will sell the 'hospitality packages' cheaper for some of the less attractive games?
Post by: Gareth on August 22, 2024, 03:07:12 PM
Won’t hold my breath :-) can’t wait tho :-)
Post by: PeterWithe on August 22, 2024, 03:10:24 PM
Post by: Dogtanian on August 22, 2024, 03:11:30 PM
Post by: Toronto Villa on August 22, 2024, 03:12:05 PM
Watched it just and it had an overwhelming smell of bullshit.
Why is it bullshit? Are the things he said not true? There are loads of fans who envy what we have at Villa Park. It’s not perfect and some things need to improve. We all know that and I imagine he does too. But most fans would say that about their clubs and ground.
I don’t understand this need by some to hate everything Heck says or does. He’s made mistakes, or things he could have done better. But commercially we are absolutely miles better off than when he started.
Post by: LeeB on August 22, 2024, 03:13:27 PM
I still don't know what these new LEDs are... I couldn't see anything new in the background.
They're 'light emitting diodes', as I understand it.
Post by: Somniloquism on August 22, 2024, 03:16:39 PM
I still don't know what these new LEDs are... I couldn't see anything new in the background.
I'm assuming the advertising hoardings are all LED now as he mentioned all around the ground AND you can see it curves at the far corner. I wonder what they have changed for the tunnel?
Post by: AV82EC on August 22, 2024, 03:18:18 PM
Communicator, he lacks Purslows unctuous political charm but he’s doing some half decent stuff. Ultimately to get to the £400m turnover figure he’s going to sweat the existing asset until the pips squeak and he and the owners may then consider some ground changes.
Post by: Bad English on August 22, 2024, 03:18:51 PM
Post by: Tuscans on August 22, 2024, 03:28:56 PM
I thought they were magic mushrooms. I thought they installed them because we're all going on one big trip under Unai.I still don't know what these new LEDs are... I couldn't see anything new in the background.
They're 'light emitting diodes', as I understand it.
Post by: Billy Walker on August 22, 2024, 03:36:54 PM
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on August 22, 2024, 04:05:42 PM
Watched it just and it had an overwhelming smell of bullshit.
Why is it bullshit? Are the things he said not true?
The Lower Grounds were "wildly successful"? News to me. If they were wildly successful I'd imagine it's because with such high demand for tickets, many fans were left with the choice of either miss the game or buy a Lower grounds package. It's easy to sell ice cream on a hot summer day.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on August 22, 2024, 04:09:35 PM
Post by: algy on August 22, 2024, 04:25:50 PM
The "Aston Villa" sign with the ornate swirls on the Trinity, Villla-nerd that I am, is incredibly pleasing to me and makes me think Heck genuinely gets the Club and its traditions (see also the mosiac and red brick lion in the club store). It's a great detail, a part of our visual identity that has been underplayed for decades. When the new North is built, I feel more confident that Heck and his team might look to build something with more of a traditional Villa feel, something to mirror the Holte, with brickwork, stained glass and mosaics.Agree totally. I was quite underwhelmed with the Purslow North Stand. It looked … OK. But considering the North Stand is our best opportunity to build a genuinely amazing stand - there’s loads of room, there’s nothing we need to preserve especially, it’s right by the entry tunnel to the pitch, it’s the first stand you see coming in from Witton station … it all just looked a bit vanilla.
IMO we need the new North Stand to be a massive statement stand, something on a par with or even exceeding the Holte End (yes, I know it’s “only” 30 years old, but it’s still a stand other clubs’ supporters lap up .. and in modern football stadia terms 30 years is a long time)
I want a stand worthy of the Stately Home of Football, not some 2 bit, half arsed job that someone like Fulham or Leicester would try to build. A genuine statement that, even if there are bigger grounds that Villa Park - there aren’t better grounds than Villa Park. One that other clubs’ supporters come to and think “this lot are on another level to us”.
Post by: astonvilla82 on August 22, 2024, 04:35:17 PM
Post by: Dogtanian on August 22, 2024, 04:39:30 PM
I still don't know what these new LEDs are... I couldn't see anything new in the background.
They're 'light emitting diodes', as I understand it.
I thought it was to do with the new pouring facilities ensuring a Lager-Enhanced Day.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on August 22, 2024, 04:43:21 PM
The updated corporate facilities in the Witton Lane look a big improvement judging from the CGI and the club shop a massive upgrade. As for the state of the art players' tunnel, I hope it's not so impressive it scares the shit out of our younger players. ;)
Post by: chrisw1 on August 22, 2024, 04:50:43 PM
Much as a lot of us don't like them i'd imagine both Lower Grounds and Terrace View were successful otherwise they wouldn't be doing more areas along the same lines.I honestly don't think they are. They rarely, if ever, sold out last season. It looks like they may just about get close to selling out for our first league game of the season against a glamour club.
The only additional GA+ space is the Cells, which I believe has probably sold well season ticket wise as it's the entry level way of getting a ST without waiting for a few years.
Post by: Risso on August 22, 2024, 04:57:23 PM
Post by: chrisw1 on August 22, 2024, 04:58:17 PM
IF they ever build it it may look nice but it's not going to be a fans 'yellow wall' stand or anything iconic like that. It will be hospitality focussed and I would expect an entire middle tier of padded seats.The "Aston Villa" sign with the ornate swirls on the Trinity, Villla-nerd that I am, is incredibly pleasing to me and makes me think Heck genuinely gets the Club and its traditions (see also the mosiac and red brick lion in the club store). It's a great detail, a part of our visual identity that has been underplayed for decades. When the new North is built, I feel more confident that Heck and his team might look to build something with more of a traditional Villa feel, something to mirror the Holte, with brickwork, stained glass and mosaics.Agree totally. I was quite underwhelmed with the Purslow North Stand. It looked … OK. But considering the North Stand is our best opportunity to build a genuinely amazing stand - there’s loads of room, there’s nothing we need to preserve especially, it’s right by the entry tunnel to the pitch, it’s the first stand you see coming in from Witton station … it all just looked a bit vanilla.
IMO we need the new North Stand to be a massive statement stand, something on a par with or even exceeding the Holte End (yes, I know it’s “only” 30 years old, but it’s still a stand other clubs’ supporters lap up .. and in modern football stadia terms 30 years is a long time)
I want a stand worthy of the Stately Home of Football, not some 2 bit, half arsed job that someone like Fulham or Leicester would try to build. A genuine statement that, even if there are bigger grounds that Villa Park - there aren’t better grounds than Villa Park. One that other clubs’ supporters come to and think “this lot are on another level to us”.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on August 22, 2024, 04:58:45 PM
Post by: itbrvilla on August 22, 2024, 05:00:10 PM
I doubt they need to sell out to make a profit. Main thing as far as the club is concerned is are they making more money this way than the same seats and areas were before and I reckon it will be a big yes. So they will be viewed as successful.Spot on. I been in touch with a few North America fans who are trying to get tickets for home games and this will be an easy sell to them.
Post by: Toronto Villa on August 22, 2024, 05:13:14 PM
Watched it just and it had an overwhelming smell of bullshit.
Why is it bullshit? Are the things he said not true?
The Lower Grounds were "wildly successful"? News to me. If they were wildly successful I'd imagine it's because with such high demand for tickets, many fans were left with the choice of either miss the game or buy a Lower grounds package. It's easy to sell ice cream on a hot summer day.
It’s nitpicking. The statement about bullshit was made about the entire interview not specific to a certain aspect of it. It’s ok to say that you or anyone doesn’t like him or that some things he says don’t sit right. He called it wildly successful. So what? It’s probably a bit of a stretch but hardly bullshit. It’s been successful and they have done similar things elsewhere. As we become better on the pitch those venues will sell out to wider audiences than regular fans. And I would say given where our revenues were and now are, he has been by any definition wildly successful in his first year or so in the job .
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on August 22, 2024, 05:13:36 PM
Post by: CT Villan on August 22, 2024, 06:04:21 PM
Post by: Villan82 on August 22, 2024, 06:08:26 PM
Two, I am frustrated beyond belief at this guy. In December he dropped the biggest bombshell of the NSWE era- the expansion of Villa Park is not going ahead and was a 'bad idea' he said. No further explanation was offered.
Now, this announcement caused a right shitshow as it brought into question our commitment to the current stadium, the mid- to long-term aims of NSWE and it reeked of the kind of decision that has seen us spurn opportunity after opportunity over the past 40 years.
Yet, any chance Heck has had to clear things up he just completely ignores it. He talks about everything except proper stadium expansion, even when he is stood in the god damn stand that would be rubble today but for this unexplained u-turn. Whatever we thought about Purslow he was usually clear about the overall direction.
Post by: eamonn on August 22, 2024, 06:23:31 PM
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on August 22, 2024, 06:37:25 PM
Realistically it's probably in glass where you can see fans tucking into there all you can eat plastic hot dogs and greasy burgers, blood (ketchup) dripping from their mouths, banging on the window, giving the players slit throat gestures whilst crushing empty cans of Carling on their heads.
Either that or suited and booted noshing on a well grilled T bone and a glass of South African Shiraz.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on August 22, 2024, 07:02:41 PM
Two things. One, it is highly unlikely any new stand will go up so long as Heck is here. Pulling the plans for 2024 has surely set that back by at least 5 years if not more.
Two, I am frustrated beyond belief at this guy. In December he dropped the biggest bombshell of the NSWE era- the expansion of Villa Park is not going ahead and was a 'bad idea' he said. No further explanation was offered.
Now, this announcement caused a right shitshow as it brought into question our commitment to the current stadium, the mid- to long-term aims of NSWE and it reeked of the kind of decision that has seen us spurn opportunity after opportunity over the past 40 years.
Yet, any chance Heck has had to clear things up he just completely ignores it. He talks about everything except proper stadium expansion, even when he is stood in the god damn stand that would be rubble today but for this unexplained u-turn. Whatever we thought about Purslow he was usually clear about the overall direction.
Whilst I agree with you by and large, please FOR THE LOVE OF GOD start to post stuff that isn't just about Heck and the North Stand.
Please.
You're spending so much time banging on about it, I am starting to think I love the guy.
Post by: garyellis on August 22, 2024, 07:18:19 PM
No way.
So far he has substantially improved commercial and match day income.
It looks very much like there was a time imperative to improve revenue given the rules we are operating within.
Ps I would love a new shiny North Stand, a 50,000 plus capacity and a cheaper ST but that des not seem to add up to where we need to be over the next 3 plus years unfortunately.
Post by: Risso on August 22, 2024, 07:40:24 PM
Have we installed rail-seats?
Yep.
Post by: AV82EC on August 22, 2024, 08:01:55 PM
Is it disappointing we aren't doing the North? Yes.
Is it short term? Yes
Is it aligned to the rapid advancement on the pitch? Yes
I'm disappointed they didn't go with Purslows plan but getting to the sustainable PSR position at £400m Turnover seems to be the priority. And lest we forget because we're not at £400m we had to sell Luiz and Diaby this summer. I think they've taken a short term view that as things have gone off the scale on the pitch, they need to do rapid catch up off it and the new stand wasn't seen as viable use of capital in the short term to bridge the gap. Its shit but I can see the logic.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on August 22, 2024, 08:50:47 PM
Watched it just and it had an overwhelming smell of bullshit.
Why is it bullshit? Are the things he said not true?
The Lower Grounds were "wildly successful"? News to me. If they were wildly successful I'd imagine it's because with such high demand for tickets, many fans were left with the choice of either miss the game or buy a Lower grounds package. It's easy to sell ice cream on a hot summer day.
It’s nitpicking. The statement about bullshit was made about the entire interview not specific to a certain aspect of it. It’s ok to say that you or anyone doesn’t like him or that some things he says don’t sit right. He called it wildly successful. So what? It’s probably a bit of a stretch but hardly bullshit. It’s been successful and they have done similar things elsewhere. As we become better on the pitch those venues will sell out to wider audiences than regular fans. And I would say given where our revenues were and now are, he has been by any definition wildly successful in his first year or so in the job .
Nitpicking? You asked 'Are the things he said not true?'. Not the whole interview, 'things'. Nitpick away. As I've said before he's a numbers man and has delivered seemingly ignoring the impact it's had on fans. Desperate times call for desperate measures but I don't expect him to gloat on it especially when it appears he cares more about his own reputation. I'd respect him far more if he's gone along the line of 'some seriously tough decisions had to be made'.
As somebody else mentioned, he's not a great communicator. Maybe what you see is what you get. Hopefully when we finally redevelop the stadium and increase capacity these short term measures can be readdressed.
Post by: astonvilla82 on August 22, 2024, 10:28:43 PM
Post by: eamonn on August 22, 2024, 11:12:30 PM
Have we installed rail-seats?
Yep.
Cheers - do we know where/how many?
Post by: Rodders on August 22, 2024, 11:21:01 PM
"... we talk about Villa Park being a fortress. It is true. There is no better home advantage than at Villa Park and I think it would be a bad idea to tear down one of the stands for a two year period while we are playing like we are. I think that going forward, everything should be about all fans and not just one particular stand."
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on August 23, 2024, 08:11:21 AM
Post by: Chris Smith on August 23, 2024, 09:15:46 AM
Have we installed rail-seats?
Yep.
Cheers - do we know where/how many?
Not sure how many but my seat in the back section of the Lower Holte has been converted.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on August 23, 2024, 10:09:46 AM
I thought he explained quite clearly?
"... we talk about Villa Park being a fortress. It is true. There is no better home advantage than at Villa Park and I think it would be a bad idea to tear down one of the stands for a two year period while we are playing like we are. I think that going forward, everything should be about all fans and not just one particular stand."
To be fair, yes, he did say that, and I don't have a massive problem with that being the thinking.
However, the bit in bold, in that case, hopefully everyone can look forward tomorrow to toilets that aren't rivers of piss, and an ability to spend money on food and drink at half time.
We've heard plenty about the new GA+ and corporate offers, but absolutely nothing about improvements for the ordinary fan.
Post by: AV82EC on August 23, 2024, 10:15:11 AM
Post by: Nev on August 23, 2024, 10:21:19 AM
We'll be in Town before and I'm generally happy to get in just before KO. Getting a pint pre match was a lot easier in the UH last season due to the repositioning of the toilets, but then the queue for those was much longer because the size was reduced.
GA will never improve significantly because it's not an area of focus and the potential increase in revenue is small when you look at the GA+ prices.
Post by: Chris Smith on August 23, 2024, 10:29:16 AM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on August 23, 2024, 10:59:32 AM
The state of the toilets, though, there's no excuse for that.
Post by: itbrvilla on August 23, 2024, 10:59:34 AM
Have we installed rail-seats?The only thing I can find is this tweet showing where they may be in the UH
https://x.com/VillaJetsMS/status/1791007453858988403
Yep.
Cheers - do we know where/how many?
Post by: Border villan on August 23, 2024, 04:13:02 PM
I thought he explained quite clearly?
"... we talk about Villa Park being a fortress. It is true. There is no better home advantage than at Villa Park and I think it would be a bad idea to tear down one of the stands for a two year period while we are playing like we are. I think that going forward, everything should be about all fans and not just one particular stand."
To be fair, yes, he did say that, and I don't have a massive problem with that being the thinking.
However, the bit in bold, in that case, hopefully everyone can look forward tomorrow to toilets that aren't rivers of piss, and an ability to spend money on food and drink at half time.
We've heard plenty about the new GA+ and corporate offers, but absolutely nothing about improvements for the ordinary fan.
Thanks Paulie for putting so well the reasons why I, as an ordinary fan who does not want to be in hospitality/hostility but just watch a match, try to buy a drink and get out of the toilets with my shoes dry, originally described the fluffy Heck interview as smelling of bullshit.
We ordinary fans were there when the top of the Trinity was closed and now we are ignored when the good times roll.
Post by: dalians umbrella on August 23, 2024, 04:25:12 PM
I don't know overall how successful the new areas have been, but I do know that they're having a massive push on selling match-by-match hospitality packages, which they didn't need to do last season. I know lots of people who haven't renewed their places because the prices have doubled. We didn't, for that reason.
There are quite a few seats in the 150 club not sold in the lower DE* so that's just under half a million quid's worth not sold in just that area.
Although I want the Club to succeed in their fight against PSR, I'm also hoping this means no more of us will be kicked out of our seats at the end of this season if the demand isn't there.
(https://i.ibb.co/mS3qKW2/150.jpg) (https://ibb.co/mS3qKW2)
*PS - I know I'm meant to call it the Witton on here but if anyone has a right to be pissed off at Doug - it's me - he once docked me £1000 from my monthly pay-packet, saying I'd earned too much, but that's what it's called.
Post by: Toronto Villa on August 23, 2024, 04:42:02 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on August 23, 2024, 05:23:59 PM
This is new ground for us as a club to push this hard in the corporate space. It's been a massive gap relative to the top sides we are competing against, both locally and globally. If we keep doing it on the pitch, we keep building out brand through Heck and his team, customers will buy these spaces at the club. We need to have this even if it isn't for the everyday fan, there will be demand.
We need to start regularly winning things like the top clubs do if we want to close the gap.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on August 23, 2024, 05:24:42 PM
I don't know overall how successful the new areas have been, but I do know that they're having a massive push on selling match-by-match hospitality packages, which they didn't need to do last season. I know lots of people who haven't renewed their places because the prices have doubled. We didn't, for that reason.
There are quite a few seats in the 150 club not sold in the lower DE* so that's just under half a million quid's worth not sold in just that area.
Although I want the Club to succeed in their fight against PSR, I'm also hoping this means no more of us will be kicked out of our seats at the end of this season if the demand isn't there.
(https://i.ibb.co/mS3qKW2/150.jpg) (https://ibb.co/mS3qKW2)
*PS - I know I'm meant to call it the Witton on here but if anyone has a right to be pissed off at Doug - it's me - he once docked me £1000 from my monthly pay-packet, saying I'd earned too much, but that's what it's called.
Ha ha, is that true about the pay packet? Tell more, sounds like a good anecdote.
Anyway, back to the sales, looking at that planner, I think they'll be pleased with the number they have sold tbh.
That looks like 300 odd seats there and about 30 left unsold (i haven't counted), so they've sold 90% of season tickets in those seats, for tickets that cost a minimum of nearly 8k each,
That's over £2m revenue.
Obviously, they might be showing more seats sold than is actually the case in that screen, to give the illusion of scarcity, but I doubt it.
Post by: dalians umbrella on August 23, 2024, 05:54:37 PM
When I qualified as a physio aged 21, I started 2 jobs on the same day - one full-time in the NHS and one at Villa.
Despite me being the only real physio at the club with actual medical qualifications, I was put with the under 9s based on how young I looked (I got asked for ID last week at the age of 47 so that gives you an idea).
I think I got £50 a match (on a sunday) and £30 for each of 2 training sessions (let's say monday and thursday - I can't remember).
I worked my way up all the age groups, and there was a point where all Premier League Academies needed a named Chartered Physiotherapist, so although I wasn't told that was the reason, Jim Walker suggested I could help him out full-time as his number 2. Now, I was in all day, covering training sessions and treatment sessions from 1st team down in the morning (£30) and afternoon (£30) and evening (£30) in a typical week, I could do say a reserve game, an U21 game, and an u14s game (3 x £50) - so that was like £2000 a month which I was pretty chuffed with back in the late 90s in my early 20s.
Anyway, one day I'm woken up early on a sunday by a phonecall from Jim Walker telling me "the chairman's been looking at the wages and you've been earning too much and he's deducted £1000 from your wages but he wants to offer you a full-time contract.
Great, I thought until I went in the next day and learned the offer was for £7k a year.
If I carry on the story from there, it's going to paint other people in a bad light, so I ended up going to another Club, THE END.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on August 23, 2024, 05:59:54 PM
Post by: dalians umbrella on August 23, 2024, 06:02:48 PM
I can't believe you left us in the lurch like that. I suppose you went to Middlesbrough to win trophies. And then won a trophy.
Ha ha. No, I didn’t go that far, and I didn’t win any trophies. But it’s funny you should use that analogy, because I think that Gareth was quite disillusioned at the lack of qualifications of people at the club and how everything was done on the cheap. He was a really nice guy, but he was very bright And wouldn’t put up with shit. I wasn’t still there when he left, but I don’t think it was just about trophies. I know people got pissed off with him when he was England manager, but he was a really nice guy.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on August 23, 2024, 06:03:47 PM
Post by: dalians umbrella on August 23, 2024, 06:07:41 PM
I can believe it.
Posted in error. I mis-read
the previous post
Post by: Risso on August 23, 2024, 06:16:52 PM
I don't know overall how successful the new areas have been, but I do know that they're having a massive push on selling match-by-match hospitality packages, which they didn't need to do last season. I know lots of people who haven't renewed their places because the prices have doubled. We didn't, for that reason.
There are quite a few seats in the 150 club not sold in the lower DE* so that's just under half a million quid's worth not sold in just that area.
Although I want the Club to succeed in their fight against PSR, I'm also hoping this means no more of us will be kicked out of our seats at the end of this season if the demand isn't there.
(https://i.ibb.co/mS3qKW2/150.jpg) (https://ibb.co/mS3qKW2)
*PS - I know I'm meant to call it the Witton on here but if anyone has a right to be pissed off at Doug - it's me - he once docked me £1000 from my monthly pay-packet, saying I'd earned too much, but that's what it's called.
Ha ha, is that true about the pay packet? Tell more, sounds like a good anecdote.
Anyway, back to the sales, looking at that planner, I think they'll be pleased with the number they have sold tbh.
That looks like 300 odd seats there and about 30 left unsold (i haven't counted), so they've sold 90% of season tickets in those seats, for tickets that cost a minimum of nearly 8k each,
That's over £2m revenue.
Obviously, they might be showing more seats sold than is actually the case in that screen, to give the illusion of scarcity, but I doubt it.
Obviously I don't know the exact numbers, but it seems like all of the new corporate areas have been a bit of a disaster sales wise. There are loads left unsold, and lots of existing clients just haven't bothered. The thing is, if they're not selling out now after a season when we've finished 4th and qualified for the Champions League for the first time, when are they going to? They pissed off an awful lot of existing clients (me included) and getting new ones hasn't been as easy as they hoped.
Post by: London Villan on August 23, 2024, 06:23:44 PM
Post by: dalians umbrella on August 23, 2024, 06:34:11 PM
Doug, on the cheap, never...
I once got some compeed plasters out of the cupboard to use on someone, I think it might have been Darren Byfield. Jim Walker nearly had a heart attack and said don’t use those! I said why not? He said, they’re too expensive, the chairman will go spare! I laughed for a bit and proceeded to use them, until I realised
that he wasn’t joking.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on August 23, 2024, 08:25:10 PM
I can't believe you left us in the lurch like that. I suppose you went to Middlesbrough to win trophies. And then won a trophy.
Ha ha, excellent.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on August 23, 2024, 08:26:06 PM
Yes, it is a true story.
When I qualified as a physio aged 21, I started 2 jobs on the same day - one full-time in the NHS and one at Villa.
Despite me being the only real physio at the club with actual medical qualifications, I was put with the under 9s based on how young I looked (I got asked for ID last week at the age of 47 so that gives you an idea).
I think I got £50 a match (on a sunday) and £30 for each of 2 training sessions (let's say monday and thursday - I can't remember).
I worked my way up all the age groups, and there was a point where all Premier League Academies needed a named Chartered Physiotherapist, so although I wasn't told that was the reason, Jim Walker suggested I could help him out full-time as his number 2. Now, I was in all day, covering training sessions and treatment sessions from 1st team down in the morning (£30) and afternoon (£30) and evening (£30) in a typical week, I could do say a reserve game, an U21 game, and an u14s game (3 x £50) - so that was like £2000 a month which I was pretty chuffed with back in the late 90s in my early 20s.
Anyway, one day I'm woken up early on a sunday by a phonecall from Jim Walker telling me "the chairman's been looking at the wages and you've been earning too much and he's deducted £1000 from your wages but he wants to offer you a full-time contract.
Great, I thought until I went in the next day and learned the offer was for £7k a year.
If I carry on the story from there, it's going to paint other people in a bad light, so I ended up going to another Club, THE END.
Ha ha, excellent story, and what a twat Ellis was.
Post by: Mister E on August 23, 2024, 08:36:45 PM
I was acquainted with a mate of D'OL and he used to tell me how 'forensic' Doug was about expenses. Pathetic and small-minded. No wonder we lurched through the Premier League's golden years being left behind by other clubs who grasped the obvious money-tree opportunities.Doug, on the cheap, never...
I once got some compeed plasters out of the cupboard to use on someone, I think it might have been Darren Byfield. Jim Walker nearly had a heart attack and said don’t use those! I said why not? He said, they’re too expensive, the chairman will go spare! I laughed for a bit and proceeded to use them, until I realised
that he wasn’t joking.
Post by: London Villan on August 23, 2024, 08:47:25 PM
Think red and brown Holte End to flogging random
kits and cheap managers.
Post by: dalians umbrella on August 23, 2024, 09:12:00 PM
Yes, it is a true story.
When I qualified as a physio aged 21, I started 2 jobs on the same day - one full-time in the NHS and one at Villa.
Despite me being the only real physio at the club with actual medical qualifications, I was put with the under 9s based on how young I looked (I got asked for ID last week at the age of 47 so that gives you an idea).
I think I got £50 a match (on a sunday) and £30 for each of 2 training sessions (let's say monday and thursday - I can't remember).
I worked my way up all the age groups, and there was a point where all Premier League Academies needed a named Chartered Physiotherapist, so although I wasn't told that was the reason, Jim Walker suggested I could help him out full-time as his number 2. Now, I was in all day, covering training sessions and treatment sessions from 1st team down in the morning (£30) and afternoon (£30) and evening (£30) in a typical week, I could do say a reserve game, an U21 game, and an u14s game (3 x £50) - so that was like £2000 a month which I was pretty chuffed with back in the late 90s in my early 20s.
Anyway, one day I'm woken up early on a sunday by a phonecall from Jim Walker telling me "the chairman's been looking at the wages and you've been earning too much and he's deducted £1000 from your wages but he wants to offer you a full-time contract.
Great, I thought until I went in the next day and learned the offer was for £7k a year.
If I carry on the story from there, it's going to paint other people in a bad light, so I ended up going to another Club, THE END.
Ha ha, excellent story, and what a twat Ellis was.
Two other Doug stories.
I was once a physio for one of our reserve games, where a lot of the youth team players were elevated to the reserves. I can’t remember the reason why. Doug came into the dressing room afterwards to congratulate all the young players. He shook my hand and asked me if I enjoyed playing, not having a clue who I was. At the same time, Kevin McDonald was giving the wanker sign behind his back.
Back in the 60s, my mum worked for one of Doug’s travel agencies, and her dad passed away. Her widowed mum was Greek. I would like to say that Doug completely paid for my mum and her family to visit their relatives in Greece, but he did it at cost, which is about as good as you were going to get from someone as tight as Doug I guess.
So just for that last one alone, I still can’t call him a twat. And even in the first one, he was trying to be nice. But he can still fuck off for taking a grand off me.
Post by: dalians umbrella on August 23, 2024, 09:17:21 PM
Gregory was having a meeting with Doug, at the end of which Doug decided they needed to book a followup and put the initials of everyone required in his diary.
"JG - John GORDON (apparently he kept calling him that), SS - Steve Stride and Me".
At the next meeting, Doug says "so let's see if we have everyone - JG, that's you, John Gordon, SS - that's you - Steve Stride but ME, ME - who is ME?"
Gregory says "that's me chairman".
Doug says "No, no - you're JG - John Gordon!".
Post by: pauliewalnuts on August 23, 2024, 09:43:42 PM
My last and funniest Doug story was told to be by Gary Megson as told to him by John Gregory.
Gregory was having a meeting with Doug, at the end of which Doug decided they needed to book a followup and put the initials of everyone required in his diary.
"JG - John GORDON (apparently he kept calling him that), SS - Steve Stride and Me".
At the next meeting, Doug says "so let's see if we have everyone - JG, that's you, John Gordon, SS - that's you - Steve Stride but ME, ME - who is ME?"
Gregory says "that's me chairman".
Doug says "No, no - you're JG - John Gordon!".
Funnily enough, i just watched this interview with Gregory, very good and worth a watch, esp when he talks about becoming Villa manager.
Post by: SaddVillan on August 24, 2024, 06:12:55 PM
A cliche I know, but true nonetheless.
Post by: Risso on August 25, 2024, 11:03:57 AM
Watched it just and it had an overwhelming smell of bullshit.
Why is it bullshit? Are the things he said not true? There are loads of fans who envy what we have at Villa Park. It’s not perfect and some things need to improve. We all know that and I imagine he does too. But most fans would say that about their clubs and ground.
I don’t understand this need by some to hate everything Heck says or does. He’s made mistakes, or things he could have done better. But commercially we are absolutely miles better off than when he started.
He’s a twat. Lots of vastly overpriced hospitality that has huge swathes unsold. Meanwhile, everything else is just as shit as before.
Post by: olaftab on August 25, 2024, 11:10:39 AM
He’s a twat. Lots of vastly overpriced hospitality that has huge swathes unsold. Meanwhile, everything else is just as shit as before.That's a good summarised comment on Heck's closed season endeavours.
Post by: danno on August 25, 2024, 11:17:52 AM
I'm sure Heck has much bigger things to concern himself with, but I'd venture that there's probably other examples of the club being as petty as the above.
Post by: Pat Mustard on August 25, 2024, 11:20:26 AM
Watched it just and it had an overwhelming smell of bullshit.
Why is it bullshit? Are the things he said not true? There are loads of fans who envy what we have at Villa Park. It’s not perfect and some things need to improve. We all know that and I imagine he does too. But most fans would say that about their clubs and ground.
I don’t understand this need by some to hate everything Heck says or does. He’s made mistakes, or things he could have done better. But commercially we are absolutely miles better off than when he started.
He’s a twat. Lots of vastly overpriced hospitality that has huge swathes unsold. Meanwhile, everything else is just as shit as before.
Agreed, other than I’d say yesterday things were much, much worse than they’ve ever been before.
Post by: littleoldme on August 25, 2024, 11:33:10 AM
Post by: olaftab on August 25, 2024, 12:26:17 PM
Arriva run a bus (the AV1) to the ground on Sat/Sun league games from Tamworth. It's seven quid return and is normally fairly full. The bus driver gets a complimentary ticket often in the north stand lower. This season the service almost didn't operate because the club told Arriva that from this season they wouldn't give the driver a complimentary ticket. The bus driver not fancying two hours sat in a car park basically told Arriva he wasn't interested in driving the route anymore, and after a few days the club reconsidered.But as the saying goes you take care of the little things and the big things take care of themselves.
I'm sure Heck has much bigger things to concern himself with, but I'd venture that there's probably other examples of the club being as petty as the above.
Post by: SaddVillan on August 25, 2024, 03:54:36 PM
He's done some excellent work on sponsorships - increasing what we get via Adidas and Betano compared to Castore and BK8.
That doesn't particularly affect the average fan.
What does is ticketing systems, ticket prices, and carving out space (where it doesn't really exist) to accommodate "customers" who are prepared to pay more for "premium seats".
I don't think he's fully recognised the resentment that has caused and giving happy chappy interviews to prAVda TV implying that everything in the garden is fine and dandy is just taking the piss.
He needs to front up and give some honest answers and explanations to what's been done, or else he'll become the new HDE.
Post by: andyh on August 25, 2024, 04:59:10 PM
I want to see us as one of the best clubs in Europe, unfortunately, crap rules mean our owners can’t do it on their own.
Post by: Pat Mustard on August 25, 2024, 05:02:28 PM
Post by: Percy McCarthy on August 25, 2024, 05:11:54 PM
After placing an ad in the ‘Wanted’ section of the Evening Mail, I managed to buy some of the Villa shares that were issued in 1968. I paid £100 each for them even though they were going for £430. At the same time a Villa employee of long-standing and great renown passed away, leaving 50 of those shares to his widow. Doug offered her £500 for the lot. If I knew they were going for £430 each, I reckon he probably did too.
Post by: dave.woodhall on August 25, 2024, 06:23:47 PM
I have a Doug story.
After placing an ad in the ‘Wanted’ section of the Evening Mail, I managed to buy some of the Villa shares that were issued in 1968. I paid £100 each for them even though they were going for £430. At the same time a Villa employee of long-standing and great renown passed away, leaving 50 of those shares to his widow. Doug offered her £500 for the lot. If I knew they were going for £430 each, I reckon he probably did too.
He did it regularly. Every time someone offered shares to the club he bought them personally, for a pittance.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on August 25, 2024, 08:09:11 PM
Increasing revenue to improve our PSR status to allow the club to buy better players and challenge for honours is massively important to me, and I’m just an average fan.
I want to see us as one of the best clubs in Europe, unfortunately, crap rules mean our owners can’t do it on their own.
Yeah, Andy, I think we all basically agree with that.
However, I am not sure it's a binary "this or that" - increase revenues v acceptable toilet facilities.
I bet the toilet facilities in all those new corporate lounges are quite nice.
Post by: Ads on August 25, 2024, 08:18:09 PM
Increasing revenue to improve our PSR status to allow the club to buy better players and challenge for honours is massively important to me, and I’m just an average fan.
I want to see us as one of the best clubs in Europe, unfortunately, crap rules mean our owners can’t do it on their own.
Yeah, Andy, I think we all basically agree with that.
However, I am not sure it's a binary "this or that" - increase revenues v acceptable toilet facilities.
I bet the toilet facilities in all those new corporate lounges are quite nice.
This is what I can't fathom. We've probably reduced demand in normal parts of the ground, so why is the problem getting worse? How much can it actually cost for some tiles, urinals etc to make things better in the toilets?
I actually think it's easier to get served in the upper Holte, as they've added extra bar space (last season) so if you go down to the middle deck (as I've always done) it's straight forward. That said, I never bother with the toilets, so that moderating behaviour probably tells it's own story.
Post by: London Villan on August 25, 2024, 08:21:16 PM
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on August 25, 2024, 09:37:15 PM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on August 25, 2024, 11:17:40 PM
It beggars belief that this is allowed to happen...
Heck chasing a quick dollar and putting everyone's safety in danger...Good job it wasn't Legia Warsaw we were playing..
Post by: Risso on August 27, 2024, 12:16:53 PM
Post by: VillaTim on August 27, 2024, 12:22:54 PM
Post by: Sexual Ealing on August 27, 2024, 12:24:21 PM
Post by: VillaTim on August 27, 2024, 12:27:13 PM
Reported on the Redevelopment chat that the GA+ seats in the North Stand was full of Arsenal fans yesterday..Will be the same v ManUre / Liverpool etc . This Heck geezer has sold the clubs soul down the river (of piss)
It beggars belief that this is allowed to happen...
Heck chasing a quick dollar and putting everyone's safety in danger...Good job it wasn't Legia Warsaw we were playing..
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on August 27, 2024, 12:29:19 PM
150 logo
North Stand fiasco
GA+ overpriced and unsold
...and then Saturday
...an absolute chancer..
Post by: TheTimVilla on August 27, 2024, 12:31:08 PM
Reported on the Redevelopment chat that the GA+ seats in the North Stand was full of Arsenal fans yesterday..
It beggars belief that this is allowed to happen...
Heck chasing a quick dollar and putting everyone's safety in danger...Good job it wasn't Legia Warsaw we were playing..
We could have our STs taken off us for selling our tickets to away fans
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on August 27, 2024, 12:31:09 PM
Post by: Brend'Watkins on August 27, 2024, 12:57:37 PM
Post by: chrisw1 on August 27, 2024, 12:58:03 PM
The most ridiculous comment was about other premier league clubs sitting up and taking notice of the new tunnel. Yes to say it’s shite. Our heroes are villains. Goodness me.I couldn't believe it when I saw the photos. Wff was he on about? It's a painted grey tunnel. In my view not as nice as the old one. Why would clubs 'take note' of that?
Post by: Nii Lamptey on August 27, 2024, 01:03:28 PM
On the non-playing side, the ONLY thing which has been positive is the Adidas deal, and I reckon even I could have brokered that deal! One of our owners is a member of their board, and any forward thinking sportswear manufacturer looking at Aston Villa's recent rise on the pitch would have seen us as a worthy punt.
NO fan should have been displaced from their seat to make a few more quid out of some tarquin twat.
Heck has got it all wrong. We should have taken the short term hit and pressed GO on the North Stand redevelopment, and accommodate corporate shite in there.
As for the shitstorm (literally!) from the weekend, I can guarantee that he won't mention it or have any statement with his name on it. You can tell chancers a mile off - You only ever see them when it's positive news (eg. Adidas).
Post by: Sexual Ealing on August 27, 2024, 01:07:35 PM
Post by: Brend'Watkins on August 27, 2024, 01:08:11 PM
Post by: Dogtanian on August 27, 2024, 01:09:01 PM
And just like that an email arrives from the club stating that they will sort it. No apology, no mention that they had a full close season to ensure minimal fuss. Heads should roll.
...through the piss, presumably.
Post by: Villan82 on August 27, 2024, 01:09:57 PM
Fans are the lifeblood of any football club. He fucked up on Day 1 with the vandalism of the Holte and ejection of season ticket holders from the Holte Suite.
On the non-playing side, the ONLY thing which has been positive is the Adidas deal, and I reckon even I could have brokered that deal! One of our owners is a member of their board, and any forward thinking sportswear manufacturer looking at Aston Villa's recent rise on the pitch would have seen us as a worthy punt.
NO fan should have been displaced from their seat to make a few more quid out of some tarquin twat.
Heck has got it all wrong. We should have taken the short term hit and pressed GO on the North Stand redevelopment, and accommodate corporate shite in there.
As for the shitstorm (literally!) from the weekend, I can guarantee that he won't mention it or have any statement with his name on it. You can tell chancers a mile off - You only ever see them when it's positive news (eg. Adidas).
We will be dealing with this fool's toxic legacy long after he is gone.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on August 27, 2024, 01:24:53 PM
BREWERY
COULDN'T
UP
ORGANISE
PISS
A
IN
A
Post by: Dogtanian on August 27, 2024, 01:30:21 PM
At his Villa interview they asked him...organise these words in the correct order
BREWERY
COULDN'T
UP
ORGANISE
PISS
A
IN
A
And then he declared his answer was the envy of all the other candidates and something that's never been done before and they should pay him even more.
Post by: Ads on August 27, 2024, 01:32:40 PM
Fans are the lifeblood of any football club. He fucked up on Day 1 with the vandalism of the Holte and ejection of season ticket holders from the Holte Suite.
On the non-playing side, the ONLY thing which has been positive is the Adidas deal, and I reckon even I could have brokered that deal! One of our owners is a member of their board, and any forward thinking sportswear manufacturer looking at Aston Villa's recent rise on the pitch would have seen us as a worthy punt.
NO fan should have been displaced from their seat to make a few more quid out of some tarquin twat.
Heck has got it all wrong. We should have taken the short term hit and pressed GO on the North Stand redevelopment, and accommodate corporate shite in there.
As for the shitstorm (literally!) from the weekend, I can guarantee that he won't mention it or have any statement with his name on it. You can tell chancers a mile off - You only ever see them when it's positive news (eg. Adidas).
We will be dealing with this fool's toxic legacy long after he is gone.
The toxicity that comes with beeing a £400m turnover business, will be balanced by being fucking brilliant on the pitch.
Post by: ChicagoLion on August 27, 2024, 01:34:54 PM
The toxicity is not a pre requisite of a £400 million revenue business.Fans are the lifeblood of any football club. He fucked up on Day 1 with the vandalism of the Holte and ejection of season ticket holders from the Holte Suite.
On the non-playing side, the ONLY thing which has been positive is the Adidas deal, and I reckon even I could have brokered that deal! One of our owners is a member of their board, and any forward thinking sportswear manufacturer looking at Aston Villa's recent rise on the pitch would have seen us as a worthy punt.
NO fan should have been displaced from their seat to make a few more quid out of some tarquin twat.
Heck has got it all wrong. We should have taken the short term hit and pressed GO on the North Stand redevelopment, and accommodate corporate shite in there.
As for the shitstorm (literally!) from the weekend, I can guarantee that he won't mention it or have any statement with his name on it. You can tell chancers a mile off - You only ever see them when it's positive news (eg. Adidas).
We will be dealing with this fool's toxic legacy long after he is gone.
The toxicity that comes with beeing a £400m turnover business, will be balanced by being fucking brilliant on the pitch.
Post by: Brend'Watkins on August 27, 2024, 01:36:05 PM
Post by: VillaTim on August 27, 2024, 01:41:37 PM
Post by: Ads on August 27, 2024, 01:42:48 PM
The toxicity is not a pre requisite of a £400 million revenue business.Fans are the lifeblood of any football club. He fucked up on Day 1 with the vandalism of the Holte and ejection of season ticket holders from the Holte Suite.
On the non-playing side, the ONLY thing which has been positive is the Adidas deal, and I reckon even I could have brokered that deal! One of our owners is a member of their board, and any forward thinking sportswear manufacturer looking at Aston Villa's recent rise on the pitch would have seen us as a worthy punt.
NO fan should have been displaced from their seat to make a few more quid out of some tarquin twat.
Heck has got it all wrong. We should have taken the short term hit and pressed GO on the North Stand redevelopment, and accommodate corporate shite in there.
As for the shitstorm (literally!) from the weekend, I can guarantee that he won't mention it or have any statement with his name on it. You can tell chancers a mile off - You only ever see them when it's positive news (eg. Adidas).
We will be dealing with this fool's toxic legacy long after he is gone.
The toxicity that comes with beeing a £400m turnover business, will be balanced by being fucking brilliant on the pitch.
*looks at Man United, looks at Chelsea, looks at Spurs, looks Man City*.
Sure, sure, sure.
The weekend was incompetence more than toxicity. Very last minute for those that know...
Queues die down, if you can utilise a urinal with ease, if you can buy a refreshment of choice, then great, bare minimum has been achieved.
But the inevitable footsteps of our slow march to footballing dominace will be echoed by all the things nobody really likes. That's the price of elite football. Heck is a symptom, he's not the disease.
Post by: Toronto Villa on August 27, 2024, 01:46:56 PM
Post by: Villan82 on August 27, 2024, 02:05:48 PM
The problem is nobody understands why abandoning meaningful stadium redevelopment and for example bringing back the Lerner badge identity help with those?
As a football exec you should not burn through your goodwill with fans with such abandon. A day will come when you need the goodwill to be there and it won't be.
Post by: VillaTim on August 27, 2024, 02:12:06 PM
Post by: nick harper on August 27, 2024, 02:20:10 PM
If you hate what is happening to us commercially it’s not going to get better the more successful we get. I hope the club tries to balance some of it out. Fans don’t want a lot, and asking to get into the ground, a pisser that actually works, a beer poured in a reasonable time isn’t that big an ask. Get those basic things right is like just wanting a goalkeeper who is well positioned and can catch the ball. Everything else is slightly more palatable if the most mundane experiences are well delivered.
The point is it becomes much more important to get basic decent facilities right when they’re asking £50 to £75 per ticket than it was when it was £25. There seems to be an underlying complacency and arrogance that because the team is on an upward trajectory, we’ll just continue to accept this shite.
Post by: VILLA MOLE on August 27, 2024, 02:21:51 PM
Post by: Clark W Griswold on August 27, 2024, 02:28:33 PM
Post by: Dogtanian on August 27, 2024, 02:31:45 PM
Post by: Paul.S on August 27, 2024, 02:34:42 PM
I’m even prepared to understand that after some work inside the ground there maybe a hitch or 2.
What you can’t do is keep raising the prices and offer conditions that are no better or in Saturdays case, worse. For me, leaving supporters outside the ground with no communication and knowing they’d miss the kick off and more is the unforgivable bit. Could they have delayed the kick off? That shows a total disregard for loyal supporters and I just hope some of the blame isn’t put on us getting there too late.
Post by: Ads on August 27, 2024, 02:36:51 PM
We aren't stupid. We know we need to increase revenue. That has been the club's aim for years.
The problem is nobody understands why abandoning meaningful stadium redevelopment and for example bringing back the Lerner badge identity help with those?
As a football exec you should not burn through your goodwill with fans with such abandon. A day will come when you need the goodwill to be there and it won't be.
I think its now time to focus on something else other than the North not being redeveloped.
Post by: tony scott on August 27, 2024, 02:39:00 PM
Post by: Villan82 on August 27, 2024, 02:42:26 PM
We aren't stupid. We know we need to increase revenue. That has been the club's aim for years.
The problem is nobody understands why abandoning meaningful stadium redevelopment and for example bringing back the Lerner badge identity help with those?
As a football exec you should not burn through your goodwill with fans with such abandon. A day will come when you need the goodwill to be there and it won't be.
I think its now time to focus on something else other than the North not being redeveloped.
Yeah it's no biggie now is it. I don't tell other posters what they can and cannot raise.
Post by: tomd2103 on August 27, 2024, 02:42:53 PM
We aren't stupid. We know we need to increase revenue. That has been the club's aim for years.
The problem is nobody understands why abandoning meaningful stadium redevelopment and for example bringing back the Lerner badge identity help with those?
As a football exec you should not burn through your goodwill with fans with such abandon. A day will come when you need the goodwill to be there and it won't be.
I think its now time to focus on something else other than the North not being redeveloped.
Can't really see what other options there are other than hiking prices up even further if that is the case.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on August 27, 2024, 02:43:19 PM
We aren't stupid. We know we need to increase revenue. That has been the club's aim for years.Everybody understands we need to increase revenue to compete in the top four.
The problem is nobody understands why abandoning meaningful stadium redevelopment and for example bringing back the Lerner badge identity help with those?
As a football exec you should not burn through your goodwill with fans with such abandon. A day will come when you need the goodwill to be there and it won't be.
Liverpool and Man Utd are football institutions, with huge global followings and have been for decades.
Tottenham and Arsenal are in one of the largest cities on the planet, with big new stadiums, where the corporate market is endless and folk throw money around like confetti.
Chelsea joined the club thanks to Abramovic and untraceable funds from Moscow.
Man City...same as Chelsea..insert the Middle East
This is the competition
We need to be a lot more ambitious than trying to flog cheap seats with free beer and hamburgers for ££..and then the day before the match having to put them back on sale as GA tickets because we can't sell them.
I applaud anyone at the club trying to increase revenue..but empty seats for Arsenal proves at the moment this is a mistake unfortunately
Post by: Ads on August 27, 2024, 02:45:50 PM
We aren't stupid. We know we need to increase revenue. That has been the club's aim for years.
The problem is nobody understands why abandoning meaningful stadium redevelopment and for example bringing back the Lerner badge identity help with those?
As a football exec you should not burn through your goodwill with fans with such abandon. A day will come when you need the goodwill to be there and it won't be.
I think its now time to focus on something else other than the North not being redeveloped.
Yeah it's no biggie now is it. I don't tell other posters what they can and cannot raise.
I'm not telling you what you can or cannot do, I'm telling you that you're boring the fucking life out of me by raising it in every other fucking post like some aping of Carthago delenda est. It's so dull that it's getting to the point where I'd like them to announce the demolition of all 3 other stands, but not the North.
Post by: VillaTim on August 27, 2024, 02:50:18 PM
Getting better corporate sponsorships / partners is where the opportunity and focus should be . Not rinsing the loyal fanbaseWe aren't stupid. We know we need to increase revenue. That has been the club's aim for years.
The problem is nobody understands why abandoning meaningful stadium redevelopment and for example bringing back the Lerner badge identity help with those?
As a football exec you should not burn through your goodwill with fans with such abandon. A day will come when you need the goodwill to be there and it won't be.
I think its now time to focus on something else other than the North not being redeveloped.
Can't really see what other options there are other than hiking prices up even further if that is the case.
Post by: chrisw1 on August 27, 2024, 02:50:41 PM
It's very short term thinking, but accommodating more everyday fans is absolutely their lowest priority.
Post by: Gareth on August 27, 2024, 02:54:20 PM
We have to try and compete financially, I get that and I think commercially Heck has done ok.
I’m even prepared to understand that after some work inside the ground there maybe a hitch or 2.
What you can’t do is keep raising the prices and offer conditions that are no better or in Saturdays case, worse. For me, leaving supporters outside the ground with no communication and knowing they’d miss the kick off and more is the unforgivable bit. Could they have delayed the kick off? That shows a total disregard for loyal supporters and I just hope some of the blame isn’t put on us getting there too late.
Kick off was never being delayed for that…Sky have an international audience in the Far East and USA to satisfy….delaying because the plebs can’t get through the gate was not an option. We were having similar conversations in the queue and trying to get it across to some who were sure we’d be delayed half hour or so.
Was the same about 5.25 when I was near the front of the queue on Witton Lane telling people around me to brace themselves if the walk on music suddenly fires up as it could trigger a surge from behind with people pushing to get in to not miss the start.
Post by: Risso on August 27, 2024, 02:54:33 PM
Post by: cdward on August 27, 2024, 02:56:05 PM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on August 27, 2024, 02:57:52 PM
The other options is what they have done. They aren't interested in an extra 5k general admission seats, it was always about increasing the capacity of the corporate / GA+ offer. Heck's judgment call was he could do this within the 42k seats we currently have. Now they have done that he will see it is as there's even less reason for them to build a new stand.Unfortunately as it stands we are not selling these. 24hrs before every home game they put a large number back on sale. A2 is a classic example. And as mentioned in previous posts some of the expensive hospitality isn't going well. How long we persevere with it will be interesting.
It's very short term thinking, but accommodating more everyday fans is absolutely their lowest priority.
Post by: Border villan on August 27, 2024, 02:58:02 PM
Out of interest anybody know what the official attendance was on Saturday? It seems that the figure hasn't been published anywhere.
Do we have the choice of the attendance at kick off or the attendance when they managed to get all the fans in?
Post by: VillaTim on August 27, 2024, 02:58:36 PM
Out of interest anybody know what the official attendance was on Saturday? It seems that the figure hasn't been published anywhere.ahh this old chestnut again
Post by: Paul.S on August 27, 2024, 03:00:41 PM
We have to try and compete financially, I get that and I think commercially Heck has done ok.
I’m even prepared to understand that after some work inside the ground there maybe a hitch or 2.
What you can’t do is keep raising the prices and offer conditions that are no better or in Saturdays case, worse. For me, leaving supporters outside the ground with no communication and knowing they’d miss the kick off and more is the unforgivable bit. Could they have delayed the kick off? That shows a total disregard for loyal supporters and I just hope some of the blame isn’t put on us getting there too late.
Kick off was never being delayed for that…Sky have an international audience in the Far East and USA to satisfy….delaying because the plebs can’t get through the gate was not an option. We were having similar conversations in the queue and trying to get it across to some who were sure we’d be delayed half hour or so.
Was the same about 5.25 when I was near the front of the queue on Witton Lane telling people around me to brace themselves if the walk on music suddenly fires up as it could trigger a surge from behind with people pushing to get in to not miss the start.
I did mention in the queue that I didn’t think they would. It’s been done before because of issues at turnstiles, I think it was at a Crystal Palace TV game last season so 15 minutes wouldn’t have been an issue. I just feel we don’t really count anymore and it could’ve gone very wrong outside so there was a potential safety issue.
I’ll await an apology from the club and move on but Heck is walking on very thin ice with the fanbase.
Post by: Demitri_C on August 27, 2024, 03:26:13 PM
The food was really bad. Grated cheese for a cheese burger and no onions ? Come on.the chips were burnt too. Honestly i am not hard to please but id give the food 2/10. If you are going to charge such high prices at least make sure the foods good.
Im pretty sure alot of others will be reluctant to pay those prices with the crappy food on offer
Post by: Sexual Ealing on August 27, 2024, 03:28:50 PM
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on August 27, 2024, 03:32:37 PM
Tickets in the middle of upper witton were £75 apparently . These are some seriously steep increases given we still haven't won anything ! Learn to walk before you can run Heck !
Imagine how much they would have been if the seats actually existed!
Post by: Gareth on August 27, 2024, 03:33:59 PM
Tickets in the middle of upper witton were £75 apparently . These are some seriously steep increases given we still haven't won anything ! Learn to walk before you can run Heck !
Imagine how much they would have been if the seats actually existed!
Some people just want the moon on a stick :-)
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on August 27, 2024, 03:38:22 PM
I don't think I've ever had onions on a cheeseburger!
Also I am intrigued by the cheese comment - surely he prefers real cheese to a dairylea triangle?
Post by: VillaTim on August 27, 2024, 03:44:18 PM
I have to say after experiencing the food during the lower grounds for the west ham game it has made me think twice of payjng that for TV or LG as was going to try it this season.Grated ? I thought it was full flowing liquid cheese in these establishments
The food was really bad. Grated cheese for a cheese burger and no onions ? Come on.the chips were burnt too. Honestly i am not hard to please but id give the food 2/10. If you are going to charge such high prices at least make sure the foods good.
Im pretty sure alot of others will be reluctant to pay those prices with the crappy food on offer
Post by: simboy on August 27, 2024, 03:58:55 PM
2024 will show a larger increase principally because the season tickets will have gone up.
I'm afraid I don't really buy into the, "we have to pay more to get better players/achieve more" argument. It's the lowest revenue stream with the increase in sponsorship excepting player loans.
The reality is fans are a bit of a burden to football clubs ... unless of course they get relegated and all of a sudden our money is key to survival.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on August 27, 2024, 04:00:16 PM
I think he's missed a trick there. By knocking down the North and having a restricted capacity for two years he could REALLY have squeezed the prices until the pips squeak.
I think he missed part of his O Level Marketing class where they discussed both acquisition and retention strategies. I can only guess he left half way though as he appears to know nothing about retention. I also imagine he wasn't paying full attention when the Pareto Principle (80/20 rule) was being discussed. He's gone full on focusing on the 20% of customers he hopes to bring him 80% of revenue but nowhere in the Pareto Principle does it say you tell the remaining 80% of customers to fuck off.
I do wonder how many existing customers he'll lose before the North Stand is redeveloped? My guess is he doesn't give a shit. In his eyes, unlike ours as fans, Aston Villa has no unique selling point, it could be any other club with his one size fits all strategy of solely focusing on the numbers.
Whether we have the space, I don't know but I've always thought we could retain and grow our 'traditional' support whilst developing and expanding our corporate offer in a 60k stadium. The way Heck is going and despite the brilliant work from Unai, we'd probably struggle to fill it.
Post by: rob_bridge on August 27, 2024, 04:06:14 PM
Went on my own and got to the ground about 4.50 - there were bucketloads of people queuing to get into North Stand - more than I ever recall 30mins before kick off.
Queues for Trinity were pretty long - didn't see horror shows at Witton Lane or Holte.
Was going to check new mural but decided it against it as too many folk coming down and road partially blocked with big vehicles. Saw that famous Arsenal YTuber who was having selfies with some Villa fans. Good natured.
Went back got a beer from fan zone when I found it (my bas) which was very thinly populated by this time.
5.20. Tiny queue to get into the ground Trinity quick wee - no issues and lots of paper towels.
Could see many seats not yet populated directly opposite in Witton and North Stand. IIRC it didn't kick off until about 5.35.
HT - managed to get a beer very quickly but only Carlsberg available. Lots serving in mid part.
Sounds like I got lucky for £78
Post by: Gareth on August 27, 2024, 04:13:43 PM
So here was my experience which seems to run contrary to many on here but obvious reasons.
Went on my own and got to the ground about 4.50 - there were bucketloads of people queuing to get into North Stand - more than I ever recall 30mins before kick off.
Queues for Trinity were pretty long - didn't see horror shows at Witton Lane or Holte.
Was going to check new mural but decided it against it as too many folk coming down and road partially blocked with big vehicles. Saw that famous Arsenal YTuber who was having selfies with some Villa fans. Good natured.
Went back got a beer from fan zone when I found it (my bas) which was very thinly populated by this time.
5.20. Tiny queue to get into the ground Trinity quick wee - no issues and lots of paper towels.
Could see many seats not yet populated directly opposite in Witton and North Stand. IIRC it didn't kick off until about 5.35.
HT - managed to get a beer very quickly but only Carlsberg available. Lots serving in mid part.
Sounds like I got lucky for £78
Did you go to the same game Rob? :-) please tell me the one you were at we won :-)
Joking aside it’s good that you got lucky
Post by: Ads on August 27, 2024, 04:16:03 PM
Post by: Dogtanian on August 27, 2024, 04:18:24 PM
Tickets in the middle of upper witton were £75 apparently . These are some seriously steep increases given we still haven't won anything ! Learn to walk before you can run Heck !
Imagine how much they would have been if the seats actually existed!
Some people just want the moon on a stick :-)
Oh, I see. So you want an actual seat to sit on? As well as a season ticket? I'll tell you what you want, sonny, you want the moon on a stick.
Post by: Gareth on August 27, 2024, 04:23:00 PM
Tickets in the middle of upper witton were £75 apparently . These are some seriously steep increases given we still haven't won anything ! Learn to walk before you can run Heck !
Imagine how much they would have been if the seats actually existed!
Some people just want the moon on a stick :-)
Oh, I see. So you want an actual seat to sit on? As well as a season ticket? I'll tell you what you want, sonny, you want the moon on a stick.
The non existent seats was the most mad thing about Saturday…incompetence of the highest order.
Post by: Mister E on August 27, 2024, 04:24:40 PM
Many thanks for your email which we have logged as complaint reference 24 jul-sep 281.
We offer our apologies that you have had cause to complain after the match on Saturday. We will be compiling a review of all the feedback received, and we will look to respond to your complaint accordingly, but it may not be feasible for us to reply on an individual basis to all.
Our priority will be to ensure we have a full understanding of the issues surrounding our first fixture so we can look to correct them ahead of Everton and beyond.
Thank you for your continued support, understanding and patience.
Best wishes
Lee
Lee Preece
Supporter Liaison Manager
Telephone: 0121 327 2299
Mobile: 07974 454513
Email: lee.preece@avfc.co.uk
Post by: Ads on August 27, 2024, 04:29:40 PM
Post by: Bad English on August 27, 2024, 04:35:18 PM
I reckon they can build new bogs by Everton.The Chinese have just built a 10 km canal in Cambodia, taking just 17 days to complete the project. You'd think they could stick in a few hundred yards of fresh urinal and some plumbing down the Villa. Tsk!
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on August 27, 2024, 04:36:34 PM
Post by: itbrvilla on August 27, 2024, 04:38:09 PM
I reckon they can build new bogs by Everton.They'll be too far away.
Post by: Dogtanian on August 27, 2024, 04:44:37 PM
I reckon they can build new bogs by Everton.They'll be too far away.
Would smarten up Goodison though, and we would hardly make more mess aiming vaguely in the direction of the Mersey from the Holte.
Post by: spangley1812 on August 27, 2024, 04:52:59 PM
Aston Villa
CAZOO
Aston Villa Football Club are aware of the issues faced by supporters during Saturday’s opening home game of the season against Arsenal.
The club have spent the last 48 hours investigating these issues and will spend the coming weeks ensuring they do not impact fans’ matchday experience in the future.
Regarding the difficulties with access to the stadium, we will be working on solutions to ensure each and every fan is able to use our updated ticketing technology efficiently upon arrival to Villa Park.
We have made it a top priority to resolve the problems involving public toilets and queuing within concourses.
The club will be communicating directly with fans once changes are made and processes are improved.
You have received this email as Aston Villa vs Arsenal ticket purchaser.
© Copyright Aston Villa Football Club Ltd. All rights reserved.
This email was sent by: Aston Villa Football Club, Villa Park, Birmingham, B6 6HE.
Please consider the environment before printing this e-mail.
Post by: Toronto Villa on August 27, 2024, 05:08:41 PM
Post by: Demitri_C on August 27, 2024, 05:25:39 PM
I don't think I've ever had onions on a cheeseburger!
You dont know what your missing !!
Post by: VillaTim on August 27, 2024, 05:30:36 PM
CAZOO?bless you.
Post by: frank black on August 27, 2024, 05:38:00 PM
CAZOO?
No you can’t
Post by: eamonn on August 27, 2024, 06:40:05 PM
Post by: VillaTim on August 27, 2024, 07:21:09 PM
Hope Lee Preece had a great holiday and is back, fresh to face the challenges ahead!He is and has already been emailing
Post by: SaddVillan on August 27, 2024, 08:48:17 PM
Edith Piaf
Non, je ne regrette rien
Post by: jon collett on August 27, 2024, 08:50:49 PM
His ultimate Desert Island disc?
Edith Piaf
Non, je ne regrette rien
Followed by Money, Money, Money
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on August 27, 2024, 09:41:46 PM
His ultimate Desert Island disc?
Edith Piaf
Non, je ne regrette rien
Followed by Money, Money, Money
And then that 70s classic by Christie..'Yellow River'
Post by: VillaTim on August 28, 2024, 09:30:30 AM
His ultimate Desert Island disc?Then the Pet Shop Boys classic
Edith Piaf
Non, je ne regrette rien
I've got the Prawns
You block the bogs
Let make lots of money
Followed by Money, Money, Money
Post by: Villan82 on August 28, 2024, 10:05:34 AM
Sources: https://www.crossingbroad.com/2020/11/people-do-not-appear-to-be-happy-with-chris-hecks-new-philadelphia-and-blue-collar-comments.html (https://www.crossingbroad.com/2020/11/people-do-not-appear-to-be-happy-with-chris-hecks-new-philadelphia-and-blue-collar-comments.html)
https://dknetwork.draftkings.com/2024/07/08/will-the-76ers-be-back-in-black-with-iverson-era-uniforms/ (https://dknetwork.draftkings.com/2024/07/08/will-the-76ers-be-back-in-black-with-iverson-era-uniforms/)
Quote
Basketball fans have been clamoring for the return of these uniforms for over a decade. This design is arguably seen as the most iconic of the early 2000s. Now is the right time for this move for many logical reasons.
Longtime 76ers President Chris Heck was the man who had the final say on the franchise’s uniforms when he was in charge. And Heck was extremely vocal about his disdain for these black uniforms.
Quote
More from Heck:
“they wanted the Iverson throwback and I said, “No, we’re not doing it. I think they sold out with that uniform, I think they were wrong to the brand, and come hell or high water, we’re not going back to that uniform.”
Post by: Border villan on August 28, 2024, 11:39:52 AM
Post by: Yeltzer on August 28, 2024, 08:21:19 PM
“Visit to Aston Villa Football Club and meeting with its President for Business Operations Mr. Christopher Heck to discuss potential areas for cooperation”
Maybe they were quoting to fix the bogs
Post by: Dogtanian on August 28, 2024, 08:29:50 PM
“Human rights in Uzbekistan have been described as ‘abysmal’”
Post by: Yeltzer on August 28, 2024, 08:36:37 PM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on August 28, 2024, 08:37:03 PM
Post by: Beard82 on August 28, 2024, 08:48:47 PM
Nice.Maybe the heard about "the cells" and thought this was a football club they could get behind.
“Human rights in Uzbekistan have been described as ‘abysmal’”
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on August 28, 2024, 08:54:04 PM
Just reading about his time with MLS RED BULLS...
'..Managed to alienate many of the clubs most ardent fans by raising season ticket prices'....
...amongst other cock ups by the look of it..
The door hit him on the arse on the way out after only 12 months.....
Post by: VillaTim on August 28, 2024, 09:07:17 PM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on August 28, 2024, 09:10:41 PM
Be amazed if he lasts the season
Prepare to be amazed.
Post by: Gareth on August 28, 2024, 09:24:17 PM
Post by: dave.woodhall on August 28, 2024, 09:47:02 PM
Post by: dalians umbrella on August 28, 2024, 10:27:09 PM
Nice.
“Human rights in Uzbekistan have been described as ‘abysmal’”
So has most of what happened on Saturday; so this is a good brand partnership . #onBrand
Post by: VillaTim on August 28, 2024, 10:30:22 PM
Post by: dalians umbrella on August 28, 2024, 11:13:35 PM
We need Geldof & Bono to crusade against the Witton upper concourse. A Relief concert for us all affected
That shit concourse is all that stands between you and me being booted out of our good seats to make way for more of Heck's restaurants. Every morning, I get up and thank Doug for building it on the cheap and hope it remains a health and safety hazard forever.
Post by: VillaTim on August 28, 2024, 11:15:37 PM
True . Though we might piss ourselves or worse .We need Geldof & Bono to crusade against the Witton upper concourse. A Relief concert for us all affected
That shit concourse is all that stands between you and me being booted out of our good seats to make way for more of Heck's restaurants. Every morning, I get up and thank Doug for building it on the cheap and hope it remains a health and safety hazard forever.
Post by: VILLA MOLE on August 28, 2024, 11:17:02 PM
Post by: Somniloquism on August 28, 2024, 11:17:57 PM
i wonder if heck has even been up there ? !
Yes, he needed to know what rows he could pretend to sell that didn't exist.
Post by: dalians umbrella on August 28, 2024, 11:20:49 PM
True . Though we might piss ourselves or worse .We need Geldof & Bono to crusade against the Witton upper concourse. A Relief concert for us all affected
That shit concourse is all that stands between you and me being booted out of our good seats to make way for more of Heck's restaurants. Every morning, I get up and thank Doug for building it on the cheap and hope it remains a health and safety hazard forever.
A price I'm willing to pay.
Post by: dalians umbrella on August 28, 2024, 11:21:32 PM
i wonder if heck has even been up there ? !
Yes, he needed to know what rows he could pretend to sell that didn't exist.
Brilliant. This is why this forum needs a reaction button.
Post by: Ads on August 28, 2024, 11:37:21 PM
Be amazed if he lasts the season
Prepare to be amazed.
Are you going to show him how to create fire?
Post by: Rory on August 29, 2024, 03:58:34 AM
"...make money not friends..."
Says the man who has managed to make both 😉
Post by: Demitri_C on September 02, 2024, 09:28:59 PM
Seen a photo on social media. Wonder what thats about?
Post by: Ads on September 02, 2024, 09:37:29 PM
Post by: Somniloquism on September 02, 2024, 09:40:06 PM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 02, 2024, 09:44:05 PM
Heck met some peoplw from Uzbekistan embassy to discuss 'Areas of corporation'Come on, he's trying to flog him all the leftover GA+ seats on the quiet..
Seen a photo on social media. Wonder what thats about?
Post by: dcdavecollett on September 03, 2024, 01:54:20 AM
Post by: Rory on September 03, 2024, 01:59:51 AM
Discussing ways for them to become the number one potassium producer in the region.
We all know Kazakhstan has superior potassium.
Post by: Mister E on September 03, 2024, 09:13:29 AM
Heck met some peoplw from Uzbekistan embassy to discuss 'Areas of corporation'Imagine the arm-message for "Visit Uzbekistan" - ref Arsenal (Visit Ruanda) for similar scheme.
Perhaps we're pre-empting the government's new approach to lowering the number of migrants ...
Post by: Smithy on September 03, 2024, 09:33:33 AM
Heck met some peoplw from Uzbekistan embassy to discuss 'Areas of corporation'Imagine the arm-message for "Visit Uzbekistan" - ref Arsenal (Visit Ruanda) for similar scheme.
Perhaps we're pre-empting the government's new approach to lowering the number of migrants ...
Arsenal get £10m a year from that "Visit Rwanda" sleeve sponsorship. To put that into context, that's two first-team players on £100k a week, paid for by that sponsor alone.
For £10m a year, I'd happily have "Visit Bognor" on the sleeve.
Post by: cdbearsfan on September 03, 2024, 09:36:56 AM
Post by: Dogtanian on September 03, 2024, 09:42:01 AM
Is Uzbekistan the one that has Samarkand? Always thought that would be good to visit. Imagine it's some sort of Putin-loving human rights hating type place though, like Clacton.
Lots of human rights issues, including the forced sterilisation of women and boiling prisoners to death.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Human_rights_in_Uzbekistan (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Human_rights_in_Uzbekistan)
Post by: cdbearsfan on September 03, 2024, 09:42:42 AM
Post by: PeterWithe on September 03, 2024, 10:02:02 AM
Post by: Gareth on September 03, 2024, 10:05:24 AM
Post by: Dogtanian on September 03, 2024, 10:07:27 AM
Is the Uzbek transfer window still open? Perhaps Heck was in ‘advanced talks’ over a transfer to FC Violaters
The worst club in the world in my eyes.
Post by: chrisw1 on September 03, 2024, 10:07:41 AM
Oh, is that all? Boys will be boys.Absolutely. If it means we can cover half of Dendonkers wages for the next two seasons, then boil away. Maybe we can sell the resulting glue in the club shop? Uzbeki-glue in the Cubs membership packs? Just a thought...
Post by: Dogtanian on September 03, 2024, 10:08:32 AM
Oh, is that all? Boys will be boys.Absolutely. If it means we can cover half of Dendonkers wages for the next two seasons, then boil away. Maybe we can sell the resulting glue in the club shop? Uzbeki-glue in the Cubs membership packs? Just a thought...
...has anyone seen Kortney?
Post by: LeeB on September 03, 2024, 10:38:17 AM
Is the Uzbek transfer window still open? Perhaps Heck was in ‘advanced talks’ over a transfer to FC Violaters
The worst club in the world in my eyes.
Uefa say they're clean.
Post by: eamonn on September 03, 2024, 11:27:02 AM
Discussing ways for them to become the number one potassium producer in the region.
We should be honoured to partner with Madrigal and Mesa Verde.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on September 03, 2024, 11:44:33 AM
Lots of human rights issues, including the forced sterilisation of women and boiling prisoners to death.
Did they use 'Green' energy?
Post by: Dogtanian on September 03, 2024, 11:47:43 AM
Is the Uzbek transfer window still open? Perhaps Heck was in ‘advanced talks’ over a transfer to FC Violaters
The worst club in the world in my eyes.
Uefa say they're clean.
Can just see them polishing their halo.
Post by: Bad English on September 03, 2024, 12:06:29 PM
Catering by Los Pollos Hermanos.Discussing ways for them to become the number one potassium producer in the region.
We should be honoured to partner with Madrigal and Mesa Verde.
Post by: eamonn on September 03, 2024, 12:19:20 PM
Post by: CT Villan on September 03, 2024, 12:43:13 PM
Lots of human rights issues, including the forced sterilisation of women and boiling prisoners to death.
Did they use 'Green' energy?
Yes, Soylent Green.
Post by: Villan82 on September 04, 2024, 10:45:50 AM
We know we aren't getting the full picture with him and we know, for example, that marketing interview he did in May was about 25% accurate and 75% nonsense. He could win us over he was more straightforward about decisions he has made and what the alternative is.
Post by: London Villan on September 04, 2024, 10:52:44 AM
The message should have been "to avoid PSR/FFP etc we need to generate as much revenue as possible -your support at whatever level helps us beat the system that is stacked against us. Buy the shirts, book hospitality etc everything you do helps us reach our goals and keep our best players."
Post by: Paul.S on September 04, 2024, 03:17:53 PM
The fans would be much more understanding too.
The message should have been "to avoid PSR/FFP etc we need to generate as much revenue as possible -your support at whatever level helps us beat the system that is stacked against us. Buy the shirts, book hospitality etc everything you do helps us reach our goals and keep our best players."
I think you’re right. An us against them statement would’ve gone down a lot better.
Post by: Clampy on September 04, 2024, 03:19:55 PM
The fans would be much more understanding too.
The message should have been "to avoid PSR/FFP etc we need to generate as much revenue as possible -your support at whatever level helps us beat the system that is stacked against us. Buy the shirts, book hospitality etc everything you do helps us reach our goals and keep our best players."
That sounds like the kind of thing Small Heath come out with.
Post by: jwarry on September 04, 2024, 04:30:57 PM
The fans would be much more understanding too.
The message should have been "to avoid PSR/FFP etc we need to generate as much revenue as possible -your support at whatever level helps us beat the system that is stacked against us. Buy the shirts, book hospitality etc everything you do helps us reach our goals and keep our best players."
I think you should be our commercial director
Post by: London Villan on September 04, 2024, 04:33:55 PM
Post by: FatSam on September 04, 2024, 04:41:08 PM
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on September 04, 2024, 04:44:38 PM
Post by: Paul.S on September 04, 2024, 04:56:05 PM
I wonder what the owners are thinking about this? Are they just happy with the impact Heck is having on the bottom line or a bit worried about the unrest and negative pr it’s creating?
They’ve been fantastic for us so far so I’d like to think they’ll be concerned at this negativity.
Post by: London Villan on September 04, 2024, 04:56:23 PM
Post by: Villan82 on September 04, 2024, 05:42:54 PM
His brief is to increase revenue - seemingly at all costs and damn the immediate consequences. He's delivering, but I can see this boiling over into the stands.
That is clearly how he has interpreted his role, and I am sure his contract is packed with bumper incentives if he hits certain targets. His employers may have a slightly different take on how he achieves it, however, and what he breaks on his way to achieving it.
Post by: Nii Lamptey on September 04, 2024, 05:48:25 PM
Villa Park COULD have been a fortress for these games, with an atmosphere to rival (*or even better) the Atletico game..... That Villa team will now have to do it with 11 men rather than 12. It's such a shitshow.
Post by: Clampy on September 04, 2024, 05:49:40 PM
Post by: Sexual Ealing on September 04, 2024, 06:13:28 PM
I think we all deep down understand the reasons behind it but £97 for a non season ticket holder (my brother and nephew for example) is just insane. I cant get head round that at all.
Yes, it's never difficult to understand the motives behind price gouging.
Post by: purpletrousers on September 04, 2024, 06:17:41 PM
Those scarf sellers are ordering in extra stock as we speak. The stands are going to be littered with half n half scarf toting day trippers, all with shocked looks on their faces as the few real football fans left in Villa Park start clapping and singing.
Villa Park COULD have been a fortress for these games, with an atmosphere to rival (*or even better) the Atletico game..... That Villa team will now have to do it with 11 men rather than 12. It's such a shitshow.
Yep I meant to add that to a comment on the anniversary of the Everton Cup game a year ago. I think there was consensus the poor crowd and atmosphere as a result likely
Backfired on the team :/
Post by: Skerra on September 04, 2024, 06:40:40 PM
Post by: Olof's Beard on September 04, 2024, 06:42:23 PM
Post by: Skerra on September 04, 2024, 06:45:38 PM
Post by: sirlordbaltimore on September 04, 2024, 06:59:36 PM
I think we all deep down understand the reasons behind it but £97 for a non season ticket holder (my brother and nephew for example) is just insane. I cant get head round that at all.
Nope. I can't understand the reasoning at all. It's an utter disgrace and there is no justifying it IMHO
Post by: Demitri_C on September 04, 2024, 06:59:41 PM
If you can’t afford it, simply don’t go. At some stage, the club need to know there are limits to fans financially
Yep thats how i see it. Everyones gonna pay it - we know they will so it wont stop them
Post by: algy on September 04, 2024, 07:01:03 PM
God only knows how they can justify the increase from the Conference League games, which were fine in my book, to … that.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on September 04, 2024, 07:04:32 PM
God only knows how they can justify the increase from the Conference League games, which were fine in my book, to … that.
They'll have Katherine Jenkins singing the CL anthem before each game.
Post by: Demitri_C on September 04, 2024, 07:12:04 PM
Post by: Clampy on September 04, 2024, 07:24:43 PM
I think we all deep down understand the reasons behind it but £97 for a non season ticket holder (my brother and nephew for example) is just insane. I cant get head round that at all.
Nope. I can't understand the reasoning at all. It's an utter disgrace and there is no justifying it IMHO
I get
I think we all deep down understand the reasons behind it but £97 for a non season ticket holder (my brother and nephew for example) is just insane. I cant get head round that at all.
Nope. I can't understand the reasoning at all. It's an utter disgrace and there is no justifying it IMHO
I meant the reasons behind an increase.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 04, 2024, 07:31:21 PM
If people weren't aware before they sure are now.
The best time in a generation to be a Villa fan then this numpty rocks up.
Post by: HolteL4 on September 04, 2024, 07:32:39 PM
The next meeting with the fans will be interesting. Bet heck wont ahve the courage to attend..
A stand needs to be made, think it's time non of the fan representatives attend these meetings
Post by: Demitri_C on September 04, 2024, 07:34:41 PM
The next meeting with the fans will be interesting. Bet heck wont ahve the courage to attend..
A stand needs to be made, think it's time non of the Dan representatives attend these meetings
Yes this is the perfect platform to raise pur displeasure at this farce
Post by: frank black on September 04, 2024, 07:35:41 PM
If you can’t afford it, simply don’t go. At some stage, the club need to know there are limits to fans financially
Agreed but tourists will buy em for sure. Bologna attendance may well suffer
Post by: danno on September 04, 2024, 07:37:05 PM
The next meeting with the fans will be interesting. Bet heck wont ahve the courage to attend..
A stand needs to be made, think it's time non of the Dan representatives attend these meetings
Leave me out of this!
Post by: VillaTim on September 04, 2024, 07:49:07 PM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on September 04, 2024, 07:50:43 PM
Time to boycott
Leave Mayo out of this!
Post by: Goldenballs on September 04, 2024, 07:51:00 PM
Post by: HolteL4 on September 04, 2024, 07:52:15 PM
Time to boycott
Yeah it's definitely time to boycott the Advisory Board.
Protests are needed now though like when Doug was in charge. It also needs to happen in the next game whilst things are fresh in the news, The Everton game is live on Sky maybe if we all turn our backs to the pitch it might get attention?
Post by: Pat Mustard on September 04, 2024, 08:13:54 PM
Post by: Olneythelonely on September 04, 2024, 08:16:36 PM
Get a load of 'Chris Heck, what a wanker' chants on the go.
Can’t let Sawiris and Edens get away with it. They’re fully behind this too.
Post by: Villan82 on September 04, 2024, 08:23:04 PM
Could we crowdfund a ‘Get the Heck out of our club’ banner?
You can have my bank details
Post by: Demitri_C on September 04, 2024, 08:31:28 PM
Get a load of 'Chris Heck, what a wanker' chants on the go.
Can’t let Sawiris and Edens get away with it. They’re fully behind this too.
Thats a ridiculous idea sorry but after everything these owners have done? Im not supporting that.
They saved our club from going bankrupt
Post by: j66acd on September 04, 2024, 08:37:08 PM
Something definitely needs to happen and soon, this will be live on TV and the club won’t want their imagine being tarnished for millions to see and it’s already took a bashing today.
Post by: dorsetvillian on September 04, 2024, 08:38:43 PM
Post by: Toronto Villa on September 04, 2024, 08:42:13 PM
Post by: Aldridge Villa on September 04, 2024, 08:43:27 PM
These home CL games felt like a justification and reward for following Villa home and away through all those shit seasons. I was in Rotterdam on 82 and genuinely never thought I would see Villa in the Champions League in my life time. The ticket pricing is shameful and feel sickened by how the club have just stuck up two fingers to every loyal Villa fan.Can’t really argue with that.
Post by: Des Little on September 04, 2024, 08:44:00 PM
Post by: dorsetvillian on September 04, 2024, 08:50:06 PM
Post by: Olneythelonely on September 04, 2024, 08:51:04 PM
Get a load of 'Chris Heck, what a wanker' chants on the go.
Can’t let Sawiris and Edens get away with it. They’re fully behind this too.
Thats a ridiculous idea sorry but after everything these owners have done? Im not supporting that.
They saved our club from going bankrupt
What would be ridiculous is allowing them to do whatever they like to us. Saving the club doesn’t give them carte blanche to do the fans off.
If you’re unhappy with Heck, you have to be unhappy with them on this too.
I’m really grateful to them, but they are taking the piss out of every one of us.
Post by: Border villan on September 04, 2024, 08:51:43 PM
Get a load of 'Chris Heck, what a wanker' chants on the go.
Can’t let Sawiris and Edens get away with it. They’re fully behind this too.
Running multi million/billion businesses across the globe I would be surprised if the owners keep a close watch on ticket prices for a small part of their empires.
Post by: VillaTim on September 04, 2024, 08:54:08 PM
Better still nobody go. Leave the stadium emptyTime to boycott
Yeah it's definitely time to boycott the Advisory Board.
Protests are needed now though like when Doug was in charge. It also needs to happen in the next game whilst things are fresh in the news, The Everton game is live on Sky maybe if we all turn our backs to the pitch it might get attention?
Post by: Des Little on September 04, 2024, 08:54:12 PM
Post by: Olneythelonely on September 04, 2024, 08:54:16 PM
Get a load of 'Chris Heck, what a wanker' chants on the go.
Can’t let Sawiris and Edens get away with it. They’re fully behind this too.
Running multi million/billion businesses across the globe I would be surprised if the owners keep a close watch on ticket prices for a small part of their empires.
Then I’d expect Heck will be sacked as soon as they find out about him doing such an awful thing to their “customers”.
Post by: Ads on September 04, 2024, 08:55:04 PM
82nd minute walkout at the Everton game.
Bit much to ask the Witton Lane stand to stay that late into a game.
Post by: VillaTim on September 04, 2024, 08:56:26 PM
Post by: Bent Neilsens Screamer on September 04, 2024, 09:04:49 PM
Maybe a dirty protest , piss all over the place in the Gents , oh wait...
😂
Post by: IFWaters on September 04, 2024, 09:10:56 PM
I believe the statement that we had to sell Luiz not because the owners needed the money but in order to meet the stupid PSR rules. Now the only way to stay at the top table is to increase revenue and that includes squeezing fans for as much as possible.
By all means chant heck out, turn on the owners but it's a bigger problem in my view. Greedy players and a corrupt set of financial rules have a big part in this. Rage against the machine, system whatever you want to call it.
Post by: Villan82 on September 04, 2024, 09:19:59 PM
Edit: he made a big song and dance about us leaning into our 150th celebrations, a massive marketing opportunity you would think? But no, the headlines are all about our return to the top tier and them fleecing us at the first opportunity.
Post by: dalians umbrella on September 04, 2024, 09:31:19 PM
But this is the brutal reality of where football has been going these last 20 or so years. Players and agents demanding obscene amounts of money, financial rules made to protect closed shop cartels and when we finally get a brilliant manager who achieved what we all dreamed of the reality is it has to be paid for...by us.
I believe the statement that we had to sell Luiz not because the owners needed the money but in order to meet the stupid PSR rules. Now the only way to stay at the top table is to increase revenue and that includes squeezing fans for as much as possible.
By all means chant heck out, turn on the owners but it's a bigger problem in my view. Greedy players and a corrupt set of financial rules have a big part in this. Rage against the machine, system whatever you want to call it.
Exactly. Footballers earn more in one week than a nurse earns in five years. And now, because of PSR rules, we are being fleeced to pay for those obscene wages. I don’t like Chris Heck, but I blame the players before I blame him.
Post by: IFWaters on September 04, 2024, 09:36:21 PM
Hopefully the club will listen , reflect and reduce the prices but what would be reasonable. What premium over say Man City at home in the premier league?
Post by: VillaTim on September 04, 2024, 09:41:25 PM
So is it not time to walk away from it allBut this is the brutal reality of where football has been going these last 20 or so years. Players and agents demanding obscene amounts of money, financial rules made to protect closed shop cartels and when we finally get a brilliant manager who achieved what we all dreamed of the reality is it has to be paid for...by us.
I believe the statement that we had to sell Luiz not because the owners needed the money but in order to meet the stupid PSR rules. Now the only way to stay at the top table is to increase revenue and that includes squeezing fans for as much as possible.
By all means chant heck out, turn on the owners but it's a bigger problem in my view. Greedy players and a corrupt set of financial rules have a big part in this. Rage against the machine, system whatever you want to call it.
Exactly. Footballers earn more in one week than a nurse earns in five years. And now, because of PSR rules, we are being fleeced to pay for those obscene wages. I don’t like Chris Heck, but I blame the players before I blame him.
Post by: dalians umbrella on September 04, 2024, 09:46:39 PM
So is it not time to walk away from it allBut this is the brutal reality of where football has been going these last 20 or so years. Players and agents demanding obscene amounts of money, financial rules made to protect closed shop cartels and when we finally get a brilliant manager who achieved what we all dreamed of the reality is it has to be paid for...by us.
I believe the statement that we had to sell Luiz not because the owners needed the money but in order to meet the stupid PSR rules. Now the only way to stay at the top table is to increase revenue and that includes squeezing fans for as much as possible.
By all means chant heck out, turn on the owners but it's a bigger problem in my view. Greedy players and a corrupt set of financial rules have a big part in this. Rage against the machine, system whatever you want to call it.
Exactly. Footballers earn more in one week than a nurse earns in five years. And now, because of PSR rules, we are being fleeced to pay for those obscene wages. I don’t like Chris Heck, but I blame the players before I blame him.
I would rather see a wage cap
Post by: Demitri_C on September 04, 2024, 09:47:13 PM
Get a load of 'Chris Heck, what a wanker' chants on the go.
Can’t let Sawiris and Edens get away with it. They’re fully behind this too.
Thats a ridiculous idea sorry but after everything these owners have done? Im not supporting that.
They saved our club from going bankrupt
What would be ridiculous is allowing them to do whatever they like to us. Saving the club doesn’t give them carte blanche to do the fans off.
If you’re unhappy with Heck, you have to be unhappy with them on this too.
I’m really grateful to them, but they are taking the piss out of every one of us.
I mean im not sure what you "whatever they want to us"
Im almost certain this is hecks doing as he was brought in to make money.
They have spent a ridiculous amlunt of miney helping save our club much more than any of us have they can run the club how they wish even if they make outrageous/unpopular decisions like this. Id never turn on wes and nassef personally. They have been the best thing that happened to this club. If they didnt save us we would probably be in league one now
I think the anger has to go at heck this reeks of him all over.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 04, 2024, 10:04:23 PM
Post by: john e on September 04, 2024, 10:13:22 PM
One of the ways of doing it is to increase match turnover through ticket sales
But it still got to work, it’s no good setting ticket sales so high they don’t sell
There’s no point having hospitality that isn’t taken up
There’s no point moving season-ticket holders from their regular seats and having the same seats lie empty at the game
It will be seen as an abject failure if we don’t sell out for all our Champions League home games, and the buck stops with Chris Heck
Anyone can Jack up ticket prices and put VIP boxes here and there, but the more important thing is to know your customer base,
we’re not in London and we are not a globalist club like Man United or Liverpool what works for them might not work for us
Having non-sell-out games and areas of hospitality that don’t prove popular will not be a sure and save way of increasing revenue, it will be seen as a financial failure
That’s why I believe Hecks going to have to understand the fan base far more than he has so far or he’ll be flying back to the USA on a permanent basis
His excuse will be that’s what he’s been brought in to do but it’s still got to work and I’ve said before, I honestly believe our fan base is different from those in London and the 2 world franchises in the north west
Post by: SaddVillan on September 04, 2024, 10:16:30 PM
He started the money chase.
When professionalism was in its infancy, without a league competition, many clubs faced a financial struggle – which prompted Aston Villa committee member William McGregor to propose that “ten or twelve of the most prominent clubs in England combine to arrange home and away fixtures each season”. McGregor was seeking “fixity of fixtures” for clubs, outside of cup competitions (the FA Cup and regional trophies) and irregular friendly matches, to ensure regular income. His famous letter of 1888 was sent to five clubs: Blackburn Rovers, Bolton Wanderers, Preston North End, West Bromwich Albion and his own team, Aston Villa. These five were in turn invited to nominate other clubs to be approached, and the composition of the Football League, was finalised at the Royal Hotel, Manchester, on Tuesday 17 April 1888.
Post by: Villan82 on September 04, 2024, 10:21:10 PM
Heck’s been brought in to boost revenues as we know
One of the ways of doing it is to increase match turnover through ticket sales
But it still got to work, it’s no good setting ticket sales so high they don’t sell
There’s no point having hospitality that isn’t taken up
There’s no point moving season-ticket holders from their regular seats and having the same seats lie empty at the game
It will be seen as an abject failure if we don’t sell out for all our Champions League home games, and the buck stops with Chris Heck
Anyone can Jack up ticket prices and put VIP boxes here and there, but the more important thing is to know your customer base,
we’re not in London and we are not a globalist club like Man United or Liverpool what works for them might not work for us
Having non-sell-out games and areas of hospitality that don’t prove popular will not be a sure and save way of increasing revenue, it will be seen as a financial failure
That’s why I believe Hecks going to have to understand the fan base far more than he has so far or he’ll be flying back to the USA on a permanent basis
His excuse will be that’s what he’s been brought in to do but it’s still got to work and I’ve said before, I honestly believe our fan base is different from those in London and the 2 world franchises in the north west
Providing better food and drink at the ground would have been an easy win for Heck and would generate more revenue. it is the one thing this club has been crying out for, a better all around experience for everybody going down. But he has gone after more premium, more Ga+, higher prices.
Post by: Ads on September 04, 2024, 10:33:37 PM
He's done very well on sponsorship, he's gone well with his GA+ stuff, but the ordinary fan is getting an increasingly poor deal to say the least.
Post by: Olneythelonely on September 04, 2024, 10:56:53 PM
Im almost certain this is hecks doing as he was brought in to make money.
Exactly. The owners bought him in to do this. That’s precisely what I’m saying.
Post by: ozzjim on September 04, 2024, 11:43:13 PM
Heck is unpopular, he's meant to be, he's delivering the cough mixture. It's only going to get more difficult too. PSR/SCR/FFP has tied one hand. Villa Park is chopping the other limbs off. Until Heck and the owners take that very very unpopular decision, maximising revenue from the existing stadium is one of the only options. My biggest criticism is the comms as ever with Heck, but the prices didn't surprise me in the least.
Post by: purpletrousers on September 04, 2024, 11:52:56 PM
This is football in 2024 if you want to create revenue to keep your best players. It isn't going into the pockets of the owners like we may have thought with other past owners, and I'm certain that should they be able to loophole a way to sub the finance to allow us to compete without this they would, but Heck is doing his job. Sure there may well be a tipping point and some unrest, but Villa have 2 hands tied up behind their backs. If I'm a betting man since kind of very cheap carabao cup ticket tie in will be announced in coming days as a bit of a climb down.
Heck is unpopular, he's meant to be, he's delivering the cough mixture. It's only going to get more difficult too. PSR/SCR/FFP has tied one hand. Villa Park is chopping the other limbs off. Until Heck and the owners take that very very unpopular decision, maximising revenue from the existing stadium is one of the only options. My biggest criticism is the comms as ever with Heck, but the prices didn't surprise me in the least.
The climb down was already part of the cliff face offered...
Quote
The Club also take this opportunity to announce pricing for domestic cup matches should we be drawn at home. All Carabao Cup matches and the first home fixture in the FA Cup will be priced at just £25 for adults and £10 for children in all areas of the Stadium.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 05, 2024, 12:00:04 AM
There's no justification for the CL prices imo, none. Unless the club has sustained success that £4m extra is going to come back and bite them.
Post by: ozzjim on September 05, 2024, 12:12:30 AM
Post by: eamonn on September 05, 2024, 01:33:18 AM
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on September 05, 2024, 01:54:17 AM
It does seem chump change. We sell kids/reserves for more than £4m these days.
Exactly, sell me a kid I have barely heard of any day of the week and charge me £20 less thank you very much. Or put a sponsor on McGinn's arse.
Post by: ChicagoLion on September 05, 2024, 07:25:12 AM
I look forward to the day this bloke pisses off back to where he belongs.
Post by: john e on September 05, 2024, 07:47:59 AM
Depends how close to the SCR rules are PWS. £4m might be very important. I also wonder had you asked every single fan 6 weeks before the end of the season last year if they'd take CL qualification but it's going to cost £90 a tickets, they would have all snapped your hand off.
Hospitality did not sell out for the Arsenal game and whilst matches v Bayern & Juve will be popular at any price other games not so much
you have to sell this expensive stuff to make it work and we’re not doing that yet
charge what you like to get the higher turnover but if you can’t sell the new endevours it the inflated price you don’t increase anything
Post by: ozzjim on September 05, 2024, 08:04:58 AM
Some 4 game packages would have been a good option.
On another note, I read Atairos had increased their stake in V Sports - interesting move if true.
Post by: frank black on September 05, 2024, 08:12:45 AM
It’ll be interesting to see how much more fans can take, he’s betting on the team performances papering over his actions.
Post by: Nii Lamptey on September 05, 2024, 08:36:59 AM
Post by: john e on September 05, 2024, 08:46:05 AM
Agreed john, but I think his remit is to push everything to the max to allow the on the pitch element to give us the chance to compete. I doubt he cares one jot what the fans currently think, and I get the points about being alienating fans etc. He has timed it poorly in my view, but some of the comments flying about around profiteering, stealing from the fans etc are just pointless grandstanding. Heck is there to be the unpopular person that does whatever it takes to help raise revenue to have any chance of consolidating our current position. He may be going too hard at it too soon, we'll find out if the ground isn't sold out. If it is for all 4, he's done his job. Only really the Bologna game I think they might struggle with, the other 3 will sell out.
Some 4 game packages would have been a good option.
On another note, I read Atairos had increased their stake in V Sports - interesting move if true.
It all comes back to knowing and understanding your customer base though
I don’t think he does. He thinks we’re Chelsea or Tottenham Man United Liverpool where they can sell this stuff to a queue of corporate customers and wealthy punters
We don’t have that
I keep saying this but his remit only works if it sells
Post by: Chris Smith on September 05, 2024, 09:02:21 AM
Post by: Nunkin1965 on September 05, 2024, 09:06:15 AM
I understand why he has become the focus for fans anger but I do not believe he took this decision in isolation. It’s a club wide failing and how they react will be telling.They should offer something but judging on recent evidence the silence will be deafening.
Post by: caster troy on September 05, 2024, 09:10:34 AM
If PSR is staying it does seem like the only way we can leverage the wealth of NSWE without falling foul of the rules.
Post by: Dogtanian on September 05, 2024, 09:13:08 AM
Yes, there would be a backlash from some, but that would be coming regardless.
Post by: Gareth on September 05, 2024, 09:18:09 AM
I understand why he has become the focus for fans anger but I do not believe he took this decision in isolation. It’s a club wide failing and how they react will be telling.
Operationally the buck stops with him.
Negative publicity from the Arsenal game and this decision will hopefully lead to questions from above hence every bit of ire from fans and media should be directed at him. He should be made answerable but suspect he is only capable of the scripted ‘fluff’ pieces.
Post by: algy on September 05, 2024, 09:22:41 AM
Agreed john, but I think his remit is to push everything to the max to allow the on the pitch element to give us the chance to compete. I doubt he cares one jot what the fans currently think, and I get the points about being alienating fans etc. He has timed it poorly in my view, but some of the comments flying about around profiteering, stealing from the fans etc are just pointless grandstanding. Heck is there to be the unpopular person that does whatever it takes to help raise revenue to have any chance of consolidating our current position. He may be going too hard at it too soon, we'll find out if the ground isn't sold out. If it is for all 4, he's done his job. Only really the Bologna game I think they might struggle with, the other 3 will sell out.Yeah. In reality, the Bayern and Juventus games will almost certainly sell out, even at these eye-watering prices. Celtic probably will, the only chance it doesn't is if it's a pointless match for us. Bologna may not be a sell-out, but you could argue it was always the least likely to in any case. And if 3 of the 4 matches sell out, then that alone justifies the ludicrous prices - we make an extra £1m/game, which then gets justified as the reason we don't need to sell Jacob Ramsey or whoever the following summer.
Some 4 game packages would have been a good option.
On another note, I read Atairos had increased their stake in V Sports - interesting move if true.
Ultimately Heck's job isn't to be our mate, it's to increase the club's revenue by a set amount. And if he does that, he keeps his job regardless of how much we all think he's a prick.
Post by: London Villan on September 05, 2024, 09:22:53 AM
Post by: Dogtanian on September 05, 2024, 09:37:48 AM
Post by: Somniloquism on September 05, 2024, 09:43:39 AM
I would be surprised if the Celtic game doesn't sell out. It's a novelty match, the first time we've played them competitively, and if Villa fans don't want the tickets I dare say there will be Celtic fans who will.
And probably quite a few Villa fans who also have Celtic as a "foreign country" follow.
Post by: Dogtanian on September 05, 2024, 09:46:53 AM
Post by: Villan82 on September 05, 2024, 09:51:52 AM
Is this all a tactical move to tee up a new stadium announcement? 'We've tried to make Villa Park work but it's clear we will be unable to generate the revenue needed...'
If PSR is staying it does seem like the only way we can leverage the wealth of NSWE without falling foul of the rules.
We need either a proper redevelopment or a new stadium but everything Heck has come out with indicates we are getting neither and are instead going the Chelsea route of smaller capacity full of corporate.
But if we are to have a new stadium, I shudder to think of what it would be like if he has anything to do with its design.
Post by: Dogtanian on September 05, 2024, 09:53:58 AM
Post by: Villan82 on September 05, 2024, 09:56:01 AM
I do find it funny how the general consensus is that Heck can't be trusted and most of what he says is complete bullshit. But the one thing we take as gospel is that we're not getting a redevelopment! ;D
Because we had a window to do it before the Euros in 2028 and his biggest decision to date has seen us miss that window,
Post by: PeterWithe on September 05, 2024, 09:56:48 AM
I do find it funny how the general consensus is that Heck can't be trusted and most of what he says is complete bullshit. But the one thing we take as gospel is that we're not getting a redevelopment! ;D
True enough. With the Atarios (sp?) stuff I cant see the plan being anything but.
Post by: Paul.S on September 05, 2024, 09:58:47 AM
As for protests, I don’t think Emery and the players deserve it during the game.
Maybe at half time or afterwards. Let’s hope we hear something today which admits mistakes have been made and rectifies them.
Post by: Ads on September 05, 2024, 09:59:39 AM
I do find it funny how the general consensus is that Heck can't be trusted and most of what he says is complete bullshit. But the one thing we take as gospel is that we're not getting a redevelopment! ;D
True enough. With the Atarios (sp?) stuff I cant see the plan being anything but.
Yeah, let's get the investment vehicle of Comcast who build stadiums to own a small piece of the company. Then let's stack the parent company with stadium building specialists for control by making them directors. Then increase your stake so the two original owners no longer have a majority holding that allows special resolutions.
No stadium project here. Move along.
Post by: ozzjim on September 05, 2024, 10:01:42 AM
Post by: Demitri_C on September 05, 2024, 10:02:03 AM
We are a few weeks into our 150th year/season and it’s been a disaster off the pitch. The first home game was nothing short of a disaster and I’ve still yet to read an apology or any admittance of guilt. Now this ticket price fiasco which is a disgraceful slap in the face again for supporters. He should be shown the door by the owners and hopefully he will be. If not I dread to think how much our season tickets will rise by for next season.
As for protests, I don’t think Emery and the players deserve it during the game.
Maybe at half time or afterwards. Let’s hope we hear something today which admits mistakes have been made and rectifies them.
I get called a bit negative on certain things but even i think this is abit OTT paul. Losing two nil to arsenal a disaster.? They may win the league so i dont agree with that.
I agree with your point about the protests part not during the game. Thats not productive and can back fire. We dont need the negativity before the everton home game. We need to be looking to win that.
Post by: CLEEVE on September 05, 2024, 10:03:12 AM
Post by: Risso on September 05, 2024, 10:05:26 AM
We are a few weeks into our 150th year/season and it’s been a disaster off the pitch. The first home game was nothing short of a disaster and I’ve still yet to read an apology or any admittance of guilt. Now this ticket price fiasco which is a disgraceful slap in the face again for supporters. He should be shown the door by the owners and hopefully he will be. If not I dread to think how much our season tickets will rise by for next season.
As for protests, I don’t think Emery and the players deserve it during the game.
Maybe at half time or afterwards. Let’s hope we hear something today which admits mistakes have been made and rectifies them.
I get called a bit negative on certain things but even i think this is abit OTT paul. Losing two nil to arsenal a disaster.? They may win the league so i dont agree with that.
I agree with your point about the protests part not during the game. Thats not productive and can back fire. We dont need the negativity before the everton home game. We need to be looking to win that.
He's clearly talking about the off-field issues like the toilets and queues fpr the Arsenal game, not the actual result. Honestly mate, try reading the posts a bit more carefully!
Post by: eamonn on September 05, 2024, 10:07:49 AM
Yeah, if you're a Celtic fan in the midlands, £97 to see them play in the Champions League without a day off work, travelling to Scotland, and booking a hotel is not a bad deal.
And with away-ticket pricess being capped, won't most opposition fans at CL games at VP this season be paying up to £40+ less than a many Villa supporters?
Post by: frank black on September 05, 2024, 10:08:06 AM
I would be surprised if the Celtic game doesn't sell out. It's a novelty match, the first time we've played them competitively, and if Villa fans don't want the tickets I dare say there will be Celtic fans who will.
Probably just me, but I really can’t be arsed to get excited about playing Celtic. It’s definitely now on my “I ain’t paying that to watch them! list”
Post by: frank black on September 05, 2024, 10:09:20 AM
Yeah, if you're a Celtic fan in the midlands, £97 to see them play in the Champions League without a day off work, travelling to Scotland, and booking a hotel is not a bad deal.
And with away-ticket pricess being capped, won't most opposition fans at CL games at VP this season be paying up to £40+ less than a many Villa supporters?
They’ll take home tickets
Post by: Billy Walker on September 05, 2024, 10:09:30 AM
I do find it funny how the general consensus is that Heck can't be trusted and most of what he says is complete bullshit. But the one thing we take as gospel is that we're not getting a redevelopment! ;D
Because we had a window to do it before the Euros in 2028 and his biggest decision to date has seen us miss that window,
I doubt very much it was Heck's sole decision, the multi-billionaires he works for would be the drivers of all decisions, surely?
Post by: Villan82 on September 05, 2024, 10:12:10 AM
I do find it funny how the general consensus is that Heck can't be trusted and most of what he says is complete bullshit. But the one thing we take as gospel is that we're not getting a redevelopment! ;D
Because we had a window to do it before the Euros in 2028 and his biggest decision to date has seen us miss that window,
I doubt very much it was Heck's sole decision, the multi-billionaires he works for would be the drivers of all decisions, surely?
He claimed recently he decided it last November. That he looked at it and decided it wasn't a good idea.
Then again he also said we'd never leave Villa Park in his own lifetime!
He talks so much shit you just can't really know what to think. Reminds me of another American.
Post by: ChicagoLion on September 05, 2024, 10:13:34 AM
Pretty sure it was the biggest thing on his remit and would have had a massive say in the decision.I do find it funny how the general consensus is that Heck can't be trusted and most of what he says is complete bullshit. But the one thing we take as gospel is that we're not getting a redevelopment! ;D
Because we had a window to do it before the Euros in 2028 and his biggest decision to date has seen us miss that window,
I doubt very much it was Heck's sole decision, the multi-billionaires he works for would be the drivers of all decisions, surely?
Put it this way, if Heck had said, yes great idea let’s go ahead, do you think it would have been cancelled?
Post by: purpletrousers on September 05, 2024, 10:23:02 AM
Having nailed his colors (sp) to the mast it would be an unexpected climb down from Heck, even to introduce a discounted 4 match package, which would I surely be the simplest/easiest/least humiliating climb down and ensure a higher attendance for Bologna.
I feel so so sad about the alienation of the very fans that have stood by Villa - more consistently than me, yes ‘better fans’ than me - and can’t afford to enjoy the rising to the top of the wave period
It’s a simple issue of what price success, and a moral one. This feels wrong.
It would be fascinating how closely our owners were consulted, but I do hear the argument Heck is doing exactly what his job is, this is the modern game, etc.
I think there is poor judgement/misreading the room but also question the value of making it only personal to Heck, this is a systemic issue, as that German tweet indicated, comparing prices.
I know I’ll be accused of eating up spin if i acknowledge that these hard choices by those that run the club could mean not selling a crown jewel next summer, but if they’ve priced it “right” in a profit maximisation sense, I do also think there is truth in that.
Growing pains that are not worth it, if it kills the heart, sells the soul?
Post by: Villan82 on September 05, 2024, 10:25:00 AM
Post by: Clampy on September 05, 2024, 10:27:49 AM
In the grand scheme of things an extra £4-£5m quid in the coffers wont make a huge difference to a club who can sell an academy player like Kellyman for £17m. I take a dim view of the 'oh, poor Villa they have to do this to compete' line of argument.
He had to be sold though.
Post by: purpletrousers on September 05, 2024, 10:30:33 AM
In the grand scheme of things an extra £4-£5m quid in the coffers wont make a huge difference to a club who can sell an academy player like Kellyman for £17m. I take a dim view of the 'oh, poor Villa they have to do this to compete' line of argument.
I think you are part right. Though when you cobble together GA+ and a lot of painful marginal gains (if they sorted the catering it would be the easiest win?!) it gets closer; this is not a decision in isolation.
Post by: London Villan on September 05, 2024, 10:48:24 AM
He'll have seen the problems of the upheaval of the new stand and seen it as a massive distraction. One that won't begin to pay-back on the investment for 5 or 6 years. Armed with this he'll have pushed to bin the expansion and instead rinse the stadium and fans to generate revenue - every little bit helps then. From shirt prices, disabled parking spots, limited investment in the existing infrastructure, annual summer concerts which impact footballing activities etc etc.... He'll be long gone when the decision is made for the stadium or stand - but he'll have done what was asked of him and also happy to take the flack he is getting - based on the size of his bonus at the end of it all.
Post by: john e on September 05, 2024, 10:57:55 AM
so yes Heck is just doing his job same as Dean Smith and Gerrard but when it doesn’t work out they get sacked
so it’s not just a case of Heck putting up prices because that’s his job, his job is also about a better experience, working out how to best create new hospitality areas that suit the Villa fan base and prove to be successful
if he gets it wrong he goes the same way as Deano and Gerrard whether he was ‘just doing his job’ or not
Post by: Demitri_C on September 05, 2024, 11:02:13 AM
We are a few weeks into our 150th year/season and it’s been a disaster off the pitch. The first home game was nothing short of a disaster and I’ve still yet to read an apology or any admittance of guilt. Now this ticket price fiasco which is a disgraceful slap in the face again for supporters. He should be shown the door by the owners and hopefully he will be. If not I dread to think how much our season tickets will rise by for next season.
As for protests, I don’t think Emery and the players deserve it during the game.
Maybe at half time or afterwards. Let’s hope we hear something today which admits mistakes have been made and rectifies them.
I get called a bit negative on certain things but even i think this is abit OTT paul. Losing two nil to arsenal a disaster.? They may win the league so i dont agree with that.
I agree with your point about the protests part not during the game. Thats not productive and can back fire. We dont need the negativity before the everton home game. We need to be looking to win that.
He's clearly talking about the off-field issues like the toilets and queues fpr the Arsenal game, not the actual result. Honestly mate, try reading the posts a bit more carefully!
Ooops my mistake, apolgies paul. Sorry was inbetween a boring meeting just skimmed through it 👌
Post by: Bad English on September 05, 2024, 11:15:04 AM
Agreed. I can see pub football down Meriden Park.I would be surprised if the Celtic game doesn't sell out. It's a novelty match, the first time we've played them competitively, and if Villa fans don't want the tickets I dare say there will be Celtic fans who will.
Probably just me, but I really can’t be arsed to get excited about playing Celtic. It’s definitely now on my “I ain’t paying that to watch them! list”
Post by: Paul.S on September 05, 2024, 11:22:31 AM
We are a few weeks into our 150th year/season and it’s been a disaster off the pitch. The first home game was nothing short of a disaster and I’ve still yet to read an apology or any admittance of guilt. Now this ticket price fiasco which is a disgraceful slap in the face again for supporters. He should be shown the door by the owners and hopefully he will be. If not I dread to think how much our season tickets will rise by for next season.
As for protests, I don’t think Emery and the players deserve it during the game.
Maybe at half time or afterwards. Let’s hope we hear something today which admits mistakes have been made and rectifies them.
I get called a bit negative on certain things but even i think this is abit OTT paul. Losing two nil to arsenal a disaster.? They may win the league so i dont agree with that.
I agree with your point about the protests part not during the game. Thats not productive and can back fire. We dont need the negativity before the everton home game. We need to be looking to win that.
He's clearly talking about the off-field issues like the toilets and queues fpr the Arsenal game, not the actual result. Honestly mate, try reading the posts a bit more carefully!
Ooops my mistake, apolgies paul. Sorry was inbetween a boring meeting just skimmed through it 👌
No problem. To be honest I thought you were joking and it made me smile.
UTV
Post by: Stinkin_Thinkin on September 05, 2024, 11:26:31 AM
You'd think someone at the club would have "read the room" come on lads it's a obviously bit high, but no. It's like they're happy for the drama to blow up. Is it part of some new genius marketing plan to get Villa angry engagement clicks or something more sinister?
I actually think he's trolling the Villa fans. I've never heard the term vomitories before this summer, prison cells for a hospitality box, wtf? - of all the names to come up with, the season card fiasco, over priced shirts, rivers of piss and now the champions league ticket extortion, Heck or someone else high up can't help disguise their distain for the Villa fans with their words or actions and seem to love veiwing the fallout afterwards. Very sad when on the pitch has been so very good.
Post by: eamonn on September 05, 2024, 11:30:17 AM
We are a few weeks into our 150th year/season and it’s been a disaster off the pitch. The first home game was nothing short of a disaster and I’ve still yet to read an apology or any admittance of guilt. Now this ticket price fiasco which is a disgraceful slap in the face again for supporters. He should be shown the door by the owners and hopefully he will be. If not I dread to think how much our season tickets will rise by for next season.
As for protests, I don’t think Emery and the players deserve it during the game.
Maybe at half time or afterwards. Let’s hope we hear something today which admits mistakes have been made and rectifies them.
I get called a bit negative on certain things but even i think this is abit OTT paul. Losing two nil to arsenal a disaster.? They may win the league so i dont agree with that.
I agree with your point about the protests part not during the game. Thats not productive and can back fire. We dont need the negativity before the everton home game. We need to be looking to win that.
He's clearly talking about the off-field issues like the toilets and queues fpr the Arsenal game, not the actual result. Honestly mate, try reading the posts a bit more carefully!
Ooops my mistake, apolgies paul. Sorry was inbetween a boring meeting just skimmed through it 👌
You can't afford to skim-read on H&V anymore Demi. We're in the Champions League now and require serious forum users.
Post by: Demitri_C on September 05, 2024, 11:39:27 AM
We are a few weeks into our 150th year/season and it’s been a disaster off the pitch. The first home game was nothing short of a disaster and I’ve still yet to read an apology or any admittance of guilt. Now this ticket price fiasco which is a disgraceful slap in the face again for supporters. He should be shown the door by the owners and hopefully he will be. If not I dread to think how much our season tickets will rise by for next season.
As for protests, I don’t think Emery and the players deserve it during the game.
Maybe at half time or afterwards. Let’s hope we hear something today which admits mistakes have been made and rectifies them.
I get called a bit negative on certain things but even i think this is abit OTT paul. Losing two nil to arsenal a disaster.? They may win the league so i dont agree with that.
I agree with your point about the protests part not during the game. Thats not productive and can back fire. We dont need the negativity before the everton home game. We need to be looking to win that.
He's clearly talking about the off-field issues like the toilets and queues fpr the Arsenal game, not the actual result. Honestly mate, try reading the posts a bit more carefully!
Ooops my mistake, apolgies paul. Sorry was inbetween a boring meeting just skimmed through it 👌
No problem. To be honest I thought you were joking and it made me smile.
UTV
UTV and i absolutely agree with your post. That was absolutely ridiculous
They do need to step up. Expecting people to pay more for dreadful service.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on September 05, 2024, 11:46:27 AM
I would be surprised if the Celtic game doesn't sell out. It's a novelty match, the first time we've played them competitively, and if Villa fans don't want the tickets I dare say there will be Celtic fans who will.
Probably just me, but I really can’t be arsed to get excited about playing Celtic. It’s definitely now on my “I ain’t paying that to watch them! list”
Agreed. I can see pub football down Meriden Park.
Similar for me wrt the Bayern match. If I wanted to see Germans in leather shorts I could go to Oktoberfest, or Berlin Pride.
Post by: Pat Mustard on September 05, 2024, 12:19:03 PM
Bournemouth - 26th October
Crystal Palace - 23rd November
Brentford - 3rd December
Southampton - 7th December
West Ham - 25th January
As a family we've already decided that if we want to go to CL games then these are off the table. If lots of members are in the same position then I don't see how these will get close to selling out, or at the very least it will mean all of the GA+ sections will be empty as non-members will be able to get tickets more freely.
It's always impossible when talking about boycotts as people understandably want to go, and ST holders have already paid. This just seems to me in some small way to be able to undermine Heck's reasoning for the ludicrous CL prices by directly affecting the bottom line in the more difficult to sell matches.
Post by: BC Villain on September 05, 2024, 12:40:30 PM
Quote
The Club also take this opportunity to announce pricing for domestic cup matches should we be drawn at home. All Carabao Cup matches and the first home fixture in the FA Cup will be priced at just £25 for adults and £10 for children in all areas of the Stadium.
An FA cup tie at home that may never happen if we get drawn away in the third round and get knocked out. Convenient.
Charging a kings ransom to use facilities where you need to roll your trousers up before going for a piss is an outrage.
Post by: London Villan on September 05, 2024, 12:41:24 PM
Post by: Richard on September 05, 2024, 12:44:28 PM
I'm not boycotting watching the best team we have had in a generation - I just won't spend another penny in the ground or shop.
I've often thought this is the best solution and tbh the queues and poor choice on offer makes me wonder why people bother anyway.
Post by: eamonn on September 05, 2024, 12:46:16 PM
Post by: Pat Mustard on September 05, 2024, 12:51:51 PM
Maybe call it a co-ordinated non-attendance! I also agree that boycotting food and drink at the ground is another step.
Post by: VILLA MOLE on September 05, 2024, 01:23:44 PM
Post by: Brend'Watkins on September 05, 2024, 01:31:31 PM
I would say boycott the food and drink but that aint hard really
I started that boycott 5 years ago. I have nothing left to boycott.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on September 05, 2024, 02:10:16 PM
I'm not boycotting watching the best team we have had in a generation - I just won't spend another penny in the ground or shop.
To be honest it’s already hard to spend a penny at the ground, in both its meanings.
Post by: VillaTim on September 05, 2024, 02:13:33 PM
I'm not boycotting watching the best team we have had in a generation - I just won't spend another penny in the ground or shop.yeah that will show them . Mess with us you can stick your Carlsberg up your ...
Post by: pauliewalnuts on September 05, 2024, 02:19:48 PM
I'm not boycotting watching the best team we have had in a generation - I just won't spend another penny in the ground or shop.yeah that will show them . Mess with us you can stick your Carlsberg up your ...
Indeed.
I doubt they’ll give ashit about lack of demand to buy the stuff they can’t even be arsed to try to sell in the first place.
Post by: LeeB on September 05, 2024, 02:26:17 PM
1. Death
2. Taxes
3. Boycotting/leaving games early in protest not working, ever, and looking weird and embarrassing for those that attempt it.
Post by: Demitri_C on September 05, 2024, 02:29:39 PM
I'm not boycotting watching the best team we have had in a generation - I just won't spend another penny in the ground or shop.
Good idea tbh. I wouldnt spend any more money at ground anyway. The foods terrible and over priced. You wait forever too
Post by: cdward on September 05, 2024, 03:33:17 PM
Heck will keep pushing until he is told to stop.
Post by: john e on September 05, 2024, 03:44:04 PM
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 05, 2024, 03:44:45 PM
Post by: Risso on September 05, 2024, 03:46:24 PM
In anticipation of this happening I already started boycotting the food and drink at Villa Park 20 years ago
I'm just going to piss straight on the floor, cut out the middle man.
Post by: Goldenballs on September 05, 2024, 04:26:42 PM
I don't like to nay-say and I've no better ideas myself, but there are 3 things certain in life:
1. Death
2. Taxes
3. Boycotting/leaving games early in protest not working, ever, and looking weird and embarrassing for those that attempt it.
That's why I think the best way to highlight it, is for the crowd to loudly call him a wanker on a TV game.
The commentator would make a remark about the crowd making their feelings known about high ticket prices, highlighting it again. Maybe a camera cuts to him or the owners looking shifty.
Pretty much my stock answer to all of the problems in life, loudly call someone a wanker 👍🏻
Post by: Hookeysmith on September 05, 2024, 04:33:45 PM
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GWt7RKZWEAA02-E?format=jpg&name=small)
That is very good
Post by: Pat Mustard on September 05, 2024, 04:39:34 PM
Preferably pick a game where the opposition has poor away support (Bournemouth, Brentford or Southampton) and so the Upper Witton doesn't sell either - suddenly after three years of consistent sell-outs you potentially have a game with 7-8k empty seats, and next to no-one using GA+. Make the club realise that the ridiculous CL prices have simply cannibalised our support from other games, and half of the £800k extra made from pissing everyone off has been cancelled out.
Those attending the game can then also still spending 90 minutes singing Chris Heck is a Wanker - double protest for the price of one.
Post by: Hookeysmith on September 05, 2024, 04:41:08 PM
This is clearly an attack on the working class and families.
Oh grow up - this has nothing to do with politics and everything to do with an organisation that has missed read the environment it operates in.
I would imagine Heck has looked at all those we are trying to chase for revenue, those that have been fleecing their fans for years, and has tried to emulate them.
He is in a poor stating point as they do have years of exploiting the rules, manipulating every marketing opportunity possible (even unsavoury ones like visiting countries that practiced genocide) to be allowed to be in competitions that generate so much cash that match day revenues are small fry - yet still they fleece their supporters.
How many of the North West brigade of fans from all sides were left by the wayside years ago - same with the North London lot.
We had a crap business man and a huge philanthropist in Lerner - where did that get him and us?
They have got this wrong clearly - lets hope they admit it and attempt to put it right
Post by: VillaTim on September 05, 2024, 04:53:50 PM
This is just another example of the world we live in today, where consumer capitalism is rife.Since the pandemic its seemed like a free for all
Post by: j66acd on September 05, 2024, 04:58:43 PM
Post by: LeeB on September 05, 2024, 05:12:06 PM
I don't like to nay-say and I've no better ideas myself, but there are 3 things certain in life:
1. Death
2. Taxes
3. Boycotting/leaving games early in protest not working, ever, and looking weird and embarrassing for those that attempt it.
That's why I think the best way to highlight it, is for the crowd to loudly call him a wanker on a TV game.
The commentator would make a remark about the crowd making their feelings known about high ticket prices, highlighting it again. Maybe a camera cuts to him or the owners looking shifty.
Pretty much my stock answer to all of the problems in life, loudly call someone a wanker 👍🏻
Sound advice, maybe someone with skill should edit this clip and stick Heck's face on top of Paul Whitehouse's.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 05, 2024, 05:13:26 PM
Everton £145 per person
Wolves £175 pp
Man U £210 pp
Post by: jwarry on September 05, 2024, 05:16:00 PM
This is just another example of the world we live in today, where consumer capitalism is rife.Since the pandemic its seemed like a free for all
Indeed, here in my home town I was paying less than a quid for a pint of beer now it’s near on £2.50, rip off!!!
Post by: LeeS on September 05, 2024, 05:23:13 PM
Post by: gpbarr on September 05, 2024, 05:25:18 PM
We worship the owners - but don't let any one fool you, they are business men and their interest in our club is money driven, nothing more or less.
We worship the players - but while we struggle to meet basic living standards, they are down at the Ferrari dealer sipping champagne as they decide between red or yellow.
Love him or hate him, Chris Heck isn't the problem. Shoot the messenger if you like, the problem will remain. He is an employee, told to do a job, and he's doing it.
I have made this point before - Man city are a great example of the demise of the game. They used to be a working class club in the 70's, Maine Road was a classic stadium to visit, and was always a great atmosphere. Now they have sold their souls - the stadium, the support, and the atmosphere has all gone, replaced with a plastic veneer - players earning more in a week than most fans would earn in a decade, sold out to the prawn brigade. And this is now the world's most successful club, a prime example of the fate that beholds the game.
I only manage to get to 4-5 games a season given I live in the US. i feel desperately sorry for those fans with kids or parents who now are being priced out, whose pockets are being fleeced while the game is destroyed.
Maybe one day, the course the game is on will be checked, but until then, get used to it - this is the new norm.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 05, 2024, 05:32:14 PM
..if everyone leaves early he wouldn't care less, make it vocal and let him have it from the Holte...
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 05, 2024, 05:33:40 PM
While i understand the outrage, its really just a continuation of how the games has, over the past 30 years, fundamentally changed and moved away from tits working class roots.got as far as tit's...
We worship the owners - but don't let any one fool you, they are business men and their interest in our club is money driven, nothing more or less.
We worship the players - but while we struggle to meet basic living standards, they are down at the Ferrari dealer sipping champagne as they decide between red or yellow.
Love him or hate him, Chris Heck isn't the problem. Shoot the messenger if you like, the problem will remain. He is an employee, told to do a job, and he's doing it.
I have made this point before - Man city are a great example of the demise of the game. They used to be a working class club in the 70's, Maine Road was a classic stadium to visit, and was always a great atmosphere. Now they have sold their souls - the stadium, the support, and the atmosphere has all gone, replaced with a plastic veneer - players earning more in a week than most fans would earn in a decade, sold out to the prawn brigade. And this is now the world's most successful club, a prime example of the fate that beholds the game.
I only manage to get to 4-5 games a season given I live in the US. i feel desperately sorry for those fans with kids or parents who now are being priced out, whose pockets are being fleeced while the game is destroyed.
Maybe one day, the course the game is on will be checked, but until then, get used to it - this is the new norm.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on September 05, 2024, 05:33:45 PM
over the past 30 years, fundamentally changed and moved away from tits working
Have you been reading my diary?
Post by: Drummond on September 05, 2024, 05:34:32 PM
There are plenty of non-Villa diehard fans who will buy the tickets if we don't.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on September 05, 2024, 05:36:34 PM
Hopefully some wordsmith on the Holte will come up with a song for the Everton game...unpleasant and directed solely at our friend, the thick skinned little Barney Rubble lookalike, who has managed to infuriate what seems to be most of the fan base ...
If he's thick-skinned, what's the point in doing a song?
Post by: danno on September 05, 2024, 05:37:43 PM
It won't happen. This will stick, they will sell tickets galore and we have to like it or lump it unfortunately.
There are plenty of non-Villa diehard fans who will buy the tickets if we don't.
I like the movie as much as anyone, but why will fans of John McClane necessarily want to watch Villa vs Bayern?
Post by: Brazilian Villain on September 05, 2024, 05:38:47 PM
While i understand the outrage, its really just a continuation of how the games has, over the past 30 years, fundamentally changed and moved away from tits working class roots.
Agreed, we don't even have a Miss Aston Villa these days.
Post by: Risso on September 05, 2024, 05:39:00 PM
It won't happen. This will stick, they will sell tickets galore and we have to like it or lump it unfortunately.
There are plenty of non-Villa diehard fans who will buy the tickets if we don't.
Which might work for them while we're doing well. But we're already not selling out the ground, and the far-too-expensive hospitality has got loads of capacity left. If we go on to have a season that's below expectations, they might find they've shot themselves in the foot when there's lots of capacity left, for say, Villa against Southampton.
Post by: jon collett on September 05, 2024, 05:40:10 PM
It won't happen. This will stick, they will sell tickets galore and we have to like it or lump it unfortunately.
There are plenty of non-Villa diehard fans who will buy the tickets if we don't.
I think that's right and the season ticket holder window doesn't seem v long for Bayern.
I think they made the choice not to expand the stadium and after that point were going to milk 40k for whatever they could get and Heck is focussed on his targets.
So I think regular supporters being disgruntled isn't going to bother them too much.
Although if we have a poor start the Bolgna and Celtic attendances couyld be challenging.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on September 05, 2024, 05:41:04 PM
It won't happen. This will stick, they will sell tickets galore and we have to like it or lump it unfortunately.
There are plenty of non-Villa diehard fans who will buy the tickets if we don't.
I like the movie as much as anyone, but why will fans of John McClane necessarily want to watch Villa vs Bayern?
You've never heard us sing 'Yippee-Ki-Yay, Holteenders in the Sky'?
Post by: danno on September 05, 2024, 05:43:19 PM
It won't happen. This will stick, they will sell tickets galore and we have to like it or lump it unfortunately.
There are plenty of non-Villa diehard fans who will buy the tickets if we don't.
I like the movie as much as anyone, but why will fans of John McClane necessarily want to watch Villa vs Bayern?
You've never heard us sing 'Yippee-Ki-Yay, Holteenders in the Sky'?
True, I myself have sung it... with a vengeance!
Post by: tomd2103 on September 05, 2024, 05:46:00 PM
Making tickets for all of the group stage games 'Category A' games would have surely sufficed and no-one really would have batted an eyelid.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 05, 2024, 05:49:11 PM
I've been driving around a bit with work today and the club has been taking pelters all day on Talksport. It's not really a great look for them and it seems that it could have all been pretty avoidable to me.This exactly
Making tickets for all of the group stage games 'Category A' games would have surely sufficed and no-one really would have batted an eyelid.
Post by: Villan82 on September 05, 2024, 05:57:48 PM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 05, 2024, 07:05:06 PM
It won't happen. This will stick, they will sell tickets galore and we have to like it or lump it unfortunately.A yes and no, they will sell plenty of tickets for the time being. But at some point there will be a tipping point.
There are plenty of non-Villa diehard fans who will buy the tickets if we don't.
As regards non villa die hards, I asked in the office if anyone fancied a CL ticket if we didn't sell out, and was met with " just watch it on the telly for nothing" type of reply.... we are not yet a football tourist destination, maybe one day.
Post by: ozzjim on September 05, 2024, 07:30:51 PM
It won't happen. This will stick, they will sell tickets galore and we have to like it or lump it unfortunately.A yes and no, they will sell plenty of tickets for the time being. But at some point there will be a tipping point.
There are plenty of non-Villa diehard fans who will buy the tickets if we don't.
As regards non villa die hards, I asked in the office if anyone fancied a CL ticket if we didn't sell out, and was met with " just watch it on the telly for nothing" type of reply.... we are not yet a football tourist destination, maybe one day.
Of course there will be a tipping point. But the gamble I am sure will be that it will come when other revenues are able to dwarf ticket sales. If this strategy makes them £3-5M this season on CL tickets, that's over 1% of revenue. It would be less than 0.5% for all of the other top 6 sides.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 05, 2024, 07:34:10 PM
You could send him an email...he'll put it in junkHopefully some wordsmith on the Holte will come up with a song for the Everton game...unpleasant and directed solely at our friend, the thick skinned little Barney Rubble lookalike, who has managed to infuriate what seems to be most of the fan base ...
If he's thick-skinned, what's the point in doing a song?
Write him a letter..in the bin
When people get angry or feel hard done by they get vocal, and always have done. Because it gets noticed.
Thick skinned or not, nobody wants their face on the TV while the crowd gives them pelters
Post by: wozwebs on September 05, 2024, 07:37:24 PM
Post by: Paul.S on September 05, 2024, 07:53:32 PM
Post by: Border villan on September 05, 2024, 08:11:17 PM
Post by: ChicagoLion on September 05, 2024, 08:11:54 PM
I may have missed it amongst the ticket price issues but has anyone at the club explained the Arsenal debacle yet?Nope, no explanation no apology.
Just contempt.
Post by: Brend'Watkins on September 05, 2024, 08:16:45 PM
Don’t be silly, Heck has far bigger upcoming PR disasters to ignore than the Arsenal match.
Crowd trouble in one of his over the top priced, wank named, all inclusive packages taken up by away supporters is my guess.
Post by: john e on September 05, 2024, 08:18:11 PM
We were all warned about this bloke and it's coming to fruition. Credit to him on the Adidas deal but to alienate fans like this is the final straw
Buxton FC also got Adidas shirts this season so it’s good but it’s not like he negotiated the London Bridge deal
Post by: Paul.S on September 05, 2024, 08:19:30 PM
Post by: Footy-Vill on September 05, 2024, 08:27:22 PM
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 05, 2024, 08:30:38 PM
Post by: Clampy on September 05, 2024, 08:33:34 PM
Post by: Footy-Vill on September 05, 2024, 08:36:58 PM
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 05, 2024, 08:37:28 PM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 05, 2024, 08:37:34 PM
Don't know what others think, but is infuriating almost the entire fan base a price worth paying for 0.5% of revenue..?It won't happen. This will stick, they will sell tickets galore and we have to like it or lump it unfortunately.A yes and no, they will sell plenty of tickets for the time being. But at some point there will be a tipping point.
There are plenty of non-Villa diehard fans who will buy the tickets if we don't.
As regards non villa die hards, I asked in the office if anyone fancied a CL ticket if we didn't sell out, and was met with " just watch it on the telly for nothing" type of reply.... we are not yet a football tourist destination, maybe one day.
Of course there will be a tipping point. But the gamble I am sure will be that it will come when other revenues are able to dwarf ticket sales. If this strategy makes them £3-5M this season on CL tickets, that's over 1% of revenue. It would be less than 0.5% for all of the other top 6 sides.
Post by: Villan82 on September 05, 2024, 08:38:24 PM
If getting an Adidas shirt is that easy, why haven't we had one before now?
Fulham have one mate. Do you think they are a bigger draw than us? Especially now we are a champions league club? it wasn't exactly the deal of the century now was it?
Post by: Clampy on September 05, 2024, 08:48:31 PM
If getting an Adidas shirt is that easy, why haven't we had one before now?
Fulham have one mate. Do you think they are a bigger draw than us? Especially now we are a champions league club? it wasn't exactly the deal of the century now was it?
There's lot to have a pop at him for but shrugging about the Adidas deal is a tad petty.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 05, 2024, 09:05:08 PM
With Sawiris in the background and CL on the table it would have been something of a tap in surely?
Post by: pauliewalnuts on September 05, 2024, 09:19:56 PM
If getting an Adidas shirt is that easy, why haven't we had one before now?
Fulham have one mate. Do you think they are a bigger draw than us? Especially now we are a champions league club? it wasn't exactly the deal of the century now was it?
It isn’t quite that simple.
Blues wear Nike, or at least they did last season. Means nothing.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on September 05, 2024, 09:23:48 PM
Fair play to Heck on the Adidas deal and getting it over the line.
With Sawiris in the background and CL on the table it would have been something of a tap in surely?
When Nas said Heck was fab, I thought he was praising him.
Post by: Beard82 on September 05, 2024, 09:28:00 PM
The owners tend to back people until such a point that they decide they are not doing a good enough job. they backed Gerrard's plans, they backed Purslow's plans and they have back Heck's plans. Ultimately if he delivers on his targets then they will be happy - its only the decision's Heck make dont pay dividend that they will act. I dont think they get involved in the detail to that extent
I dont think any of them (even Heck) like it, but see it a neccessary evil of what they need to do to achieve the clubs overall goals.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on September 05, 2024, 09:29:01 PM
Fair play to Heck on the Adidas deal and getting it over the line.
With Sawiris in the background and CL on the table it would have been something of a tap in surely?
If that were the case, why didn’t Purslow tap it in?
Sawiris is the largest private shareholder in Adidas but his holding is a small percent and even then, being a shareholder doesn’t give you executive power to make decisions like doing a big deal with Villa
Post by: Footy-Vill on September 05, 2024, 09:29:38 PM
The colab is where it's at for the next stage.
Collaboration for Aston Villa kits and off duty range.
Getting non Villa supporters and non footballer supporters to wear Villa merchandise clothing.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 05, 2024, 09:48:42 PM
Don't remember being in the top four and Champions League when Purslow was here? Which is the main factor in us getting a decent deal with AdidasFair play to Heck on the Adidas deal and getting it over the line.
With Sawiris in the background and CL on the table it would have been something of a tap in surely?
If that were the case, why didn’t Purslow tap it in?
Sawiris is the largest private shareholder in Adidas but his holding is a small percent and even then, being a shareholder doesn’t give you executive power to make decisions like doing a big deal with Villa
Post by: pauliewalnuts on September 05, 2024, 10:08:06 PM
Don't remember being in the top four and Champions League when Purslow was here? Which is the main factor in us getting a decent deal with AdidasFair play to Heck on the Adidas deal and getting it over the line.
With Sawiris in the background and CL on the table it would have been something of a tap in surely?
If that were the case, why didn’t Purslow tap it in?
Sawiris is the largest private shareholder in Adidas but his holding is a small percent and even then, being a shareholder doesn’t give you executive power to make decisions like doing a big deal with Villa
That’s fair enough but in that case, how is it a tap in?
‘All’ we had to do was get into the champions league.
Heck is a wanker but there is no need to trivialise his actual achievements. There is enough stick to beat him with without needing to do that.
Post by: Olneythelonely on September 05, 2024, 10:08:12 PM
Maybe some aren't aware Nasserf Sawiris has a stake in Adidas.
What? Why has no one mentioned this before?
Post by: Brazilian Villain on September 05, 2024, 10:10:06 PM
Maybe some aren't aware Nasserf Sawiris has a stake in Adidas.
What? Why has no one mentioned this before?
I believe he sold his stake as the 'conflict of interest' prevented us from having Adidas as our kit supplier.
Post by: dave.woodhall on September 05, 2024, 10:11:22 PM
If getting an Adidas shirt is that easy, why haven't we had one before now?
Fulham have one mate. Do you think they are a bigger draw than us? Especially now we are a champions league club? it wasn't exactly the deal of the century now was it?
As PWS alluded to, it all depends on what the deal is. When we got Nike it sounded impressive until someone worked out the figures involved.
Post by: Des Little on September 05, 2024, 10:12:07 PM
Post by: Demitri_C on September 05, 2024, 10:16:50 PM
They can't ignore this. This is too unpopular
Post by: RamboandBruno on September 05, 2024, 10:19:34 PM
On all the villa uploads on socila media 90% of the comments are critical of the prices.Tickets for Bayern start to go on sale tomorrow, I think they are ignoring it.
They can't ignore this. This is too unpopular
Post by: Des Little on September 05, 2024, 10:21:04 PM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 05, 2024, 10:21:40 PM
Any club in the top four and or Champions League would have kit manufacturers extremely keen to supply them for positive exposure. Its nothing new. I'd imagine a few would have been keen to supply us on a deal that was good for us. As I said fair play to him for getting it over the line, but if Gerrard was still here we'd be in Macron again. But you're correct, he is a Wa##erDon't remember being in the top four and Champions League when Purslow was here? Which is the main factor in us getting a decent deal with AdidasFair play to Heck on the Adidas deal and getting it over the line.
With Sawiris in the background and CL on the table it would have been something of a tap in surely?
If that were the case, why didn’t Purslow tap it in?
Sawiris is the largest private shareholder in Adidas but his holding is a small percent and even then, being a shareholder doesn’t give you executive power to make decisions like doing a big deal with Villa
That’s fair enough but in that case, how is it a tap in?
‘All’ we had to do was get into the champions league.
Heck is a wanker but there is no need to trivialise his actual achievements. There is enough stick to beat him with without needing to do that.
Post by: Beard82 on September 05, 2024, 10:23:47 PM
It doesnt make it right - im pretty sure they would have factored in this backlash into there decision making
Post by: ChicagoLion on September 05, 2024, 10:24:48 PM
I think the club is fortunate the biggest game is first as more people will swallow it. I cant see it changing - maybe the will do a discount for one of the games if demand isnt what is expected.I don’t, it’s not business smart.
It doesnt make it right - im pretty sure they would have factored in this backlash into there decision making
Post by: Des Little on September 05, 2024, 10:28:46 PM
Post by: Beard82 on September 05, 2024, 10:29:48 PM
They have to make unpopular decisions - as they cant think purely long term due to PSR / UEFA's restraints. They would have probably modelled it and worked out the optimum price. Its not good from a PR perspective - but that doesnt mean its not business smart. Not defending it.I think the club is fortunate the biggest game is first as more people will swallow it. I cant see it changing - maybe the will do a discount for one of the games if demand isnt what is expected.I don’t, it’s not business smart.
It doesnt make it right - im pretty sure they would have factored in this backlash into there decision making
Post by: Drummond on September 05, 2024, 10:37:26 PM
Maybe some aren't aware Nasserf Sawiris has a stake in Adidas.
True, there's a tribe in the Amazon I think.
Post by: ChicagoLion on September 05, 2024, 10:40:58 PM
I don’t think the owners made the decision, I don’t understand why people think that multi billionaires with multiple business interests would get involved in ticket pricing.They have to make unpopular decisions - as they cant think purely long term due to PSR / UEFA's restraints. They would have probably modelled it and worked out the optimum price. Its not good from a PR perspective - but that doesnt mean its not business smart. Not defending it.I think the club is fortunate the biggest game is first as more people will swallow it. I cant see it changing - maybe the will do a discount for one of the games if demand isnt what is expected.I don’t, it’s not business smart.
It doesnt make it right - im pretty sure they would have factored in this backlash into there decision making
Now there is a problem and they are aware of it but they would have not wanted it this way.
It damages the brand, why do you think they went to all the trouble with the kit launch and the megastore opening. They want the brand to have a feel good factor, pissing loads of people off and getting negative national TV and Newspaper coverage is not good brand management.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 05, 2024, 10:43:49 PM
Sad times.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on September 05, 2024, 10:49:43 PM
Post by: Beard82 on September 05, 2024, 10:50:47 PM
yeah given all that will they undermine the team they have appointed? Its bad brand management sure - but look at how much other big clubs have damaged there brand with no long term impact. Im not saying they should charge these prices - but I dont expect them to change there minds either.I don’t think the owners made the decision, I don’t understand why people think that multi billionaires with multiple business interests would get involved in ticket pricing.They have to make unpopular decisions - as they cant think purely long term due to PSR / UEFA's restraints. They would have probably modelled it and worked out the optimum price. Its not good from a PR perspective - but that doesnt mean its not business smart. Not defending it.I think the club is fortunate the biggest game is first as more people will swallow it. I cant see it changing - maybe the will do a discount for one of the games if demand isnt what is expected.I don’t, it’s not business smart.
It doesnt make it right - im pretty sure they would have factored in this backlash into there decision making
Now there is a problem and they are aware of it but they would have not wanted it this way.
It damages the brand, why do you think they went to all the trouble with the kit launch and the megastore opening. They want the brand to have a feel good factor, pissing loads of people off and getting negative national TV and Newspaper coverage is not good brand management.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on September 05, 2024, 10:59:43 PM
On Back Pages Tonight (SSN) in a minute.
They over-ran talking inconsequential shite about Manure, we didn’t get a mention in the end. We’re on the back page of the Metro tomorrow anyway.
Post by: Footy-Vill on September 05, 2024, 11:08:12 PM
I don't know the level of business acumen but what are people expecting from Heck in his role?I think the club is fortunate the biggest game is first as more people will swallow it. I cant see it changing - maybe the will do a discount for one of the games if demand isnt what is expected.I don’t, it’s not business smart.
It doesnt make it right - im pretty sure they would have factored in this backlash into there decision making
He's employed by the club.
This is the literal price of success which unfortunately doesn't seemingly reward loyalty
Post by: exigo on September 05, 2024, 11:08:58 PM
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GWt7RKZWEAA02-E?format=jpg&name=small)
That is very good
I can't imagine who created this in a rage this morning.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 05, 2024, 11:15:09 PM
Can't really argue with that.
Post by: exigo on September 05, 2024, 11:19:32 PM
Dear Lee, and whoever picks up the complaint inbox.
I know I'm not the first into your inbox. I probably won't be the last. And in all honesty, I've debated all day whether it's really worth the effort of my time or yours.
But here's the thing. When my dad took me to my first ever Villa game nearly forty years ago, I fell in love. An unconditional love, I thought. A 120x80m patch of grass that my dad worshipped for decades, and his dad, and before that my great grandad had his ashes scattered in front of the old Witton end terrace.
I never thought I'd question that loyalty. That love. Not when I had posters of the 81 and 82 squads on my first bedroom wall. Not when I listened to the radio in 1988, hearing us get promoted with an away draw at Swindon. Not in the trophy-lifting years of Big Ron and water-walking Brian.
When Martin O'Neil turned his back on us, I was cut deep. It made me more resolved to cheer the lads on. The day we were relegated, I was the last one off the Holte. The club's pain is my pain.
Lee, you've been here for decades. You know there are loads like me. And you've seen the backlash on social media too these last two days. I don't hold you in any way responsible, but as fan liaison officer, I need you to know just how far apart from the club I feel today.
Two weeks ago, I stood in the Holte car park. Not allowed in the Suite anymore, that's for the corporate shilling these days. I know my place. All I want is a pie and pint, somewhere out of the wet and wind of winter. The one shipping container did its best to keep us regular punters in pints. Get there early we were told, only for the queues to snake halfway to the station when the turnstiles wouldn't open. Not one tannoy announcement, not one megaphone, not one person taking ownership of the issue and avoiding the risk of crushes when the gates finally did open 45 minutes late.
I wasn't expecting the hanging gardens of Babylon once inside. But equally, when prices are now double digits higher (again) than last season, I expect more than toilets flowing with piss. I was there in the 80s, along with 12,000 fans. I was there in the Championship, when stands were closed. Now what exactly are we paying for off the pitch?
Chris Heck has one KPI as I see it. Get us to £400m income as quickly as possible. He's only here to make profit, not friends. His carefully choreographed appearances, infrequent and insincere do nothing to dispel that notion. First it was the suite, then it was the lack of consultation (as per FA rules) about the badge change, then the Terrace View. The charge sheet goes on. And speaking of charging, here we are.
I knew we'd get hit with big prices for the Champions League nights. That anthem should send shivers down all our spines. Instead it will send a reflux of bile back into our bellies. There was a chance to acknowledge the club simply got it wrong on this one. Just like Everton in the cup last year. But there's no sorry anymore. Just a corporate line on acknowledging the issues, while having no intention of actually engaging with them.
I'm privileged. I can afford these prices. And I'll probably pay them, because I watched with my own eyes the last time we played Bayern Munich. I know what it means. But I also know what it means for the thousands of others who went to Rotherham, Wigan and Barnsley. Who were there when we were shit. Who kept the club going when it was most in danger of going under.
The sense now, here, in 2024, is that actually you don't want me at the club. You'd rather have some day-tripper, paying twice the price and spraying cash at the club shop. Maybe that's what it will take to get to Heck's magical £400m bonus clause. But glory is temporary. And when the club misses out on Europe. Or has that blip in form. Or goes out of a cup early, the tourists won't want to sit in our seats any more. And who will fill Villa Park then? Not the likes of me. Not the kids who never got to see Bayern or even Bologna in real life, because their parents couldn't afford it.
It won't bother Heck. He'll be long gone by then. Just another in a line of club fanbases he's screwed over. And do you know what? It likely won't bother me either. I'll have found a new unconditional love.
And right now, that's what hurts the most. £320 for four matches of football. Let that properly sink in. It's not just the urinals that are taking the piss.
Doubling down on the prices today was a missed opportunity. This won't go away, not now it's being taken up by so many people, both Villans and football fans more broadly. We used to be a club with class. Now, it's not even just the working classes being pushed away.
120 miles away from Villa Park, I've never felt this far away from what was and has always been my club. Please heed to anger, not just from me, but thousands across Villa Park.
Don't miss this fleeting opportunity to put things right.
Regards.
Post by: Villan82 on September 05, 2024, 11:25:27 PM
Post by: Clampy on September 05, 2024, 11:30:43 PM
Post by: PaulMcGrathsNo5Shirt on September 05, 2024, 11:35:15 PM
This is what I wrote to the fancomplaints email, and Lee. Anyone debating whether it's worth it, please do.
Dear Lee, and whoever picks up the complaint inbox.
I know I'm not the first into your inbox. I probably won't be the last. And in all honesty, I've debated all day whether it's really worth the effort of my time or yours.
But here's the thing. When my dad took me to my first ever Villa game nearly forty years ago, I fell in love. An unconditional love, I thought. A 120x80m patch of grass that my dad worshipped for decades, and his dad, and before that my great grandad had his ashes scattered in front of the old Witton end terrace.
I never thought I'd question that loyalty. That love. Not when I had posters of the 81 and 82 squads on my first bedroom wall. Not when I listened to the radio in 1988, hearing us get promoted with an away draw at Swindon. Not in the trophy-lifting years of Big Ron and water-walking Brian.
When Martin O'Neil turned his back on us, I was cut deep. It made me more resolved to cheer the lads on. The day we were relegated, I was the last one off the Holte. The club's pain is my pain.
Lee, you've been here for decades. You know there are loads like me. And you've seen the backlash on social media too these last two days. I don't hold you in any way responsible, but as fan liaison officer, I need you to know just how far apart from the club I feel today.
Two weeks ago, I stood in the Holte car park. Not allowed in the Suite anymore, that's for the corporate shilling these days. I know my place. All I want is a pie and pint, somewhere out of the wet and wind of winter. The one shipping container did its best to keep us regular punters in pints. Get there early we were told, only for the queues to snake halfway to the station when the turnstiles wouldn't open. Not one tannoy announcement, not one megaphone, not one person taking ownership of the issue and avoiding the risk of crushes when the gates finally did open 45 minutes late.
I wasn't expecting the hanging gardens of Babylon once inside. But equally, when prices are now double digits higher (again) than last season, I expect more than toilets flowing with piss. I was there in the 80s, along with 12,000 fans. I was there in the Championship, when stands were closed. Now what exactly are we paying for off the pitch?
Chris Heck has one KPI as I see it. Get us to £400m income as quickly as possible. He's only here to make profit, not friends. His carefully choreographed appearances, infrequent and insincere do nothing to dispel that notion. First it was the suite, then it was the lack of consultation (as per FA rules) about the badge change, then the Terrace View. The charge sheet goes on. And speaking of charging, here we are.
I knew we'd get hit with big prices for the Champions League nights. That anthem should send shivers down all our spines. Instead it will send a reflux of bile back into our bellies. There was a chance to acknowledge the club simply got it wrong on this one. Just like Everton in the cup last year. But there's no sorry anymore. Just a corporate line on acknowledging the issues, while having no intention of actually engaging with them.
I'm privileged. I can afford these prices. And I'll probably pay them, because I watched with my own eyes the last time we played Bayern Munich. I know what it means. But I also know what it means for the thousands of others who went to Rotherham, Wigan and Barnsley. Who were there when we were shit. Who kept the club going when it was most in danger of going under.
The sense now, here, in 2024, is that actually you don't want me at the club. You'd rather have some day-tripper, paying twice the price and spraying cash at the club shop. Maybe that's what it will take to get to Heck's magical £400m bonus clause. But glory is temporary. And when the club misses out on Europe. Or has that blip in form. Or goes out of a cup early, the tourists won't want to sit in our seats any more. And who will fill Villa Park then? Not the likes of me. Not the kids who never got to see Bayern or even Bologna in real life, because their parents couldn't afford it.
It won't bother Heck. He'll be long gone by then. Just another in a line of club fanbases he's screwed over. And do you know what? It likely won't bother me either. I'll have found a new unconditional love.
And right now, that's what hurts the most. £320 for four matches of football. Let that properly sink in. It's not just the urinals that are taking the piss.
Doubling down on the prices today was a missed opportunity. This won't go away, not now it's being taken up by so many people, both Villans and football fans more broadly. We used to be a club with class. Now, it's not even just the working classes being pushed away.
120 miles away from Villa Park, I've never felt this far away from what was and has always been my club. Please heed to anger, not just from me, but thousands across Villa Park.
Don't miss this fleeting opportunity to put things right.
Regards.
Brilliant post
Post by: Stu82 on September 05, 2024, 11:42:55 PM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 05, 2024, 11:45:42 PM
This is what I wrote to the fancomplaints email, and Lee. Anyone debating whether it's worth it, please do.Wonderful stuff..
Dear Lee, and whoever picks up the complaint inbox.
I know I'm not the first into your inbox. I probably won't be the last. And in all honesty, I've debated all day whether it's really worth the effort of my time or yours.
But here's the thing. When my dad took me to my first ever Villa game nearly forty years ago, I fell in love. An unconditional love, I thought. A 120x80m patch of grass that my dad worshipped for decades, and his dad, and before that my great grandad had his ashes scattered in front of the old Witton end terrace.
I never thought I'd question that loyalty. That love. Not when I had posters of the 81 and 82 squads on my first bedroom wall. Not when I listened to the radio in 1988, hearing us get promoted with an away draw at Swindon. Not in the trophy-lifting years of Big Ron and water-walking Brian.
When Martin O'Neil turned his back on us, I was cut deep. It made me more resolved to cheer the lads on. The day we were relegated, I was the last one off the Holte. The club's pain is my pain.
Lee, you've been here for decades. You know there are loads like me. And you've seen the backlash on social media too these last two days. I don't hold you in any way responsible, but as fan liaison officer, I need you to know just how far apart from the club I feel today.
Two weeks ago, I stood in the Holte car park. Not allowed in the Suite anymore, that's for the corporate shilling these days. I know my place. All I want is a pie and pint, somewhere out of the wet and wind of winter. The one shipping container did its best to keep us regular punters in pints. Get there early we were told, only for the queues to snake halfway to the station when the turnstiles wouldn't open. Not one tannoy announcement, not one megaphone, not one person taking ownership of the issue and avoiding the risk of crushes when the gates finally did open 45 minutes late.
I wasn't expecting the hanging gardens of Babylon once inside. But equally, when prices are now double digits higher (again) than last season, I expect more than toilets flowing with piss. I was there in the 80s, along with 12,000 fans. I was there in the Championship, when stands were closed. Now what exactly are we paying for off the pitch?
Chris Heck has one KPI as I see it. Get us to £400m income as quickly as possible. He's only here to make profit, not friends. His carefully choreographed appearances, infrequent and insincere do nothing to dispel that notion. First it was the suite, then it was the lack of consultation (as per FA rules) about the badge change, then the Terrace View. The charge sheet goes on. And speaking of charging, here we are.
I knew we'd get hit with big prices for the Champions League nights. That anthem should send shivers down all our spines. Instead it will send a reflux of bile back into our bellies. There was a chance to acknowledge the club simply got it wrong on this one. Just like Everton in the cup last year. But there's no sorry anymore. Just a corporate line on acknowledging the issues, while having no intention of actually engaging with them.
I'm privileged. I can afford these prices. And I'll probably pay them, because I watched with my own eyes the last time we played Bayern Munich. I know what it means. But I also know what it means for the thousands of others who went to Rotherham, Wigan and Barnsley. Who were there when we were shit. Who kept the club going when it was most in danger of going under.
The sense now, here, in 2024, is that actually you don't want me at the club. You'd rather have some day-tripper, paying twice the price and spraying cash at the club shop. Maybe that's what it will take to get to Heck's magical £400m bonus clause. But glory is temporary. And when the club misses out on Europe. Or has that blip in form. Or goes out of a cup early, the tourists won't want to sit in our seats any more. And who will fill Villa Park then? Not the likes of me. Not the kids who never got to see Bayern or even Bologna in real life, because their parents couldn't afford it.
It won't bother Heck. He'll be long gone by then. Just another in a line of club fanbases he's screwed over. And do you know what? It likely won't bother me either. I'll have found a new unconditional love.
And right now, that's what hurts the most. £320 for four matches of football. Let that properly sink in. It's not just the urinals that are taking the piss.
Doubling down on the prices today was a missed opportunity. This won't go away, not now it's being taken up by so many people, both Villans and football fans more broadly. We used to be a club with class. Now, it's not even just the working classes being pushed away.
120 miles away from Villa Park, I've never felt this far away from what was and has always been my club. Please heed to anger, not just from me, but thousands across Villa Park.
Don't miss this fleeting opportunity to put things right.
Regards.
Are we going to have any fans left...
One rotten apple...
Post by: Stu82 on September 05, 2024, 11:48:23 PM
I don’t think the owners made the decision, I don’t understand why people think that multi billionaires with multiple business interests would get involved in ticket pricing.They have to make unpopular decisions - as they cant think purely long term due to PSR / UEFA's restraints. They would have probably modelled it and worked out the optimum price. Its not good from a PR perspective - but that doesnt mean its not business smart. Not defending it.I think the club is fortunate the biggest game is first as more people will swallow it. I cant see it changing - maybe the will do a discount for one of the games if demand isnt what is expected.I don’t, it’s not business smart.
It doesnt make it right - im pretty sure they would have factored in this backlash into there decision making
Now there is a problem and they are aware of it but they would have not wanted it this way.
It damages the brand, why do you think they went to all the trouble with the kit launch and the megastore opening. They want the brand to have a feel good factor, pissing loads of people off and getting negative national TV and Newspaper coverage is not good brand management.
That’s how I see it, their portfolios are wide and varied, and they employ people to do the day to day running of business’s.
I think the reaction to the prices will not be fitting in with their brand plans. They will be hearing the noise it has created.
Post by: Gareth on September 06, 2024, 12:32:05 AM
Post by: wozwebs on September 06, 2024, 12:41:51 AM
Check this post from 4 years ago from someone in the U.S.
(https://i.ibb.co/whHVMTK/IMG-6503.jpg) (https://ibb.co/whHVMTK)
Post by: Toronto Villa on September 06, 2024, 01:20:52 AM
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on September 06, 2024, 02:01:08 AM
Post by: purpletrousers on September 06, 2024, 02:07:42 AM
It's a fantastic letter, it's heartfelt and superbly written but will it achieve anything if you just hand over your £320 anyway? I just hope it does.
It is indeed. Thank you for writing it, sending it and sharing it Exigo. And yes what more can you do…
Post by: PaulWinch again on September 06, 2024, 06:11:08 AM
Post by: PaulWinch again on September 06, 2024, 06:18:30 AM
Post by: ChicagoLion on September 06, 2024, 06:49:25 AM
All the best mate,
Post by: Demitri_C on September 06, 2024, 06:59:34 AM
On all the villa uploads on socila media 90% of the comments are critical of the prices.Tickets for Bayern start to go on sale tomorrow, I think they are ignoring it.
They can't ignore this. This is too unpopular
I was referring to the other CL games. I think they will wait see how this sells and if ita not selling well they will evaluate pricing before putting others on sale. If people pay it and it sells out they will just carry on doing it. They will just ignore a host of people moaning online. You have to protest with your wallet
Post by: Nunkin1965 on September 06, 2024, 07:03:50 AM
Post by: Villan82 on September 06, 2024, 07:11:22 AM
Wonderful post, exactly as I and most of us are feeling eloquently put.
Check this post from 4 years ago from someone in the U.S.
(https://i.ibb.co/whHVMTK/IMG-6503.jpg) (https://ibb.co/whHVMTK)
Yeah, I did my research on how he got on in his jobs in America and was horrified. I posted something a while back about him changing the 76ers uniform and being absolutely adamant on what he did.
I have no doubt he'd be capable of changing the villa colours if there weren't rules against that sort of thing. I have always thought this guy was unsuited to this role.
Post by: Olneythelonely on September 06, 2024, 07:25:31 AM
On all the villa uploads on socila media 90% of the comments are critical of the prices.Tickets for Bayern start to go on sale tomorrow, I think they are ignoring it.
They can't ignore this. This is too unpopular
I was referring to the other CL games. I think they will wait see how this sells and if ita not selling well they will evaluate pricing before putting others on sale. If people pay it and it sells out they will just carry on doing it. They will just ignore a host of people moaning online. You have to protest with your wallet
But before you said they can’t ignore it.
Post by: Ads on September 06, 2024, 07:33:08 AM
Post by: VillaTim on September 06, 2024, 07:35:16 AM
Post by: dorsetvillian on September 06, 2024, 07:48:47 AM
Post by: Nunkin1965 on September 06, 2024, 08:02:48 AM
It's going to be more likely that you'll be sitting next to someone who hasn't been to Villa Park before as it will attract someone from either a different club or somebody who just wants to see a Champions League game regardless of cost.
Post by: VillaTim on September 06, 2024, 08:07:17 AM
I'd be very surprised if all of the games aren't sellouts."Hello i'm Jonathan from Chipping Norton and this is my son Charlie"
It's going to be more likely that you'll be sitting next to someone who hasn't been to Villa Park before as it will attract someone from either a different club or somebody who just wants to see a Champions League game regardless of cost.
Post by: Demitri_C on September 06, 2024, 08:26:37 AM
On all the villa uploads on socila media 90% of the comments are critical of the prices.Tickets for Bayern start to go on sale tomorrow, I think they are ignoring it.
They can't ignore this. This is too unpopular
I was referring to the other CL games. I think they will wait see how this sells and if ita not selling well they will evaluate pricing before putting others on sale. If people pay it and it sells out they will just carry on doing it. They will just ignore a host of people moaning online. You have to protest with your wallet
But before you said they can’t ignore it.
They cant ignore it the longer goes on but fundamentally as i said in the last post if people protest with their wallets that has a bigger impact
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 06, 2024, 08:30:40 AM
At least they will have their green wellies on and will be safe to go in the gents..I'd be very surprised if all of the games aren't sellouts."Hello i'm Jonathan from Chipping Norton and this is my son Charlie"
It's going to be more likely that you'll be sitting next to someone who hasn't been to Villa Park before as it will attract someone from either a different club or somebody who just wants to see a Champions League game regardless of cost.
Post by: wince on September 06, 2024, 08:35:07 AM
Post by: VILLA MOLE on September 06, 2024, 08:42:59 AM
I'd be very surprised if all of the games aren't sellouts."Hello i'm Jonathan from Chipping Norton and this is my son Charlie"
It's going to be more likely that you'll be sitting next to someone who hasn't been to Villa Park before as it will attract someone from either a different club or somebody who just wants to see a Champions League game regardless of cost.
It is the nature of the beast , however I am
Simon from
Stratford upon avon and this is my lad Spencer and we go when we can , but not the bestest fans though 👀
Post by: Nunkin1965 on September 06, 2024, 09:01:58 AM
Its a surefire thing that from now on I'll be checking other people's footwear on matchdays! Something to do in the queues before getting in.At least they will have their green wellies on and will be safe to go in the gents..I'd be very surprised if all of the games aren't sellouts."Hello i'm Jonathan from Chipping Norton and this is my son Charlie"
It's going to be more likely that you'll be sitting next to someone who hasn't been to Villa Park before as it will attract someone from either a different club or somebody who just wants to see a Champions League game regardless of cost.
Post by: VillaTim on September 06, 2024, 09:04:06 AM
Been priced out years ago but feel for the loyal fans over the pricing. Only villa could do an Oasis this week.we just need to roll with it
Post by: purpletrousers on September 06, 2024, 09:22:21 AM
Henry Winter has described our ticketing policy as both folly and arrogance tonight.
Can't really argue with that.
The full article https://www.henrywinter.football/p/hecks-hike-damages-villa?r=3osxpq&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&triedRedirect=true
Quote
Heck's hike damages Villa
Henry Winter
A roar has been building on the Holte End since March 7, 1983, when Aston Villa last played at home in the European Cup, a quarter-final first-leg tie against mighty Juventus. Many famous names were involved: Paolo Rossi struck within 40 seconds, Gordon Cowans equalised for the holders before Zbigniew Boniek, sent through by Michel Platini, gave Giovanni Trappatoni’s side the advantage. The programme cost 40p.
The Holte End will doubtless still be full for the Champions League visit of Juventus on Nov 27, just as it will be for their first league phase game and the October 2 arrival of Bayern Munich, stirring memories of Villa’s 1982 European Cup final glory. The roar will be unleashed.
But the club’s ill-considered ticketing strategy has cast a cloud over Villa Park and forced some Villa fans to question whether they can afford to be there. At the very least, it has led many to question how their club views them, as loyal supporters to be looked after or simple cash machines.
Chris Heck, Aston Villa’s president of business operations, is trying to deliver US ticket prices in an English football market in a country emerging from austerity. The backlash has been immediate. The backlash has come from everyone from former players like Gabby Agbonlahor and the Aston Villa Supporters Trust. “Loyal Villa fans who've waited as long as 40 years to celebrate this momentous season are being punished and exploited,” AVST said. Agbonlahor called on the club to think again.
Heck’s Hike is impactful on families who are having to decide which ones of them can go (prices are substantially less for Under-18s). His decision is impactful on Villa staff who live in the community, probably fans themselves and who have to try to explain the decision. Heck’s made their working life more difficult. It’s like the club doesn’t care for fans; they do, but not in this folly of a pricing policy.
Villa’s poor social media admins face a barrage of complaints. Heck himself will struggle to post much on social media for a while given the comments spreading under his posts.
What Heck has done is impactful on the whole goodwill factor generated in recent seasons by seemingly good owners in Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens, by Unai Emery’s masterful management, Ollie Watkins’ goals, Morgan Rogers’ drive and Emi Martinez’s charisma.
Villa are still in a good place but Heck risks much for a fistful of dollars. He will think he can ride the storm, but fans won’t forget. And those priced out won’t forgive, especially those who cannot afford subscription TV.
Adult tickets for Villa’s four Champions League games are priced at £85 (£70 season ticket), £94 (£79) and £97 (£82). Within minutes of Villa’s announcement, fans of the other Champions League clubs shared screen-shots of their more balanced price lists. Liverpool’s equivalent is £30-£61, Manchester City £37.50-£62.50. Arsenal’s is more but that’s London, and it’s included in the season ticket price.
Heck’s Hike comes 24 hours after fans welcomed Uefa capping away prices at a max €60 (£50). Uefa made the point of the “crucial role that fans play in creating the exciting atmosphere that defines the UEFA Champions League”. Home and away fans create this, and one of the reasons why Villa benefit from television’s largesse is because of the special atmosphere.
At the very least, why not do the tickets in bundles? Is it because they didn’t want to do discounts or because they prefer floating fans, even visitors to the city, who will spend more at the store than regulars.
Post by: London Villan on September 06, 2024, 09:30:59 AM
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/villaworks-2425-hospitality-spotlight-tickets-1008435627107
Post by: Stu82 on September 06, 2024, 09:34:01 AM
Post by: DB on September 06, 2024, 09:44:26 AM
https://x.com/_kjs1874/status/1831706719648375231?s=61&t=xJ3Qpfj5c0SMrRQDwdeZJg
Post by: Villan82 on September 06, 2024, 09:55:49 AM
Apologies if already posted:
https://x.com/_kjs1874/status/1831706719648375231?s=61&t=xJ3Qpfj5c0SMrRQDwdeZJg
Yeah, read that one too. It's a good thing he has been so sensitive to Aston Villa fans isn't it hahaha!!
On the Winter piece, 'Heck's Hike' is nice alliteration that firmly hones in on the cause.
Post by: VillaTim on September 06, 2024, 09:59:04 AM
Post by: sid1964 on September 06, 2024, 10:26:38 AM
Post by: London Villan on September 06, 2024, 10:33:44 AM
However, taking on the fanbase is never a pleasant experience.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on September 06, 2024, 10:36:28 AM
Post by: Risso on September 06, 2024, 10:39:30 AM
Not sure where to post this - could be interesting to see what's happening or even meet some senior bods...
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/villaworks-2425-hospitality-spotlight-tickets-1008435627107
Ha ha, "networking event"! To be more accurate, "please come and look at the hospitality packages we can't sell, purrrllllleeease."
Post by: The Edge on September 06, 2024, 10:41:34 AM
I also think "Get the Heck out of our club" has a nice ring to it.Apologies if already posted:
https://x.com/_kjs1874/status/1831706719648375231?s=61&t=xJ3Qpfj5c0SMrRQDwdeZJg
Yeah, read that one too. It's a good thing he has been so sensitive to Aston Villa fans isn't it hahaha!!
On the Winter piece, 'Heck's Hike' is nice alliteration that firmly hones in on the cause.
Post by: eamonn on September 06, 2024, 10:43:27 AM
Post by: purpletrousers on September 06, 2024, 10:45:48 AM
Post by: VillaTim on September 06, 2024, 10:47:37 AM
Post by: Sexual Ealing on September 06, 2024, 10:49:27 AM
Winter was let go from his press gig wasn't he? Looks like that article is just on his own website.
Yes, made redundant from the Times. Probably making three times as much from his Substack*.
*If any of you are wealthy, vain, lazy and think you have opinions worth communicating even when you don't, I offer a full Substack service at very competitive rates.**
**I'm not currently competing with anyone so you'll need to have a wedge.
Post by: john e on September 06, 2024, 10:49:58 AM
Remember we didn’t sell out against Arsenal
Yes we sold out normal tickets, but not all the ones that Chris Hecks trying to sell to the more wealthy corporate/hospitality fans
It won’t work we haven’t got that type of fan base and we never will have
Post by: Villan82 on September 06, 2024, 10:52:09 AM
It won’t work we haven’t got that type of fan base and we never will have
I agree. That's why the club needs more GA seats and any new GA + offerings in a new stand. Instead he has reduced GA seats and created GA+ seats in structures they aren't suited to.
Honestly cannot believe this man blagged his way into such an impactful role at Villa
Post by: Clampy on September 06, 2024, 11:06:45 AM
Post by: Somniloquism on September 06, 2024, 11:09:46 AM
Winter was let go from his press gig wasn't he? Looks like that article is just on his own website.
Yes, made redundant from the Times. Probably making three times as much from his Substack*.
I'm surprised he hasn't done a Nixon and used Patreon. Seems that lots of sports journalists are doing the equivalent of Twitch streaming rather then working at papers now.
Post by: Brend'Watkins on September 06, 2024, 11:16:20 AM
For those saying we will sell out anyway, and there’s always a queue of people waiting to take your seat
Remember we didn’t sell out against Arsenal
Yes we sold out normal tickets, but not all the ones that Chris Hecks trying to sell to the more wealthy corporate/hospitality fans
It won’t work we haven’t got that type of fan base and we never will have
Not now yes, 10 years of success like Man City we’d have plenty.
Post by: chrisw1 on September 06, 2024, 11:19:27 AM
Correct. An extra 10k of standard seating adds very little. It would have allowed more hospitality without impacting too much on the everyday fan, but they've decided fuck that - we'll increase the hospitality anyway and just squeeze the standard seating numbers. Fuck those £40 per match paying fuckers, don't need them.It won't happen. This will stick, they will sell tickets galore and we have to like it or lump it unfortunately.
There are plenty of non-Villa diehard fans who will buy the tickets if we don't.
I think that's right and the season ticket holder window doesn't seem v long for Bayern.
I think they made the choice not to expand the stadium and after that point were going to milk 40k for whatever they could get and Heck is focussed on his targets.
So I think regular supporters being disgruntled isn't going to bother them too much.
Although if we have a poor start the Bolgna and Celtic attendances couyld be challenging.
Post by: Risso on September 06, 2024, 11:28:57 AM
Post by: Drummond on September 06, 2024, 11:37:38 AM
I think everybody grudgingly accepts that prices needed to rise. What he's done, is go way, way beyond what people think is reasonable and it's not sustainable. He doubled most of the hospitality prices so lots of people told them to shove it, and now there's loads left unsold. He's then tried to fleece everybody on Champions League prices, and has unleashed a barrage of really bad publicity. Meanwhile, the conditions for the average fan remain absolutely dire. That's not a good way to build a higher income that's going to stay high for years.
It definitely feels like a bit of a gamble. However, with the way the team is playing, longer-term success feels achievable, and that in itself will drive it.
As a club we're trying to play with the big boys, and price rises, increases in corporate numbers is inevitable. The issue is that he's aiming really high with prices without fixing the easy stuff first.
The improvement on the pitch has been far more rapid than expected (I mean nobody thought we'd get Champions League yet) which means we're being hit with these prices earlier than we'd have thought.
Post by: VillaTim on September 06, 2024, 11:40:11 AM
Post by: Risso on September 06, 2024, 11:47:34 AM
I think everybody grudgingly accepts that prices needed to rise. What he's done, is go way, way beyond what people think is reasonable and it's not sustainable. He doubled most of the hospitality prices so lots of people told them to shove it, and now there's loads left unsold. He's then tried to fleece everybody on Champions League prices, and has unleashed a barrage of really bad publicity. Meanwhile, the conditions for the average fan remain absolutely dire. That's not a good way to build a higher income that's going to stay high for years.
It definitely feels like a bit of a gamble. However, with the way the team is playing, longer-term success feels achievable, and that in itself will drive it.
As a club we're trying to play with the big boys, and price rises, increases in corporate numbers is inevitable. The issue is that he's aiming really high with prices without fixing the easy stuff first.
The improvement on the pitch has been far more rapid than expected (I mean nobody thought we'd get Champions League yet) which means we're being hit with these prices earlier than we'd have thought.
My point was though, that the price rises aren't sustainable. They've caused lots of hospitality clients to not renew, and now he's created a massive backlash aganst the club when things should be extremely positive. We're now charging more than lots of clubs who are way more successful than we are, and don't have to put up with the shit that we do in terms of access and poor facilities etc. That really isn't a way to build a sustainable business. People will grudgingly pay it for a couple of games like Bayern, but almost certainly won't if we're back playing some crappy Lithuanian team next season.
Post by: Drummond on September 06, 2024, 11:48:39 AM
Those other clubs have sustained success, they have won the competition, they qualify every season, so fans have been there and seen it. I suspect in future years we won't charge that.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on September 06, 2024, 11:58:08 AM
It won't happen. This will stick, they will sell tickets galore and we have to like it or lump it unfortunately.A yes and no, they will sell plenty of tickets for the time being. But at some point there will be a tipping point.
There are plenty of non-Villa diehard fans who will buy the tickets if we don't.
As regards non villa die hards, I asked in the office if anyone fancied a CL ticket if we didn't sell out, and was met with " just watch it on the telly for nothing" type of reply.... we are not yet a football tourist destination, maybe one day.
Of course there will be a tipping point. But the gamble I am sure will be that it will come when other revenues are able to dwarf ticket sales. If this strategy makes them £3-5M this season on CL tickets, that's over 1% of revenue. It would be less than 0.5% for all of the other top 6 sides.
That tipping point will be when we are in the drop zone 3.
Post by: Zouch Villa on September 06, 2024, 12:11:33 PM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 06, 2024, 12:15:05 PM
It's definitely a gamble, but an ill judged one . He clearly hasn't done his homework on ticket pricing historically, or with other teams pricing for the CL games. And it's bitten him on the arse.I think everybody grudgingly accepts that prices needed to rise. What he's done, is go way, way beyond what people think is reasonable and it's not sustainable. He doubled most of the hospitality prices so lots of people told them to shove it, and now there's loads left unsold. He's then tried to fleece everybody on Champions League prices, and has unleashed a barrage of really bad publicity. Meanwhile, the conditions for the average fan remain absolutely dire. That's not a good way to build a higher income that's going to stay high for years.
It definitely feels like a bit of a gamble. However, with the way the team is playing, longer-term success feels achievable, and that in itself will drive it.
As a club we're trying to play with the big boys, and price rises, increases in corporate numbers is inevitable. The issue is that he's aiming really high with prices without fixing the easy stuff first.
The improvement on the pitch has been far more rapid than expected (I mean nobody thought we'd get Champions League yet) which means we're being hit with these prices earlier than we'd have thought.
I'm not sure how many schoolboy errors he's got left up his sleeve tbh..
Post by: john e on September 06, 2024, 12:18:49 PM
This is a Champions League game though and against a team we havent played in 40 odd years. It's different than playing Arsenal which we do twice a year.
We’ll sell out the Bayern game I’m talking about the overall strategy
Post by: Drummond on September 06, 2024, 12:19:35 PM
It's definitely a gamble, but an ill judged one . He clearly hasn't done his homework on ticket pricing historically, or with other teams pricing for the CL games. And it's bitten him on the arse.I think everybody grudgingly accepts that prices needed to rise. What he's done, is go way, way beyond what people think is reasonable and it's not sustainable. He doubled most of the hospitality prices so lots of people told them to shove it, and now there's loads left unsold. He's then tried to fleece everybody on Champions League prices, and has unleashed a barrage of really bad publicity. Meanwhile, the conditions for the average fan remain absolutely dire. That's not a good way to build a higher income that's going to stay high for years.
It definitely feels like a bit of a gamble. However, with the way the team is playing, longer-term success feels achievable, and that in itself will drive it.
As a club we're trying to play with the big boys, and price rises, increases in corporate numbers is inevitable. The issue is that he's aiming really high with prices without fixing the easy stuff first.
The improvement on the pitch has been far more rapid than expected (I mean nobody thought we'd get Champions League yet) which means we're being hit with these prices earlier than we'd have thought.
I'm not sure how many schoolboy errors he's got left up his sleeve tbh..
Of course he's done his homework, of course he knows what everyone else charges, nothing has bitten him.
And this isn't a schoolboy error at all, it's a considered and thought out plan. Whether we agree with it, like it or will put up with it is a whole different thing.
Post by: john e on September 06, 2024, 12:26:42 PM
It's definitely a gamble, but an ill judged one . He clearly hasn't done his homework on ticket pricing historically, or with other teams pricing for the CL games. And it's bitten him on the arse.I think everybody grudgingly accepts that prices needed to rise. What he's done, is go way, way beyond what people think is reasonable and it's not sustainable. He doubled most of the hospitality prices so lots of people told them to shove it, and now there's loads left unsold. He's then tried to fleece everybody on Champions League prices, and has unleashed a barrage of really bad publicity. Meanwhile, the conditions for the average fan remain absolutely dire. That's not a good way to build a higher income that's going to stay high for years.
It definitely feels like a bit of a gamble. However, with the way the team is playing, longer-term success feels achievable, and that in itself will drive it.
As a club we're trying to play with the big boys, and price rises, increases in corporate numbers is inevitable. The issue is that he's aiming really high with prices without fixing the easy stuff first.
The improvement on the pitch has been far more rapid than expected (I mean nobody thought we'd get Champions League yet) which means we're being hit with these prices earlier than we'd have thought.
I'm not sure how many schoolboy errors he's got left up his sleeve tbh..
Of course he's done his homework, of course he knows what everyone else charges, nothing has bitten him.
And this isn't a schoolboy error at all, it's a considered and thought out plan. Whether we agree with it, like it or will put up with it is a whole different thing.
I don’t think he’s got a fucking clue about the fan base
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on September 06, 2024, 12:30:23 PM
Post by: Ads on September 06, 2024, 12:31:54 PM
Post by: Risso on September 06, 2024, 12:35:31 PM
Of course he's done his homework, of course he knows what everyone else charges, nothing has bitten him.
And this isn't a schoolboy error at all, it's a considered and thought out plan. Whether we agree with it, like it or will put up with it is a whole different thing.
You don't think that a huge onslaught of negative publicity in the mainstream media and on social media isn't biting him on the arse at least a little bit? I'm trying to work out why you're defending him quite so vehemently, but frankly, I can't work it out. It's a bit weird mate.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on September 06, 2024, 12:38:29 PM
Anyone can Jack up ticket prices and put VIP boxes here and there, but the more important thing is to know your customer base, we’re not in London and we are not a globalist club like Man United or Liverpool what works for them might not work for us
Having non-sell-out games and areas of hospitality that don’t prove popular will not be a sure and save way of increasing revenue, it will be seen as a financial failure
That’s why I believe Hecks going to have to understand the fan base far more than he has so far or he’ll be flying back to the USA on a permanent basis
His excuse will be that’s what he’s been brought in to do but it’s still got to work and I’ve said before, I honestly believe our fan base is different from those in London and the 2 world franchises in the north west
Absolutely. We fortunately still have a traditional fanbase and whilst that will change with a higher international profile, it hasn't changed overnight yet Heck is really getting the basic marketing wrong, he is so focused on the acquisition of new fans he's completely ignored the retention of existing fans.
Post by: purpletrousers on September 06, 2024, 12:41:21 PM
Post by: purpletrousers on September 06, 2024, 12:42:27 PM
1] https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/chris-heck-promises-protect-loyalty-29489038
Chris Heck promises to 'protect' loyalty amid £400m Aston Villa plan”
Begins
‘Aston Villa's president of business operations Chris Heck has promised not to exploit the club's most loyal fans while trying to drive up the club's revenue to £400m by 2027’
2]
That article quotes an interesting US podcast which shows a more natural Heck talking about the PSR issue of not just owner wealth, but how to generate £ to spend
https://www.youtube.com/live/2Ox5fSxGfpg?si 1h02m40
& esp
“How do you do that without ticking [pi**ing] off your most loyal fans?”
3]
“That’s the formula that we have found, let’s protect our season ticket base, our local fans first, the core fan, protect them, and then find new revenue streams to pump up the value of the club and the spending opportunity of the club.”
It’s clearly a challenging remit.
4]
Yet @chrisheck76 are you not hanging yourself with your own rope?
Unanimously an over step, a mistake. More than having ‘ticked off’ core fans. Preventing some from attending the very thing they have craved for 40 years?
If CL sells out PL will suffer
What’s the plan Stan?
Post by: Drummond on September 06, 2024, 12:42:42 PM
Of course he's done his homework, of course he knows what everyone else charges, nothing has bitten him.
And this isn't a schoolboy error at all, it's a considered and thought out plan. Whether we agree with it, like it or will put up with it is a whole different thing.
You don't think that a huge onslaught of negative publicity in the mainstream media and on social media isn't biting him on the arse at least a little bit? I'm trying to work out why you're defending him quite so vehemently, but frankly, I can't work it out. It's a bit weird mate.
I'm not defending him. The prices are wrong. Whoever decided on them is wrong; whether it's him, NSWE, or that other bloke, it's wrong and taking the piss.
My point, if anything, is quite the opposite, this is considered, this is a plan; it's not a simple mistake, nor a little misjudgement. He's not stupid, he doesn't make schoolboy errors over big issues like this.
He's not bitten on the arse, he'll have known there will be a backlash, but then we'll sell out and he'll feel wholly vindicated. And in a way, he will be. Though everyday loyal fans won't be happy.
Prices for everything are going up, but tickets for a game costing more than a replica shirt? Weird world.
Post by: Risso on September 06, 2024, 12:44:22 PM
Post by: purpletrousers on September 06, 2024, 12:48:26 PM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 06, 2024, 12:49:15 PM
If he's done his homework he got an E.It's definitely a gamble, but an ill judged one . He clearly hasn't done his homework on ticket pricing historically, or with other teams pricing for the CL games. And it's bitten him on the arse.I think everybody grudgingly accepts that prices needed to rise. What he's done, is go way, way beyond what people think is reasonable and it's not sustainable. He doubled most of the hospitality prices so lots of people told them to shove it, and now there's loads left unsold. He's then tried to fleece everybody on Champions League prices, and has unleashed a barrage of really bad publicity. Meanwhile, the conditions for the average fan remain absolutely dire. That's not a good way to build a higher income that's going to stay high for years.
It definitely feels like a bit of a gamble. However, with the way the team is playing, longer-term success feels achievable, and that in itself will drive it.
As a club we're trying to play with the big boys, and price rises, increases in corporate numbers is inevitable. The issue is that he's aiming really high with prices without fixing the easy stuff first.
The improvement on the pitch has been far more rapid than expected (I mean nobody thought we'd get Champions League yet) which means we're being hit with these prices earlier than we'd have thought.
I'm not sure how many schoolboy errors he's got left up his sleeve tbh..
Of course he's done his homework, of course he knows what everyone else charges, nothing has bitten him.
And this isn't a schoolboy error at all, it's a considered and thought out plan. Whether we agree with it, like it or will put up with it is a whole different thing.
I don’t think he’s got a fucking clue about the fan base
When the story is news on SSN and on the back of the tabloids, journalists like Winter calling it folly and arrogance, and page upon page of posters on here absolutely raging, it's definitely bitten him on the arse.
If it hadn't bitten him on the arse we wouldn't be discussing it now obviously.
Also if it was a well thought out plan there wouldn't be all the noise surrounding it.Well thought out plans go smoothly.
And I'd suggest alienating the fanbase is about as good as you could get in reference to schoolboy errors.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on September 06, 2024, 12:56:29 PM
The games will sell out. The club are banking on supply and demand model.
Those other clubs have sustained success, they have won the competition, they qualify every season, so fans have been there and seen it. I suspect in future years we won't charge that.
Don't all businesses, and indeed all market economies, work on a supply and demand model?
Post by: purpletrousers on September 06, 2024, 12:57:14 PM
Post by: ozzjim on September 06, 2024, 12:57:33 PM
I said this previously, but Heck knows exactly how this would play out. He almost certainly discussed with NS. They collectively have to make business decisions. If they succeed in this one, and revenue allows us to keep players next summer, and we get into this competition again, my bet would be the tickets are £10 cheaper next year, and will normalise as time goes on if we repeatedly qualify. It's not right at all, but we had one shot at high prices for this in my opinion, and they've taken a swing to max revenue.
Post by: Risso on September 06, 2024, 12:59:22 PM
Post by: VillaTim on September 06, 2024, 01:06:30 PM
100% He Hasn't . Same happened at the US club that bombed him outIt's definitely a gamble, but an ill judged one . He clearly hasn't done his homework on ticket pricing historically, or with other teams pricing for the CL games. And it's bitten him on the arse.I think everybody grudgingly accepts that prices needed to rise. What he's done, is go way, way beyond what people think is reasonable and it's not sustainable. He doubled most of the hospitality prices so lots of people told them to shove it, and now there's loads left unsold. He's then tried to fleece everybody on Champions League prices, and has unleashed a barrage of really bad publicity. Meanwhile, the conditions for the average fan remain absolutely dire. That's not a good way to build a higher income that's going to stay high for years.
It definitely feels like a bit of a gamble. However, with the way the team is playing, longer-term success feels achievable, and that in itself will drive it.
As a club we're trying to play with the big boys, and price rises, increases in corporate numbers is inevitable. The issue is that he's aiming really high with prices without fixing the easy stuff first.
The improvement on the pitch has been far more rapid than expected (I mean nobody thought we'd get Champions League yet) which means we're being hit with these prices earlier than we'd have thought.
I'm not sure how many schoolboy errors he's got left up his sleeve tbh..
Of course he's done his homework, of course he knows what everyone else charges, nothing has bitten him.
And this isn't a schoolboy error at all, it's a considered and thought out plan. Whether we agree with it, like it or will put up with it is a whole different thing.
I don’t think he’s got a fucking clue about the fan base
Post by: VillaTim on September 06, 2024, 01:10:22 PM
Slapping corporate in the middle of the Holte is another stupid schoolboy error . The bloke is a ******If he's done his homework he got an E.It's definitely a gamble, but an ill judged one . He clearly hasn't done his homework on ticket pricing historically, or with other teams pricing for the CL games. And it's bitten him on the arse.I think everybody grudgingly accepts that prices needed to rise. What he's done, is go way, way beyond what people think is reasonable and it's not sustainable. He doubled most of the hospitality prices so lots of people told them to shove it, and now there's loads left unsold. He's then tried to fleece everybody on Champions League prices, and has unleashed a barrage of really bad publicity. Meanwhile, the conditions for the average fan remain absolutely dire. That's not a good way to build a higher income that's going to stay high for years.
It definitely feels like a bit of a gamble. However, with the way the team is playing, longer-term success feels achievable, and that in itself will drive it.
As a club we're trying to play with the big boys, and price rises, increases in corporate numbers is inevitable. The issue is that he's aiming really high with prices without fixing the easy stuff first.
The improvement on the pitch has been far more rapid than expected (I mean nobody thought we'd get Champions League yet) which means we're being hit with these prices earlier than we'd have thought.
I'm not sure how many schoolboy errors he's got left up his sleeve tbh..
Of course he's done his homework, of course he knows what everyone else charges, nothing has bitten him.
And this isn't a schoolboy error at all, it's a considered and thought out plan. Whether we agree with it, like it or will put up with it is a whole different thing.
I don’t think he’s got a fucking clue about the fan base
When the story is news on SSN and on the back of the tabloids, journalists like Winter calling it folly and arrogance, and page upon page of posters on here absolutely raging, it's definitely bitten him on the arse.
If it hadn't bitten him on the arse we wouldn't be discussing it now obviously.
Also if it was a well thought out plan there wouldn't be all the noise surrounding it.Well thought out plans go smoothly.
And I'd suggest alienating the fanbase is about as good as you could get in reference to schoolboy errors.
Post by: Drummond on September 06, 2024, 01:20:27 PM
Given where he's been before, I reckon he has pretty thick skin. A few people having a moan won't impact him.
Post by: Footy-Vill on September 06, 2024, 01:22:12 PM
Post by: Drummond on September 06, 2024, 01:23:36 PM
Post by: Risso on September 06, 2024, 01:24:17 PM
In the gospel the cleansing of the temple occurs when Jesus overthrows the trading going on because it's a place or worship. He called it a den of thieves.
Thanks for that, but not sure fairy tales are all that relevant.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 06, 2024, 01:26:20 PM
In the gospel the cleansing of the temple occurs when Jesus overthrows the trading going on because it's a place or worship. He called it a den of thieves.At Villa Park the cleansing of the bogs never occurs..
Post by: Brazilian Villain on September 06, 2024, 01:29:19 PM
In the gospel the cleansing of the temple occurs when Jesus overthrows the trading going on because it's a place or worship. He called it a den of thieves.
In B6 it's a den of peeves.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 06, 2024, 01:31:57 PM
..and it's £97 to go in..In the gospel the cleansing of the temple occurs when Jesus overthrows the trading going on because it's a place or worship. He called it a den of thieves.
In B6 it's a den of peeves.
Post by: LeeB on September 06, 2024, 01:32:44 PM
That shit will be for somebody else to clean up.
Post by: Drummond on September 06, 2024, 01:33:45 PM
I doubt he's too concerned about the long term future fan-club relationships, he's here to make money now, increase revenues on his watch and then fuck off with his bonuses.
That shit will be for somebody else to clean up.
Heck or Jesus?
Post by: LeeB on September 06, 2024, 01:35:32 PM
I doubt he's too concerned about the long term future fan-club relationships, he's here to make money now, increase revenues on his watch and then fuck off with his bonuses.
That shit will be for somebody else to clean up.
Heck or Jesus?
Both, rumour was the 'feeding of the 5000' was actually just a timeshare event.
Post by: Paul.S on September 06, 2024, 01:38:32 PM
If the clubs and his vision is to alienate the fanbase he’s 100% cracked it. I doubt it is so let’s wait and see before he starts patting himself on the back.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on September 06, 2024, 01:43:17 PM
In the gospel the cleansing of the temple occurs when Jesus overthrows the trading going on because it's a place or worship. He called it a den of thieves.
At Villa Park the cleansing of the bogs never occurs..
He's turning water into whine.
Post by: Drummond on September 06, 2024, 01:46:00 PM
In the gospel the cleansing of the temple occurs when Jesus overthrows the trading going on because it's a place or worship. He called it a den of thieves.
At Villa Park the cleansing of the bogs never occurs..
He's turning water into whine.
I hope Moses appears next time I need a piss.
Post by: VillaTim on September 06, 2024, 01:47:10 PM
Post by: Clampy on September 06, 2024, 01:49:47 PM
Post by: LeeS on September 06, 2024, 01:59:31 PM
Post by: Ads on September 06, 2024, 02:04:38 PM
In the gospel the cleansing of the temple occurs when Jesus overthrows the trading going on because it's a place or worship. He called it a den of thieves.
Thanks for that, but not sure fairy tales are all that relevant.
I dont think there's much room for doubt over the existence of an historical Jesus. It would have made sense for an act such as this to have occurred given his proactive entrance into Jerusalem probably not being enough to be executed, never mind a means of execution usually reserved for slaves.
I'm not sure why Footy's algorithm has raised it though.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 06, 2024, 02:09:10 PM
Lets hope Footy does the pricing for the Juventus game and gives us a biblical discount..In the gospel the cleansing of the temple occurs when Jesus overthrows the trading going on because it's a place or worship. He called it a den of thieves.
Thanks for that, but not sure fairy tales are all that relevant.
I dont think there's much room for doubt over the existence of an historical Jesus. It would have made sense for an act such as this to have occurred given his proactive entrance into Jerusalem probably not being enough to be executed, never mind a means of execution usually reserved for slaves.
I'm not sure why Footy's algorithm has raised it though.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on September 06, 2024, 02:11:30 PM
Post by: Border villan on September 06, 2024, 02:14:49 PM
Post by: Clampy on September 06, 2024, 02:16:40 PM
Look out for another GA+ area called The Ark where those who pay a fortune to enter two by two are promised, but not guaranteed, dry floors in the toilets.
All you can eat loaves and fishes.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on September 06, 2024, 02:17:08 PM
Lets hope Footy does the pricing for the Juventus game and gives us a biblical discount..
You might have to settle for the return of the prodigal son.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 06, 2024, 02:18:35 PM
Look out for another GA+ area called The Ark where those who pay a fortune to enter two by two are promised, but not guaranteed, dry floors in the toilets.aaah the fabled GA+....the promised land..
Post by: purpletrousers on September 06, 2024, 02:23:18 PM
We can’t judge whether this is a bad decision yet. Time will tell. I’m with purple trousers on this, in that every 3.2m adds up. As a CEO of a 200m entity, if you are cavalier about that sort of money you get sacked, not the other way around.
The more I think about the more it stacks up (the logic and the cash). The edging up season tickets (again but not as bad as we were lead to fear); the big jump in match day league prices; the shrinkflation of taking away toilets for GA, of taking the Holte Suite from STH; the stalling on offering no/minimum new STs so the waiting list gets dusty, the whole emphasis on GA+. Now the alienating CL tix travesty.
Nearly all of this we rightly feel wronged by. And individually argue the small (massive by my standards) amounts of cash don’t make that much difference, yet they will added up and that’s his remit. Yet again I’m not defending, and we can question is it worth it, how much do we want extra cash for extra players given the costly mistakes of the past.
I still think the pricing is a mistake, and at the same time can imagine criticism for not going all out to do the more difficult thing, to stay in the CL. Being in a few years running is clearly the need and the attempt to stay up with and become one of the big boys.
Post by: Dogtanian on September 06, 2024, 02:25:16 PM
Look out for another GA+ area called The Ark where those who pay a fortune to enter two by two are promised, but not guaranteed, dry floors in the toilets.aaah the fabled GA+....the promised land..
No, not 'aaaaaah'.
Post by: Ads on September 06, 2024, 02:25:24 PM
Post by: paul_e on September 06, 2024, 02:33:53 PM
I dont think the toilet or refreshment issue (although Uoper Holte isn't too bad) is a deliberate scheme, it's just incompetence to deliver and clearly lower on the priorities.
The toilet problems are almost certainly down to the fact they were literally still working on the stands as people were starting to arrive. That's prime territory for the sort of mistakes that lead to toilets overflowing, paint being trailed through the stands, etc.
The food and drink is a far bigger issue and has been a problem for years.
Post by: London Villan on September 06, 2024, 02:52:49 PM
Post by: purpletrousers on September 06, 2024, 03:09:54 PM
Should probably leave Twitter, should probably post on Threads & Bluesky will try, same handle
Thoughts before I send this out to be ignored?
1] https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/chris-heck-promises-protect-loyalty-29489038
Chris Heck promises to 'protect' loyalty amid £400m Aston Villa plan”
Begins
‘Aston Villa's president of business operations Chris Heck has promised not to exploit the club's most loyal fans while trying to drive up the club's revenue to £400m by 2027’
2]
That article quotes an interesting US podcast which shows a more natural Heck talking about the PSR issue of not just owner wealth, but how to generate £ to spend
https://www.youtube.com/live/2Ox5fSxGfpg?si 1h02m40
& esp
“How do you do that without ticking [pi**ing] off your most loyal fans?”
3]
“That’s the formula that we have found, let’s protect our season ticket base, our local fans first, the core fan, protect them, and then find new revenue streams to pump up the value of the club and the spending opportunity of the club.”
It’s clearly a challenging remit.
4]
Yet @chrisheck76 are you not hanging yourself with your own rope?
Unanimously an over step, a mistake. More than having ‘ticked off’ core fans. Preventing some from attending the very thing they have craved for 40 years?
If CL sells out PL will suffer
What’s the plan Stan?
Post by: Risso on September 06, 2024, 03:21:45 PM
I dont think there's much room for doubt over the existence of an historical Jesus. It would have made sense for an act such as this to have occurred given his proactive entrance into Jerusalem probably not being enough to be executed, never mind a means of execution usually reserved for slaves.
I'm not sure why Footy's algorithm has raised it though.
There's a lot of doubt. There's no contemporaneous writings that mention him at all, it's all stuff years after the event, mostly by unknown writers. It's a shit story, that's entirely made up. How it's lasted this long, the mind boggles. But anyway.
Post by: Demitri_C on September 06, 2024, 03:27:31 PM
That for me is vile. Bow your head in shame Christopher
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 06, 2024, 03:34:43 PM
Quote
Aston Villa have increased the price of disabled match day parking spaces on the Villa Village by a whopping 100 per cent.
The club contacted supporters - who held a disabled parking space outside the North Stand last season - to inform them of the price hike on the week before Villa's first home game of the new campaign against Arsenal on August 24. Fans were given no prior warning before being asked to pay double what they had in the previous season to keep their spot, with the price of disabled car spaces rising from £190 to £380.
Supporters were given two options, either keep their space on the Villa Village car park at the price of £380 or buy a spot on the Yew Tree Community School for the season at £228. However, the school car park - which is located off the Station Road - does not have any designated disabled bays.
"I didn’t just feel under pressure to pay the increase [for Villa Village disabled parking], I knew I was under pressure because whatever decision I made was likely one which would stick," one fan told BirminghamLive. "I had absolutely no other option than to pay the £380 if I wanted to continue watching the Villa. It is a fiasco."
Another said: "It was such short notice and while we did expect an increase, not double. How can you find that money in that time? My disabled brother relies on income from benefits and he has to pay for carers for himself. He has to use his money to pay for his carers, so to ask for another £190 to pay in a week is just unacceptable. They didn’t give us six or eight weeks to get the money together, it felt like now or never."
The new price of disabled parking on the Villa Village car park works out at £20 per league game and impacted supporters are particularly furious with the size of this season's hike as well as the lack of warning. BirminghamLive understands that the price rise for disabled parking outside the North Stand is in line with increases to hospitality parking too.
Ongoing construction work outside the stadium has reduced the number of disabled car spaces, but the club are planning to create more. Meanwhile, Villa are working on launching a software which will enable disabled supporters to sell-on their car space if they are unable to attend games.
"Many disabled fans won't be able to go to matches if they can’t afford a carer or if they are in pain," a fan who is currently unable to sell-on their space said. Another added: "There are so many matches that I can’t go to, like evening matches. I know I can’t go to some games, so I could lose lots of money."
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 06, 2024, 03:40:19 PM
Apologies if this has already been talked about but townley says the club have raised disable parking spots by 100% from £190 to £380....just wow..
That for me is vile. Bow your head in shame Christopher
I honestly haven't got words for that.
But I'm sure one or two will make excuses on his behalf....because he's after his fistful of dollars as Winter said.
Post by: purpletrousers on September 06, 2024, 03:41:23 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on September 06, 2024, 03:41:36 PM
Post by: Rory on September 06, 2024, 03:41:37 PM
Post by: Risso on September 06, 2024, 03:42:34 PM
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 06, 2024, 03:44:04 PM
Post by: Brend'Watkins on September 06, 2024, 03:45:39 PM
He needs to be rid off and quickly.
Post by: Ads on September 06, 2024, 03:54:10 PM
Post by: danno on September 06, 2024, 03:57:19 PM
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 06, 2024, 03:58:12 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on September 06, 2024, 04:00:10 PM
One thing that will start to happen is that unless facilities improve sharpish another shitstorm will hit. If you are charging top end prices then people will expect service, toilets etc to be top end as well. Imagine paying £100 for a ticket and then wading through piss, not being able to buy anything and so on.
Exactly this.
The prices go up year on year but the facilities never get any better.
Post by: Paul.S on September 06, 2024, 04:03:05 PM
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 06, 2024, 04:11:10 PM
I'm genuinely glad that for my own reasons I no longer go to games. After so long of going to over 1000 games i've no interest in going currently, and fully know I may never go to another game at VP. Which was unthinkable when I was in small crowds watching us be shit. Now we're at the best we've been for 40 years and instead of this being the reward for all those years of downs and occassional ups i'm just glad i'm out of it and don't have to think about if i'm spending £80-£100 for one game.
Post by: Paul.S on September 06, 2024, 04:16:53 PM
For the first time in my approx 50 years supporting us i'm ashamed of the club. I've been angry, embarrassed at times and so on, but never ashamed. This week I am ashamed that my club is doing this stuff as it goes beyond trying to raise some extra money, and is into 'acting like unpleasant money grabbing wankers' territory.
I'm genuinely glad that for my own reasons I no longer go to games. After so long of going to over 1000 games i've no interest in going currently, and fully know I may never go to another game at VP. Which was unthinkable when I was in small crowds watching us be shit. Now we're at the best we've been for 40 years and instead of this being the reward for all those years of downs and occassional ups i'm just glad i'm out of it and don't have to think about if i'm spending £80-£100 for one game.
Just over 50 years for me as well and unless things change I’ll be joining you next season.
I never thought I’d ever let my season ticket go but it’s a strong possibility now.
What a shame this is. Emery mentions the fans and players being together so I wonder what he thinks about this?
Post by: Pat Mustard on September 06, 2024, 04:18:56 PM
Cancellation of North Stand rebuild
Removal of Holte Suite from general supporters
Seats in all areas being converted to GA+
ST holders being moved to accommodate GA+ and corporate
Badge fiasco
General treatment of fan consultation group
Massive uplift in ST prices
Doubling price of parking for disabled supporters
Non-existant seats being sold
Toilets covered in piss and a ground not ready for the first game of the season
Turnstile chaos v Arsenal
Champions League ticket prices
Heck was cut a lot of slack over the commercial deals, but even then the big uplift in front of shirt sponsor has only come about because we have a gambling company desperate to get on a CL club shirt before the ban on their sponsorship comes into place, and Adidas may well have ended up happening anyway thanks to the way things have moved on the pitch. I just don't see any evidence that he is anything other than a complete fuck-up who is destroying all of the positivity of the last 2 years.
Post by: Simon Page on September 06, 2024, 04:29:12 PM
Post by: Flamingo Lane on September 06, 2024, 04:30:06 PM
Any news on the Arsenal debacle? Don’t we have an email saying they were looking into it?
No, what they actually said was that they would communicate again once the issues had been sorted (and, in other words, not before).
Post by: Toronto Villa on September 06, 2024, 04:30:59 PM
One thing that will start to happen is that unless facilities improve sharpish another shitstorm will hit. If you are charging top end prices then people will expect service, toilets etc to be top end as well. Imagine paying £100 for a ticket and then wading through piss, not being able to buy anything and so on.
If facilities don't improve it will go from a rivers of piss storm to a rivers of shit storm.
Post by: Paul.S on September 06, 2024, 04:33:32 PM
Any news on the Arsenal debacle? Don’t we have an email saying they were looking into it?
No, what they actually said was that they would communicate again once the issues had been sorted (and, in other words, not before).
I take it they haven’t been sorted out yet then.
Post by: Risso on September 06, 2024, 04:33:49 PM
Did Heck advise Osborne during the bedroom tax years? Or maybe devise Crapita's questionnaire?
If he had, he'd have charged £50,000 per unnecessary bedroom, and come around to personally block the khazi with a Minworth special. He's not all bad though, he'd have given you some free Poptarts and Sunny D.
Post by: yammers on September 06, 2024, 04:36:18 PM
“Many thanks for your email which we have logged as complaint reference 24 jul-sep 929.
Our apologies that you have had cause to complain.
We are compiling all feedback received on Champions League pricing and will ensure this is shared with Senior Management accordingly.”
I’m assuming that’s 929th complaint so far and not of the day?
Post by: Percy McCarthy on September 06, 2024, 04:38:06 PM
Did Heck advise Osborne during the bedroom tax years? Or maybe devise Crapita's questionnaire?
The Poll Tax had his fingerprints all over it.
Post by: PaulWinch again on September 06, 2024, 04:40:27 PM
Post by: Ads on September 06, 2024, 04:41:30 PM
Post by: VillaTim on September 06, 2024, 04:42:49 PM
I think fleecing the disabled is beyond the pale. I'm fairly certain the disability living allowance (or whatever its called nowadays) hasn't doubled over the summer!Same with OAP's and kids in Zone 1
Post by: john e on September 06, 2024, 04:44:24 PM
there’s a few million extra right there that will show on the accounts and that clown will be taking credit for it no doubt
The bloke is an absolute arse and needs to fuck off back to America
It’s not just about the 4 Champions League games that may or may not sell out It’s about the whole central emphasis of moving out traditional fans for the corporate day trippers Tourists whatever you want to call them and basically replacing one with the other because there’s more money in it
Some people on here think he’s a clever bloke that knows what he’s doing I think he’s an absolute twat that is taking us down the wrong road
Post by: Dogtanian on September 06, 2024, 04:45:44 PM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 06, 2024, 04:45:51 PM
We really need some kind of joint statement from all the fan groups to highlight exactly what is happening at Villa at the moment under Heck's reign. The press are on our side over the CL tickets, we should be highlighting everything that's going on and putting some pressure on getting him out. Just in the last 12 months we have:I had to go and get a coffee and calm down a bit when the disabled parking info came up...
Cancellation of North Stand rebuild
Removal of Holte Suite from general supporters
Seats in all areas being converted to GA+
ST holders being moved to accommodate GA+ and corporate
Badge fiasco
General treatment of fan consultation group
Massive uplift in ST prices
Doubling price of parking for disabled supporters
Non-existant seats being sold
Toilets covered in piss and a ground not ready for the first game of the season
Turnstile chaos v Arsenal
Champions League ticket prices
Heck was cut a lot of slack over the commercial deals, but even then the big uplift in front of shirt sponsor has only come about because we have a gambling company desperate to get on a CL club shirt before the ban on their sponsorship comes into place, and Adidas may well have ended up happening anyway thanks to the way things have moved on the pitch. I just don't see any evidence that he is anything other than a complete fuck-up who is destroying all of the positivity of the last 2 years.
The guy is stinking the place out now.
Post by: VillaTim on September 06, 2024, 04:47:37 PM
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 06, 2024, 04:50:06 PM
Post by: Ads on September 06, 2024, 04:52:47 PM
Putting lipstick on the pig that is Villa Park is risible. The past couple of days with the Champions League pricing, ripping off disabled fans is utterly atrocious.
Post by: martyn ellis on September 06, 2024, 05:01:03 PM
(Just noted that this may be partially covered in the NSWE Investment thread - if so, then apologies.
Post by: Drummond on September 06, 2024, 05:04:57 PM
Post by: VillaTim on September 06, 2024, 05:05:41 PM
Post by: Risso on September 06, 2024, 05:19:32 PM
Post by: Villan82 on September 06, 2024, 05:38:57 PM
Post by: Stu82 on September 06, 2024, 05:39:20 PM
He’s ripping us off
Christopher Heck is ripping us off.
Wading through piss
We’re wading through piss
Chris heck
We’re wading through piss.
Post by: Stu on September 06, 2024, 05:42:23 PM
Just see the latest. I think Heck has knocked the stuffing out of me, I think I am throwing in the towel. It's not worth it, they can't be supported.
Yeah, was thinking about going to a CL game but I can't hand over my cash when the club is behaving this way.
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on September 06, 2024, 05:43:17 PM
(https://i.ibb.co/vz0stQB/8bpy1126.png) (https://ibb.co/vz0stQB)
Went to our very first European game in 1975 in Antwerp.
I was in Rotterdam, Anderlecht for the semi, been on trips to Madrid, Bilbao, Hamburg, Odense, pre seasons in France and hitch hiked to two friendlies in the old Yugoslavia in the late 1970s
Never missed any home European match including those Inter Toto games at Smethwick.
I won't be going to any of this over priced over hyped rip off shite. Ruined it for me.
Post by: ChicagoLion on September 06, 2024, 05:53:32 PM
What sort of shit bag thinks that is n ok thing to do.
Just staggering.
Post by: SaddVillan on September 06, 2024, 05:54:58 PM
#avfc fined 60,000 Euros (£50,600) by Uefa for late submission of their financial information for the 2023/24 season. But the governing body confirms Villa, along with every other club, were within the 90 per cent cost controls limit. That limit drops to 80pc for this season.
1. The fine should come out of the Heckster's salary.
2. Ger Steve Stride back.
Post by: Villan82 on September 06, 2024, 06:10:58 PM
Post by: wince on September 06, 2024, 06:20:55 PM
Post by: London Villan on September 06, 2024, 06:21:33 PM
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on September 06, 2024, 06:27:03 PM
Post by: Demitri_C on September 06, 2024, 06:35:38 PM
They have universally managed to alienate the whole fan base. Its no coincidence all these awful decisions have been made since heck came. He is a absolute bum.
Post by: PhilVill on September 06, 2024, 06:39:54 PM
Post by: The Edge on September 06, 2024, 06:43:10 PM
He’s a fucking sociopath! Disgraceful from Villa.Heck has a knack of kicking the stuffing out of the feelgood factor at Villa Park at exactly the right time for maximum impact. When we were getting giddy over top four and the place was bouncing he announced the postponement of the North Stand rebuild. A real kick in the nads for excited fans like myself who is on the list for season tickets along with my two lads. When we were all getting excited about the CL draw and the prospect of some mouth watering home games he drops another bomb with the massive price hikes that have caused disbelief far and wide not just in B6. If a secret blue nose was to worm his way into the job he couldn't do a better job of deliberately deflating the fanbase at the very point in the history of Aston Villa FC when we should be feeling utterly euphoric.
Post by: Border villan on September 06, 2024, 06:44:36 PM
Don’t worry Chris this is a one off and you can fleece other people for the other three CL games.
Post by: CT on September 06, 2024, 07:12:44 PM
It's gone beyond football for me, it's a matter of human decency. If this was another club I would be slating them. I am so disappointed
Just said the same to my lad. If this was another club I’d be thinking what a dirty, nasty, soulless greed machine it was.
I don’t think I could have made up what’s happened over the last few days. I’ve completely lost touch with them, I don’t recognise them.
At a time when we should have been so excited about these games, I’m just deflated and we’ve actually just had the talk about this being the final season. My first game was in 1980 and I started going regularly in 83, aged 12. It really hit me last night, I’m completely gutted.
Post by: brontebilly on September 06, 2024, 07:23:50 PM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 06, 2024, 07:27:46 PM
My wife has a disabled badge, she's 49
The reason she has a disabled badge is because she has terminal cancer.
She hasn't been to Villa for a couple of years, so the disabled parking is no issue for us.
But some of the people who do use the disabled area will be in a similar situation to my wife.
When we have the Holte Enders in the Sky at half time at the end of the season...some of those people would have used those spaces. Youngsters who have terminally ill conditions, who sometimes are mascots or appear in the program, their parents would use those spaces.
It wasn't long ago that Acorns was on the front of our shirts, and what a wonderful gesture that was.
And now here we are advertising betting and kicking blue badge holders in the teeth.
What a time to be a Villa fan..
Post by: VillaTim on September 06, 2024, 07:33:38 PM
Post by: CT Villan on September 06, 2024, 07:35:16 PM
Just in the last 12 months we have:
Cancellation of North Stand rebuild
Removal of Holte Suite from general supporters
Seats in all areas being converted to GA+
ST holders being moved to accommodate GA+ and corporate
Badge fiasco
General treatment of fan consultation group
Massive uplift in ST prices
Doubling price of parking for disabled supporters
Non-existant seats being sold
Toilets covered in piss and a ground not ready for the first game of the season
Turnstile chaos v Arsenal
Champions League ticket prices
and whatever happened to the allegations of harassment made by former employees, were they untrue ?
Post by: LeeS on September 06, 2024, 07:35:59 PM
I wasn't going to post this as it's a bit close to home to say the least, but I've changed my mind.
My wife has a disabled badge, she's 49
The reason she has a disabled badge is because she has terminal cancer.
She hasn't been to Villa for a couple of years, so the disabled parking is no issue for us.
But some of the people who do use the disabled area will be in a similar situation to my wife.
When we have the Holte Enders in the Sky at half time at the end of the season...some of those people would have used those spaces. Youngsters who have terminally ill conditions, who sometimes are mascots or appear in the program, their parents would use those spaces.
It wasn't long ago that Acorns was on the front of our shirts, and what a wonderful gesture that was.
And now here we are advertising betting and kicking blue badge holders in the teeth.
What a time to be a Villa fan..
Well said, that man. And best wishes to you, your wife and your family. Cancer is a fucking bitch.
Post by: stubbsyandy on September 06, 2024, 07:36:23 PM
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 06, 2024, 07:37:16 PM
Post by: brontebilly on September 06, 2024, 07:44:47 PM
I wasn't going to post this as it's a bit close to home to say the least, but I've changed my mind.
My wife has a disabled badge, she's 49
The reason she has a disabled badge is because she has terminal cancer.
She hasn't been to Villa for a couple of years, so the disabled parking is no issue for us.
But some of the people who do use the disabled area will be in a similar situation to my wife.
When we have the Holte Enders in the Sky at half time at the end of the season...some of those people would have used those spaces. Youngsters who have terminally ill conditions, who sometimes are mascots or appear in the program, their parents would use those spaces.
It wasn't long ago that Acorns was on the front of our shirts, and what a wonderful gesture that was.
And now here we are advertising betting and kicking blue badge holders in the teeth.
What a time to be a Villa fan..
So sorry to read this.
To be honest I think it's a scandal there's any charge for disabled parking at the ground, not to mind doubling it for no reason. Not that they really should but to really shame Heck, maybe McGinn and the players would cover the cost? A huge part of our Phoenix like recovery as a club was that the severed connection between fans, players and management was restored. Heck seems on a mission to destroy it again using his fancy excel charts and corporate waffle. Penny rich and pound poor!
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 06, 2024, 07:48:29 PM
Post by: The Edge on September 06, 2024, 07:52:03 PM
I wasn't going to post this as it's a bit close to home to say the least, but I've changed my mind.Straight from the heart mate and you nailed it. I would love to print this off in letters 2ft high and stick it up at the entrance to the Trinity Rd. The entrance where the owners go although I doubt very much that Chris Heck would even bat an eyelid. Best wishes to you and your family.
My wife has a disabled badge, she's 49
The reason she has a disabled badge is because she has terminal cancer.
She hasn't been to Villa for a couple of years, so the disabled parking is no issue for us.
But some of the people who do use the disabled area will be in a similar situation to my wife.
When we have the Holte Enders in the Sky at half time at the end of the season...some of those people would have used those spaces. Youngsters who have terminally ill conditions, who sometimes are mascots or appear in the program, their parents would use those spaces.
It wasn't long ago that Acorns was on the front of our shirts, and what a wonderful gesture that was.
And now here we are advertising betting and kicking blue badge holders in the teeth.
What a time to be a Villa fan..
Post by: Brazilian Villain on September 06, 2024, 07:59:35 PM
Is that orange blanket that did for DOL still around? Hang it off the Holte again in honour of Heck
'We're not fiscally austere, we just don't like you'?
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 06, 2024, 08:01:19 PM
Post by: purpletrousers on September 06, 2024, 08:02:19 PM
Either way I wish her you and your family all the very best with your journey. If you do want to get her along let us all know on here and we’ll make it happen I’m sure.
I had the exact same thought re: Acorns or even the Villa Foundation on shirts.
Thinking about it, maybe we should apply to the Villa foundation to fund the increase as a community project, at the very least in a generously means tested way, if not universally.
It would remind me of the last Govt annd overseas health workers trying to come to do learning and development placements here funded by one dept and being stopped from taking them up by bizarre visa decisions by another.
Maybe the charitable aspect of the club should start picking up some of the damage, inaccessibility and social exclusion other parts of the club are creating.
Post by: Ads on September 06, 2024, 08:03:41 PM
Forgo £4m across the 4 home games by pricing the Champions League matches at an expensive, but not eye watering price.
Ensure toilets are clean and well furnished to cater for fans. A job lot of white tiles, proper plumbing, flooring etc isn't expensive.
Don't rip disabled fans off. In fact don't charge them anything to park or if they can't park on site, sort a mobility bus. The costs are peanuts. The revenue generated does nothing.
Have your fancy GA+ and your corporate, price it correctly and make more money. Don't come the ****** with loyal supporters who don't want to pay through the nose for it.
All basic stuff. I'm not sure who Heck delegates to, but they are clearly incompetent. If he's not going to go (and he surely won't as he's making increasing fortunes as directed) then the useless dick who thought they could do Foos and Arsenal ought to at least.
It's fucking dire and it's so disappointing that we are just as predatory and exploitative as all the other sides in the CL. Success really does come at a price. It doesn't have to be this way.
I'd say build a new fucking ground worthy of the volume of support we have so we can have your 15k GA+ Tarquinistas and your 45k GA legacy lager drinkers. But we'd end up paying double bubble anyway. So what's the point.
Post by: Skerra on September 06, 2024, 08:08:21 PM
If being "successful" (we still haven't actually won anything) means rinsing disabled fans and OAP's / kids etc i'd rather return to being shite.
With you all the way with that Tim. Unfortunately, some fans will still scrabble for tickets, so the Club won’t mind at all about us abstaining.
Post by: Villan82 on September 06, 2024, 08:09:49 PM
Just in the last 12 months we have:
Cancellation of North Stand rebuild
Removal of Holte Suite from general supporters
Seats in all areas being converted to GA+
ST holders being moved to accommodate GA+ and corporate
Badge fiasco
General treatment of fan consultation group
Massive uplift in ST prices
Doubling price of parking for disabled supporters
Non-existant seats being sold
Toilets covered in piss and a ground not ready for the first game of the season
Turnstile chaos v Arsenal
Champions League ticket prices
and whatever happened to the allegations of harassment made by former employees, were they untrue ?
I was alarmed at the way so many online sort of doubted it could be true. It would have been a really elaborate thing to invent.
Post by: Villan82 on September 06, 2024, 08:10:35 PM
I wasn't going to post this as it's a bit close to home to say the least, but I've changed my mind.Straight from the heart mate and you nailed it. I would love to print this off in letters 2ft high and stick it up at the entrance to the Trinity Rd. The entrance where the owners go although I doubt very much that Chris Heck would even bat an eyelid. Best wishes to you and your family.
My wife has a disabled badge, she's 49
The reason she has a disabled badge is because she has terminal cancer.
She hasn't been to Villa for a couple of years, so the disabled parking is no issue for us.
But some of the people who do use the disabled area will be in a similar situation to my wife.
When we have the Holte Enders in the Sky at half time at the end of the season...some of those people would have used those spaces. Youngsters who have terminally ill conditions, who sometimes are mascots or appear in the program, their parents would use those spaces.
It wasn't long ago that Acorns was on the front of our shirts, and what a wonderful gesture that was.
And now here we are advertising betting and kicking blue badge holders in the teeth.
What a time to be a Villa fan..
To echo this, Thinking of you and your family, fk cancer
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 06, 2024, 08:15:33 PM
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on September 06, 2024, 08:21:09 PM
Post by: Ads on September 06, 2024, 08:24:44 PM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 06, 2024, 08:25:33 PM
Hopefully someone at the club has a moral compass and revisits this sooner rather than later.
I very much doubt it though.
As long as we stick together we will sort things in the end.
....UTV
Post by: Pat McMahon on September 06, 2024, 08:34:32 PM
But it is massively disappointing that we have so much going wrong off the pitch when we have moved so far so quickly on field. A comment I have read many times on here over the years is that we can generally be trusted to do the right thing. It feels like somebody has looked at that and thought “no way, nice guys come last”. We are now in danger of becoming one of those franchise clubs we have sneered at for years.
Given the way this season is shaping up I would genuinely have been happier in the Europa league with the feel good factor of progress on last year than the current shenanigans now we are in the chimps league.
Post by: ozzjim on September 06, 2024, 08:35:45 PM
I can see the point and the driver for the ticket prices.
The disabled parking is as big a disgrace as it comes, and he should lose his job for it. Disgusting.
Post by: Pat McMahon on September 06, 2024, 08:36:09 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on September 06, 2024, 08:36:26 PM
But whoever it was that made the decision thought that whatever bad will this would drum up with the fan base was worth it, otherwise they wouldn’t have done it.
And then there’s the disabled parking. Someone thought that an extra £200 a season from a bunch of almost certainly the most vulnerable people in our support was worth the awful press. It was worth the anguish those people will be going through.
It wasn’t that long ago we were in the second division and they were begging us to buy tickets. The top tier of the trinity was closed more often than not.
But here we are, after a decade of being spoon fed lukewarm liquid dog shit every other week for a decade, the very first chance they get to start defiling people for money, they’re at it like a rat up a drainpipe.
The absolute fucking nerve of Heck with his £8k season tickets and his promotional video for all those wanky lounges, whilst at the same time people paying “only” 6 or 700 quid for their tickets are faced with truly disgusting unsanitary overflowing toilets.
It’s just really depressing that the second they thought they could do stuff like this, they went for it big style. Fuck the lot of us, like it or lump it.
Post by: PaulWinch again on September 06, 2024, 08:40:37 PM
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 06, 2024, 08:47:20 PM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on September 06, 2024, 08:47:59 PM
Don’t worry everyone. Heck has been sacked. Someone called K Starmer is taking over.
No chance now of a Dortmund style 'Claret Wall' in a new North Stand, with Two-tier Keir in charge. :(
Post by: Demitri_C on September 06, 2024, 08:50:32 PM
I wasn't going to post this as it's a bit close to home to say the least, but I've changed my mind.
My wife has a disabled badge, she's 49
The reason she has a disabled badge is because she has terminal cancer.
She hasn't been to Villa for a couple of years, so the disabled parking is no issue for us.
But some of the people who do use the disabled area will be in a similar situation to my wife.
When we have the Holte Enders in the Sky at half time at the end of the season...some of those people would have used those spaces. Youngsters who have terminally ill conditions, who sometimes are mascots or appear in the program, their parents would use those spaces.
It wasn't long ago that Acorns was on the front of our shirts, and what a wonderful gesture that was.
And now here we are advertising betting and kicking blue badge holders in the teeth.
What a time to be a Villa fan..
So sorry to hear about your wife mate 😔
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 06, 2024, 08:55:46 PM
Post by: VillaTim on September 06, 2024, 08:56:16 PM
Don’t worry everyone. Heck has been sacked. Someone called K Starmer is taking over.I love being 3-0 up
Post by: algy on September 06, 2024, 08:56:53 PM
Not for the first time in this thread, you’ve brought a smile to my face :)Is that orange blanket that did for DOL still around? Hang it off the Holte again in honour of Heck
'We're not fiscally austere, we just don't like you'?
Post by: VillaTim on September 06, 2024, 08:57:29 PM
Thanks for all the good wishes everyone, very much appreciated.all the best to you and family CB111.
Hopefully someone at the club has a moral compass and revisits this sooner rather than later.
I very much doubt it though.
As long as we stick together we will sort things in the end.
....UTV
Post by: purpletrousers on September 06, 2024, 09:03:45 PM
Also have another idea, meet me behind the bike shed in GM.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 06, 2024, 09:12:41 PM
What would be amazing is if collectively , we could all contribute £1 and pay for those disabled spaces for the season. Meaning that kid in the wheelchair, the lady on the walking frame and the terminally ill Grandad can park for nothing. Just an idea.
Post by: Tuscans on September 06, 2024, 09:15:19 PM
"Aston Villa can confirm that disabled supporters who have booked matchday parking at Villa Park for the 2024/25 season will be charged last season’s parking rates".
Post by: purpletrousers on September 06, 2024, 09:15:39 PM
Aston Villa can confirm that disabled supporters who have booked matchday parking at Villa Park for the 2024/25 season will be charged last season’s parking rates.
Those supporters will be contacted directly by the clubs’s ticket office via telephone prior to the next match at Villa Park against Everton and for those who were overcharged for parking for the Arsenal match, the club will issue reimbursements.
The club wishes to apologise to those affected.
Post by: purpletrousers on September 06, 2024, 09:16:09 PM
Post by: purpletrousers on September 06, 2024, 09:17:58 PM
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 06, 2024, 09:18:03 PM
Quote
Aston Villa can confirm that disabled supporters who have booked matchday parking at Villa Park for the 2024/25 season will be charged last season’s parking rates.
Those supporters will be contacted directly by the clubs’s ticket office via telephone prior to the next match at Villa Park against Everton and for those who were overcharged for parking for the Arsenal match, the club will issue reimbursements.
The club wishes to apologise to those affected.
Post by: VillaTim on September 06, 2024, 09:20:03 PM
I wish I hadn’t spent quite so long drafting an email to the safeguarding team at Villa, but it’s a relief to see some listening, and at 21.12 on a Friday night, I think powers that be must be listening.Hopefully Heck and his henchmen are having their collars felt this evening
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 06, 2024, 09:22:36 PM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 06, 2024, 09:22:58 PM
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 06, 2024, 09:25:44 PM
https://x.com/danbardell/status/1831601293917393253
Post by: Demitri_C on September 06, 2024, 09:26:10 PM
I still dont get how they thoyght a 100% increase wouls not upset the fan base.? Some idiotic ideology
Post by: brontebilly on September 06, 2024, 09:26:55 PM
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 06, 2024, 09:28:36 PM
Post by: Risso on September 06, 2024, 09:29:00 PM
A very brave post Chip Butty, best wishes to you and your wife.
Post by: Border villan on September 06, 2024, 09:31:41 PM
QuoteAston Villa can confirm that disabled supporters who have booked matchday parking at Villa Park for the 2024/25 season will be charged last season’s parking rates.
Those supporters will be contacted directly by the clubs’s ticket office via telephone prior to the next match at Villa Park against Everton and for those who were overcharged for parking for the Arsenal match, the club will issue reimbursements.
The club wishes to apologise to those affected.
We are all affected by the callous approach and the weasel words used. Don’t wish to apologise just apologise.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 06, 2024, 09:32:45 PM
Post by: tony scott on September 06, 2024, 09:37:06 PM
Post by: purpletrousers on September 06, 2024, 09:38:42 PM
Never forget, they weren't doing shit about those car park prices until the shitstorm hit them today. They've had 2 weeks since the Arsenal game to fix if if it had been an error rather than a deliberate and planned increase.
True. The interesting thing is it gives the broadly horrified fanbase a sense of its worth speaking out. Harder to see a big U turn on UCL but if you don’t fight you can’t win etc.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 06, 2024, 09:39:11 PM
Post by: PaulWinch again on September 06, 2024, 09:54:05 PM
Post by: ChicagoLion on September 06, 2024, 10:07:54 PM
Yes wishing you and your family all the best.Thanks for all the good wishes everyone, very much appreciated.all the best to you and family CB111.
Hopefully someone at the club has a moral compass and revisits this sooner rather than later.
I very much doubt it though.
As long as we stick together we will sort things in the end.
....UTV
Post by: Villan82 on September 06, 2024, 10:30:24 PM
Thanks Risso, and everyone else. Some decent human beings on here that AVFC could learn from.
Absolutely this.
Post by: KevinGage on September 06, 2024, 10:43:48 PM
And this absolute can't gets potted.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on September 06, 2024, 11:06:57 PM
Post by: Villan82 on September 06, 2024, 11:10:30 PM
I genuinely hope we get 35-36000 gates tops for the upcoming CL games.
And this absolute can't gets potted.
He'd probably pull an Ellis and claim 99% of the fans love him!
Post by: jon collett on September 06, 2024, 11:11:42 PM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 06, 2024, 11:15:41 PM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 06, 2024, 11:17:14 PM
Post by: wozwebs on September 06, 2024, 11:21:20 PM
Post by: john e on September 06, 2024, 11:30:20 PM
It’s no consolation but you’ve got the best user name on here
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 06, 2024, 11:39:33 PM
Sorry to hear of your Wife’s illness chipThanks John
It’s no consolation but you’ve got the best user name on here
Post by: Nunkin1965 on September 06, 2024, 11:56:26 PM
Sending my best wishes to you and yours.
Post by: Rory on September 07, 2024, 12:59:19 AM
I still cannot quite believe anybody thought this was anything but a disgusting idea in the first place.
I'm just waiting for the invitation to 'come along to the Bayern game dressed as your favourite Nazi - bonus points if you guess Heck's. Hint: it's not who you might expect!' or the pre-game FGM tombola.
Post by: Rory on September 07, 2024, 01:00:11 AM
Sorry to hear of your Wife’s illness chip
It’s no consolation but you’ve got the best user name on here
Still 'Tokyo Sexwhale', for me.
Post by: Smirker on September 07, 2024, 01:35:18 AM
There was a real buzz around the club since Unai came in and how well the team has done and this guy is destroying it.
There is a negativity bubbling under the surface and it needs removing before it starts to affect the performance of the team.
Heck out.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 07, 2024, 01:44:39 AM
When Villa score
He'll charge us more
Chrissy Chrissy Heck
Post by: CT Villan on September 07, 2024, 02:44:59 AM
Post by: tony scott on September 07, 2024, 07:08:15 AM
Post by: RamboandBruno on September 07, 2024, 07:13:59 AM
Chris Heck has to go. Whether he’s a lighting rod for the owners is a mute point for me. He’s gone too far too fast with zero care for the support or the legacy he leaves behind when he inevitably shambles off to fleece another sports club.
Ive bought Bayern tickets for me and my two teenagers and Ive sent a complaint into the club, makes me a bit of a hypocrite I suppose, but more than anything I didn’t want my lad to miss out on this one. The fact that I know we wont be going to Bologna, possibly not Juve and Celtic, makes me sad for how the excitement has been ruined. But it’s indicative of the direction of travel since Heck arrived, take away what we formally had, charge us more for less, makes our experiences worse, drag the name of the club through the mud. Even if Purslow would off wanted to implement similar plans, he would have fronted up at least sometimes, not this bloke. This stuff matters and I hope the Holte leads the charge against the tosser next Saturday.
Chris Heck get out of our club.
Post by: Risso on September 07, 2024, 07:26:27 AM
https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/man-city-issue-refunds-change-29882192
Post by: ChicagoLion on September 07, 2024, 07:50:46 AM
Get the Heck out.
GTHO.
Post by: dorsetvillian on September 07, 2024, 07:54:15 AM
Post by: Bad English on September 07, 2024, 08:16:08 AM
Post by: tomd2103 on September 07, 2024, 09:26:55 AM
The really depressing thing is, the extra 30 quid per ticket or whatever it is across the board, in football terms it is absolutely peanuts. It is small fry, loose change. This is a club that has players on six figure sums a week.
But whoever it was that made the decision thought that whatever bad will this would drum up with the fan base was worth it, otherwise they wouldn’t have done it.
And then there’s the disabled parking. Someone thought that an extra £200 a season from a bunch of almost certainly the most vulnerable people in our support was worth the awful press. It was worth the anguish those people will be going through.
It wasn’t that long ago we were in the second division and they were begging us to buy tickets. The top tier of the trinity was closed more often than not.
But here we are, after a decade of being spoon fed lukewarm liquid dog shit every other week for a decade, the very first chance they get to start defiling people for money, they’re at it like a rat up a drainpipe.
The absolute fucking nerve of Heck with his £8k season tickets and his promotional video for all those wanky lounges, whilst at the same time people paying “only” 6 or 700 quid for their tickets are faced with truly disgusting unsanitary overflowing toilets.
It’s just really depressing that the second they thought they could do stuff like this, they went for it big style. Fuck the lot of us, like it or lump it.
That's the thing I keep coming back to - it just seems all so unnecessary. Given the extra revenue that being in the Champions League brings, surely they could have simply made the games category A games. Maybe bump up the price of the executive offerings a bit if necessary, but keep the other tickets within the current pricing structure.
They have scored a major own goal with this and have already massively dampened what should have been a really exciting experience.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 07, 2024, 09:29:53 AM
Post by: Ads on September 07, 2024, 09:30:42 AM
Post by: Villan82 on September 07, 2024, 09:34:22 AM
At this stage I don't even care what his successor does but it would be nice if for 6 months we could focus on Emery and the team and have this clown nowhere near the club
Post by: dorsetvillian on September 07, 2024, 09:35:53 AM
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 07, 2024, 09:37:05 AM
A win is worth €2.1m and a draw is €700.
700 is hardly worth the bother.
Post by: ChicagoLion on September 07, 2024, 09:37:43 AM
This is about the third or fourth time in 12 months that Heck's actions have distracted from the excellent performance of Emery and the team. If they want a re-set then Heck has to be the fall-guy.I genuinely believe that he will not be here for long, can you imagine what it is like to work for someone as pig headed and full of his own self importance.
At this stage I don't even care what his successor does but it would be nice if for 6 months we could focus on Emery and the team and have this clown nowhere near the club
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 07, 2024, 09:40:24 AM
Post by: Ads on September 07, 2024, 09:40:58 AM
Post by: dave.woodhall on September 07, 2024, 09:44:46 AM
If the team is successful and revenues are increasing by a fair chunk then he's doing exactly what they hired him to do. It's not like they won't have known his track record for pissing fans off.
And that's probably the truest comment on here.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 07, 2024, 09:45:48 AM
Quote
"It's part of the culture of like everything is just so critically important to them. Everything. Philly (Philadelphia) is, I think, the best sports town in the US.
"But it's not even close to the scrutiny that goes on with the clubs here. To be fair to them, they don't have four other sports to dive into. They don't have college sports - that doesn't exist. It's European football that's it. That's what matters. It really is more than lifestyle. It's their family, it's generational and everyone takes it really personally.
"I respect that and you have to be very careful with it, but I also want to win. If your compass is the right compass of win by also being respectful.
"I was reading something last night and every once in a while, and I've been pretty good about getting off social media, but I was getting destroyed yesterday for something.
"I can't even remember what it was, but it was something that has been wildly successful and I'm getting just destroyed on the whole thing. It's like 20/30 people killing you. You're kind of like this is the game, this is the deal. But what I've been saying to everybody is that I'm not claiming to be the expert on the sporting side. I'm an expert on the business side and I'm not apologizing for that.
"I do believe that I surround myself with really good people and I do believe that I will deliver results and I do believe that they'll be happy in the end. Change is tough, change is hard."
Post by: ChicagoLion on September 07, 2024, 09:53:49 AM
But this has got bigger than just pissing the fans off.If the team is successful and revenues are increasing by a fair chunk then he's doing exactly what they hired him to do. It's not like they won't have known his track record for pissing fans off.
And that's probably the truest comment on here.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 07, 2024, 09:58:58 AM
Post by: Footy-Vill on September 07, 2024, 10:19:43 AM
Saying make 30m to 40m in Champions League
Post by: RamboandBruno on September 07, 2024, 10:55:48 AM
And within a couple of weeks there'll be a story about another club and the media will barely mention it again, and it will be the fans that are left pissed off with conditions and prices.
This is true and the article you posted is also interesting in terms of the mind set. The quote ‘in the end they’ll be happy’ is presumably referring to the owners not supporters?
In one-way he’s right in that a social media ‘storm’ can be brushed off in a fairly short period of time and the immediate national interest will fade. However, if and it is an if, there are thousands of complaints into the club and protests at the ground, even if its for only a few matches, i think this will be harder to shake off. None of this may play out of course, but if it did, he could be the PR fall guy, which would give some instant gratification, but wouldn't necessarily change the current trajectory.
Post by: boozey182 on September 07, 2024, 11:02:16 AM
A win is worth €2.1m and a draw is €700k.
If it is purely about PSR or whatever, there should be an incentivised scheme - it's £90 (or whatever ridiculous amount) in, but if Villa get a draw, you get £10 back. If we win, you get £30. Could make for a great atmosphere (for the first 10 minutes - then watch the abuse as Diego Carlos misses from a yard out in the last minute).
If they're going to fleece us, they may as well at least add in a bit of jeopardy... The game is becoming less about emotion and more about financial transactions, it's about time the fans got a piece of the action!
Post by: john e on September 07, 2024, 11:08:13 AM
I’d prefer him over Heck every day
Post by: LeeB on September 07, 2024, 11:17:20 AM
Purslow was a slimy little fucker but there was always something likeable about him, I think he genuinely cared about the club and probably still does
I’d prefer him over Heck every day
I'm probably giving him way too much credit but I do wonder if his departure may have been hastened by him pushing back a bit. against fleecing every last penny from the fans
Post by: Risso on September 07, 2024, 11:19:01 AM
Purslow was a slimy little fucker but there was always something likeable about him, I think he genuinely cared about the club and probably still does
I’d prefer him over Heck every day
He was a bit of a div, but he was our div, and was in charge for some great times. Obviously plumping for Stevie G is what did for him.
Post by: danno on September 07, 2024, 11:33:17 AM
Terrace View was introduced under Purslow and Heck has just picked up the baton and ran with it.
Post by: yammers on September 07, 2024, 11:58:50 AM
Former CEO Keith Wyness on Villa.
Saying make 30m to 40m in Champions League
You lost me at ‘Keith Wyness’
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 07, 2024, 12:03:11 PM
1 Big price increases
2. Canvassing opinion then ignoring it
..I thought I'd see what makes a great businessman and checked out Harvard Business School Online..
The 10 Characteristics Required Are..
1 Curiosity
2 Willingness to Experiment
3. Adaptability
4. Decisiveness
5. Self Awareness
6. Risk Tolerance
7. Comfort with Failure
8. Persistence
9 Innovative Thinking
10 Long Term Focus
..to quote Harvard..
If you have an idea for a product or service, you'll have to ensure customers are willing to pay for it and it meets their needs.
..I could go through the list of 10 Requirements and pick him apart tbh...
He's a chancer, simple as that
Post by: villa `cross the mersey on September 07, 2024, 12:07:19 PM
(Clive and Cameron)
The nonsense going on around "our club" pales into insignificance in comparison
Take care buddy
God Bless
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 07, 2024, 12:14:58 PM
So sorry to read about your wife Chip Butty - myself and VCTM Jnr will hold you in our thoughts and prayers - sincere regardsThankyou VCTM
(Clive and Cameron)
The nonsense going on around "our club" pales into insignificance in comparison
Take care buddy
God Bless
Post by: john e on September 07, 2024, 12:49:38 PM
You know you’ve done a bad job when people are missing Christian Purslow.
Terrace View was introduced under Purslow and Heck has just picked up the baton and ran with it.
Everyone accepts that there is a need for bigger and better corporate facilities though that’s not what it’s about
It’s when those ‘new’ corporate fans are the only ones that count in the emerging Villa world and the traditional support are treated with contempt with failing facilities and high ticket prices
Post by: Gareth on September 07, 2024, 01:03:20 PM
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on September 07, 2024, 01:04:04 PM
And within a couple of weeks there'll be a story about another club and the media will barely mention it again, and it will be the fans that are left pissed off with conditions and prices.
I was thinking that. Also I don’t think this would’ve got half the coverage it did if it wasn’t an international break.
Post by: eamonn on September 07, 2024, 01:31:29 PM
A win is worth €2.1m and a draw is €700k.
If it is purely about PSR or whatever, there should be an incentivised scheme - it's £90 (or whatever ridiculous amount) in, but if Villa get a draw, you get £10 back. If we win, you get £30. Could make for a great atmosphere (for the first 10 minutes - then watch the abuse as Diego Carlos misses from a yard out in the last minute).
If they're going to fleece us, they may as well at least add in a bit of jeopardy... The game is becoming less about emotion and more about financial transactions, it's about time the fans got a piece of the action!
Some may say you talk too much tripe when boozy, but I like this!
Post by: FrankyH on September 07, 2024, 02:16:29 PM
Post by: VillaTim on September 07, 2024, 02:27:42 PM
Post by: KevinGage on September 07, 2024, 02:40:56 PM
He was Old School Tie and everything else that comes with that.
But a football man at the same time; someone who persuaded NSWE to go with Dean Smith rather than their Thierry Henry flight of fantasy, for example.
He was a competent administrator and you never feared he would embarrass us on a national level like this berk has done a few times now.
Post by: Villan82 on September 07, 2024, 02:48:59 PM
Purslow got a few calls wrong but the vast majority right.
He was Old School Tie and everything else that comes with that.
But a football man at the same time; someone who persuaded NSWE to go with Dean Smith rather than their Thierry Henry flight of fantasy, for example.
He was a competent administrator and you never feared he would embarrass us on a national level like this berk has done a few times now.
Heck talks about marketing as if he invented it. That 25 minute interview Purslow did with Beth Rigby inside Villa Park wasn't half bad in terms of good PR for the club
Post by: eamonn on September 07, 2024, 02:58:32 PM
Post by: andyh on September 07, 2024, 03:07:32 PM
Post by: Dogtanian on September 07, 2024, 03:08:24 PM
Has there been any formal response to the issues around the Arsenal game yet ?
Yeah, Dettol to be announced as our new floor cleaning partner.
Post by: Beard82 on September 07, 2024, 03:12:10 PM
In hindsight - I was overly crucial of CP - I think he was a decent custodians for the club. I dont think we would have been able to grow us quickly enough though from a revenue sidePurslow got a few calls wrong but the vast majority right.
He was Old School Tie and everything else that comes with that.
But a football man at the same time; someone who persuaded NSWE to go with Dean Smith rather than their Thierry Henry flight of fantasy, for example.
He was a competent administrator and you never feared he would embarrass us on a national level like this berk has done a few times now.
Heck talks about marketing as if he invented it. That 25 minute interview Purslow did with Beth Rigby inside Villa Park wasn't half bad in terms of good PR for the club
Post by: Clampy on September 07, 2024, 03:15:11 PM
Has there been any formal response to the issues around the Arsenal game yet ?
Yeah, Dettol to be announced as our new floor cleaning partner.
Didnt we at least speak to Toilet Duck?
Post by: Dogtanian on September 07, 2024, 03:20:39 PM
Has there been any formal response to the issues around the Arsenal game yet ?
Yeah, Dettol to be announced as our new floor cleaning partner.
Didnt we at least speak to Toilet Duck?
Think they tried to create a bidding war with Jeyes Fluid.
Post by: danno on September 07, 2024, 03:39:39 PM
Purslow got a few calls wrong but the vast majority right.
He was Old School Tie and everything else that comes with that.
But a football man at the same time; someone who persuaded NSWE to go with Dean Smith rather than their Thierry Henry flight of fantasy, for example.
He was a competent administrator and you never feared he would embarrass us on a national level like this berk has done a few times now.
Is this actually true? I’m fairly certain Henry was in post at Monaco before Smith was appointed.
https://m.allfootballapp.com/news/Bundesliga/Henry-set-for-return-to-Monaco-leaving-Terry-as-main-Villa-candidate/830188
https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/aston-villa-next-manager-odds-15260258
Then there’s who we appointed after Smith, which looked very much like chasing a bigger name rather than who was best suited for the role.
Post by: VillaTim on September 07, 2024, 03:54:57 PM
Post by: Mister E on September 07, 2024, 03:58:23 PM
Has there been any formal response to the issues around the Arsenal game yet ?I received an email from Lee Preece yesterday explaining what they've been doing to sort out the toilets. I can copy it here is anyone's interested ...
Post by: Drummond on September 07, 2024, 04:33:49 PM
Post by: Gareth on September 07, 2024, 04:53:35 PM
He probably won't risk turning up next Saturday .
Course he will but as I’m sure happens every game he doesn’t move any further than schmoozing the corporate hospitality in the Trinity (with his legendary communication skills)and Directors box…he won’t associate with us plebs
Post by: Paul.S on September 07, 2024, 06:01:59 PM
Has there been any formal response to the issues around the Arsenal game yet ?I received an email from Lee Preece yesterday explaining what they've been doing to sort out the toilets. I can copy it here is anyone's interested ...
Buckets?
Post by: VillaTim on September 07, 2024, 06:48:16 PM
proper short man syndromeHe probably won't risk turning up next Saturday .
Course he will but as I’m sure happens every game he doesn’t move any further than schmoozing the corporate hospitality in the Trinity (with his legendary communication skills)and Directors box…he won’t associate with us plebs
Post by: algy on September 07, 2024, 06:58:35 PM
Purslow got a few calls wrong but the vast majority right.Agree with all this. I quite liked Purslow all in all, obviously a CEO type but seemed for the most part alright. This Heck fellow feels … very American in his attitudes.
He was Old School Tie and everything else that comes with that.
But a football man at the same time; someone who persuaded NSWE to go with Dean Smith rather than their Thierry Henry flight of fantasy, for example.
He was a competent administrator and you never feared he would embarrass us on a national level like this berk has done a few times now.
Post by: algy on September 07, 2024, 07:03:19 PM
Sent my complaint email (re: ticket pricing) today got the following response from Lee:I had an email back from Lee Preece which was the same but started
“Many thanks for your email which we have logged as complaint reference 24 jul-sep 929.
Our apologies that you have had cause to complain.
We are compiling all feedback received on Champions League pricing and will ensure this is shared with Senior Management accordingly.”
I’m assuming that’s 929th complaint so far and not of the day?
“Many thanks for your email which we have logged as complaint reference 24 jul-sep 977.”
Guess that it must be a rolling count for the July to September period! :)
Post by: Mister E on September 07, 2024, 07:09:02 PM
Quote
On behalf of everyone here at Villa Park, thanks again for taking the time to register your feelings on your experience at our first match versus Arsenal. We reiterate our apologies that you had cause to complain.
As we are sure you can appreciate, your feedback was not isolated, so it has taken considerable time to log those we have received, acknowledge receipt and then collate all of the points made within the complaints. Whilst the club emailed a statement to all of those in attendance on Tuesday 27th, we wanted to ensure we followed up with the reply below.
The issues with toilets around the stadium was escalated to our owners, who immediately recognised the importance of both immediate and long-term solutions to avoid repeats of what you had to endure. Our facilities team have already worked to ensure all blockages have been investigated and repaired.
A longer-term programme has also begun, including the installation of Air Admittance Valves being added to all male urinals to aid waste removal, hand dryers in all toilets replacing paper towels, new flooring and facilities painted. We will work through the stadium as quickly as we can
throughout the season, using gaps in the fixtures to address every area.
The number of toilets available for fans will remain a challenge in some areas, but we are looking again at ways we may be able to increase the provision. We will do everything we can to find solutions.
When we introduced Terrace View, the amount of toilet provision for male and female fans was replicated in the two additional facilities created at either end of the lower concourse. Whilst both spaces themselves are smaller, the actual number of facilities has not reduced. There are also many hundreds of people using the facilities within Terrace View itself, who before would have been using the old facilities. However, any facility has to function properly and not overflow, as we have referenced above.
Thanks again for taking the time to register your complaint. We are working hard to improve and recognise the importance of your matchday experience.
Best wishes
Lee
Post by: VillaTim on September 07, 2024, 07:20:05 PM
Post by: Risso on September 07, 2024, 07:41:08 PM
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 07, 2024, 07:42:05 PM
Post by: Clampy on September 07, 2024, 07:57:01 PM
If he's replying to an email that was only about the toilets why would he mention anything else?
Yep.
Post by: VillaTim on September 07, 2024, 08:00:21 PM
The events of the last few weeks will be with NSWE now so let's wait and see .
Post by: Risso on September 07, 2024, 09:30:11 PM
If he's replying to an email that was only about the toilets why would he mention anything else?
You don’t know that that’s the case though.
Post by: Somniloquism on September 07, 2024, 09:36:12 PM
If he's replying to an email that was only about the toilets why would he mention anything else?
You don’t know that that’s the case though.
I assumed it was a reply to Mister E who starts his post "Email received from Lee Preece re Pissgate:"
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 07, 2024, 09:42:20 PM
If he's replying to an email that was only about the toilets why would he mention anything else?
You don’t know that that’s the case though.
And you don't know it isn't. And that's why I said "if", because I don't know.
Post by: johny on September 08, 2024, 02:49:57 AM
Post by: Border villan on September 08, 2024, 07:33:53 AM
At the time several were prepared to give him the benefit of the doubt but since then his true colours have begun to shine brightly.
Post by: Hookeysmith on September 08, 2024, 07:38:06 AM
A I have said itsall entertainment nowadays, concerts, theatre prices are astronomically inflated. I recently paid £40 to see a tribute act but to be fair they were pretty good.
Post by: Three Spires Villa on September 08, 2024, 08:06:37 AM
Even £50 a ticket is beyond some people's means, using the same analogy of a family of four is £800 for 4 games, so not sure where you pitch the prices.
A I have said itsall entertainment nowadays, concerts, theatre prices are astronomically inflated. I recently paid £40 to see a tribute act but to be fair they were pretty good.
Going to watch your football team is not similar to going to a gig or other forms of entertainment. They know this, it’s a lifetime commitment, often passed through families. Going for a fancy meal, a gig, or a night out is totally different
Post by: Lsvilla on September 08, 2024, 08:43:05 AM
Image if you are a family with 4 kids and everyone wants to go? That's nearly £600 for one game of football and there are 3 more to come. £2400 before you've even paid for transport, food, drink etc. and thats on top of a season ticket that you have already shelled out for. I'm well priced out of it. I don't think I could afford to go to any more than a couple of games in a whole year but people like me are irrelevant there is much more money to be made. Fuck them. I'm very happy paying fuck all to watch every single game. Fuck them, I'm happy to never set foot in a ground that you have to wade through rivers of piss to get to a seat that doesn't actually exist! Taking the piss is what they are doing and what your standing in. Fuck them is all i'll say & fuck you Chris Heck you most certainly can't read a room but you'll be on to your next cushy number after this while people will have taken out loans just to watch a game of football.....You're misleading people here though with those figures. Unless this hypothetical family have six ST's in zone one (in which case they're probably used to forking out the costs involved in attending these CL games anyway) then the whole family can attend for between £220 and £238. Perfectly comparable with other world class forms of entertainment available to do 'as a family'.
Post by: PaulWinch again on September 08, 2024, 09:15:34 AM
Post by: luke95 on September 08, 2024, 09:26:03 AM
Post by: ChicagoLion on September 08, 2024, 09:58:42 AM
If they're all sat alone maybe , but the likelihood of getting 4/5/6 tickets together isn't To get sat together you're most likely have to pay the higher price bracket.If they have STs they can automatically retain their seats.
If not they will struggle to be inthe same section.
Post by: Rigadon on September 08, 2024, 10:06:13 AM
I heard a really good point on a podcast the other day which summed it up quite nicely. Football clubs see the fans as customers, but they should really think in a more rounded way because they really don’t want them to start behaving like customers.
Yeah that was the Guardian's football weekly, which I listened to especially because they were talking about Villa (for a fucking change but that's another thread!!!!). It's a good point. They went further to say that at some point, the match going fan base might not be there because newer generations won't actually be match going like we were as kids (when tickets were less outrageously priced).
I'm kind of torn on this though. The cost is ridiculous, and is probably more restrictive for most people. But is there enough merit to the argument that in order to carry on competing at this end of the league we need revenue to increase? How much does the match income actually matter? I think I read it was about 15% of total revenue, so if that's right, it's not meaningless.
Also, when you look at match day revenue, we are way behind the usual suspects. That's down to stadium size too, but also location, with London prices being higher.
Anyway, at the very least, they need to fix the bogs.
Post by: john e on September 08, 2024, 10:25:54 AM
Post by: danno on September 08, 2024, 10:27:57 AM
You really can’t compare other forms of entertainment to football I paid well over £100 for AC/DC tickets for Wembley a couple of months ago but that will probably be the only time I ever see them whereas Villa is ongoing financial drainage from week to week
Plus if you go see a band you like, you’re almost guaranteed to go home happy. That’s just not the case with sport, even as a neutral you can go home fed up because it’s been a 0-0 snooze fest.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on September 08, 2024, 10:32:06 AM
Pretty sure we (fans in general) have been saying exactly that since the mid 90s.
Post by: PeterWithe on September 08, 2024, 10:36:24 AM
That thing about the future match going generation not being there.
Pretty sure we (fans in general) have been saying exactly that since the mid 90s.
But we’ve always been able to get tickets in the main, the younger generation now can’t. So why not support other more successful teams that they also cant get tickets for?
Post by: astonvilla82 on September 08, 2024, 10:43:09 AM
Post by: Risso on September 08, 2024, 10:46:06 AM
In general I keep hearing that people haven't got any money, but is that a myth because all I see is the opposite especially in the younger generation,I acknowledge that there is some in society that may be not financially well off
So, not really a myth at all then.
Post by: CLEEVE on September 08, 2024, 10:46:40 AM
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 08, 2024, 10:56:02 AM
Quote
Just under half of Birmingham children are now living in poverty - up 10% in a decade. And to get out of it, many of their parents would need to DOUBLE their income.
Birmingham is now second only to London's Tower Hamlets estate when it comes to the proportion of kids living in real hardship. Some 46% are now impoverished, with many of them growing up in overcrowded, substandard homes, with bare cupboards and sharing beds.
"This is social failure at scale," said Paul Kissack, group chief executive of the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, which carried out the research.
The Birmingham rate of 46.4% is a huge jump from a decade ago, when just over a third of city children (36%) were in the same position.
Post by: Mellin on September 08, 2024, 10:58:20 AM
In general I keep hearing that people haven't got any money, but is that a myth because all I see is the opposite especially in the younger generation,I acknowledge that there is some in society that may be not financially well off
Spend a lot of time in the poorer parts of Birmingham?
Post by: lukey27 on September 08, 2024, 11:00:42 AM
On behalf of everyone here at Villa Park, thanks again for taking the time to register your feelings on your experience at our first match versus Arsenal. We reiterate our apologies that you had cause to complain.
As we are sure you can appreciate, your feedback was not isolated, so it has taken considerable time to log those we have received, acknowledge receipt and then collate all of the points made within the complaints. Whilst the club emailed a statement to all of those in attendance on Tuesday 27th, we wanted to ensure we followed up with the reply below.
Immediately following the match, those directly involved in stadium operations had already begun to collate and understand the elements that contributed to the late opening of stiles and build-up of queues that we had not shifted entirely by kick-off. The depth of feeling expressed by yourself, and others is completely understood by all here at Villa Park, and our determination to see those arriving early given an appropriate welcome and safe entry to the stadium is of paramount importance.
The issues with toilets around the stadium was escalated to our owners, who immediately recognised the importance of both immediate and long-term solutions to avoid repeats of what you had to endure. Our facilities team have already worked to ensure all blockages have been investigated and repaired. A longer-term programme has also begun, including the installation of Air Admittance Valves being added to all male urinals to aid waste removal, hand dryers in all toilets replacing paper towels, new flooring and facilities painted. We will work through the stadium as quickly as we can throughout the season, using gaps in the fixtures to address every area.
All of the specific and general comments received regarding catering service, product availability, prices etc have been shared with our Catering provider Levy. As with our own operations, the first match is problematic for new staff understanding new facilities and the complexities of Villa Park. We will keep a close eye on them as we know they need to deliver an appropriate level of service throughout the season.
Post by: VillaTim on September 08, 2024, 11:26:02 AM
In general I keep hearing that people haven't got any money, but is that a myth because all I see is the opposite especially in the younger generation,I acknowledge that there is some in society that may be not financially well off"some" is probably the majority.
Post by: andyh on September 08, 2024, 12:13:13 PM
You really can’t compare other forms of entertainment to football I paid well over £100 for AC/DC tickets for Wembley a couple of months ago but that will probably be the only time I ever see them whereas Villa is ongoing financial drainage from week to weekThat’s not a proper comparison though is it.
Just because it’s the only time you see will that particular artist, there is nothing preventing you splashing your cash on another band/event every weekend.
Whether you spend your cash on one love (The Villa) or many different styles or things is your prerogative.
Of course, everything is about affordability, but then you own preferences, priorities and limits come into play.
I see people spending £10 a day on coffee and lunch at work. The same people must spend around £50 a week, every week just on coffee and food.
But, it’s their choice, their decision.
The same as everything else, including going to the Villa.
Post by: Risso on September 08, 2024, 12:20:38 PM
You really can’t compare other forms of entertainment to football I paid well over £100 for AC/DC tickets for Wembley a couple of months ago but that will probably be the only time I ever see them whereas Villa is ongoing financial drainage from week to weekThat’s not a proper comparison though is it.
Just because it’s the only time you see will that particular artist, there is nothing preventing you splashing your cash on another band/event every weekend.
Whether you spend your cash on one love (The Villa) or many different styles or things is your prerogative.
Of course, everything is about affordability, but then you own preferences, priorities and limits come into play.
I see people spending £10 a day on coffee and lunch at work. The same people must spend around £50 a week, every week just on coffee and food.
But, it’s their choice, their decision.
The same as everything else, including going to the Villa.
The point is that Villa are trying to charge miles more for a product than is considered reasonable. So I think the band comparison is perfectly reasonable, but even if you don't, to use your analogy, it would the same if the people in your example went to buy a sandwich and coffee from Costa, to be told it was £11.95 for the flat white and £25 for the sarnie.
Post by: Clampy on September 08, 2024, 12:30:08 PM
You really can’t compare other forms of entertainment to football I paid well over £100 for AC/DC tickets for Wembley a couple of months ago but that will probably be the only time I ever see them whereas Villa is ongoing financial drainage from week to weekThat’s not a proper comparison though is it.
Just because it’s the only time you see will that particular artist, there is nothing preventing you splashing your cash on another band/event every weekend.
Whether you spend your cash on one love (The Villa) or many different styles or things is your prerogative.
Of course, everything is about affordability, but then you own preferences, priorities and limits come into play.
I see people spending £10 a day on coffee and lunch at work. The same people must spend around £50 a week, every week just on coffee and food.
But, it’s their choice, their decision.
The same as everything else, including going to the Villa.
No-one is going to spend £70-£80 every other weekend for a gig.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on September 08, 2024, 12:38:14 PM
No-one is going to spend £70-£80 every other weekend for a gig.
You haven't seen UKR's schedule in the Live Comedy thread.
Post by: Clampy on September 08, 2024, 12:45:20 PM
No-one is going to spend £70-£80 every other weekend for a gig.
You haven't seen UKR's schedule in the Live Comedy thread.
Haha, that's true.
Post by: amfy on September 08, 2024, 12:46:54 PM
That thing about the future match going generation not being there.
Pretty sure we (fans in general) have been saying exactly that since the mid 90s.
……& the average age of football crowds continues to rise. It is already happening & it’s accelerating. For many kids now football is a computer game.
Post by: Footy-Vill on September 08, 2024, 01:06:17 PM
It doesn't align with traditional football support .
It's now the price of seeing our success viewed as a spectator sport and not a supporter one.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 08, 2024, 02:24:28 PM
Wonder what surprises he has in store this week?
Wonderful businessman that he is..
Post by: VillaTim on September 08, 2024, 02:29:23 PM
Is he still here?Pay to enter toilets (£1.50)
Wonder what surprises he has in store this week?
Wonderful businessman that he is..
Priority admission lanes (£5)
Extra Legroom seats (end of aisle) (£20)
Post by: Skerra on September 08, 2024, 02:33:48 PM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 08, 2024, 02:54:19 PM
The ogre lurking in the shadows has now emerged into plain sight.
He's a wrong un....
Post by: Border villan on September 08, 2024, 03:39:54 PM
Image if you are a family with 4 kids and everyone wants to go? That's nearly £600 for one game of football and there are 3 more to come. £2400 before you've even paid for transport, food, drink etc. and thats on top of a season ticket that you have already shelled out for. I'm well priced out of it. I don't think I could afford to go to any more than a couple of games in a whole year but people like me are irrelevant there is much more money to be made. Fuck them. I'm very happy paying fuck all to watch every single game. Fuck them, I'm happy to never set foot in a ground that you have to wade through rivers of piss to get to a seat that doesn't actually exist! Taking the piss is what they are doing and what your standing in. Fuck them is all i'll say & fuck you Chris Heck you most certainly can't read a room but you'll be on to your next cushy number after this while people will have taken out loans just to watch a game of football.....You're misleading people here though with those figures. Unless this hypothetical family have six ST's in zone one (in which case they're probably used to forking out the costs involved in attending these CL games anyway) then the whole family can attend for between £220 and £238. Perfectly comparable with other world class forms of entertainment available to do 'as a family'.
And for Lsvillas whole family prices you get the added opportunity to wade through piss at half time for free, but that might be charged for in the future.
Post by: RamboandBruno on September 08, 2024, 04:19:29 PM
You really can’t compare other forms of entertainment to football I paid well over £100 for AC/DC tickets for Wembley a couple of months ago but that will probably be the only time I ever see them whereas Villa is ongoing financial drainage from week to weekThat’s not a proper comparison though is it.
Just because it’s the only time you see will that particular artist, there is nothing preventing you splashing your cash on another band/event every weekend.
Whether you spend your cash on one love (The Villa) or many different styles or things is your prerogative.
Of course, everything is about affordability, but then you own preferences, priorities and limits come into play.
I see people spending £10 a day on coffee and lunch at work. The same people must spend around £50 a week, every week just on coffee and food.
But, it’s their choice, their decision.
The same as everything else, including going to the Villa.
Supporting the Villa and many other football teams is different to the kind if transactional customer-service provider relationship your talking about though.
For many of us the villa is in the blood, its tied in with our life histories and family relationships. So many of my lifetime memories are tied into days down Villa Park or away days, there is much more to it than the transaction you allude to.
There are obviously clubs with lots of tourist fans, such as some of the London and Manchester clubs and Liverpool, Villa have never been that. It seems pretty clear now that is the direction Heck wants to take us, the transaction between fan and club, which will quite frankly kill the club as we know it and turn into a different beast altogether, a souless thing.
It might be a battle that can’t be won, but for all of who care about the club, we need to resist as much as possible, even if that just means being a pain and complaining here and there.
Post by: exigo on September 08, 2024, 04:39:58 PM
Post by: johny on September 08, 2024, 04:44:30 PM
Post by: VillaTim on September 08, 2024, 04:49:40 PM
Probably installing parking meters outside the children's hospital as we speak.Sadly they already exist there !
Post by: Skerra on September 08, 2024, 06:01:16 PM
Post by: Hookeysmith on September 08, 2024, 07:11:47 PM
Of course there are poor families, these I would imagine where mom and dad workhard on low wages, but for everyone of them there are the others who seem to be doing OK.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 08, 2024, 07:17:20 PM
From early this yearQuoteJust under half of Birmingham children are now living in poverty - up 10% in a decade. And to get out of it, many of their parents would need to DOUBLE their income.
Birmingham is now second only to London's Tower Hamlets estate when it comes to the proportion of kids living in real hardship. Some 46% are now impoverished, with many of them growing up in overcrowded, substandard homes, with bare cupboards and sharing beds.
"This is social failure at scale," said Paul Kissack, group chief executive of the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, which carried out the research.
The Birmingham rate of 46.4% is a huge jump from a decade ago, when just over a third of city children (36%) were in the same position.
Again.
Post by: RamboandBruno on September 08, 2024, 07:47:38 PM
These are the same poor kids who have hundreds of pounds in tattoo's,top smart phones and wear designer clothes [although most I would imagine are knock offs]
Of course there are poor families, these I would imagine where mom and dad workhard on low wages, but for everyone of them there are the others who seem to be doing OK.
Is that straight from the Daily Mail?
Post by: astonvilla82 on September 08, 2024, 08:03:37 PM
I used to work for Birmingham city housing department and the impression I got was that this was not the caseIn general I keep hearing that people haven't got any money, but is that a myth because all I see is the opposite especially in the younger generation,I acknowledge that there is some in society that may be not financially well off"some" is probably the majority.
Post by: Stu on September 08, 2024, 08:08:25 PM
These are the same poor kids who have hundreds of pounds in tattoo's,top smart phones and wear designer clothes [although most I would imagine are knock offs]
Of course there are poor families, these I would imagine where mom and dad workhard on low wages, but for everyone of them there are the others who seem to be doing OK.
Hookeysmith and the Temptations
Post by: Risso on September 08, 2024, 08:16:14 PM
I used to work for Birmingham city housing department and the impression I got was that this was not the caseIn general I keep hearing that people haven't got any money, but is that a myth because all I see is the opposite especially in the younger generation,I acknowledge that there is some in society that may be not financially well off"some" is probably the majority.
Surely anybody needing the assistance of the council housing department isn't going to be especially well off?
Post by: RamboandBruno on September 08, 2024, 08:19:10 PM
But if they have tattoos and a phone they must be beyond mintedI used to work for Birmingham city housing department and the impression I got was that this was not the caseIn general I keep hearing that people haven't got any money, but is that a myth because all I see is the opposite especially in the younger generation,I acknowledge that there is some in society that may be not financially well off"some" is probably the majority.
Surely anybody needing the assistance of the council housing department isn't going to be especially well off?
Post by: Bad English on September 08, 2024, 08:24:56 PM
Post by: Stu on September 08, 2024, 08:25:26 PM
But if they have tattoos and a phone they must be beyond mintedI used to work for Birmingham city housing department and the impression I got was that this was not the caseIn general I keep hearing that people haven't got any money, but is that a myth because all I see is the opposite especially in the younger generation,I acknowledge that there is some in society that may be not financially well off"some" is probably the majority.
Surely anybody needing the assistance of the council housing department isn't going to be especially well off?
No, it’s because they spend their universal credit on such things which means they need to scrounge a house off the council.
Get with the program
Post by: Gareth on September 08, 2024, 08:35:31 PM
Post by: VillaTim on September 08, 2024, 08:45:32 PM
These are the same poor kids who have hundreds of pounds in tattoo's,top smart phones and wear designer clothes [although most I would imagine are knock offs]I've read it, re-read it , then read it again. Paragraph 1 had a go only to be usurped by Paragraph 2 .
Of course there are poor families, these I would imagine where mom and dad workhard on low wages, but for everyone of them there are the others who seem to be doing OK.
Post by: Accent Guy on September 08, 2024, 08:55:54 PM
What will be this weeks PR disaster under the chavvy golfer?
Whatever it is, as long as the end justifies the means, neither he nor the owners will care.
Post by: Mellin on September 08, 2024, 10:08:13 PM
I used to work for Birmingham city housing department and the impression I got was that this was not the caseIn general I keep hearing that people haven't got any money, but is that a myth because all I see is the opposite especially in the younger generation,I acknowledge that there is some in society that may be not financially well off"some" is probably the majority.
Just do the maths on how far minimum wage takes you and leave the nonsensical anecdotal evidence at the door.
Post by: CLEEVE on September 09, 2024, 09:31:22 AM
Just take a look on the seat map and there are hundreds of tickets left for Everton.
These tickets will remain unsold just like they were for Arsenal . These seats could be sold instantly if at standard price.
Post by: London Villan on September 09, 2024, 09:44:29 AM
Post by: ChicagoLion on September 09, 2024, 10:00:43 AM
Post by: Sexual Ealing on September 09, 2024, 10:16:48 AM
Post by: Mister E on September 09, 2024, 10:18:13 AM
If he sells half of the GA+ tickets they are no worse off than by General sale revenue wise.But GA+ presumably costs more to service (extra staff, catering, etc), and having sections of empty seating ain't a good look. It seems to me that Heck has brought to the club the ideas that may have worked elsewhere in his career and has not necessarily done much research or market testing to establish whether they're appropriate in this the B6 environment.
It's a lose-lose approach.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on September 09, 2024, 10:19:15 AM
I quite liked Purslow all in all, obviously a CEO type but seemed for the most part alright. This Heck fellow feels … very American in his attitudes.
I wish he was very American in his attitudes, at least from the Americans I have and continue to work with, they're extremely intelligent and would be embarrassed by Heck's lack of vision and lack of basic marketing knowledge. I'd imagine he's the type who jumps ship just before the shitstorm he's created to keep him CV clean. Eventually he'll get found out but he'll leave a lot of carnage and destruction in his wake.
My guess is his contract includes a hefty bonus should he hit his revenue targets and he doesn't give a shit how he achieves it. He can try and bullshit his way through and short term he'll get away with it but his PR quotes of "great success" will soon be found out to be hollow. If the Villa Park crowd turn on him he'll probably shit his pants and try and lay the blame at the feet of our owners. They may have given him carte blanche to drive the revenue up but I doubt they ever thought he was so stupid.
He's not your usual American. He's a greedy chancer who no doubt only really cares about himself.
Post by: eamonn on September 09, 2024, 10:37:42 AM
Post by: rob_bridge on September 09, 2024, 10:39:34 AM
I quite liked Purslow all in all, obviously a CEO type but seemed for the most part alright. This Heck fellow feels … very American in his attitudes.
I wish he was very American in his attitudes, at least from the Americans I have and continue to work with, they're extremely intelligent and would be embarrassed by Heck's lack of vision and lack of basic marketing knowledge. I'd imagine he's the type who jumps ship just before the shitstorm he's created to keep him CV clean. Eventually he'll get found out but he'll leave a lot of carnage and destruction in his wake.
My guess is his contract includes a hefty bonus should he hit his revenue targets and he doesn't give a shit how he achieves it. He can try and bullshit his way through and short term he'll get away with it but his PR quotes of "great success" will soon be found out to be hollow. If the Villa Park crowd turn on him he'll probably shit his pants and try and lay the blame at the feet of our owners. They may have given him carte blanche to drive the revenue up but I doubt they ever thought he was so stupid.
He's not your usual American. He's a greedy chancer who no doubt only really cares about himself.
If he gets to £400m from a base of what about £180m he'll be seen as a huge success, regardless of how many disgruntled folk there are on here and other forums.
I can't see how he can do those numbers but isn't going to die not trying
Post by: VillaTim on September 09, 2024, 10:45:56 AM
If he sells half of the GA+ tickets they are no worse off than by General sale revenue wise.But in doing so he will alienate and lose sections of the fanbase, never to return
Post by: Sexual Ealing on September 09, 2024, 11:37:40 AM
These are the same poor kids who have hundreds of pounds in tattoo's,top smart phones and wear designer clothes [although most I would imagine are knock offs]
Of course there are poor families, these I would imagine where mom and dad workhard on low wages, but for everyone of them there are the others who seem to be doing OK.
They live in houses or flats, most of them. If they can afford the most rudimentary shelter there's no reason they can't afford GA+.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on September 09, 2024, 11:49:19 AM
These are the same poor kids who have hundreds of pounds in tattoo's,top smart phones and wear designer clothes [although most I would imagine are knock offs]
Of course there are poor families, these I would imagine where mom and dad workhard on low wages, but for everyone of them there are the others who seem to be doing OK.
They live in houses or flats, most of them. If they can afford the most rudimentary shelter there's no reason they can't afford GA+.
Indeed and if they can’t afford GA+, they’re just not working hard enough.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on September 09, 2024, 11:50:41 AM
Post by: Drummond on September 09, 2024, 11:51:22 AM
Too much avocado.
Smashed it.
Post by: Brend'Watkins on September 09, 2024, 11:53:31 AM
These are the same poor kids who have hundreds of pounds in tattoo's,top smart phones and wear designer clothes [although most I would imagine are knock offs]
Of course there are poor families, these I would imagine where mom and dad workhard on low wages, but for everyone of them there are the others who seem to be doing OK.
They live in houses or flats, most of them. If they can afford the most rudimentary shelter there's no reason they can't afford GA+.
Indeed and if they can’t afford GA+, they’re just not working hard enough.
Yeah, they can just go and get a job that pays more like some Tory MP advised a few years ago.
Post by: Drummond on September 09, 2024, 11:55:41 AM
These are the same poor kids who have hundreds of pounds in tattoo's,top smart phones and wear designer clothes [although most I would imagine are knock offs]
Of course there are poor families, these I would imagine where mom and dad workhard on low wages, but for everyone of them there are the others who seem to be doing OK.
They live in houses or flats, most of them. If they can afford the most rudimentary shelter there's no reason they can't afford GA+.
Indeed and if they can’t afford GA+, they’re just not working hard enough.
Yeah, they can just go and get a job that pays more like some Tory MP advised a few years ago.
Or get a second and even third job to make ends meet, like the Tories all have.
Post by: oldhill_avfc on September 09, 2024, 12:53:16 PM
Surely Heck is bang in line with 2 tier Kier in expecting those with the broadest shoulders to pay GA+ to subside the rest?
Post by: LeeB on September 09, 2024, 01:07:07 PM
I’m getting a bit lost with all this politics stuff.
Surely Heck is bang in line with 2 tier Kier in expecting those with the broadest shoulders to pay GA+ to subside the rest?
Who are 'the rest' given my ticket for Bayern would have cost £70 odd if I wasn't refusing to pay it?
Post by: Gareth on September 09, 2024, 01:25:28 PM
I’m getting a bit lost with all this politics stuff.
Surely Heck is bang in line with 2 tier Kier in expecting those with the broadest shoulders to pay GA+ to subside the rest?
It’s not to subsidise ‘the rest’ at all it’s to replace the GA plebs with the nirvana of a GA+ price paying only stadium.
Nobody in GA should get carried with the thought that they want us there…we should be grateful they let us use their league one facilities stadium to watch ‘their’ wonderful team.
Man is a football parasite
Post by: RamboandBruno on September 09, 2024, 01:33:19 PM
I’m getting a bit lost with all this politics stuff.
Surely Heck is bang in line with 2 tier Kier in expecting those with the broadest shoulders to pay GA+ to subside the rest?
It’s not to subsidise ‘the rest’ at all it’s to replace the GA plebs with the nirvana of a GA+ price paying only stadium.
Nobody in GA should get carried with the thought that they want us there…we should be grateful they let us use their league one facilities stadium to watch ‘their’ wonderful team.
Man is a football parasite
Now i get it, the GA crew subsidised the pish lapping around my feet at the Arsenal game.
Post by: Gareth on September 09, 2024, 01:36:18 PM
I’m getting a bit lost with all this politics stuff.
Surely Heck is bang in line with 2 tier Kier in expecting those with the broadest shoulders to pay GA+ to subside the rest?
It’s not to subsidise ‘the rest’ at all it’s to replace the GA plebs with the nirvana of a GA+ price paying only stadium.
Nobody in GA should get carried with the thought that they want us there…we should be grateful they let us use their league one facilities stadium to watch ‘their’ wonderful team.
Man is a football parasite
Now i get it, the GA crew subsidised the pish lapping around my feet at the Arsenal game.
Did anyone taste it to make sure it wasn’t Carlsberg!
Post by: eamonn on September 09, 2024, 03:34:15 PM
Too much avocado.
Smashed it.
Lost it to Bostik.
Post by: Olneythelonely on September 09, 2024, 05:06:53 PM
Post by: Drummond on September 09, 2024, 05:15:22 PM
Man U tickets were announced on X 12 minutes before they went on sale. I got an email 1 minute before they went on sale.
To be fair, the date has been in the diary for ages.
Post by: Border villan on September 09, 2024, 05:16:02 PM
As he made copious notes watching the punters pay 50p per piss I heard him muttering “this will work well in the Holte”.
Post by: oldhill_avfc on September 09, 2024, 06:44:36 PM
I’m getting a bit lost with all this politics stuff.
Surely Heck is bang in line with 2 tier Kier in expecting those with the broadest shoulders to pay GA+ to subside the rest?
It’s not to subsidise ‘the rest’ at all it’s to replace the GA plebs with the nirvana of a GA+ price paying only stadium.
Nobody in GA should get carried with the thought that they want us there…we should be grateful they let us use their league one facilities stadium to watch ‘their’ wonderful team.
Man is a football parasite
I see a bit humour is lost on here.
But if you want a serious debate about strategic marketing and pricing then bring it on.
Heck isn’t a football parasite, he’s simply trying to get to a target income. The more he gets from GA+, the cheaper he can price the ‘normal’ tickets.
It’s not a difficult concept to get your head around - after all it’s always been cheaper to stand on the holte than sit in the upper trinity.
Post by: RamboandBruno on September 09, 2024, 06:47:49 PM
I’m getting a bit lost with all this politics stuff.
Surely Heck is bang in line with 2 tier Kier in expecting those with the broadest shoulders to pay GA+ to subside the rest?
It’s not to subsidise ‘the rest’ at all it’s to replace the GA plebs with the nirvana of a GA+ price paying only stadium.
Nobody in GA should get carried with the thought that they want us there…we should be grateful they let us use their league one facilities stadium to watch ‘their’ wonderful team.
Man is a football parasite
I see a bit humour is lost on here.
But if you want a serious debate about strategic marketing and pricing then bring it on.
Heck isn’t a football parasite, he’s simply trying to get to a target income. The more he gets from GA+, the cheaper he can price the ‘normal’ tickets.
It’s not a difficult concept to get your head around - after all it’s always been cheaper to stand on the holte than sit in the upper trinity.
I think this is probably bollocks to be honest. The everyday tickets arent getting any cheaper whether more corporate is sold or not.
Post by: Villan82 on September 09, 2024, 06:56:56 PM
I’m getting a bit lost with all this politics stuff.
Surely Heck is bang in line with 2 tier Kier in expecting those with the broadest shoulders to pay GA+ to subside the rest?
It’s not to subsidise ‘the rest’ at all it’s to replace the GA plebs with the nirvana of a GA+ price paying only stadium.
Nobody in GA should get carried with the thought that they want us there…we should be grateful they let us use their league one facilities stadium to watch ‘their’ wonderful team.
Man is a football parasite
I see a bit humour is lost on here.
But if you want a serious debate about strategic marketing and pricing then bring it on.
Heck isn’t a football parasite, he’s simply trying to get to a target income. The more he gets from GA+, the cheaper he can price the ‘normal’ tickets.
It’s not a difficult concept to get your head around - after all it’s always been cheaper to stand on the holte than sit in the upper trinity.
I think this is probably bollocks to be honest. The everyday tickets arent getting any cheaper whether more corporate is sold or not.
Correct and he is reducing the number of GA seats! Yes, he is reducing our capacity so he can squeeze more GA + in. We are headed towards being an Arsenal or a Chelsea.
Post by: yammers on September 09, 2024, 07:31:49 PM
Man U tickets were announced on X 12 minutes before they went on sale. I got an email 1 minute before they went on sale.
To be fair, the date has been in the diary for ages.
That maybe however, they hadn’t announced when they would be on sale and they’re now sold out unless you fork out for hospitality!
Post by: VillaTim on September 09, 2024, 07:39:03 PM
In the nicest possible way thats a load of bollocks mate . Everything is going up .I’m getting a bit lost with all this politics stuff.
Surely Heck is bang in line with 2 tier Kier in expecting those with the broadest shoulders to pay GA+ to subside the rest?
It’s not to subsidise ‘the rest’ at all it’s to replace the GA plebs with the nirvana of a GA+ price paying only stadium.
Nobody in GA should get carried with the thought that they want us there…we should be grateful they let us use their league one facilities stadium to watch ‘their’ wonderful team.
Man is a football parasite
I see a bit humour is lost on here.
But if you want a serious debate about strategic marketing and pricing then bring it on.
Heck isn’t a football parasite, he’s simply trying to get to a target income. The more he gets from GA+, the cheaper he can price the ‘normal’ tickets.
Post by: ChicagoLion on September 09, 2024, 07:53:20 PM
It’s called price gouging which is not a difficult concept to get your head around.I’m getting a bit lost with all this politics stuff.
Surely Heck is bang in line with 2 tier Kier in expecting those with the broadest shoulders to pay GA+ to subside the rest?
It’s not to subsidise ‘the rest’ at all it’s to replace the GA plebs with the nirvana of a GA+ price paying only stadium.
Nobody in GA should get carried with the thought that they want us there…we should be grateful they let us use their league one facilities stadium to watch ‘their’ wonderful team.
Man is a football parasite
I see a bit humour is lost on here.
But if you want a serious debate about strategic marketing and pricing then bring it on.
Heck isn’t a football parasite, he’s simply trying to get to a target income. The more he gets from GA+, the cheaper he can price the ‘normal’ tickets.
It’s not a difficult concept to get your head around - after all it’s always been cheaper to stand on the holte than sit in the upper trinity.
Post by: Skerra on September 09, 2024, 08:05:25 PM
I’m getting a bit lost with all this politics stuff.
Surely Heck is bang in line with 2 tier Kier in expecting those with the broadest shoulders to pay GA+ to subside the rest?
It’s not to subsidise ‘the rest’ at all it’s to replace the GA plebs with the nirvana of a GA+ price paying only stadium.
Nobody in GA should get carried with the thought that they want us there…we should be grateful they let us use their league one facilities stadium to watch ‘their’ wonderful team.
Man is a football parasite
I see a bit humour is lost on here.
But if you want a serious debate about strategic marketing and pricing then bring it on.
Heck isn’t a football parasite, he’s simply trying to get to a target income. The more he gets from GA+, the cheaper he can price the ‘normal’ tickets.
It’s not a difficult concept to get your head around - after all it’s always been cheaper to stand on the holte than sit in the upper trinity.
I think this is probably bollocks to be honest. The everyday tickets arent getting any cheaper whether more corporate is sold or not.
Correct and he is reducing the number of GA seats! Yes, he is reducing our capacity so he can squeeze more GA + in. We are headed towards being an Arsenal or a Chelsea.
Post by: Skerra on September 09, 2024, 08:10:40 PM
Hope it never happens again but, if we were to get relegated at some stage, fans will have long memories if the Club come a begging!
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 09, 2024, 08:16:38 PM
Post by: Drummond on September 09, 2024, 08:18:41 PM
Man U tickets were announced on X 12 minutes before they went on sale. I got an email 1 minute before they went on sale.
To be fair, the date has been in the diary for ages.
That maybe however, they hadn’t announced when they would be on sale and they’re now sold out unless you fork out for hospitality!
Yes, they did. It's been at 5pm in my calendar from the Villa for ages. Bournemouth go on sale to members at 5pm on 30th. Palace at 5pm on 28th October. Brentford the week after at 5pm.
There are singles available for ManU.
Post by: algy on September 09, 2024, 08:18:58 PM
I think the whole point is that it isn’t getting cheaper. Normal seats are being taken away to provide more GA+ capacity AND the GA tickets for the Champions League games are horrendously priced even for the “cheap” seats.I’m getting a bit lost with all this politics stuff.
Surely Heck is bang in line with 2 tier Kier in expecting those with the broadest shoulders to pay GA+ to subside the rest?
It’s not to subsidise ‘the rest’ at all it’s to replace the GA plebs with the nirvana of a GA+ price paying only stadium.
Nobody in GA should get carried with the thought that they want us there…we should be grateful they let us use their league one facilities stadium to watch ‘their’ wonderful team.
Man is a football parasite
I see a bit humour is lost on here.
But if you want a serious debate about strategic marketing and pricing then bring it on.
Heck isn’t a football parasite, he’s simply trying to get to a target income. The more he gets from GA+, the cheaper he can price the ‘normal’ tickets.
It’s not a difficult concept to get your head around - after all it’s always been cheaper to stand on the holte than sit in the upper trinity.
I’d guess that trend isn’t likely to stop until we’ve got to the maximum feasible GA+ capacity. And anyone thinking that the warehouse development is anything other than a cynical move to do increase GA+ at the expense of GA seats that is in for a nasty surprise.
Unfortunately, I can’t see this going any other way. GA will be rare as rocking horse shit as it’ll be almost exclusively season ticket holders. A huge proportion of the rest of the ground will be a case of paying through the nose to eat shit buffet food and sit in GA+ seats or not going.
This to me is what Heck means by “too much too fast”. As far as he’s concerned there’s no point diluting what’s there by increasing capacity if the same financial gains can be made in the existing footprint by coercing casual fans in to paying for some kind of premium “experience”. Normalising £85+ tickets. Cos that’s what’s happening here, they’ll “simplify” ticket prices by moving category A games up to Champs League prices whilst marketing it as having “frozen” Champions League ticket prices as if it’s doing everyone a favour. Or only increased by 5% or similar. But it’ll be OK because there’ll be some fluff piece in the paper a week before about how hard we have to work to compete in the transfer market because PSR. So you’ll eat the turd sandwich, and enjoy it, because you’re there to be milked - not to have an opinion.
I’m in a bad mood this evening, if you’d not guessed.
Post by: RamboandBruno on September 09, 2024, 08:24:41 PM
Its a depressing but equally excellent analysisI think the whole point is that it isn’t getting cheaper. Normal seats are being taken away to provide more GA+ capacity AND the GA tickets for the Champions League games are horrendously priced even for the “cheap” seats.I’m getting a bit lost with all this politics stuff.
Surely Heck is bang in line with 2 tier Kier in expecting those with the broadest shoulders to pay GA+ to subside the rest?
It’s not to subsidise ‘the rest’ at all it’s to replace the GA plebs with the nirvana of a GA+ price paying only stadium.
Nobody in GA should get carried with the thought that they want us there…we should be grateful they let us use their league one facilities stadium to watch ‘their’ wonderful team.
Man is a football parasite
I see a bit humour is lost on here.
But if you want a serious debate about strategic marketing and pricing then bring it on.
Heck isn’t a football parasite, he’s simply trying to get to a target income. The more he gets from GA+, the cheaper he can price the ‘normal’ tickets.
It’s not a difficult concept to get your head around - after all it’s always been cheaper to stand on the holte than sit in the upper trinity.
I’d guess that trend isn’t likely to stop until we’ve got to the maximum feasible GA+ capacity. And anyone thinking that the warehouse development is anything other than a cynical move to do increase GA+ at the expense of GA seats that is in for a nasty surprise.
Unfortunately, I can’t see this going any other way. GA will be rare as rocking horse shit as it’ll be almost exclusively season ticket holders. A huge proportion of the rest of the ground will be a case of paying through the nose to eat shit buffet food and sit in GA+ seats or not going.
This to me is what Heck means by “too much too fast”. As far as he’s concerned there’s no point diluting what’s there by increasing capacity if the same financial gains can be made in the existing footprint by coercing casual fans in to paying for some kind of premium “experience”. Normalising £85+ tickets. Cos that’s what’s happening here, they’ll “simplify” ticket prices by moving category A games up to Champs League prices whilst marketing it as having “frozen” Champions League ticket prices as if it’s doing everyone a favour. Or only increased by 5% or similar. But it’ll be OK because there’ll be some fluff piece in the paper a week before about how hard we have to work to compete in the transfer market because PSR. So you’ll eat the turd sandwich, and enjoy it, because you’re there to be milked - not to have an opinion.
I’m in a bad mood this evening, if you’d not guessed.
Post by: ChicagoLion on September 09, 2024, 08:35:53 PM
GA+ away area must be on the cards.
Post by: oldhill_avfc on September 09, 2024, 08:41:41 PM
It’s a simple model - used by many industries years.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 09, 2024, 08:49:33 PM
I think Algy makes a good point, it is a question of what is the financially optimal GA+ capacity.Away tickets are £30 I think across the premier league?. Precisely to stop people like Heck destroying the game we love.
GA+ away area must be on the cards.
Post by: Villan82 on September 09, 2024, 08:53:01 PM
Post by: Des Little on September 09, 2024, 09:15:43 PM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 09, 2024, 09:22:41 PM
Season ticket(17) matches plus 3 CL games is £218
Villa v Bayern for a disabled fan is £85...for I game.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 09, 2024, 09:30:33 PM
Heck’s vision is going to bear fruit, because we’ll get a full house for at least 3 if not all of the CL games, which bear out his vision that the demand - and the money - is out there. It’s not inconceivable that we’ll be seeing the first £100 GA match day tickets being offered at VP within the next year or two.For the Champions League GA+ will do well. Unfortunately in the League it's sales are very poor. Arsenal didn't sell well and as I said earlier we have loads of seats for Everton unsold. As it stands the product doesn't meet the price point. Games like Brentford and Bournemouth will be mostly unsold.
Post by: Gareth on September 09, 2024, 09:56:18 PM
I think the whole point is that it isn’t getting cheaper. Normal seats are being taken away to provide more GA+ capacity AND the GA tickets for the Champions League games are horrendously priced even for the “cheap” seats.I’m getting a bit lost with all this politics stuff.
Surely Heck is bang in line with 2 tier Kier in expecting those with the broadest shoulders to pay GA+ to subside the rest?
It’s not to subsidise ‘the rest’ at all it’s to replace the GA plebs with the nirvana of a GA+ price paying only stadium.
Nobody in GA should get carried with the thought that they want us there…we should be grateful they let us use their league one facilities stadium to watch ‘their’ wonderful team.
Man is a football parasite
I see a bit humour is lost on here.
But if you want a serious debate about strategic marketing and pricing then bring it on.
Heck isn’t a football parasite, he’s simply trying to get to a target income. The more he gets from GA+, the cheaper he can price the ‘normal’ tickets.
It’s not a difficult concept to get your head around - after all it’s always been cheaper to stand on the holte than sit in the upper trinity.
I’d guess that trend isn’t likely to stop until we’ve got to the maximum feasible GA+ capacity. And anyone thinking that the warehouse development is anything other than a cynical move to do increase GA+ at the expense of GA seats that is in for a nasty surprise.
Unfortunately, I can’t see this going any other way. GA will be rare as rocking horse shit as it’ll be almost exclusively season ticket holders. A huge proportion of the rest of the ground will be a case of paying through the nose to eat shit buffet food and sit in GA+ seats or not going.
This to me is what Heck means by “too much too fast”. As far as he’s concerned there’s no point diluting what’s there by increasing capacity if the same financial gains can be made in the existing footprint by coercing casual fans in to paying for some kind of premium “experience”. Normalising £85+ tickets. Cos that’s what’s happening here, they’ll “simplify” ticket prices by moving category A games up to Champs League prices whilst marketing it as having “frozen” Champions League ticket prices as if it’s doing everyone a favour. Or only increased by 5% or similar. But it’ll be OK because there’ll be some fluff piece in the paper a week before about how hard we have to work to compete in the transfer market because PSR. So you’ll eat the turd sandwich, and enjoy it, because you’re there to be milked - not to have an opinion.
I’m in a bad mood this evening, if you’d not guessed.
Articulated much better than I did Algy
Post by: purpletrousers on September 09, 2024, 10:27:26 PM
https://www.avfc.co.uk/news/2024/august/27/Ticketing-details-for-2024-25/Man U tickets were announced on X 12 minutes before they went on sale. I got an email 1 minute before they went on sale.
To be fair, the date has been in the diary for ages.
That maybe however, they hadn’t announced when they would be on sale and they’re now sold out unless you fork out for hospitality!
Yes, they did. It's been at 5pm in my calendar from the Villa for ages. Bournemouth go on sale to members at 5pm on 30th. Palace at 5pm on 28th October. Brentford the week after at 5pm.
There are singles available for ManU.
Post by: yammers on September 10, 2024, 12:18:30 AM
Post by: Percy McCarthy on September 10, 2024, 01:53:05 AM
https://www.avfc.co.uk/news/2024/august/27/Ticketing-details-for-2024-25/Man U tickets were announced on X 12 minutes before they went on sale. I got an email 1 minute before they went on sale.
To be fair, the date has been in the diary for ages.
That maybe however, they hadn’t announced when they would be on sale and they’re now sold out unless you fork out for hospitality!
Yes, they did. It's been at 5pm in my calendar from the Villa for ages. Bournemouth go on sale to members at 5pm on 30th. Palace at 5pm on 28th October. Brentford the week after at 5pm.
There are singles available for ManU.
Thanks for that mate. Is there a list of sale dates for CL games that you could link me with?
Post by: RamboandBruno on September 10, 2024, 06:32:37 AM
The point I’m making is that GA tickets are cheaper than they otherwise might have been - if there weren’t any GA+ then the season ticket prices would have gone up by more.
It’s a simple model - used by many industries years.
So in other words, things are very shit, but we should count ourselves luck they are not very very shit.
My season tickets didnt go up by hundreds of pounds this year, but they still went up enough for me to question whether I can afford them with a similar rise next year, and this is on top of a few years of sharp increases.
The idea that Hecks attempts to spread corporate seating all over the ground has the knock on effect on lower season ticket prices is not true. The lower (than the last two years) hike in season ticket prices, was a PR bone thrown to the plebs to stop us being restless whilst he attempts to phase us out, unfortunately for Heck and his team, he forgot to fix the turnstiles and toilets.
Post by: Risso on September 10, 2024, 09:50:43 AM
Post by: Dogtanian on September 10, 2024, 09:55:20 AM
It's just not enough of an improvement to make it worthwhile people upgrading. It's space we used to have to stand in, toilets we used to have to pee in, and kiosks we used to be able to get served in - all for £70 more a bloody game.
A re-built stand designed from the outset with premium packages in mind that actually offered a great experience would tempt a lot more people in.
At the minute, GA+ is basically just the bloody service you'd expect to be get at your existing ticket price point.
Post by: London Villan on September 10, 2024, 10:58:43 AM
Post by: VillaTim on September 10, 2024, 11:10:38 AM
Looks like there are plenty of the premium seat left for the Everton match - £504 if you fancy the middle Trinity...You've got to drink a lot of Morretti to justify that one
Post by: London Villan on September 10, 2024, 11:48:06 AM
Post by: paul_e on September 10, 2024, 11:54:20 AM
The issue I think for all the GA+ is that we are shoehorning it into areas that barely had enough space for us lot. If they're not selling, it isn't due to the fact that there is no demand for premium 'experiences' in Birmingham.
It's just not enough of an improvement to make it worthwhile people upgrading. It's space we used to have to stand in, toilets we used to have to pee in, and kiosks we used to be able to get served in - all for £70 more a bloody game.
A re-built stand designed from the outset with premium packages in mind that actually offered a great experience would tempt a lot more people in.
At the minute, GA+ is basically just the bloody service you'd expect to be get at your existing ticket price point.
This is why I think a new ground is inevitable.
Post by: rob_bridge on September 10, 2024, 12:08:42 PM
What do you get 2 drinks, a program, a legend spiel, and bit of nosh for £60 extra in the same seat. Not a value proposition to use business jargon.
You can maybe get away with it in the Trinity middle when Prince Wills or Tom Hanks in town, the normal fan at a normal game nope.
Post by: Risso on September 10, 2024, 12:21:59 PM
Ground isn't for the large part logistically cut out for this type GA+ of thing without rebuilding.
What do you get 2 drinks, a program, a legend spiel, and bit of nosh for £60 extra in the same seat. Not a value proposition to use business jargon.
You can maybe get away with it in the Trinity middle when Prince Wills or Tom Hanks in town, the normal fan at a normal game nope.
Also, sticking around for an extra 30 minutes in the TV or LG after the final whistle just means you're getting to get stuck in the worst of the traffic.
Post by: chrisw1 on September 10, 2024, 12:27:42 PM
More to the point, with the increased capacity whilst there would have been a bit of shifting around, there would have still been plenty of seats left for standard tickets and maybe even a few more season tickets.
But as Dogtanian says, all they have really done is use the demand and lack of availability to sell over priced GA+ bullshit. I honestly doubt they'd have sold a single seat in the 'Cells' if a standard-priced season ticket was available anywhere else in the ground for those who bought it. I reckon it sold simply because it's the cheapest (and only) way to get a season ticket during our best time on the pitch for 40 years.
Post by: Drummond on September 10, 2024, 12:30:54 PM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 10, 2024, 01:18:42 PM
It's all Unai Emery's fault. We should have kept Steve Bruce, or Paul Lambert, Eric Black, Tim Sherwood, Steven Gerrard, then we'd have had no problem at all with all this stuff.This is so true. The lowest for me was the 0:6 at home against Liverpool. The boy and myself, and about 1500 others stayed to the final whistle. You wouldn't have been able to give GA+ away for nothing back then
Post by: Des Little on September 10, 2024, 01:29:12 PM
Looks like there are plenty of the premium seat left for the Everton match - £504 if you fancy the middle Trinity...
Is that for the whole of the middle tier?
Post by: chrisw1 on September 10, 2024, 01:36:42 PM
No it will just be hospitality seats in the central section.Looks like there are plenty of the premium seat left for the Everton match - £504 if you fancy the middle Trinity...
Is that for the whole of the middle tier?
Post by: rob_bridge on September 10, 2024, 01:41:48 PM
It's all Unai Emery's fault. We should have kept Steve Bruce, or Paul Lambert, Eric Black, Tim Sherwood, Steven Gerrard, then we'd have had no problem at all with all this stuff.
Well we are Champions League moaners let's be honest about it. Always have been.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on September 10, 2024, 01:45:16 PM
https://x.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1833485678333600212
Post by: ez on September 10, 2024, 01:46:00 PM
Post by: rob_bridge on September 10, 2024, 01:46:48 PM
It's all Unai Emery's fault. We should have kept Steve Bruce, or Paul Lambert, Eric Black, Tim Sherwood, Steven Gerrard, then we'd have had no problem at all with all this stuff.This is so true. The lowest for me was the 0:6 at home against Liverpool. The boy and myself, and about 1500 others stayed to the final whistle. You wouldn't have been able to give GA+ away for nothing back then
I went to the Norwich game the week with In Laws (from overseas who'd not been to a game) In Trinity Middle. I paid about 70 quid in total for the 4 of us on the exchange. The ones that cost £150 a throw now.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on September 10, 2024, 01:48:29 PM
It's all Unai Emery's fault. We should have kept Steve Bruce, or Paul Lambert, Eric Black, Tim Sherwood, Steven Gerrard, then we'd have had no problem at all with all this stuff.
Well we are Champions League moaners let's be honest about it. Always have been.
The last week has shown that we've stepped it up and are ready to to mix it with Europe's elite.
Post by: Ads on September 10, 2024, 01:51:22 PM
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on September 10, 2024, 01:56:04 PM
Post by: Flamingo Lane on September 10, 2024, 01:56:16 PM
Post by: rob_bridge on September 10, 2024, 01:56:32 PM
I think we'll put the new North back on the agenda for next season and lock in the claim on the increased gate receipts for 18-24 months we're without.
On a practical level it is the only way to add 6k or 7k to the gate this decade.
Make it the boutique stand or whatever and glean £20m more income per season.
Post by: Villan82 on September 10, 2024, 01:58:18 PM
I think we'll put the new North back on the agenda for next season and lock in the claim on the increased gate receipts for 18-24 months we're without.
It would have to be done for 2027 to have a hope for Euro 2028. I can't see it. I hope you are right though.
Post by: AV82EC on September 10, 2024, 02:02:38 PM
I think we'll put the new North back on the agenda for next season and lock in the claim on the increased gate receipts for 18-24 months we're without.
On a practical level it is the only way to add 6k or 7k to the gate this decade.
Make it the boutique stand or whatever and glean £20m more income per season.
I wonder if the delay and the bringing on board of Atairos was to see if the 2 year build initially proposed could in anyway be reduced? Or alternatively be expanded to include the Witton Lane? Who knows, it’s probably imperative it’s on the agenda at some point but imv it’s entirely dependent on remaining in the top 6 and Champs League/Europa League as a bare minimum. If we can push the Turnover to over £300m then hopefully that helps ease the pressure and pushes forwards the decision.
Post by: Des Little on September 10, 2024, 02:03:22 PM
And therein lies his whole justification. Enough people to replace those disenfranchised but ultimately without a ticket.
Precisely this. A changing of the guard for the fanbase.
Post by: Ads on September 10, 2024, 02:07:10 PM
I think we'll put the new North back on the agenda for next season and lock in the claim on the increased gate receipts for 18-24 months we're without.
It would have to be done for 2027 to have a hope for Euro 2028. I can't see it. I hope you are right though.
I doubt we're particularly concerned about the Euros.
Post by: VILLA MOLE on September 10, 2024, 02:08:24 PM
I think we'll put the new North back on the agenda for next season and lock in the claim on the increased gate receipts for 18-24 months we're without.
On a practical level it is the only way to add 6k or 7k to the gate this decade.
Make it the boutique stand or whatever and glean £20m more income per season.
I wonder if the delay and the bringing on board of Atairos was to see if the 2 year build initially proposed could in anyway be reduced? Or alternatively be expanded to include the Witton Lane? Who knows, it’s probably imperative it’s on the agenda at some point but imv it’s entirely dependent on remaining in the top 6 and Champs League/Europa League as a bare minimum. If we can push the Turnover to over £300m then hopefully that helps ease the pressure and pushes forwards the decision.
Witton Lane is more in need of changing than anything
Post by: chrisw1 on September 10, 2024, 02:08:44 PM
So why does that statement not advise supporters that tickets may still be bought though GA+/hospitality?In fairness, I think he's reading the room. Sorry you couldn't get some extremely expensive tickets, here's a way to get to even more expensive tickets...
Post by: chrisw1 on September 10, 2024, 02:10:24 PM
But it can't be done, at least not in the short or medium term. The one stand we can build, to almost any design and size we like, is the North.I think we'll put the new North back on the agenda for next season and lock in the claim on the increased gate receipts for 18-24 months we're without.
On a practical level it is the only way to add 6k or 7k to the gate this decade.
Make it the boutique stand or whatever and glean £20m more income per season.
I wonder if the delay and the bringing on board of Atairos was to see if the 2 year build initially proposed could in anyway be reduced? Or alternatively be expanded to include the Witton Lane? Who knows, it’s probably imperative it’s on the agenda at some point but imv it’s entirely dependent on remaining in the top 6 and Champs League/Europa League as a bare minimum. If we can push the Turnover to over £300m then hopefully that helps ease the pressure and pushes forwards the decision.
Witton Lane is more in need of changing than anything
Post by: Flamingo Lane on September 10, 2024, 02:10:33 PM
So why does that statement not advise supporters that tickets may still be bought though GA+/hospitality?In fairness, I think he's reading the room. Sorry you couldn't get some extremely expensive tickets, here's a way to get to even more expensive tickets...
Too embarrassed, you mean?
Post by: chrisw1 on September 10, 2024, 02:11:57 PM
Post by: Flamingo Lane on September 10, 2024, 02:15:53 PM
Post by: Demitri_C on September 10, 2024, 02:20:53 PM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 10, 2024, 02:21:41 PM
Or do I order a takeaway and watch it on the TV with the boy, and use the money I saved to take her indoors away for a nice city break in europe?
Answers on a postcard
Post by: AV82EC on September 10, 2024, 02:21:55 PM
But if it's a legitimate product designed to increase revenue, why not do everything possible to flog them? Unless, as I say, it's just too embarrassing.
And if he had mentioned it, he’d have been accused of profiteering again and lambasted all
over again. Damned if he does, damned if he doesn’t.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on September 10, 2024, 02:26:58 PM
Post by: Drummond on September 10, 2024, 02:27:01 PM
Didn't manage to get tickets sadly, so now, if they're available do i go for GA+?
Or do I order a takeaway and watch it on the TV with the boy, and use the money I saved to take her indoors away for a nice city break in europe?
Answers on a postcard
The latter. Happy in the knowledge you've done a good thing... Keeping your powder dry for another day.
Post by: Olneythelonely on September 10, 2024, 02:30:32 PM
Post by: DerbyVillian on September 10, 2024, 02:31:42 PM
We want to thank all our season ticket holders who have recently exercised their right to buy tickets for our first Champions League game vs. Bayern Munich and apologise to all those on the season ticket waiting list and to those general fans who were unable to secure seats for this game.
We recognise and understand the depth of passion felt amongst fans and their recent frustration around ticket pricing. Achieving our sporting ambitions while complying with financial stability regulations requires difficult decisions. Financial fair play rules prohibit owners from covering shortfalls to finance this ambition, so we need to generate as much revenue as possible through sponsorships, merchandise, and ticket sales to ensure that we can keep the Club where it rightfully belongs - competing (and winning) at the top of English and European football.
Additionally, we want to thank our fans for their patience and for their loyal support whilst we do our utmost to grow the Club as a business, and ensure we are all doing our part to support our players on the pitch both home and away. Our priority will always be to match our collective ambition while ensuring that we are able to increase stadium capacity each season and provide the best matchday experience for all our fans. We are committed to ensuring the Club’s enduring long-term success both on and off the field.
Chris Heck
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on September 10, 2024, 02:32:24 PM
But if it's a legitimate product designed to increase revenue, why not do everything possible to flog them? Unless, as I say, it's just too embarrassing.
And if he had mentioned it, he’d have been accused of profiteering again and lambasted all
over again. Damned if he does, damned if he doesn’t.
Poor bastard.
Post by: VillaTim on September 10, 2024, 02:40:28 PM
That's general admission that's sold out.Is that him patting himself on the back
Post by: Risso on September 10, 2024, 02:43:16 PM
Sells out despite the complaints. There lies the problem you pay they will continue to have prices that fucks the fans over
It's probably the most price inelastic product in the history of the world when things are going well. Stick prices up by 50%, and demand stays just as high as it was before.
Post by: Flamingo Lane on September 10, 2024, 02:49:31 PM
Post by: Ads on September 10, 2024, 02:49:42 PM
Sells out despite the complaints. There lies the problem you pay they will continue to have prices that fucks the fans over
It's probably the most price inelastic product in the history of the world when things are going well. Stick prices up by 50%, and demand stays just as high as it was before.
Exactly. It's also what makes it exploitative. If we do decide to cash our chips in on these ticket prices to grow the ground, it's sadly a pretty smart move.
Post by: VILLA MOLE on September 10, 2024, 02:56:39 PM
Oh really ? how is that working out ??
Post by: Villan82 on September 10, 2024, 02:57:29 PM
Sells out despite the complaints. There lies the problem you pay they will continue to have prices that fucks the fans over
It's probably the most price inelastic product in the history of the world when things are going well. Stick prices up by 50%, and demand stays just as high as it was before.
Exactly. It's also what makes it exploitative. If we do decide to cash our chips in on these ticket prices to grow the ground, it's sadly a pretty smart move.
Just one word of caution, if you are basing these last few posts on one sentence in a Heck statement prepare to be disappointed as you cannot take anything he says as any kind of evidence.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on September 10, 2024, 03:03:33 PM
That's general admission that's sold out.
Is that him patting himself on the back
I doubt it, his arms are probably too short.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on September 10, 2024, 03:05:03 PM
Quote
while ensuring that we are able to increase stadium capacity each season
Where's the increase in capacity this season, then?
The 2,000 seats that were meant to get added?
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 10, 2024, 03:07:09 PM
....or he's too rotund..That's general admission that's sold out.
Is that him patting himself on the back
I doubt it, his arms are probably too short.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on September 10, 2024, 03:12:41 PM
Didn't manage to get tickets sadly, so now, if they're available do i go for GA+?
Or do I order a takeaway and watch it on the TV with the boy, and use the money I saved to take her indoors away for a nice city break in europe?
Answers on a postcard
The latter. Happy in the knowledge you've done a good thing... Keeping your powder dry for another day.
Even better, send the boy and the Mrs away for a nice weekend break in Europe.
Post by: Dogtanian on September 10, 2024, 03:16:29 PM
In fact, you triggered me to fire a pre-emptive salvo via text - "Young Boys sold out, so no trip away for me. :( Looks like it's a takeaway and watch at home! :("
Post by: wince on September 10, 2024, 03:23:37 PM
When the club struggles to serve the most basic of food and drink to the 'general admissions' or even provide sanitary facilities what will that look like to those on a day out to Villa Park? Dave W's latest article hits nail on the head that we are acting like a starving person at an all you can eat buffet. Eat now as tomorrow there is going to be nothing there.
How far have we moved away from the fans being rewarded for loyalty under the veil of 'the brand' makes me wonder if the club would just be happier making money without the on-pitch success. Because we haven't actually won anything yet have we? We are acting like a small club in regards to the CL in over-pricing the tickets knowing there is a captive audience who don't have to be there but will go because it is in their blood.
Not saying we should have tenner tickets but there will be those who will not justify the cost anymore regardless of the success and the pricing model does feel like a concert pricing model. But unless you are a diehard fan, you go to that one special gig and splash the cash. With football they want that every week. Nothing wrong with that but when a ticket is a King's ransom, it spits in the face of every fan who turns up week in week out, rain, shine, Paul Lambert and Gerrard to support their team. The ticket pricing is not the panacea to get PSR compliant when the very experience of going to a match is anything but pleasant off the field meaning fewer want to spend their money on poor service or no service at all. To be sidelined for the well heeled or pleasure seekers to have that hospitality treatment, an offshoot of the gig VIP experience means you pay more or don't come, an attitude that has permeated throughout society these last few years, sidelining those who are outpriced and have paid more than their fair share of silver into Villa.
As I said at the start I am not one of them, not as bigger fan as some of you are, to others probably not a proper fan at all. However, I don't know if I will ever be able to get inside VP anytime soon, nor do I deserve to go to the CL games given I have missed so many other games. Very sad given I was a bun in the oven last time we were in the competition. But for those who are the loyal fans, who have made the effort, I understand the anger at what should have been our finest year in over 40 years. To that I say, I am very disappointed that we managed to take the shine off the gilt edged season we just had acting like we need to alienate the very people who are the 12th man........
It's just a bloody shame
Post by: caster troy on September 10, 2024, 03:24:29 PM
Post by: Flamingo Lane on September 10, 2024, 03:41:35 PM
Post by: London Villan on September 10, 2024, 03:44:11 PM
Post by: VillaTim on September 10, 2024, 03:45:42 PM
The golden rule of dealing with complaints is to not respond in such a way as to leave the complainant feeling more disgruntled than he was feeling when he made the complaint. Heck's statement today, by dint of its transparent opportunism, callowness and dare I say cowardice, is a classic case 'how not to deal with a complaint.'Very well put Sir
Post by: rob_bridge on September 10, 2024, 03:56:09 PM
Post by: eamonn on September 10, 2024, 04:08:03 PM
Post by: Nev on September 10, 2024, 04:20:25 PM
Either way, his execution of his remit has been a classic example of how not to do it.
Again.
Post by: The Edge on September 10, 2024, 04:45:31 PM
"Grow the ground" I read that as meaning only one thing. To grow the amount of money we can squeeze out of the supporters. Or should I say customers. I'm fuming that we're hearing all these horror stories re: people being shoved out of their seats etc when we all should be feeling ecstatic about how well we're doing on the pitch with the best manager we've had since Ron Saunders.Sells out despite the complaints. There lies the problem you pay they will continue to have prices that fucks the fans over
It's probably the most price inelastic product in the history of the world when things are going well. Stick prices up by 50%, and demand stays just as high as it was before.
Exactly. It's also what makes it exploitative. If we do decide to cash our chips in on these ticket prices to grow the ground, it's sadly a pretty smart move.
Just one word of caution, if you are basing these last few posts on one sentence in a Heck statement prepare to be disappointed as you cannot take anything he says as any kind of evidence.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 10, 2024, 05:04:50 PM
Lower Grounds
Everton £145 per person
Wolves £175 pp
Man U £210 pp
They already do tier prices, so they'll do it again for Bayern.
Post by: andyh on September 10, 2024, 05:11:17 PM
I wonder will any of the CL tickets be available for non-STHs? I'd love to see just one of our games.What about the cost, does it bother you ?
Genuine question.
Does it bother you, or are you prepared to pay because you’d love to experience a CL game ?
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 10, 2024, 05:32:43 PM
I'll try for Juventus as long as we are picking up a few points in the earlier games and doing OK, if we're not the whole thing may have gone as flat as a fart by then. Celtic should be fun and I'll try for that regardless. After this morning I think I'll be lucky to get tickets though.
Post by: Ads on September 10, 2024, 05:40:15 PM
Post by: Footy-Vill on September 10, 2024, 06:03:01 PM
"Achieving our sporting ambitions while complying with Financial Fair Play Rules prohibit owners from covering shortfalls to finance this ambition, so we need to generate as much revenue as possible through sponsorships, merchandise and ticket sales to ensure that we can keep the club where it rightfully belongs - competing (and winning) at the top of English and European football.
Our priority will always be to match our collective ambition while ensuring that we are able to increase stadium capacity each season and provide the best matchday experience for all our fans. We are committed to ensuring the club’s enduring long-term success both on and off the field."
Post by: Mister E on September 10, 2024, 06:06:18 PM
So I see Heck has now explained which puts things into perspectiveWhy reproduce this?
"Achieving our sporting ambitions while complying with Financial Fair Play Rules prohibit owners from covering shortfalls to finance this ambition, so we need to generate as much revenue as possible through sponsorships, merchandise and ticket sales to ensure that we can keep the club where it rightfully belongs - competing (and winning) at the top of English and European football.
Our priority will always be to match our collective ambition while ensuring that we are able to increase stadium capacity each season and provide the best matchday experience for all our fans. We are committed to ensuring the club’s enduring long-term success both on and off the field."
The compliance argument is somewhat weak since the incremental value of inflated prices is useful but not fundamental.
Support the supporters, underpin the club's future.
Post by: eamonn on September 10, 2024, 06:07:28 PM
I wonder will any of the CL tickets be available for non-STHs? I'd love to see just one of our games.What about the cost, does it bother you ?
Genuine question.
Does it bother you, or are you prepared to pay because you’d love to experience a CL game ?
It does of course but for a one-off I'd probably go for it and just have to put it on the credit card/overdraft.
Post by: VillaTim on September 10, 2024, 06:17:39 PM
Wrong thread but i'll leave it anyway to show up the£250 for Bayern would not surprise mescalpersclubLower Grounds
Everton £145 per person
Wolves £175 pp
Man U £210 pp
They already do tier prices, so they'll do it again for Bayern.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 10, 2024, 06:26:12 PM
I think you are on the right track, £250 to £300 is looking likely. I missed out this morning but won't be paying that for hot dogs and beer. Chuck in a decent meal and some entertainment after and you might turn my head.Wrong thread but i'll leave it anyway to show up the£250 for Bayern would not surprise mescalpersclubLower Grounds
Everton £145 per person
Wolves £175 pp
Man U £210 pp
They already do tier prices, so they'll do it again for Bayern.
Post by: VillaTim on September 10, 2024, 06:28:29 PM
Post by: Goldenballs on September 10, 2024, 07:02:56 PM
Post by: VILLA MOLE on September 10, 2024, 07:12:39 PM
Post by: Rigadon on September 10, 2024, 07:13:36 PM
Maybe i am in the minority but getting well oiled at footy has never appealed that much.
Same. I like a drink but not at the game.
Post by: VILLA MOLE on September 10, 2024, 07:14:51 PM
Maybe i am in the minority but getting well oiled at footy has never appealed that much.
Same. I like a drink but not at the game.
Like wise , i am irrational enough watching us without that in me
Post by: RamboandBruno on September 10, 2024, 07:37:13 PM
Its a big fuck you from Chris Heck, he fucked us in the ear, and fucked us in the other ear.
Post by: adrenachrome on September 10, 2024, 07:43:20 PM
Meet the collective ambition, by outpricing large elements of that very collective, nice.
Its a big fuck you from Chris Heck, he fucked us in the ear, and fucked us in the other ear.
If I was a bitter, cynical person I would say that other orifices are available and will get a good doings sooner rather than later.
Thank the Lord then, that I am of the church mystic and fervently hope that further shafting will be eschewed.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 10, 2024, 07:50:49 PM
Post by: Dante Lavelli on September 10, 2024, 07:57:05 PM
The issue I think for all the GA+ is that we are shoehorning it into areas that barely had enough space for us lot. If they're not selling, it isn't due to the fact that there is no demand for premium 'experiences' in Birmingham.
It's just not enough of an improvement to make it worthwhile people upgrading. It's space we used to have to stand in, toilets we used to have to pee in, and kiosks we used to be able to get served in - all for £70 more a bloody game.
A re-built stand designed from the outset with premium packages in mind that actually offered a great experience would tempt a lot more people in.
At the minute, GA+ is basically just the bloody service you'd expect to be get at your existing ticket price point.
This is why I think a new ground is inevitable.
Me too. I think a lot of this current pain is about conditioning a proportion of the current fanbase so they don’t want to return to GA and also discovering new fans and corporations to buy hospitality. If properly designed a new stadium would solve many of these issues whilst also being a cash-cow for other events during the year.
…anyway this topic has been done top death, so I’ll shut up.
Post by: Skerra on September 10, 2024, 08:18:51 PM
Post by: Dogtanian on September 10, 2024, 08:22:51 PM
Post by: VillaTim on September 10, 2024, 08:23:41 PM
Once I've had more than 2 pints I'm going the WC every 5 minutes which at Villa Park doesn't appeal in fairness .Maybe i am in the minority but getting well oiled at footy has never appealed that much.
Same. I like a drink but not at the game.
Post by: john e on September 10, 2024, 08:27:08 PM
Had to laugh at Heck’s statement about the ridiculous ticket prices. Does he honestly think people will believe a single word he says?? However, as far as the Club are concerned, he’s done a great job as Bayern is already sold out. I’m not one of those attending. Although I’ve been a season ticket holder for many years, the prices for the CL matches are too steep for me. The really sad part is that Heck will want to increase the prices even more if we qualify from the group as it seems people will have a moan but pay up anyway.
Selling the Bayern game out is really the tap in of all tap ins
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 10, 2024, 08:45:59 PM
Like an ice - cream van at the seaside selling out on the hottest day of the year. No surprises here. Biggest game since 1983, I bet we could have sold 80,000 ticketsHad to laugh at Heck’s statement about the ridiculous ticket prices. Does he honestly think people will believe a single word he says?? However, as far as the Club are concerned, he’s done a great job as Bayern is already sold out. I’m not one of those attending. Although I’ve been a season ticket holder for many years, the prices for the CL matches are too steep for me. The really sad part is that Heck will want to increase the prices even more if we qualify from the group as it seems people will have a moan but pay up anyway.
Selling the Bayern game out is really the tap in of all tap ins
Post by: paul_e on September 10, 2024, 08:48:46 PM
Had to laugh at Heck’s statement about the ridiculous ticket prices. Does he honestly think people will believe a single word he says?? However, as far as the Club are concerned, he’s done a great job as Bayern is already sold out. I’m not one of those attending. Although I’ve been a season ticket holder for many years, the prices for the CL matches are too steep for me. The really sad part is that Heck will want to increase the prices even more if we qualify from the group as it seems people will have a moan but pay up anyway.
What do you think he's lying about? I could accept insincere with the apologetic aspects of it but I see nothing in that statement that you'd choose to lie about and even the apology is mostly him saying he's sorry he couldn't sell more tickets so perfectly in line with the idea that he doesn't give a shit about anything but money.
Post by: jon collett on September 10, 2024, 08:50:27 PM
Since the decision taken not to build North Stand then it was straightforward for him to charge as much as he can for limited space. That the Bayern game sold out whilst criteria still could have been opened proves the point.
We might not like it but his approach is logical given what he wants to achieve and he’s rather vindicated by a speedy sell out.
Sorry!
Post by: dave.woodhall on September 10, 2024, 08:52:39 PM
Post by: Border villan on September 10, 2024, 08:53:43 PM
Had to laugh at Heck’s statement about the ridiculous ticket prices. Does he honestly think people will believe a single word he says?? However, as far as the Club are concerned, he’s done a great job as Bayern is already sold out. I’m not one of those attending. Although I’ve been a season ticket holder for many years, the prices for the CL matches are too steep for me. The really sad part is that Heck will want to increase the prices even more if we qualify from the group as it seems people will have a moan but pay up anyway.
What do you think he's lying about? I could accept insincere with the apologetic aspects of it but I see nothing in that statement that you'd choose to lie about and even the apology is mostly him saying he's sorry he couldn't sell more tickets so perfectly in line with the idea that he doesn't give a shit about anything but money.
“the best matchday experience “. When fans have to wade through piss this could be considered by some as a lie.
Post by: Villan82 on September 10, 2024, 08:56:51 PM
Had to laugh at Heck’s statement about the ridiculous ticket prices. Does he honestly think people will believe a single word he says?? However, as far as the Club are concerned, he’s done a great job as Bayern is already sold out. I’m not one of those attending. Although I’ve been a season ticket holder for many years, the prices for the CL matches are too steep for me. The really sad part is that Heck will want to increase the prices even more if we qualify from the group as it seems people will have a moan but pay up anyway.
What do you think he's lying about? I could accept insincere with the apologetic aspects of it but I see nothing in that statement that you'd choose to lie about and even the apology is mostly him saying he's sorry he couldn't sell more tickets so perfectly in line with the idea that he doesn't give a shit about anything but money.
“the best matchday experience “. When fans have to wade through piss this could be considered by some as a lie.
"ensuring that we are able to increase stadium capacity each season".
He announced we weren't doing the North rebuild
Separately, why would you want to increase stadium capacity every year? Surely you'd want to get it done and hope that you wouldn't be endlessly tinkering!
Post by: algy on September 10, 2024, 08:57:49 PM
I’m the same, Tim. Once the golden seal has been broken, my crotch may as well be the niagra falls. So I tend not to drink anything bar a cup of tea before/during the game. Getting value for money from GA+ definitely isn’t on the cardsOnce I've had more than 2 pints I'm going the WC every 5 minutes which at Villa Park doesn't appeal in fairness .Maybe i am in the minority but getting well oiled at footy has never appealed that much.
Same. I like a drink but not at the game.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 10, 2024, 08:58:23 PM
Let's be honest - looking at how quickly Bayern sold out, Heck's only regret will be not charging more.If we get to the knockout stages, I can see seats on or near the halfway line being well over £100.
Post by: john e on September 10, 2024, 09:01:14 PM
But surely his entire remit is financial targets . He’s not here to make friends or add cultural value.
Since the decision taken not to build North Stand then it was straightforward for him to charge as much as he can for limited space. That the Bayern game sold out whilst criteria still could have been opened proves the point.
We might not like it but his approach is logical given what he wants to achieve and he’s rather vindicated by a speedy sell out.
Sorry!
He’s sold out the biggest game at Villa Park for 40 years and you think he’s been vindicated
Post by: paul_e on September 10, 2024, 09:03:04 PM
Post by: jon collett on September 10, 2024, 09:05:33 PM
But surely his entire remit is financial targets . He’s not here to make friends or add cultural value.
Since the decision taken not to build North Stand then it was straightforward for him to charge as much as he can for limited space. That the Bayern game sold out whilst criteria still could have been opened proves the point.
We might not like it but his approach is logical given what he wants to achieve and he’s rather vindicated by a speedy sell out.
Sorry!
He’s sold out the biggest game at Villa Park for 40 years and you think he’s been vindicated
I think you’ve answered your own question there!
Post by: john e on September 10, 2024, 09:08:29 PM
But surely his entire remit is financial targets . He’s not here to make friends or add cultural value.
Since the decision taken not to build North Stand then it was straightforward for him to charge as much as he can for limited space. That the Bayern game sold out whilst criteria still could have been opened proves the point.
We might not like it but his approach is logical given what he wants to achieve and he’s rather vindicated by a speedy sell out.
Sorry!
He’s sold out the biggest game at Villa Park for 40 years and you think he’s been vindicated
I think you’ve answered your own question there!
He’s not as good as you think he is
He couldn’t even sell all his new hospitality out for the first game of the season against Arsenal
Post by: Risso on September 10, 2024, 09:08:39 PM
Post by: Border villan on September 10, 2024, 09:08:53 PM
But surely his entire remit is financial targets . He’s not here to make friends or add cultural value.
Since the decision taken not to build North Stand then it was straightforward for him to charge as much as he can for limited space. That the Bayern game sold out whilst criteria still could have been opened proves the point.
We might not like it but his approach is logical given what he wants to achieve and he’s rather vindicated by a speedy sell out.
Sorry!
He’s sold out the biggest game at Villa Park for 40 years and you think he’s been vindicated
I think you’ve answered your own question there!
Sold out the game or sold out the GA seats?
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 10, 2024, 09:12:49 PM
Post by: amfy on September 10, 2024, 09:13:00 PM
But surely his entire remit is financial targets . He’s not here to make friends or add cultural value.
Since the decision taken not to build North Stand then it was straightforward for him to charge as much as he can for limited space. That the Bayern game sold out whilst criteria still could have been opened proves the point.
We might not like it but his approach is logical given what he wants to achieve and he’s rather vindicated by a speedy sell out.
Sorry!
I think that depends what happens with other games, in the Champions League (e.g. Bologna by which time there could be nothing to play for and/or people starting to save for the next round) and in the league, and other cups.
There will also be a bottom line on other sales to consider. If people are finding the money somehow for Champions League tickets, but parents are telling their kids they’ll have to take sandwiches rather than buy burgers, & others boycotting the beer, a lot of that extra £20 may just be lost elsewhere anyway.
Post by: RamboandBruno on September 10, 2024, 09:16:07 PM
But surely his entire remit is financial targets . He’s not here to make friends or add cultural value.
Since the decision taken not to build North Stand then it was straightforward for him to charge as much as he can for limited space. That the Bayern game sold out whilst criteria still could have been opened proves the point.
We might not like it but his approach is logical given what he wants to achieve and he’s rather vindicated by a speedy sell out.
Sorry!
He’s sold out the biggest game at Villa Park for 40 years and you think he’s been vindicated
I think you’ve answered your own question there!
Lets see shall we.
For me, the Celtic game is a hugely exciting prospect, but if us snd Celtic are both through or both out when the tickets go on sale, lets see if the tickets remain at the same prices, if they sell out.
Post by: Chap on September 10, 2024, 09:19:16 PM
Ask Heck to sponsor a catheter!🤣🤣Let's be honest - looking at how quickly Bayern sold out, Heck's only regret will be not charging more.If we get to the knockout stages, I can see seats on or near the halfway line being well over £100.
Post by: Chap on September 10, 2024, 09:20:44 PM
Chris Heck will offer Villa endorsed catheters for a price!🥲I’m the same, Tim. Once the golden seal has been broken, my crotch may as well be the niagra falls. So I tend not to drink anything bar a cup of tea before/during the game. Getting value for money from GA+ definitely isn’t on the cardsOnce I've had more than 2 pints I'm going the WC every 5 minutes which at Villa Park doesn't appeal in fairness .Maybe i am in the minority but getting well oiled at footy has never appealed that much.
Same. I like a drink but not at the game.
Post by: Cliftonville Villlain on September 10, 2024, 09:21:17 PM
Post by: jon collett on September 10, 2024, 09:21:25 PM
I’d prefer it if the ground held 50k and tickets were more reasonably priced but my motivation and mentality is different to Heck’s!
Post by: VillaTim on September 10, 2024, 09:21:26 PM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 10, 2024, 09:23:14 PM
Post by: tomd2103 on September 10, 2024, 09:26:29 PM
It's all Unai Emery's fault. We should have kept Steve Bruce, or Paul Lambert, Eric Black, Tim Sherwood, Steven Gerrard, then we'd have had no problem at all with all this stuff.
Yep. We wouldn't have even needed the top tier of the Trinity Road open.
Post by: Skerra on September 10, 2024, 09:30:21 PM
I'm with Skerra on this one . To complain and pay up anyway is counterintuitive. Heck as a predator knew this of course and I'm not knocking anyone who has complained and goes anyway, I get it. Prices will keep going up though , I'm happy getting off the train and counting the money I saved and watching for free on TV. I've done enough live games and don't feel guilty.
Post by: Skerra on September 10, 2024, 09:35:25 PM
Same as you Tim, I’m not knocking anyone that wants to part with their money. If they can afford it that’s fine. However, not wishing it but, if things go tits up in the next few years, Heck will have collected his bonus and moved on but, speaking for myself, if I decide that season ticket is too much for me next season, I doubt I will ever go back again.I'm with Skerra on this one . To complain and pay up anyway is counterintuitive. Heck as a predator knew this of course and I'm not knocking anyone who has complained and goes anyway, I get it. Prices will keep going up though , I'm happy getting off the train and counting the money I saved and watching for free on TV. I've done enough live games and don't feel guilty.
All about personal circumstances and choices.
Post by: Demitri_C on September 10, 2024, 09:38:13 PM
Sells out despite the complaints. There lies the problem you pay they will continue to have prices that fucks the fans over
It's probably the most price inelastic product in the history of the world when things are going well. Stick prices up by 50%, and demand stays just as high as it was before.
Madness isn't it? You just knew people were still going to pay. It doesnt suprise me the slightest.
If we get through god knows what sort of prices hecks going to charge
Post by: john e on September 10, 2024, 09:39:21 PM
I don’t like his methods, I don’t like the way he treats supporters, I don’t like the way he views the game and the supporter’s of this club and the changes he’s bringing in to increase revenues, I don’t like the shambles of the Arsenal game after so much hype about the fan experience, I don’t like the way he’s been lauded by fellow Villa fans for selling out the game against Bayern Munich with a rip-off prices
I don’t think his plans are good for the long-term, I don’t think they’ll work long-term, and I don’t think he’ll be here long-term, but he’s managed to alienate most of the fan base apart from those that think he’s been vindicated,
I don’t think he’ll be vindicated I think he’ll be a massive failure because he doesn’t understand the Villa fan base,
I’ve been in sales all my life and the best bit of advice that was given to me was
‘Sixpence twice is better than ninepence once’ the Bayern game and the Champions League games are the ninepence games which he has grabbed, but he will lose out on a lot of sixpenses because he doesn’t know what he’s doing
In my humble opinion his overall plan won’t work, and I don’t like him
Post by: Demitri_C on September 10, 2024, 09:42:09 PM
I don’t like him
I don’t like his methods, I don’t like the way he treats supporters, I don’t like the way he views the game and the supporter’s of this club and the changes he’s bringing in to increase revenues, I don’t like the shambles of the Arsenal game after so much hype about the fan experience, I don’t like the way he’s been lauded by fellow Villa fans for selling out the game against Bayern Munich with a rip-off prices
I don’t think his plans are good for the long-term, I don’t think they’ll work long-term, and I don’t think he’ll be here long-term, but he’s managed to alienate most of the fan base apart from those that think he’s been vindicated,
I don’t think he’ll be vindicated I think he’ll be a massive failure because he doesn’t understand the Villa fan base,
I’ve been in sales all my life and the best bit of advice that was given to me was
‘Sixpence twice is better than ninepence once’ the Bayern game and the Champions League games are the ninepence games which he has grabbed, but he will lose out on a lot of sixpenses because he doesn’t know what he’s doing
In my humble opinion his overall plan won’t work, and I don’t like him
I much preferred purslow
Post by: Sexual Ealing on September 10, 2024, 09:44:33 PM
I don’t like him
I don’t like his methods, I don’t like the way he treats supporters, I don’t like the way he views the game and the supporter’s of this club and the changes he’s bringing in to increase revenues, I don’t like the shambles of the Arsenal game after so much hype about the fan experience, I don’t like the way he’s been lauded by fellow Villa fans for selling out the game against Bayern Munich with a rip-off prices
I don’t think his plans are good for the long-term, I don’t think they’ll work long-term, and I don’t think he’ll be here long-term, but he’s managed to alienate most of the fan base apart from those that think he’s been vindicated,
I don’t think he’ll be vindicated I think he’ll be a massive failure because he doesn’t understand the Villa fan base,
I’ve been in sales all my life and the best bit of advice that was given to me was
‘Sixpence twice is better than ninepence once’ the Bayern game and the Champions League games are the ninepence games which he has grabbed, but he will lose out on a lot of sixpenses because he doesn’t know what he’s doing
In my humble opinion his overall plan won’t work, and I don’t like him
Yes.
Post by: paul_e on September 10, 2024, 09:54:30 PM
I don’t like him
I don’t like his methods, I don’t like the way he treats supporters, I don’t like the way he views the game and the supporter’s of this club and the changes he’s bringing in to increase revenues, I don’t like the shambles of the Arsenal game after so much hype about the fan experience, I don’t like the way he’s been lauded by fellow Villa fans for selling out the game against Bayern Munich with a rip-off prices
I don’t think his plans are good for the long-term, I don’t think they’ll work long-term, and I don’t think he’ll be here long-term, but he’s managed to alienate most of the fan base apart from those that think he’s been vindicated,
I don’t think he’ll be vindicated I think he’ll be a massive failure because he doesn’t understand the Villa fan base,
I’ve been in sales all my life and the best bit of advice that was given to me was
‘Sixpence twice is better than ninepence once’ the Bayern game and the Champions League games are the ninepence games which he has grabbed, but he will lose out on a lot of sixpenses because he doesn’t know what he’s doing
In my humble opinion his overall plan won’t work, and I don’t like him
The only plan I've seen from him anywhere is to get the turnover up to £400m and it's too early to say how that's going but I wouldn't be shocked if we are well over £300m in this seasons accounts, which will be well over halfway there.
You don't have to like him and doubt he cares if most of the fans think he's an arsehole right now, if the turnover keeps going in the right direction he'll be happy.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 10, 2024, 10:00:45 PM
Whether it will backfire longterm is a different matter.
Post by: john e on September 10, 2024, 10:02:50 PM
I don’t like him
I don’t like his methods, I don’t like the way he treats supporters, I don’t like the way he views the game and the supporter’s of this club and the changes he’s bringing in to increase revenues, I don’t like the shambles of the Arsenal game after so much hype about the fan experience, I don’t like the way he’s been lauded by fellow Villa fans for selling out the game against Bayern Munich with a rip-off prices
I don’t think his plans are good for the long-term, I don’t think they’ll work long-term, and I don’t think he’ll be here long-term, but he’s managed to alienate most of the fan base apart from those that think he’s been vindicated,
I don’t think he’ll be vindicated I think he’ll be a massive failure because he doesn’t understand the Villa fan base,
I’ve been in sales all my life and the best bit of advice that was given to me was
‘Sixpence twice is better than ninepence once’ the Bayern game and the Champions League games are the ninepence games which he has grabbed, but he will lose out on a lot of sixpenses because he doesn’t know what he’s doing
In my humble opinion his overall plan won’t work, and I don’t like him
The only plan I've seen from him anywhere is to get the turnover up to £400m and it's too early to say how that's going but I wouldn't be shocked if we are well over £300m in this seasons accounts, which will be well over halfway there.
You don't have to like him and doubt he cares if most of the fans think he's an arsehole right now, if the turnover keeps going in the right direction he'll be happy.
Turnover will be up because we’re in the champions league
it would be virtually impossible for revenue to fall this season that’s down to Unai Emery not Heck
Post by: paul_e on September 10, 2024, 10:08:00 PM
I don’t like him
I don’t like his methods, I don’t like the way he treats supporters, I don’t like the way he views the game and the supporter’s of this club and the changes he’s bringing in to increase revenues, I don’t like the shambles of the Arsenal game after so much hype about the fan experience, I don’t like the way he’s been lauded by fellow Villa fans for selling out the game against Bayern Munich with a rip-off prices
I don’t think his plans are good for the long-term, I don’t think they’ll work long-term, and I don’t think he’ll be here long-term, but he’s managed to alienate most of the fan base apart from those that think he’s been vindicated,
I don’t think he’ll be vindicated I think he’ll be a massive failure because he doesn’t understand the Villa fan base,
I’ve been in sales all my life and the best bit of advice that was given to me was
‘Sixpence twice is better than ninepence once’ the Bayern game and the Champions League games are the ninepence games which he has grabbed, but he will lose out on a lot of sixpenses because he doesn’t know what he’s doing
In my humble opinion his overall plan won’t work, and I don’t like him
The only plan I've seen from him anywhere is to get the turnover up to £400m and it's too early to say how that's going but I wouldn't be shocked if we are well over £300m in this seasons accounts, which will be well over halfway there.
You don't have to like him and doubt he cares if most of the fans think he's an arsehole right now, if the turnover keeps going in the right direction he'll be happy.
Turnover will be up because we’re in the champions league
it would be virtually impossible for revenue to fall this season that’s down to Unai Emery not Heck
It will also be up because of massive improved sponsorship deals and increased ticket prices. Getting into the champions league will obviously be a massive plus but dismissing everything else (or making up other reasons like Sawiris doing the Adidas deal) is just letting your dislike of the guy trick you into thinking he's incompetent at the job he's actually here to do (despite plenty of evidence from before he was hired and with us that he's actually pretty good at it).
Post by: RamboandBruno on September 10, 2024, 10:21:26 PM
We are miles off the income streams and tourist attraction status of Man Utd, Liverpool, Arsenal or even Spurs. We are not bankrolled by a state like Man City have been for well over a decade.
We have had a bumpy but largely great ride since the owners came in and appointed Smith. But its only the appointment of Emery that has elevated us. Emerys genius doesn’t however, change where we are geographically based, it doesn’t change Birmingham from the post industrial city it is, it doesn’t change the fact we’re not (thankfully) bank rolled by Saudi Arabia.
Emery will leave at some point and whilst that doesn’t mean it will all go pear shaped when he does, nothing on the football front is certain.
So whilst Heck may be meeting his targets, given who we are, what we are and where we are based, there for me is a huge amount of short termism here and huge risks being taken by upping and tiering prices year in year, bit by bit pricing out those supporters who have gone largely through thin and thin and replacing them with the higher rollers that will not stick around if the post Emery landscape isnt as bright.
Post by: ChicagoLion on September 10, 2024, 10:38:27 PM
Of course some would moan if it was a minimal increase in ticket prices but most would expect a significant increase. It’s the way he goes about it, the marginal gains for an extra £10 a ticket say is just not worth the negativity.
It’s that he appears to have a Japanese prisoner of war officer attitude towards the majority of the fan base by his many other antics.
He has put himself in a situation where nobody believes a word that he says and that he has painted himself into a corner as the scourge of the Villa supporters.
In any walk of life that shows him up to be culturally deaf and really not very bright.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 10, 2024, 10:40:52 PM
Post by: tony scott on September 10, 2024, 10:45:30 PM
Post by: john e on September 10, 2024, 10:46:41 PM
I don’t like him
I don’t like his methods, I don’t like the way he treats supporters, I don’t like the way he views the game and the supporter’s of this club and the changes he’s bringing in to increase revenues, I don’t like the shambles of the Arsenal game after so much hype about the fan experience, I don’t like the way he’s been lauded by fellow Villa fans for selling out the game against Bayern Munich with a rip-off prices
I don’t think his plans are good for the long-term, I don’t think they’ll work long-term, and I don’t think he’ll be here long-term, but he’s managed to alienate most of the fan base apart from those that think he’s been vindicated,
I don’t think he’ll be vindicated I think he’ll be a massive failure because he doesn’t understand the Villa fan base,
I’ve been in sales all my life and the best bit of advice that was given to me was
‘Sixpence twice is better than ninepence once’ the Bayern game and the Champions League games are the ninepence games which he has grabbed, but he will lose out on a lot of sixpenses because he doesn’t know what he’s doing
In my humble opinion his overall plan won’t work, and I don’t like him
The only plan I've seen from him anywhere is to get the turnover up to £400m and it's too early to say how that's going but I wouldn't be shocked if we are well over £300m in this seasons accounts, which will be well over halfway there.
You don't have to like him and doubt he cares if most of the fans think he's an arsehole right now, if the turnover keeps going in the right direction he'll be happy.
Turnover will be up because we’re in the champions league
it would be virtually impossible for revenue to fall this season that’s down to Unai Emery not Heck
It will also be up because of massive improved sponsorship deals and increased ticket prices. Getting into the champions league will obviously be a massive plus but dismissing everything else (or making up other reasons like Sawiris doing the Adidas deal) is just letting your dislike of the guy trick you into thinking he's incompetent at the job he's actually here to do (despite plenty of evidence from before he was hired and with us that he's actually pretty good at it).
I think he is incompetent
He’s turfed out long-standing season-ticket holders some into non-existing seats to turn into hospitality areas which haven’t sold out for one single game yet
Let me say that again for you and your Heck apologists, his new hospitality areas have not sold out in any single game yet, not one
But you reckon he’s doing the job he came to do ha
He’s got the best year for 40 years to raise ticket prices and sponsorship it have to be a complete moron not to be successful this year.
But because he is a twat he’s alienated the fan base like we were back in the Doug days, in fairness Doug always had his apologists as well
The most damning thing for me is supporters saying stuff like PWS just said
When they say he’s doing his job whether it will backfires in the long run is a different matter
It’s not a different matter, it’s the most important matter it is the only fucking matter
That Matter is Aston Villa football club and its fan base not fucking Chris heck
Post by: ChicagoLion on September 10, 2024, 10:47:46 PM
Who are the Heck apologists? I can't remember a post on here saying they like what's going at the club. Just that he's doing the job he was brought in to do.There have been a few posts over the last few days that have been of that nature.
I do not go with the idea that , doing the job means piss as many people off as possible.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 10, 2024, 10:48:51 PM
The most Important person at the club is Emery. By a million miles. It's his genius that has us top four and CL. With half of Dean's team. Everything and everyone rides on his wave. His decisions will dictate where we go as a club. Heck is a sideshow, and the only reason his name crops up is because he's fu##ed up again. We shouldn't be hearing about the guy.I don’t like him
I don’t like his methods, I don’t like the way he treats supporters, I don’t like the way he views the game and the supporter’s of this club and the changes he’s bringing in to increase revenues, I don’t like the shambles of the Arsenal game after so much hype about the fan experience, I don’t like the way he’s been lauded by fellow Villa fans for selling out the game against Bayern Munich with a rip-off prices
I don’t think his plans are good for the long-term, I don’t think they’ll work long-term, and I don’t think he’ll be here long-term, but he’s managed to alienate most of the fan base apart from those that think he’s been vindicated,
I don’t think he’ll be vindicated I think he’ll be a massive failure because he doesn’t understand the Villa fan base,
I’ve been in sales all my life and the best bit of advice that was given to me was
‘Sixpence twice is better than ninepence once’ the Bayern game and the Champions League games are the ninepence games which he has grabbed, but he will lose out on a lot of sixpenses because he doesn’t know what he’s doing
In my humble opinion his overall plan won’t work, and I don’t like him
The only plan I've seen from him anywhere is to get the turnover up to £400m and it's too early to say how that's going but I wouldn't be shocked if we are well over £300m in this seasons accounts, which will be well over halfway there.
You don't have to like him and doubt he cares if most of the fans think he's an arsehole right now, if the turnover keeps going in the right direction he'll be happy.
Turnover will be up because we’re in the champions league
it would be virtually impossible for revenue to fall this season that’s down to Unai Emery not Heck
It will also be up because of massive improved sponsorship deals and increased ticket prices. Getting into the champions league will obviously be a massive plus but dismissing everything else (or making up other reasons like Sawiris doing the Adidas deal) is just letting your dislike of the guy trick you into thinking he's incompetent at the job he's actually here to do (despite plenty of evidence from before he was hired and with us that he's actually pretty good at it).
He was bombed out of Red Bulls after just over a year after ' alienating some of the clubs most ardent fans'.
At Philadelphia, he oversaw a period of massive growth in turnover. Unfortunately if you dig a bit deeper, you'll find out most of the Basketball teams at that time also saw a similar growth, not dissimilar to what happened with the Premier League in the period around the millennium.
If he was anything to do with the disabled parking he should have been sacked on the spot.
His divide and conquer approach will kill the club and everything we stand for.
I couldn't care how much he raises revenue wise, he's bad for Aston Villa.
Post by: john e on September 10, 2024, 10:49:55 PM
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 10, 2024, 10:50:27 PM
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 10, 2024, 10:52:40 PM
Anyone coming out supporting him is a Chris heck apologist and should be hung out to dry
To support him you'd have to agree with what he's doing. No one is. It really isn't difficult to differentiate between not liking what he's doing, but pointing what he's doing is exactly what he was hired to do. And being an 'apologist'.
Post by: ChicagoLion on September 10, 2024, 11:01:42 PM
I think the difference in opinion here is that many believe it is not necessary to go about his job in the way he has chosen.Anyone coming out supporting him is a Chris heck apologist and should be hung out to dry
To support him you'd have to agree with what he's doing. No one is. It really isn't difficult to differentiate between not liking what he's doing, but pointing what he's doing is exactly what he was hired to do.
The Nuremberg Trial defence is not a validation.
Post by: Gareth on September 10, 2024, 11:02:40 PM
Anyone coming out supporting him is a Chris heck apologist and should be hung out to dry
To support him you'd have to agree with what he's doing. No one is. It really isn't difficult to differentiate between not liking what he's doing, but pointing what he's doing is exactly what he was hired to do. And being an 'apologist'.
Spot on PWS…it’s a blatantly easy and obvious differentiation to make.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 10, 2024, 11:05:10 PM
Post by: jon collett on September 10, 2024, 11:07:01 PM
Pointing out something is a logical approach for a ruthless revenue chaser is hardly the same as being a cheer leader or apologist.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 10, 2024, 11:08:11 PM
Because we'll go to hell in a hand cart at some stage.
Post by: Clampy on September 10, 2024, 11:15:11 PM
Post by: john e on September 10, 2024, 11:19:15 PM
I have hardly seen any defence of the price rises.
Every time someone says ‘ he’s just doing his job’ is a defence whether you like it or not
Post by: Villan82 on September 10, 2024, 11:21:53 PM
I keep hearing about sponsorship but didn't Newcastle get a better adidas deal than us?
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 10, 2024, 11:22:31 PM
Post by: Gareth on September 10, 2024, 11:22:43 PM
It really isn’tI have hardly seen any defence of the price rises.
Every time someone says ‘ he’s just doing his job’ is a defence whether you like it or not
Post by: john e on September 10, 2024, 11:24:06 PM
Again, no one is saying they like or agree with it. He is though doing what the owners hired him to do. It's what he's done before and they hired him based on what he's done before. Maybe some ire should be aimed at them for hiring him to do this instead of trotting out dumb shit like " Heck apologists" when people point out they hired him to do this.
They hired him to do what ?
Turn parts over to hospitality that he can’t sell
That’s doing his job is it
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 10, 2024, 11:25:26 PM
Post by: Clampy on September 10, 2024, 11:28:20 PM
It really isn’tI have hardly seen any defence of the price rises.
Every time someone says ‘ he’s just doing his job’ is a defence whether you like it or not
Correct. You can say 'he's doing is job' and still disagree with it.
Post by: john e on September 10, 2024, 11:30:46 PM
I don’t think he’s doing his job, I don’t think he was hired to alienate the fan base, to create hospitality that he can’t sell, to keep people locked out of the ground and miss kickoff because of incompetence,
I’m not going to blame him for the rivers of piss, that could happen on anyone’s watch
Put Bluntly, I don’t think he’s doing his job and think he’s failing miserably
Post by: Clampy on September 10, 2024, 11:37:01 PM
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 10, 2024, 11:37:06 PM
Post by: Gareth on September 10, 2024, 11:37:43 PM
Again, no one is saying they like or agree with it. He is though doing what the owners hired him to do. It's what he's done before and they hired him based on what he's done before. Maybe some ire should be aimed at them for hiring him to do this instead of trotting out dumb shit like " Heck apologists" when people point out they hired him to do this.
They hired him to do what ?
Turn parts over to hospitality that he can’t sell
That’s doing his job is it
If those seats generate £1 more as GA+ than they would as GA across the season then those that set his revenue targets will see it as doing his job
We absolutely hate it because we want to see a full ground but if the GA+ prices are 3 or 4 times the GA rate it’s not tough to see that you don’t need anything like 100% occupancy rates to make the money
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 10, 2024, 11:39:41 PM
What the discussion should be centred around is whether it's good for Aston Villa, short or long term.
Most of us will be here after NSWE and Heck have gone.
Without us Aston Villa is nothing.
And I promise not to start a sentence with..'it really isnt'
Good debate guys UTV
Post by: john e on September 10, 2024, 11:40:52 PM
You can call me what you want, i couldn't care less. What a silly man.
You’re a heck apologist same as you were a Bruce apologist
You got that wrong as well
In fact I can’t member the last time you was on the right side of anything on here
If you weren’t on here supporting Chris Heck in ‘just doing his job’ then I’d be worried
Post by: jon collett on September 10, 2024, 11:42:03 PM
That clearly hasn’t happened and that’s why he will be emboldened.
I agree with Risso that what Heck is doing is wrong but the Bayern episode has shown the logic of his ruthless and single minded approach to raise revenue.
I’m afraid all the rest and all the name calling on here is froth!
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 10, 2024, 11:42:38 PM
Using simple numbers let's say the current GA+ seats generate £100,000 a game if at 100% capacity.
Those same seats last season generated £60,000 a game if at 100% capacity.
You don't need to sell 100% this season to generate more income than last season from them. 75% take up is more than the max that could be generated last season.
Post by: Clampy on September 10, 2024, 11:43:27 PM
You can call me what you want, i couldn't care less. What a silly man.
You’re a heck apologist same as you were a Bruce apologist
You got that wrong as well
In fact I can’t member the last time you was on the right side of anything on here
If you weren’t on here supporting Chris Heck in ‘just doing his job’ then I’d be worried
Go to bed John.
Post by: john e on September 10, 2024, 11:43:54 PM
You can call me what you want, i couldn't care less. What a silly man.
You’re a heck apologist same as you were a Bruce apologist
You got that wrong as well
In fact I can’t member the last time you was on the right side of anything on here
If you weren’t on here supporting Chris Heck in ‘just doing his job’ then I’d be worried
Go to bed John.
I’m in bed
Post by: Sexual Ealing on September 10, 2024, 11:44:15 PM
Post by: john e on September 10, 2024, 11:44:47 PM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 10, 2024, 11:49:38 PM
Post by: dave.woodhall on September 10, 2024, 11:52:42 PM
I think the biggest difference of opinion is that you apologists and that’s exactly what you are and I’m gonna keep calling you that, think he’s just doing his job, the job is being hired to do
I don’t think he’s doing his job, I don’t think he was hired to alienate the fan base, to create hospitality that he can’t sell, to keep people locked out of the ground and miss kickoff because of incompetence,
I’m not going to blame him for the rivers of piss, that could happen on anyone’s watch
Put Bluntly, I don’t think he’s doing his job and think he’s failing miserably
Keep that up and you won't be calling anyone anything.
Post by: Dante Lavelli on September 11, 2024, 06:59:02 AM
I have hardly seen any defence of the price rises.
The vacuum created by season ticket holders not attending will naturally give thousands of new fans the opportunity to experience villa park. Day trippers are more likely to spend at the club shop etc. Ultimately spreading the love to a wider and different audience will create the demand for sustained growth.
It’s shit for the loyal fans but there is logic to it.
Post by: paul_e on September 11, 2024, 07:12:52 AM
I have hardly seen any defence of the price rises.
The vacuum created by season ticket holders not attending will naturally give thousands of new fans the opportunity to experience villa park. Day trippers are more likely to spend at the club shop etc. Ultimately spreading the love to a wider and different audience will create the demand for sustained growth.
It’s shit for the loyal fans but there is logic to it.
GA+ is largely aimed at daytrippers as well, not necessarily new fans but the sort of people who only get to see a live game once a year or less and want to make the most of the day.
Post by: Border villan on September 11, 2024, 07:30:53 AM
Post by: rob_bridge on September 11, 2024, 08:01:43 AM
Let's be honest - looking at how quickly Bayern sold out, Heck's only regret will be not charging more.
I think you are right.
Although I think he could have got away with higher prices v Bayern, Juventus and Celtic, not sure that would wash v Bologna as much.
Although I'd expect all to be virtual sell outs - as any member who didn't go to a ECL game last season it's probably their only chance.
Post by: PeterWithe on September 11, 2024, 09:53:39 AM
Post by: LeeB on September 11, 2024, 09:57:26 AM
It looks pretty clear to me that he's been offered an enormous bonus to get us to a figure of £400m turnover and he doesn't really give a shit how he gets there as he wont be here much longer afterward to clear up the broken relationship between club and fans.
Exactly how I see it.
Post by: Drummond on September 11, 2024, 09:59:46 AM
We want to play with the big boys, we have to take a hit. Our ticket prices have been cheap, relatively speaking, compared with other big clubs. Our levels of success mirror that. We've had none.
Things are changing, we're competing, yet we were still, only a couple of months ago, on the brink PSR wise.
The club needs more revenue, and the easiest and quickest way to get more is to do what they've done, and that's hit the most loyal.
Emery is more than doing his part, and ahead of schedule, Heck's job is to facilitate Emery being able to do his, he's not creating vast swathes of profit, he's creating funds to stop us losing more money and trying to keep us competitive.
None of us like that it's us that's paying for it right now. I don't know how some people expect us to stay competitive financially otherwise though? As an example, would you rather sell some of our players?
The price rises, the GA+ thing were happening under Purslow, before he arrived, he's come in and expanded it. The owners must be aware.
My gut feeling is that he's pushing it to the limit, to test the limits, and Bayern has sold out on double quick time. I doubt this is sustainable, but he'll carry on being a bastard and screwing our thumbs down for as long as he can. Then he'll leave, we will still be here, and things will change, for better or worse.
Modern football is shit.
Post by: VillaTim on September 11, 2024, 10:04:23 AM
Great to see our club mentioned on BBC Breakfast this morning concerning the way our Europe adventure is going sour because of ticket prices.PR disaster and Heck is risking destroying the feel good factor around the club . There was absolutely no need to set pricing so high and well above prices at clubs who have actually been successful and won trophies regularly for years
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on September 11, 2024, 10:10:18 AM
Post by: Villan82 on September 11, 2024, 10:15:39 AM
Edit, he could do a good job without having to try his best to extinguish all the joy.
Post by: Duncan Shaw on September 11, 2024, 10:15:43 AM
Great to see our club mentioned on BBC Breakfast this morning concerning the way our Europe adventure is going sour because of ticket prices.PR disaster and Heck is risking destroying the feel good factor around the club . There was absolutely no need to set pricing so high and well above prices at clubs who have actually been successful and won trophies regularly for years
He will point to it selling out and not give a f*ck.
Post by: Villan82 on September 11, 2024, 10:18:04 AM
The price rises, the GA+ thing were happening under Purslow, before he arrived, he's come in and expanded it. The owners must be aware.
Before Heck though it was clear that going forward new GA+ would be put into new structures fit for purpose. Since Heck it has been put into the old cramped structures and people have been displaced.
Post by: danno on September 11, 2024, 10:21:16 AM
So if Heck is just doing his job, why aren’t we directing our anger at the owners? The buck for this pile of shit has to stop somewhere.
Because many fans view them as Good Samaritans who saved the club, rather than savvy businessmen who bought a distressed asset, knowing that if they got it promoted it could double in value.
Post by: VillaTim on September 11, 2024, 10:22:35 AM
and therein lieth the issueGreat to see our club mentioned on BBC Breakfast this morning concerning the way our Europe adventure is going sour because of ticket prices.PR disaster and Heck is risking destroying the feel good factor around the club . There was absolutely no need to set pricing so high and well above prices at clubs who have actually been successful and won trophies regularly for years
He will point to it selling out and not give a f*ck.
Post by: Ads on September 11, 2024, 10:23:42 AM
They've then delivered on an incredible promise and here we are in the Champions League, watching the best football we've seen in decades. It's all been pretty good. I'm a bit loathe to moan about them for having scope to sell this asset that they own, have poured hundreds of millions into, for a profit at some point down the line.
I will moan about queues though. I will wince when paying large sums of money over for football and will be a bit disappointed that we are in the milieu of other top English clubs and their finance generating ways.
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on September 11, 2024, 10:24:45 AM
So if Heck is just doing his job, why aren’t we directing our anger at the owners? The buck for this pile of shit has to stop somewhere.
Because many fans view them as Good Samaritans who saved the club, rather than savvy businessmen who bought a distressed asset, knowing that if they got it promoted it could double in value.
Exactly. And Heck is their useful idiot, a convenient lightening rod for all the criticism
Post by: Drummond on September 11, 2024, 10:32:20 AM
Great to see our club mentioned on BBC Breakfast this morning concerning the way our Europe adventure is going sour because of ticket prices.PR disaster and Heck is risking destroying the feel good factor around the club . There was absolutely no need to set pricing so high and well above prices at clubs who have actually been successful and won trophies regularly for years
I think someone worked out this pricing would secure an additional £4m turnover, it's peanuts in the grand scheme of things, but at the same time, it's £4m we don't already have. It's wages for a decent player for a year.
That we're talking about all this, instead of talking about the football, is particularly annoying, hence the feelgood factor stuff, but an International break creates a vacuum too.
Post by: LeeB on September 11, 2024, 10:33:08 AM
Post by: Drummond on September 11, 2024, 10:35:44 AM
Post by: Drummond on September 11, 2024, 10:38:03 AM
£4m a year is probably Dendonker's wage, for context.
Buendia, Konsa or Ramsey if you believe this list. https://www.spotrac.com/epl/aston-villa-fc/cap/_/year/2024
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on September 11, 2024, 10:40:43 AM
I think we have to realise that the cosy bubble our club has been in for so long is no more.
We want to play with the big boys, we have to take a hit. Our ticket prices have been cheap, relatively speaking, compared with other big clubs. Our levels of success mirror that. We've had none.
Things are changing, we're competing, yet we were still, only a couple of months ago, on the brink PSR wise.
The club needs more revenue, and the easiest and quickest way to get more is to do what they've done, and that's hit the most loyal.
Emery is more than doing his part, and ahead of schedule, Heck's job is to facilitate Emery being able to do his, he's not creating vast swathes of profit, he's creating funds to stop us losing more money and trying to keep us competitive.
Heck has gone for the lowest hanging fruit (sorry Chico) and obviously doesn't give a shit about alienating loyal fans. As President of Business Operations I do wonder what alternatives he tried to explore to raise funds. Other clubs have a separate sponsor for their training gear, advertising at the training ground, stadium naming rights, individual stadium stand sponsorship, there are alternatives other than scamming the fans.
For me, Heck could have increased prices but in line with other clubs rather than go out to be the most expensive. He talks about the "great success" of GA+ but as we can see, from the desperate emails to the empty seats, it's been everything except a "great success". Heck is suffering from a classic case of the Dunning-Kruger effect, he's believing his own press releases and tweets which leads to over confidence and arrogance. He may think he's a genius but he's easily replaceable.
The owners need to either reign him in or start looking for his replacement.
Post by: LeeB on September 11, 2024, 10:43:10 AM
£4m a year is probably Dendonker's wage, for context.
Buendia, Konsa or Ramsey if you believe this list. https://www.spotrac.com/epl/aston-villa-fc/cap/_/year/2024
Yes, but they're all of use to us unlike Dendonker.
And if you change the year to 2023, you will see that I was wrong anyway, he actually earns (lol) £4.8m a year.
Post by: john e on September 11, 2024, 10:43:11 AM
So if Heck is just doing his job, why aren’t we directing our anger at the owners? The buck for this pile of shit has to stop somewhere.
i love the owners and they were our saviors and thats no exegeration,
i live in hope that they dont like the fan base being pissed off as much as this and care about the club unlike Heck,
they wont get everything right, they also appointed Gerrard but when it didnt work out he was ruthlessly potted so well just have to see how it plays out but i'm still giving them the benefit of the doubt at the moment, maybe naively but thats where i am
Post by: Drummond on September 11, 2024, 10:50:02 AM
I think we have to realise that the cosy bubble our club has been in for so long is no more.
We want to play with the big boys, we have to take a hit. Our ticket prices have been cheap, relatively speaking, compared with other big clubs. Our levels of success mirror that. We've had none.
Things are changing, we're competing, yet we were still, only a couple of months ago, on the brink PSR wise.
The club needs more revenue, and the easiest and quickest way to get more is to do what they've done, and that's hit the most loyal.
Emery is more than doing his part, and ahead of schedule, Heck's job is to facilitate Emery being able to do his, he's not creating vast swathes of profit, he's creating funds to stop us losing more money and trying to keep us competitive.
Heck has gone for the lowest hanging fruit (sorry Chico) and obviously doesn't give a shit about alienating loyal fans. As President of Business Operations I do wonder what alternatives he tried to explore to raise funds. Other clubs have a separate sponsor for their training gear, advertising at the training ground, stadium naming rights, individual stadium stand sponsorship, there are alternatives other than scamming the fans.
For me, Heck could have increased prices but in line with other clubs rather than go out to be the most expensive. He talks about the "great success" of GA+ but as we can see, from the desperate emails to the empty seats, it's been everything except a "great success". Heck is suffering from a classic case of the Dunning-Kruger effect, he's believing his own press releases and tweets which leads to over confidence and arrogance. He may think he's a genius but he's easily replaceable.
The owners need to either reign him in or start looking for his replacement.
Agree re sponsorship of that stuff, I suspect we had nobody willing to pay (at least not at the rate we'd find acceptable.
I've no idea if he believes what he's saying, but he's doing it anyway. That statement after selling out yesterday was a prime case in point.
It wouldn't surprise me in the least if they already know his replacement, be that in 6 months or 6 years.
Anyway, these are the prices for the NFL London (regular season) games. I know there are less of them, but the general point about pricing worries me, because this could be where he's heading...
Category Single game price
Category 1 £195
Category 2 £180
Category 3 £155
Category 4 £135
Category 5 £115
Category 6 £88
Category 7 £68
Hospitality Packages From £335
Category 5 (Under 16s) £57.50
Category 7 (Under 16s) £34
Sportsbreaks Hotel + Ticket package From £269
And these are the premium packages.
https://www.nfl.com/ukire/premium
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on September 11, 2024, 10:52:06 AM
So if Heck is just doing his job, why aren’t we directing our anger at the owners? The buck for this pile of shit has to stop somewhere.
i love the owners and they were our saviors and thats no exegeration,
Yep, no argument there - although weren’t we saying the same about Ellis in ‘68? They’re not sacred cows though and we should be able to question everything they do
Post by: LeeB on September 11, 2024, 10:53:51 AM
Post by: Drummond on September 11, 2024, 10:54:36 AM
£4m a year is probably Dendonker's wage, for context.
Buendia, Konsa or Ramsey if you believe this list. https://www.spotrac.com/epl/aston-villa-fc/cap/_/year/2024
Yes, but they're all of use to us unlike Dendonker.
And if you change the year to 2023, you will see that I was wrong anyway, he actually earns (lol) £4.8m a year.
I know they are, that was the point. Would we sacrifice one to pay less?
I know we'd sacrifice Dendoncker, Olsen, Hause etc if we could. And I also know it's not as easy as that, but that's the choice that people at the club have to make. That's why we are so close to the wire for PSR.
And it's shit. I like to pay less, stand in the North and grab a pint and a Bovril, I don't want fancy sandwiches and the like at football. I want a more level playing field, but I want us to fucking win something that I can actually remember us winning. And that's the painful balancing act with all this shit.
Post by: Drummond on September 11, 2024, 10:57:06 AM
But there's one of those NFL games a year in this country as opposed to hundreds of Premier League matches.
Yep, but the Champions League games haven't happened for us for 41 years.
Post by: paul_e on September 11, 2024, 10:57:08 AM
But there's one of those NFL games a year in this country as opposed to hundreds of Premier League matches.
There may be hundreds but there's only 19 that are relevant and not all of those would be 'premium' pricing.
Post by: LeeB on September 11, 2024, 10:59:05 AM
But there's one of those NFL games a year in this country as opposed to hundreds of Premier League matches.
There may be hundreds but there's only 19 that are relevant and not all of those would be 'premium' pricing.
Only 19 that are relevant to us legacy fans yes, but that's not the case for the consumers they're marketing to.
Post by: paul_e on September 11, 2024, 11:03:11 AM
But there's one of those NFL games a year in this country as opposed to hundreds of Premier League matches.
There may be hundreds but there's only 19 that are relevant and not all of those would be 'premium' pricing.
Only 19 that are relevant to us legacy fans yes, but that's not the case for the consumers they're marketing to.
To an extent.
Post by: john e on September 11, 2024, 11:10:31 AM
not sells for Bayern Munich but sells throughout a season, i just dont think our supporter base is there yet, maybe well get there maybe not but at the moment its not working
Post by: Drummond on September 11, 2024, 11:12:07 AM
i've got no problem with expanding the hospitality areas and bringing in the revenues that comes with it, no problem at all if it sells
not sells for Bayern Munich but sells throughout a season, i just dont think our supporter base is there yet, maybe well get there maybe not but at the moment its not working
Eh?
It's sold out. So it is there isn't it?
Post by: Pat Mustard on September 11, 2024, 11:18:44 AM
Great to see our club mentioned on BBC Breakfast this morning concerning the way our Europe adventure is going sour because of ticket prices.PR disaster and Heck is risking destroying the feel good factor around the club . There was absolutely no need to set pricing so high and well above prices at clubs who have actually been successful and won trophies regularly for years
I think someone worked out this pricing would secure an additional £4m turnover, it's peanuts in the grand scheme of things, but at the same time, it's £4m we don't already have. It's wages for a decent player for a year.
That we're talking about all this, instead of talking about the football, is particularly annoying, hence the feelgood factor stuff, but an International break creates a vacuum too.
The extra £4 million we get from the CL pricing is going to be reduced by lost revenue at other games - we'll never get to know properly as attendance figures are not being published, but everyone can see that there are lots of empty seats that used to be full. There are loads of GA+ left for Everton, Arsenal was nowehere near a sell-out in those areas, and even Man Utd has plenty of availability (albeit with a few weeks to go). If we can't sell these games, and people are having to choose their matches after being forced to pay through the nose for Champions League then we are going to potentially lose hundreds of thousands in revenue at some games later in the season. And this is before any supporter boycott of food and drink sales etc.
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on September 11, 2024, 11:20:36 AM
i've got no problem with expanding the hospitality areas and bringing in the revenues that comes with it, no problem at all if it sells
not sells for Bayern Munich but sells throughout a season, i just dont think our supporter base is there yet, maybe well get there maybe not but at the moment its not working
Eh?
It's sold out. So it is there isn't it?
Loads of GA+ tickets available when I checked this morning
Post by: VillaTim on September 11, 2024, 11:23:19 AM
Heck is as short sighted as his stature .
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 11, 2024, 11:26:49 AM
We as fans, especially those that can only afford GA, hate seeing empty seats at games but as I said last night GA+ doesn't need to sell out to be making more money than last season. Which seems to be the only thing that matters to the club just lately.
Post by: Drummond on September 11, 2024, 11:27:46 AM
i've got no problem with expanding the hospitality areas and bringing in the revenues that comes with it, no problem at all if it sells
not sells for Bayern Munich but sells throughout a season, i just dont think our supporter base is there yet, maybe well get there maybe not but at the moment its not working
Eh?
It's sold out. So it is there isn't it?
Loads of GA+ tickets available when I checked this morning
I know. Let's hope they stay unsold. Prove him wrong.
Post by: Drummond on September 11, 2024, 11:29:13 AM
I think John means it sells out every game not just for Bayern. Although as of yesterday GA+ hadn't gone on sale for Bayern yet.
We as fans, especially those that can only afford GA, hate seeing empty seats at games but as I said last night GA+ doesn't need to sell out to be making more money than last season. Which seems to be the only thing that matters to the club just lately.
I do wonder whether the GA+ seats will get moved into more prominent positions. At the moment they are out of sight of TV cameras and not in the best place. Next tactic will probably be to make them more prominent and price higher.
Post by: paul_e on September 11, 2024, 11:29:56 AM
Post by: AV82EC on September 11, 2024, 11:39:20 AM
Post by: Pat Mustard on September 11, 2024, 11:42:42 AM
but if, for example, GA+ means a seat is worth double what it was we only need to sell 51% of them for it to be a financial benefit. The club will know the exact percent of GA+ they need to sell and clearly the Terrace View and Lower Grounds surpassed that last season, which is why we've added more options this year. There is a finite amonut that can be converted (and I suspect we're close to the limit already) before it becomes a loss but the club will have all the data they need to be able to predict that.
The issues is this season though that who is going to buy any of the GA+ seats when there are games where regular seats won;t be selling out? Other than those who have already committed to season tickets in there (as it is the only way to get one now), if it were me I would just buy a regular seat and so those places are generating £0.
Another issue for me then is the intangible losses the club potentially incurs. In the Premier League every place in the table is worth something like £1.5 million, and if you are competing for European places it could be 10s of millions depending on where you end up. For that reason alone I'd say surely we want the ground full and noisy as often as possible? For the sake of an extra £4 million we could already be losing £1-2 million in reduced income from other games, but then also risking the prize money that comes from finishing further up the table. We only need to finish a couple of places lower and suddenly Heck's £400 million income target is £100 million away, not £4 million.
Post by: Ads on September 11, 2024, 12:02:25 PM
Looking at Everton, there's a handful left of some offerings, plenty of others and some sold out. We equally cannot be sure whether they're not additional, as we were adding 1500 seats. We know they're aggressive in their selling of some packages too which may indicate a desperation on part of the club, the fool selling the package for commission or both.
It's really opaque and I don't quite understand the confidence particularly one way or the other to suggest we're losing revenue from empty seats, as the net gain may well be there. It may not. But I'd probably lean towards suggesting selling 50 out of 100 GA+ is probably a net gain than selling 100 GA.
The Aston is sold out at £750 a go- H
The Cornerflag has ~ 70 spots left at £264- H
Sports Bar has 5 left at £288 - H
Gas Lamp has 18 left at £264. This looks about 90%+ full - H
82 Lounge has about 40 at £488 - H
Lion and Star has 70 left at £264 - H
McGregors has 11 left at £504. This looks 90%+ full - H
Villains has 9 left at £456, again 90%+ full - H
Cells is sold out at £100 - GA+
Lower Grounds has 102 at £146 - GA+
Terrace View has 74 left at £120 - GA+
Only a few of the Hospitality ones can you make out occupancy, the rest is tricky as you don't know how many are allocated to an area.
There's 399 there, but some are approximated. Let's say 400- not all of those offerings are in general admission areas; Corner Flag, Cells, Terrace View and Lower Grounds definitely are. But let's assume all 400 unoccupied spots are former General Admission spots.
£50 for an adult in zone 2, £56 for Zone 1 for Saturday. £56 x 400 = £22,400 lost match ticket revenue. If we were to assume there's only 400 hospitality/GA+ seats in total then even at a median range they're making far more.
It's still lost revenue of course, but the GA/Hospitality means we make more money than previously. But the how's and the exactly what's, we have no idea. There's an appetite for these tickets- how strong is? Probably not as strong as Heck likes and stronger than some would like to admit.
Post by: London Villan on September 11, 2024, 12:23:33 PM
What will it be like against the likes of Bournemouth and Palace - particularly if they get moved to Sundays...
Post by: Pat Mustard on September 11, 2024, 12:29:42 PM
Again, it might be great for revenue, but it's not for supporters and not sustainable for the long-term - if the seats are not selling these companies simply won't buy any more in future.
Post by: Brend'Watkins on September 11, 2024, 12:30:05 PM
Post by: AV82EC on September 11, 2024, 12:30:50 PM
It's strong now at the start of the season, for a home game, on a Saturday evening.
What will it be like against the likes of Bournemouth and Palace - particularly if they get moved to Sundays...
We don’t know, we can speculate but as Ads says we’re pissing in the wind really. And we won’t find out until we see Heck’s numbers for this years accounts some time in 2026.
Post by: London Villan on September 11, 2024, 12:34:17 PM
Have chunks of the GA+ seats not just been bought by hospitality re-sellers as well though? I seem to see a lot of adverts for hospitality at Villa Park that don't come from the club, so even though they are 'sold' for club purposes, they are adding to the empty seats in the ground.
Again, it might be great for revenue, but it's not for supporters and not sustainable for the long-term - if the seats are not selling these companies simply won't buy any more in future.
And of course, they'll pay discounted rates for those tickets too.
Post by: Ads on September 11, 2024, 12:38:52 PM
There's also plenty of season ticket holders who miss games. I think its a weak argument that CL football in 25/26 is jeopardised by GA+/Hospitality. It doesn't appear to impact Arsenal, Man United Man City over the years. Liverpool are the outlier for take up, owing to their smaller ground over the past 20 years.
Post by: Pat Mustard on September 11, 2024, 12:56:25 PM
I dont think 400-600 seats, 1-1.5% of all seats, has any impact on atmosphere, particularly as the Holte is invariably 99.9% occupied and the source of the noise at Villa Park.
There's also plenty of season ticket holders who miss games. I think its a weak argument that CL football in 25/26 is jeopardised by GA+/Hospitality. It doesn't appear to impact Arsenal, Man United Man City over the years. Liverpool are the outlier for take up, owing to their smaller ground over the past 20 years.
For me it's not about those 400-600 seats directly per se, but it's the impact the overall pricing structure is going to have on certain games this season. For example, I can specifically see Brentford at home on Tuesday 3rd December being a particulalry hard sell to thousands of people who have already coughed up for 3 CL games by that point - the possibility of us going into that game with at least 4-5k empty seats is very real (especially as there will probably be an additional 1500 seats unoccupied in the away end), and it will have a direct impact on atmosphere.
We qualified for the CL last season by 2 points. One more draw or defeat and we wouldn't have made it - these are the margins we face to qualify.
Post by: Ads on September 11, 2024, 12:58:22 PM
Post by: simon ward 50 on September 11, 2024, 01:00:58 PM
Credit where credit is due ;)
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 11, 2024, 01:01:20 PM
Post by: Pat Mustard on September 11, 2024, 01:02:27 PM
When was the last time we went into a league game with 5 to 6000 unsold seats? Pre-Dean Smith?
It probably is. That also coincides with the last time we as a family wouldn't have all gone to a game we could make, but we are definitely not going to Brentford in December this year as we can no longer justify the cost on top of everything else.
Post by: Ads on September 11, 2024, 01:07:26 PM
When was the last time we went into a league game with 5 to 6000 unsold seats? Pre-Dean Smith?
It probably is. That also coincides with the last time we as a family wouldn't have all gone to a game we could make, but we are definitely not going to Brentford in December this year as we can no longer justify the cost on top of everything else.
Isn't that a mistake to use personal anecdotal exprience as evidence of a wider trend? I'd be suprised if there's anything less than 40,000 on against Brentford or whatever it is with the upper Witton empty, based on every attendance in the league from February 2019 onwards, that we were able to attend.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 11, 2024, 01:11:04 PM
Post by: Pat Mustard on September 11, 2024, 01:13:57 PM
When was the last time we went into a league game with 5 to 6000 unsold seats? Pre-Dean Smith?
It probably is. That also coincides with the last time we as a family wouldn't have all gone to a game we could make, but we are definitely not going to Brentford in December this year as we can no longer justify the cost on top of everything else.
Isn't that a mistake to use personal anecdotal exprience as evidence of a wider trend? I'd be suprised if there's anything less than 40,000 on against Brentford or whatever it is with the upper Witton empty, based on every attendance in the league from February 2019 onwards, that we were able to attend.
Possibly - maybe everyone else has just got a spare £600 lying around. All I know is in the past we would have gone to that game, but this year we can't afford it. There have been plenty of games in that period where the ground hasn't sold out but it has been close enough to be unnoticeable, and I am guessing that's down to attendance of regulars that go to every game they can. This year, I suspect lots of us won't be able/willing to do it.
Post by: paul_e on September 11, 2024, 01:24:02 PM
I'm currently in a meeting with a Man City friend, he is a season ticket holder and in the cup scheme. His ticket for Inter next week was £37:50, and they have been moaning as that is a hike from last year. We have had our trousers pulled down.
Comparing us with Man City is meaningless, they have the turnover, backing and FFP 'clearance' to do whatever they like, as well as a ground that has a 54k capacity that was originally given to them for about £20m quid. They've also cheated the system to a ridiculous degree to create that situation.
Post by: Drummond on September 11, 2024, 01:26:15 PM
Anyway, it's still fucking shit. Just as well I'm not in the away club and having to find the cash for that every other week.
Post by: VillaTim on September 11, 2024, 01:28:55 PM
Post by: Ads on September 11, 2024, 01:46:58 PM
When was the last time we went into a league game with 5 to 6000 unsold seats? Pre-Dean Smith?
It probably is. That also coincides with the last time we as a family wouldn't have all gone to a game we could make, but we are definitely not going to Brentford in December this year as we can no longer justify the cost on top of everything else.
Isn't that a mistake to use personal anecdotal exprience as evidence of a wider trend? I'd be suprised if there's anything less than 40,000 on against Brentford or whatever it is with the upper Witton empty, based on every attendance in the league from February 2019 onwards, that we were able to attend.
Possibly - maybe everyone else has just got a spare £600 lying around. All I know is in the past we would have gone to that game, but this year we can't afford it. There have been plenty of games in that period where the ground hasn't sold out but it has been close enough to be unnoticeable, and I am guessing that's down to attendance of regulars that go to every game they can. This year, I suspect lots of us won't be able/willing to do it.
Fair enough, sounds more like you're hoping that will happen to me, as there's nothing to really back it up.
Post by: Dante Lavelli on September 11, 2024, 01:49:10 PM
It looks pretty clear to me that he's been offered an enormous bonus to get us to a figure of £400m turnover and he doesn't really give a shit how he gets there as he wont be here much longer afterward to clear up the broken relationship between club and fans.
Exactly how I see it.
I’ve long thought this.
It also justifies canceling the North Stand. The target would be significantly harder with 25% of the stadium in landfill.
Post by: eamonn on September 11, 2024, 01:56:21 PM
I'm currently in a meeting with a Man City friend, he is a season ticket holder and in the cup scheme. His ticket for Inter next week was £37:50, and they have been moaning as that is a hike from last year. We have had our trousers pulled down.
A hike from what, kids for a quid?!
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on September 11, 2024, 02:25:22 PM
Wait til we play Man U / L'Pool etc and there are loads of cockney reds in the GA+ seats . Fiasco
It will be another "great success".
Post by: VillaTim on September 11, 2024, 03:08:34 PM
Post by: Pat Mustard on September 11, 2024, 03:43:19 PM
When was the last time we went into a league game with 5 to 6000 unsold seats? Pre-Dean Smith?
It probably is. That also coincides with the last time we as a family wouldn't have all gone to a game we could make, but we are definitely not going to Brentford in December this year as we can no longer justify the cost on top of everything else.
Isn't that a mistake to use personal anecdotal exprience as evidence of a wider trend? I'd be suprised if there's anything less than 40,000 on against Brentford or whatever it is with the upper Witton empty, based on every attendance in the league from February 2019 onwards, that we were able to attend.
Possibly - maybe everyone else has just got a spare £600 lying around. All I know is in the past we would have gone to that game, but this year we can't afford it. There have been plenty of games in that period where the ground hasn't sold out but it has been close enough to be unnoticeable, and I am guessing that's down to attendance of regulars that go to every game they can. This year, I suspect lots of us won't be able/willing to do it.
Fair enough, sounds more like you're hoping that will happen to me, as there's nothing to really back it up.
I'm certainly not hoping we have thousands of empty seats, as I think I have tried to say it's vital we fill the ground as much as possible when one or two league points can make a massive difference and home crowds have a demonstrable influence on results. There are very specific reasons why I think this year could see a few league games with low attendances (sub 40k) that we haven't seen since we got promoted:
1 - There were a number of games where home tickets didn't sell out in 23/24, mainly in the first half of the season before we saw how things were panning out. Given we only have roughly 10k tickets to sell for any given match (deducting STs and away support), it's not a huge number to sell for any one game, yet we failed to on at least 3 or 4 occasions last season.
2 - Out of the roughly 10k tickets, most are being sold to members. In that group, I would suspect there is a bit of a 50/50 split between people like ourselves who up until now have effectively treated them as a de facto season ticket (i.e. it's the only way to buy tickets for every match), and those who pick them up for specific games that are convenient or appealing, with then a very limited number going to general sale.
3 - This year, any member that wants to go to CL games will have spent IRO £270 extra by November. Given general admission prices have gone up by 15% already this season, that is a lot of extra money no-one has had to find before, and all in the space of the first 3-4 months of a season that could see much bigger games coming after Christmas.
4 - There is a general loss of 'goodwill' amongst those members who have either been priced out of CL games, or were unable to get a ticket for Bayern due to the frankly shitty prioritisation of ticket sales, with hardly any credit for loyalty from last season.
5 - The number of concessionary seats in the ground was cut this season again. If you are taking a child to a game, there are now less of those seats available and only in specific areas - people who would potentially be filling two seats will now take none.
Like I say, this could be just me extrapolating my own circumstances, but I've seen enough comments in the last few days on here and social media from long-standing fans that show we are seriously close to losing fans who have been match-going for years if not decades. I was also out with friends who are all ST holders over the weekend, and every single one of them has been demoralised by the last few weeks.
As supporters of all clubs have been saying for a long time, there is a tipping point (and this will be at a different level for different clubs) where fans will be priced out of the game and the whole thing will suffer - for the first time as a Villa fan, I honestly think we have reached ours and it has come just as we should be celebrating the best team we've had in a quarter of a century.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 11, 2024, 05:48:03 PM
Well this has given us all a laugh this afternoon.I'm currently in a meeting with a Man City friend, he is a season ticket holder and in the cup scheme. His ticket for Inter next week was £37:50, and they have been moaning as that is a hike from last year. We have had our trousers pulled down.
Comparing us with Man City is meaningless, they have the turnover, backing and FFP 'clearance' to do whatever they like, as well as a ground that has a 54k capacity that was originally given to them for about £20m quid. They've also cheated the system to a ridiculous degree to create that situation.
The keyword being turnover. The commercial side of the other clubs in the top 5 dwarfs ours. Increasing ticket prices adds next to nothing in the big picture financially. Ditto GA+. Small fry revenue wise. Emery has raised our profile massively, making us very attractive to commercial partnerships. This is how the other clubs have made money, and plenty of it.
As you say City have the backing, then so do we with NSWE.
And yes they clearly are cheats.
But they are way more savvy commercially, along with your Spurs, Arsenals of the world, and this is what we need to learn now we have a successful team.
We are in the limelight for once and need to exploit it to the max.
Raising ticket prices to daft levels, relevant to average wages in the local community, is a business model that no other top club has adopted surprisingly. And about 80% on here are fuming/disillusioned/priced out.
It's a bad idea and hasn't been well received clearly.
I'm involved in the delivery of railway infrastructure projects that cost millions, new junctions/stations/new routes.
They are funded via commercial partnerships.
They are not funded by Mr Smith on the 8:15 to Paddington
It's how big business works. Perhaps if we get savvy we can charge £30 for Real Madrid like City did last year.
Post by: oldhill_avfc on September 11, 2024, 06:10:41 PM
I think we have to realise that the cosy bubble our club has been in for so long is no more.
We want to play with the big boys, we have to take a hit. Our ticket prices have been cheap, relatively speaking, compared with other big clubs. Our levels of success mirror that. We've had none.
Things are changing, we're competing, yet we were still, only a couple of months ago, on the brink PSR wise.
The club needs more revenue, and the easiest and quickest way to get more is to do what they've done, and that's hit the most loyal.
Emery is more than doing his part, and ahead of schedule, Heck's job is to facilitate Emery being able to do his, he's not creating vast swathes of profit, he's creating funds to stop us losing more money and trying to keep us competitive.
None of us like that it's us that's paying for it right now. I don't know how some people expect us to stay competitive financially otherwise though? As an example, would you rather sell some of our players?
The price rises, the GA+ thing were happening under Purslow, before he arrived, he's come in and expanded it. The owners must be aware.
My gut feeling is that he's pushing it to the limit, to test the limits, and Bayern has sold out on double quick time. I doubt this is sustainable, but he'll carry on being a bastard and screwing our thumbs down for as long as he can. Then he'll leave, we will still be here, and things will change, for better or worse.
Modern football is shit.
Spot on.
The only thing to add is that in the short term NSW we’re willing to swap operating losses for equity growth. That will have stop at some point so growing revenue is the only way forward.
Post by: oldhill_avfc on September 11, 2024, 06:25:10 PM
Heck has gone for the easy option, fleece the loyal fan base. What is he doing on the commercial side though? Birmingham based Cadbury are sponsoring ManU, why haven’t we now got a foot in the door there? Or, at any of the other numerous service providers to football clubs? I know we don’t have the pull of ManU globally but even so, increased revenue from Sponsorship should be the benchmark for Heck’s success or otherwise, not, how much he can squeeze from the loyal fan base.
I’m not sure I quite understand how Heck is fleecing the loyal fan base.
The CL tickets are about £20 a game more than we expected, so £80 over the season assuming we don’t progress - I imagine it’s a fairly small percentage over the total cost for most of us season ticket holders.
He’s trying to grow revenue by selling hospitality and GA+ - if anything he’s trying to fleece the day trippers.
Post by: danno on September 11, 2024, 06:32:16 PM
Heck has gone for the easy option, fleece the loyal fan base. What is he doing on the commercial side though? Birmingham based Cadbury are sponsoring ManU, why haven’t we now got a foot in the door there? Or, at any of the other numerous service providers to football clubs? I know we don’t have the pull of ManU globally but even so, increased revenue from Sponsorship should be the benchmark for Heck’s success or otherwise, not, how much he can squeeze from the loyal fan base.
I’m not sure I quite understand how Heck is fleecing the loyal fan base.
The CL tickets are about £20 a game more than we expected, so £80 over the season assuming we don’t progress - I imagine it’s a fairly small percentage over the total cost for most of us season ticket holders.
He’s trying to grow revenue by selling hospitality and GA+ - if anything he’s trying to fleece the day trippers.
So... anybody that isn't a season ticket holder is not the loyal fan base, and is a day tripper.
Got it.
Post by: oldhill_avfc on September 11, 2024, 07:00:30 PM
Post by: danno on September 11, 2024, 07:01:48 PM
You haven’t really got it have you.
Clearly not. Please use small words oh wise one.
Post by: oldhill_avfc on September 11, 2024, 07:04:13 PM
Post by: danno on September 11, 2024, 07:13:34 PM
I tried keeping it to 2 syllables just for you.
A champions league ticket will cost £94 for somebody who is not a season ticket holder. That is significantly extra. That is in some posters opinion "fleecing the loyal fan base".
And if you truly believe the only folk buying GA+ seats are day trippers who it's absolutely fine to fleece, well I disagree.
But it's only £20 extra for you. And you're alright so that's marvelous.
Post by: paul_e on September 11, 2024, 07:25:47 PM
Well this has given us all a laugh this afternoon.I'm currently in a meeting with a Man City friend, he is a season ticket holder and in the cup scheme. His ticket for Inter next week was £37:50, and they have been moaning as that is a hike from last year. We have had our trousers pulled down.
Comparing us with Man City is meaningless, they have the turnover, backing and FFP 'clearance' to do whatever they like, as well as a ground that has a 54k capacity that was originally given to them for about £20m quid. They've also cheated the system to a ridiculous degree to create that situation.
The keyword being turnover. The commercial side of the other clubs in the top 5 dwarfs ours. Increasing ticket prices adds next to nothing in the big picture financially. Ditto GA+. Small fry revenue wise. Emery has raised our profile massively, making us very attractive to commercial partnerships. This is how the other clubs have made money, and plenty of it.
As you say City have the backing, then so do we with NSWE.
And yes they clearly are cheats.
But they are way more savvy commercially, along with your Spurs, Arsenals of the world, and this is what we need to learn now we have a successful team.
We are in the limelight for once and need to exploit it to the max.
Raising ticket prices to daft levels, relevant to average wages in the local community, is a business model that no other top club has adopted surprisingly. And about 80% on here are fuming/disillusioned/priced out.
It's a bad idea and hasn't been well received clearly.
I'm involved in the delivery of railway infrastructure projects that cost millions, new junctions/stations/new routes.
They are funded via commercial partnerships.
They are not funded by Mr Smith on the 8:15 to Paddington
It's how big business works. Perhaps if we get savvy we can charge £30 for Real Madrid like City did last year.
If you focus on a tiny part of what is put in front of you that you can handle easily and ignore everything difficult I guess it explains why railway infrastructure projects in the UK rarely deliver on time or to budget.
I can't be arsed to argue with you though, if you want to hold Man City up as an example of how to do things the right way then there really is no point.
Post by: VillaTim on September 11, 2024, 07:47:04 PM
Have you been on Mars or something these last 2 yearsHeck has gone for the easy option, fleece the loyal fan base. What is he doing on the commercial side though? Birmingham based Cadbury are sponsoring ManU, why haven’t we now got a foot in the door there? Or, at any of the other numerous service providers to football clubs? I know we don’t have the pull of ManU globally but even so, increased revenue from Sponsorship should be the benchmark for Heck’s success or otherwise, not, how much he can squeeze from the loyal fan base.
I’m not sure I quite understand how Heck is fleecing the loyal fan base.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 11, 2024, 07:53:16 PM
You responded to my post then I responded to yours. It's a forum for discussion. No point getting excited about things.Well this has given us all a laugh this afternoon.I'm currently in a meeting with a Man City friend, he is a season ticket holder and in the cup scheme. His ticket for Inter next week was £37:50, and they have been moaning as that is a hike from last year. We have had our trousers pulled down.
Comparing us with Man City is meaningless, they have the turnover, backing and FFP 'clearance' to do whatever they like, as well as a ground that has a 54k capacity that was originally given to them for about £20m quid. They've also cheated the system to a ridiculous degree to create that situation.
The keyword being turnover. The commercial side of the other clubs in the top 5 dwarfs ours. Increasing ticket prices adds next to nothing in the big picture financially. Ditto GA+. Small fry revenue wise. Emery has raised our profile massively, making us very attractive to commercial partnerships. This is how the other clubs have made money, and plenty of it.
As you say City have the backing, then so do we with NSWE.
And yes they clearly are cheats.
But they are way more savvy commercially, along with your Spurs, Arsenals of the world, and this is what we need to learn now we have a successful team.
We are in the limelight for once and need to exploit it to the max.
Raising ticket prices to daft levels, relevant to average wages in the local community, is a business model that no other top club has adopted surprisingly. And about 80% on here are fuming/disillusioned/priced out.
It's a bad idea and hasn't been well received clearly.
I'm involved in the delivery of railway infrastructure projects that cost millions, new junctions/stations/new routes.
They are funded via commercial partnerships.
They are not funded by Mr Smith on the 8:15 to Paddington
It's how big business works. Perhaps if we get savvy we can charge £30 for Real Madrid like City did last year.
If you focus on a tiny part of what is put in front of you that you can handle easily and ignore everything difficult I guess it explains why railway infrastructure projects in the UK rarely deliver on time or to budget.
I can't be arsed to argue with you though, if you want to hold Man City up as an example of how to do things the right way then there really is no point.
If I'd been in a meeting with a Liverpool fan I could have highlighted their prices. But I wasn't. The point is the same though. We need to be looking at much more lucrative things before reverting to ticketing.And yes Man City should be relegated, they are a disgrace, but I think everyone agrees on that
Post by: paul_e on September 11, 2024, 08:02:59 PM
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 11, 2024, 08:04:55 PM
Post by: VillaTim on September 11, 2024, 08:07:26 PM
Who's excited? I'm fucking bored of the constant whinging about Heck. It's not me that tried to put Man City up as an example of how to handle finances.Fair point. Let him just crack on destroying goodwill, loyalty, the feel good factor. We should all know our place and pipe down.
Post by: paul_e on September 11, 2024, 08:13:46 PM
If you're bored of Heck talk then it's probably an idea not to go into a thread about him.
I'm not bored of most odf the talk, I'm bored of people being so fucking desperate to turn him into some sort of panto villain.
Post by: john e on September 11, 2024, 08:31:54 PM
If you're bored of Heck talk then it's probably an idea not to go into a thread about him.
I'm not bored of most odf the talk, I'm bored of people being so fucking desperate to turn him into some sort of panto villain.
Oh no they’re not
Post by: VillaTim on September 11, 2024, 08:38:18 PM
He's behind you !!!!If you're bored of Heck talk then it's probably an idea not to go into a thread about him.
I'm not bored of most odf the talk, I'm bored of people being so fucking desperate to turn him into some sort of panto villain.
Oh no they’re not
Post by: Dante Lavelli on September 11, 2024, 09:27:13 PM
If I'd been in a meeting with a Liverpool fan I could have highlighted their prices. But I wasn't. The point is the same though. We need to be looking at much more lucrative things before reverting to ticketing.And yes Man City should be relegated, they are a disgrace, but I think everyone agrees on that
[/quote]
I kinda work in a similar industry and from my perspective big business typically only get involved when infrastructure/assets are being traded. Without building a stadium, I struggle to see how we’ll generate real investment other than organic sponsorship etc.
I’m not deliberately being facetious, but I’m intrigued to hear what joint ventures, assets we could sell, or opportunities we can exploit to move the dial?
Post by: Villan82 on September 11, 2024, 09:28:30 PM
If you're bored of Heck talk then it's probably an idea not to go into a thread about him.
I'm not bored of most odf the talk, I'm bored of people being so fucking desperate to turn him into some sort of panto villain.
Yeah, it's really the fans' fault isn't it?
Erm, this man has done nothing to endear himself to the customers, erm, meant fans.
From day one he has gone about it in an obnoxious manner whether its our brand, our badge, our stadium's future, communications, engaging with the FAB, ticket prices, using his social media for good news stories.... it goes on and on. He's only been here a year!
This has been a PR shitshow. He is riding on Emery's coat tails, it's our on the pitch improvement that makes us more appealing to sponsors, this isn't rocket science. Why else have we had 25 years of Villa officials saying we need to get into the Champions League?
Heck has brought this on himself and he could learn a lot from Unai Emery
Post by: RamboandBruno on September 12, 2024, 07:12:21 AM
Not only that, its incredibly short sighted and based on the premise that the success under Emery will be sustained over a period. Heck and his team no doubt will be somewhere else doing the same thing when the time comes for Unai to leave. If things aren’t sustained he wont be here to be held account if a lot of us are priced out and the next generation of regular match goers arent there.
And another thing, im not an advocate of the holte end being a closed shop, but at the Europa games last year, there were a lot of one off attendees by me, often getting really angry and screaming at Martinez to hit it long, just saying.
Post by: oldhill_avfc on September 12, 2024, 07:12:58 AM
Have you been on Mars or something these last 2 yearsHeck has gone for the easy option, fleece the loyal fan base. What is he doing on the commercial side though? Birmingham based Cadbury are sponsoring ManU, why haven’t we now got a foot in the door there? Or, at any of the other numerous service providers to football clubs? I know we don’t have the pull of ManU globally but even so, increased revenue from Sponsorship should be the benchmark for Heck’s success or otherwise, not, how much he can squeeze from the loyal fan base.
I’m not sure I quite understand how Heck is fleecing the loyal fan base.
Been on planet reality unlike some on here.
To run a compatible football club costs money. About £400m a year so we hear.
I’m not surprised when I’m asked to pay more than a few years ago for my season ticket - but it still represents value for money to me.
Of course I’d prefer to pay less; the more commercial deals, hospitality etc the better for me.
Post by: RamboandBruno on September 12, 2024, 07:32:53 AM
The point is and this has been made several times to you in this thread, there are now more/better commercial deals and there is more hospitality than ever before and your still paying more for your season ticket, go figure.Have you been on Mars or something these last 2 yearsHeck has gone for the easy option, fleece the loyal fan base. What is he doing on the commercial side though? Birmingham based Cadbury are sponsoring ManU, why haven’t we now got a foot in the door there? Or, at any of the other numerous service providers to football clubs? I know we don’t have the pull of ManU globally but even so, increased revenue from Sponsorship should be the benchmark for Heck’s success or otherwise, not, how much he can squeeze from the loyal fan base.
I’m not sure I quite understand how Heck is fleecing the loyal fan base.
Been on planet reality unlike some on here.
To run a compatible football club costs money. About £400m a year so we hear.
I’m not surprised when I’m asked to pay more than a few years ago for my season ticket - but it still represents value for money to me.
Of course I’d prefer to pay less; the more commercial deals, hospitality etc the better for me.
Post by: oldhill_avfc on September 12, 2024, 08:40:05 AM
What’s your explanation?
Post by: Clampy on September 12, 2024, 08:43:26 AM
I figure it costs more because to be competitive than ever before.
What’s your explanation?
If you think £97 for a football match is necessary, then you must be happy being fleeced.
Post by: andyh on September 12, 2024, 08:46:21 AM
if you think £97 is too much, just dont goI figure it costs more because to be competitive than ever before.
What’s your explanation?
If you think £97 for a football match is necessary, then you must be happy being fleeced.
Post by: Ads on September 12, 2024, 08:49:06 AM
Post by: Clampy on September 12, 2024, 09:00:01 AM
if you think £97 is too much, just dont goI figure it costs more because to be competitive than ever before.
What’s your explanation?
If you think £97 for a football match is necessary, then you must be happy being fleeced.
My seat would have been £79 had i chose to 'excersise my right'. I chose not to.
Post by: algy on September 12, 2024, 09:03:33 AM
But people want to go, really badly, so they will go. Hence why it's exploitative. This is not market forces at play, as there is a monopoly on the product. £97 is obscene. £79 is abysmal too.And this is the thing Heck and NSWE risk breaking. It’s not so much the people already going. Most of us are hooked to the point where we’ll pay £97 despite the fact it’s obscene. I probably will, for example.
But my kids? I very much doubt they’ll have the same ties. I can’t afford to take them that often, and I’m sure many are in the same boat. At which point, when they’re adults I wonder if they’ll be as blindly loyal as I am or whether they’ll see those ticket prices and decide to just watch on the telly, or follow Wrexham instead, or get in to rugby (shudder)
Post by: LeeB on September 12, 2024, 09:10:31 AM
if you think £97 is too much, just dont goI figure it costs more because to be competitive than ever before.
What’s your explanation?
If you think £97 for a football match is necessary, then you must be happy being fleeced.
My seat would have been £79 had i chose to 'excersise my right'. I chose not to.
Same here.
Post by: Somniloquism on September 12, 2024, 09:11:15 AM
My seat would have been £79 had i chose to 'excersise my right'. I chose not to.
Ahh, but then you are caving to what Heck wants and he can get an extra £20 quid in reselling it.
Post by: RamboandBruno on September 12, 2024, 09:14:46 AM
I figure it costs more because to be competitive than ever before.
What’s your explanation?
You’ve moved your own goal posts though. You’ve intimated that the more corporate seating the more competitive prices for sesson ticket holders, which is clearly not the case.
Anyway, Ads has articulated the issue far better than me, so I’ll leave this here.
Post by: Reuben on September 12, 2024, 09:33:23 AM
We're all supporting Wrexham on Monday!But people want to go, really badly, so they will go. Hence why it's exploitative. This is not market forces at play, as there is a monopoly on the product. £97 is obscene. £79 is abysmal too.And this is the thing Heck and NSWE risk breaking. It’s not so much the people already going. Most of us are hooked to the point where we’ll pay £97 despite the fact it’s obscene. I probably will, for example.
But my kids? I very much doubt they’ll have the same ties. I can’t afford to take them that often, and I’m sure many are in the same boat. At which point, when they’re adults I wonder if they’ll be as blindly loyal as I am or whether they’ll see those ticket prices and decide to just watch on the telly, or follow Wrexham instead, or get in to rugby (shudder)
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on September 12, 2024, 09:38:00 AM
if you think £97 is too much, just dont goI figure it costs more because to be competitive than ever before.
What’s your explanation?
If you think £97 for a football match is necessary, then you must be happy being fleeced.
Yep, thanks for your decades of loyal support, dedication and sacrifice, now pay up or fuck off!!
Post by: oldhill_avfc on September 12, 2024, 09:41:03 AM
I figure it costs more because to be competitive than ever before.
What’s your explanation?
You’ve moved your own goal posts though. You’ve intimated that the more corporate seating the more competitive prices for sesson ticket holders, which is clearly not the case.
Anyway, Ads has articulated the issue far better than me, so I’ll leave this here.
Both are true.
Its costs more generally to be competitive.
Increased revenue from other sources offsets some of the increases that may have otherwise borne by GA prices.
Post by: Gareth on September 12, 2024, 09:48:02 AM
Post by: Olneythelonely on September 12, 2024, 09:50:45 AM
if you think £97 is too much, just dont goI figure it costs more because to be competitive than ever before.
What’s your explanation?
If you think £97 for a football match is necessary, then you must be happy being fleeced.
You sound like someone who has no idea of what a being a football fan is.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on September 12, 2024, 09:52:09 AM
Pedestrians approaching the ground will be charged an admission fee to enter the roads they need to access in order to enter the stadium. The tiered pricing structure will be as follows:
Fans approaching from the City Centre (including from Aston Hall Road) for access to the Holte End -£15 no concessions.
For those approaching from the City Centre for access to the Trinity Stand - £20 no concessions.
For those approaching from the City Centre for access to stands on Witton Lane and the North Stand -£20 no concessions.
Fans approaching from the Witton End of the stadium for access to all stands -£10 no concessions. This reflects the less salubrious access roads and passing the away supporters entrance.
Fans approaching all stands via the park - £25 no concessions which reflects the category A views approaching the stadium.
New access barriers at the Holte junction, Trinity Road and Witton Lane will be installed in the coming weeks. Supporters will be requested to show their digital tickets to ensure they are charged the correct access fee.
We accept that these charges may be unpopular with some of our loyal supporters but the ongoing challenges with PSR balanced by our ambitions to remain competitive at the top end of the premier league and Europe has necessitated these changes.
Finally we urge all supporters to arrive at the ground as early as possible to avoid congestion and delays entering the stadium.
Post by: Olneythelonely on September 12, 2024, 09:54:03 AM
Post by: LeeB on September 12, 2024, 09:56:34 AM
Could easily be true
Pay up or fly. Nobody is forcing you to walk, you could easily build some self-propelled flying contraption.
Post by: Olneythelonely on September 12, 2024, 09:58:45 AM
Could easily be true
Pay up or fly. Nobody is forcing you to walk, you could easily build some self-propelled flying contraption.
They’ll be selling jetpacks in the Villa Store tomorrow.
£50 to add the Champions League logo
Post by: ChicagoLion on September 12, 2024, 10:01:03 AM
It’s fairly obvious that the strategy is to push the pricing as far as possible, there is no offset taking place, it’s just what he can get away with to hit the magic target as soon as possible from any source of revenue.I figure it costs more because to be competitive than ever before.
What’s your explanation?
You’ve moved your own goal posts though. You’ve intimated that the more corporate seating the more competitive prices for sesson ticket holders, which is clearly not the case.
Anyway, Ads has articulated the issue far better than me, so I’ll leave this here.
Both are true.
Its costs more generally to be competitive.
Increased revenue from other sources offsets some of the increases that may have otherwise borne by GA prices.
If he thought he could get away with ramping up disabled parking he would do it, in fact he tried it.
Post by: VillaTim on September 12, 2024, 10:12:17 AM
Post by: Risso on September 12, 2024, 10:16:15 AM
Its costs more generally to be competitive.
Increased revenue from other sources offsets some of the increases that may have otherwise borne by GA prices.
Mate, I'd quite while you can. You're absolutely miles off on this one I'm afraid.
Post by: eamonn on September 12, 2024, 10:19:13 AM
Could easily be true
Pay up or fly. Nobody is forcing you to walk, you could easily build some self-propelled flying contraption.
They’ll be selling jetpacks in the Villa Store tomorrow.
£50 to add the Champions League logo
Sounds amazing tbh.
Is it possible to cling on to a drone and land at your chosen location?
Post by: ez on September 12, 2024, 10:20:19 AM
I'm still trying to get my head round £100 to sit in the Lower NorthIndeed. It won't even be sitting.
Post by: Olneythelonely on September 12, 2024, 10:36:41 AM
Could easily be true
Pay up or fly. Nobody is forcing you to walk, you could easily build some self-propelled flying contraption.
They’ll be selling jetpacks in the Villa Store tomorrow.
£50 to add the Champions League logo
Sounds amazing tbh.
Is it possible to cling on to a drone and land at your chosen location?
For an extra £100, yes.
Post by: andyh on September 12, 2024, 11:32:40 AM
really ?if you think £97 is too much, just dont goI figure it costs more because to be competitive than ever before.
What’s your explanation?
If you think £97 for a football match is necessary, then you must be happy being fleeced.
You sound like someone who has no idea of what a being a football fan is.
you clearly know me and my history...well done.
twat !
Post by: Risso on September 12, 2024, 11:40:50 AM
Post by: chrisw1 on September 12, 2024, 11:42:30 AM
He says 'sound like' And he's bang on.really ?if you think £97 is too much, just dont goI figure it costs more because to be competitive than ever before.
What’s your explanation?
If you think £97 for a football match is necessary, then you must be happy being fleeced.
You sound like someone who has no idea of what a being a football fan is.
you clearly know me and my history...well done.
twat !
Post by: LeeB on September 12, 2024, 11:43:58 AM
Post by: Dave on September 12, 2024, 11:49:34 AM
really ?if you think £97 is too much, just dont goI figure it costs more because to be competitive than ever before.
What’s your explanation?
If you think £97 for a football match is necessary, then you must be happy being fleeced.
You sound like someone who has no idea of what a being a football fan is.
you clearly know me and my history...well done.
twat !
Less of the abuse please.
Post by: The Edge on September 12, 2024, 11:56:01 AM
Exactly. So if 97 quid is too much because they have young families and can't afford it his attitude is "fuck em" What a horrible way to look at it. I've spent my whole life with the attitude of looking out for the little guy. Seems some people have zero empathy for their fellow man (or woman) so long as "I'm alright Jack"if you think £97 is too much, just dont goI figure it costs more because to be competitive than ever before.
What’s your explanation?
If you think £97 for a football match is necessary, then you must be happy being fleeced.
Yep, thanks for your decades of loyal support, dedication and sacrifice, now pay up or fuck off!!
Post by: paul_e on September 12, 2024, 12:00:02 PM
From the perspective of Heck/the club they'll have 5-6 initiatives (pricing, GA+, the fanzone, new shop, the warehouse thing to come later and maybe others) which individually might be worth a relative pittance but if between them it adds up to £25-30m a season that's a big percentage of the 'gap' between where we are and the targeted £400m. Have the same (or more) from sponsors and then add in the CL money and it all adds up to a big jump in revenue that they'll see as us giving Emery the funds he needs to take another big step forward.
We'll then be looking to take yet another big step forward with finances (and is when I suspect the big stadium changes would come in) because £500m gets us in the same area as the London clubs from the 'big 6'.
Post by: chrisw1 on September 12, 2024, 12:06:12 PM
Post by: The Edge on September 12, 2024, 12:14:47 PM
"Just don't go" is about the only thing you can actually do though. If the response to price increases was a drop in attendance that left us with 80% occupancy and no increase in turnover then the club would be forced to reconsider.But matchday ticket prices are just a small percentage of actual revenue. There was no need to hit loyal supporters so hard. Other clubs have continually raised revenues without resorting to hammering loyal supporters in the pocket.
From the perspective of Heck/the club they'll have 5-6 initiatives (pricing, GA+, the fanzone, new shop, the warehouse thing to come later and maybe others) which individually might be worth a relative pittance but if between them it adds up to £25-30m a season that's a big percentage of the 'gap' between where we are and the targeted £400m. Have the same (or more) from sponsors and then add in the CL money and it all adds up to a big jump in revenue that they'll see as us giving Emery the funds he needs to take another big step forward.
We'll then be looking to take yet another big step forward with finances (and is when I suspect the big stadium changes would come in) because £500m gets us in the same area as the London clubs from the 'big 6'.
Post by: Brend'Watkins on September 12, 2024, 12:15:45 PM
"Just don't go" is about the only thing you can actually do though. If the response to price increases was a drop in attendance that left us with 80% occupancy and no increase in turnover then the club would be forced to reconsider.
From the perspective of Heck/the club they'll have 5-6 initiatives (pricing, GA+, the fanzone, new shop, the warehouse thing to come later and maybe others) which individually might be worth a relative pittance but if between them it adds up to £25-30m a season that's a big percentage of the 'gap' between where we are and the targeted £400m. Have the same (or more) from sponsors and then add in the CL money and it all adds up to a big jump in revenue that they'll see as us giving Emery the funds he needs to take another big step forward.
We'll then be looking to take yet another big step forward with finances (and is when I suspect the big stadium changes would come in) because £500m gets us in the same area as the London clubs from the 'big 6'.
Sponsors is where the big increase in income should be coming from. I've stated before, if ManU can partner up with pressure washing and compressor companies why can't we do similar? Okay, it needs sustained achievements to become interesting to these organisations as our global reach becomes bigger but we can start with more of them on a smaller scale. It will take a lot of effort and hard work but it's what we should be aiming at. Heck wants to use the low hanging fruit to get almost instant gratification in an effort to get his bonus.
Post by: paul_e on September 12, 2024, 12:19:24 PM
But given the time lag on stadium developments, don't we need to be doing those now if we want the benefit in 5 years time?
Probably but we have no idea where things are internally. We know there were plans for the North Stand in place that we were ready to go with and we know they decided to hold off on that work. We also know that we added experts in these sort of developments to the board nearly 6months ago and we've been told that moving away from Villa Park isn't on the table.
At a guess I'd suggest they haven't been sitting on their hands since April and instead they've been working through the options to make the most of the site. When we'll hear anything is impossible to say right now but I wouldn't be massively surprised if the first we hear is a new planning application at some point in the next 12-18months.
Post by: chrisw1 on September 12, 2024, 12:25:34 PM
You think?"Just don't go" is about the only thing you can actually do though. If the response to price increases was a drop in attendance that left us with 80% occupancy and no increase in turnover then the club would be forced to reconsider.But matchday ticket prices are just a small percentage of actual revenue. There was no need to hit loyal supporters so hard. Other clubs have continually raised revenues without resorting to hammering loyal supporters in the pocket.
From the perspective of Heck/the club they'll have 5-6 initiatives (pricing, GA+, the fanzone, new shop, the warehouse thing to come later and maybe others) which individually might be worth a relative pittance but if between them it adds up to £25-30m a season that's a big percentage of the 'gap' between where we are and the targeted £400m. Have the same (or more) from sponsors and then add in the CL money and it all adds up to a big jump in revenue that they'll see as us giving Emery the funds he needs to take another big step forward.
We'll then be looking to take yet another big step forward with finances (and is when I suspect the big stadium changes would come in) because £500m gets us in the same area as the London clubs from the 'big 6'.
Have you seen match-day prices at Arsenal and Spurs? Their cheapest ST is well over a grand and their CAT A prices are higher than ours. And that's with Spurs adding over 26k to their capacity in one fell swoop.
Post by: chrisw1 on September 12, 2024, 12:27:27 PM
Hope so Paul. A new North makes so much sense to me.But given the time lag on stadium developments, don't we need to be doing those now if we want the benefit in 5 years time?
Probably but we have no idea where things are internally. We know there were plans for the North Stand in place that we were ready to go with and we know they decided to hold off on that work. We also know that we added experts in these sort of developments to the board nearly 6months ago and we've been told that moving away from Villa Park isn't on the table.
At a guess I'd suggest they haven't been sitting on their hands since April and instead they've been working through the options to make the most of the site. When we'll hear anything is impossible to say right now but I wouldn't be massively surprised if the first we hear is a new planning application at some point in the next 12-18months.
Post by: Dogtanian on September 12, 2024, 12:37:13 PM
Getting more money from owners is limited by rules...
Getting more money from competitions requires more money spent...
Getting more money from sponsors requires more success which requires more money spent...
So unfortunately, it ends up with us mugs putting our hands in our pockets again because we're the soft touch.
Post by: Beard82 on September 12, 2024, 12:41:40 PM
The way I see it is that fans are the football equivalent of the Bank of Mom & Dad. It's easy to ask supporters for more money because we love the club almost unconditionally, and we expect very little in return.I think that this is a big part of it.
Getting more money from owners is limited by rules...
Getting more money from competitions requires more money spent...
Getting more money from sponsors requires more success which requires more money spent...
So unfortunately, it ends up with us mugs putting our hands in our pockets again because we're the soft touch.
Post by: amfy on September 12, 2024, 12:55:01 PM
That pricing just finally told a huge chunk of people that it’s time to stop trying to keep up.
That’s the problem they won’t see just yet, but there’ll be more than just those who didn’t buy for this game, that are thinking this season might be their last as a regular.
Post by: Risso on September 12, 2024, 01:02:12 PM
The way I see it is that fans are the football equivalent of the Bank of Mom & Dad. It's easy to ask supporters for more money because we love the club almost unconditionally, and we expect very little in return.
Getting more money from owners is limited by rules...
Getting more money from competitions requires more money spent...
Getting more money from sponsors requires more success which requires more money spent...
So unfortunately, it ends up with us mugs putting our hands in our pockets again because we're the soft touch.
But the extra amount added by the fans, is a relative pittance in the grand scheme of things in terms of the club's income. Of course it all adds up, but then you think what we're paying a player like Dobbin, and his amortisation in a year, for someone who I'd be surprised if he ever plays a single minute for us. The amounts being charged are huge for the supporters though, and while people may well suck it up for our first ever Champions League game, long term it's not a sustainable position.
Post by: paul_e on September 12, 2024, 01:11:04 PM
"Just don't go" is about the only thing you can actually do though. If the response to price increases was a drop in attendance that left us with 80% occupancy and no increase in turnover then the club would be forced to reconsider.
From the perspective of Heck/the club they'll have 5-6 initiatives (pricing, GA+, the fanzone, new shop, the warehouse thing to come later and maybe others) which individually might be worth a relative pittance but if between them it adds up to £25-30m a season that's a big percentage of the 'gap' between where we are and the targeted £400m. Have the same (or more) from sponsors and then add in the CL money and it all adds up to a big jump in revenue that they'll see as us giving Emery the funds he needs to take another big step forward.
We'll then be looking to take yet another big step forward with finances (and is when I suspect the big stadium changes would come in) because £500m gets us in the same area as the London clubs from the 'big 6'.
Sponsors is where the big increase in income should be coming from. I've stated before, if ManU can partner up with pressure washing and compressor companies why can't we do similar? Okay, it needs sustained achievements to become interesting to these organisations as our global reach becomes bigger but we can start with more of them on a smaller scale. It will take a lot of effort and hard work but it's what we should be aiming at. Heck wants to use the low hanging fruit to get almost instant gratification in an effort to get his bonus.
but I literally said that, if you'd just included the start of the sentence you added a bold bit to. Yes we need to get more money from sponsorship but it's just silly to ignore matchday revenue as a stream. From the last set of published accounts gate receipts were less than 19m, commercial was a little over 30m and sponsors were a shockingly low 16m for a total about 55m. In context in that same year Arsenal and Chelsea made over 300m each and the other 'big 6' were all over 400m.
To compete in the long term we need to improve on all 3 measures. GA+, hospitality, better merchandising and improved concession sales are where I'd have liked the club to focus but I'm not surprised that they've pushed on the gate receipts as well because there are only so many levers they can shift and the longer we take in closing that gap the harder it will become.
I'm not a Heck apologist (whatever the fuck that even means) but I think "he's just trying to earn his bonus" completely ignores the fact that if he has a bonus set at us hitting £400m t/o then getting to that figure is important to the owners and there's every chance that they have set the timescale.
Post by: VillaTim on September 12, 2024, 01:11:18 PM
Post by: Sexual Ealing on September 12, 2024, 01:13:39 PM
The way I see it is that fans are the football equivalent of the Bank of Mom & Dad. It's easy to ask supporters for more money because we love the club almost unconditionally, and we expect very little in return.
Getting more money from owners is limited by rules...
Getting more money from competitions requires more money spent...
Getting more money from sponsors requires more success which requires more money spent...
So unfortunately, it ends up with us mugs putting our hands in our pockets again because we're the soft touch.
But the extra amount added by the fans, is a relative pittance in the grand scheme of things in terms of the club's income. Of course it all adds up, but then you think what we're paying a player like Dobbin, and his amortisation in a year, for someone who I'd be surprised if he ever plays a single minute for us. The amounts being charged are huge for the supporters though, and while people may well suck it up for our first ever Champions League game, long term it's not a sustainable position.
This is the problem with the way these people work. Heavy incentives are great, but they can be contrary to the long-term health of the institution, as we saw with the banks when it all came crashing down.
If Heck is as good as the owners think he is, his incentive should be a fat salary on a (say) ten year contract.
I thought Purslow was a dick, but he rarely gave the impression that he was only after a quick buck in the shortest of terms. If he hadn't appointed Gerrard he might still be here now. But he did, so fuck him!
Post by: paul_e on September 12, 2024, 01:14:21 PM
Robbing the loyal fanbase is the lazy, easy and pathetic option. What Heck should be focusing on is driving up the commercial sponsor revenue streams , that's where the big untapped opportunities lie.
in 22/23 (the last accounts before he arrived) sponsorship was a little over £16m. Our current shirt deal and main sponsor are both, individually, worth more than that (according to reports at least, we won't know the exact values for a while), so he's clearly been successful in focusing on commercial sponsorship revenue.
Post by: VillaTim on September 12, 2024, 01:15:34 PM
Absolute tap-in deals that any of us could have pulled off on the back of the sterling work of Emery & Co.Robbing the loyal fanbase is the lazy, easy and pathetic option. What Heck should be focusing on is driving up the commercial sponsor revenue streams , that's where the big untapped opportunities lie.
in 22/23 (the last accounts before he arrived) sponsorship was a little over £16m. Our current shirt deal and main sponsor are both, individually, worth more than that (according to reports at least, we won't know the exact values for a while), so he's clearly been successful in focusing on commercial sponsorship revenue.
Post by: rougegorge on September 12, 2024, 01:19:42 PM
You think?"Just don't go" is about the only thing you can actually do though. If the response to price increases was a drop in attendance that left us with 80% occupancy and no increase in turnover then the club would be forced to reconsider.But matchday ticket prices are just a small percentage of actual revenue. There was no need to hit loyal supporters so hard. Other clubs have continually raised revenues without resorting to hammering loyal supporters in the pocket.
From the perspective of Heck/the club they'll have 5-6 initiatives (pricing, GA+, the fanzone, new shop, the warehouse thing to come later and maybe others) which individually might be worth a relative pittance but if between them it adds up to £25-30m a season that's a big percentage of the 'gap' between where we are and the targeted £400m. Have the same (or more) from sponsors and then add in the CL money and it all adds up to a big jump in revenue that they'll see as us giving Emery the funds he needs to take another big step forward.
We'll then be looking to take yet another big step forward with finances (and is when I suspect the big stadium changes would come in) because £500m gets us in the same area as the London clubs from the 'big 6'.
Have you seen match-day prices at Arsenal and Spurs? Their cheapest ST is well over a grand and their CAT A prices are higher than ours. And that's with Spurs adding over 26k to their capacity in one fell swoop.
I agree that Arsenal and Spurs are very expensive, though I would expect tickets to be more than ours given that the cost of living is higher and salaries are generally much higher as well. However Arsenal season ticket holders do at least get the four league stage European games included and the ground is more modern.
Post by: paul_e on September 12, 2024, 01:23:22 PM
Absolute tap-in deals that any of us could have pulled off on the back of the sterling work of Emery & Co.Robbing the loyal fanbase is the lazy, easy and pathetic option. What Heck should be focusing on is driving up the commercial sponsor revenue streams , that's where the big untapped opportunities lie.
in 22/23 (the last accounts before he arrived) sponsorship was a little over £16m. Our current shirt deal and main sponsor are both, individually, worth more than that (according to reports at least, we won't know the exact values for a while), so he's clearly been successful in focusing on commercial sponsorship revenue.
Yeah, we should just sack all the commercial staff and have a few fan volunteers handle it, fucking simple.
Post by: VillaTim on September 12, 2024, 01:32:53 PM
My point was the on-field success has put it on a plate to get better commercial deals. Anyone could have done it off the back of Emery's magic.Absolute tap-in deals that any of us could have pulled off on the back of the sterling work of Emery & Co.Robbing the loyal fanbase is the lazy, easy and pathetic option. What Heck should be focusing on is driving up the commercial sponsor revenue streams , that's where the big untapped opportunities lie.
in 22/23 (the last accounts before he arrived) sponsorship was a little over £16m. Our current shirt deal and main sponsor are both, individually, worth more than that (according to reports at least, we won't know the exact values for a while), so he's clearly been successful in focusing on commercial sponsorship revenue.
Yeah, we should just sack all the commercial staff and have a few fan volunteers handle it, fucking simple.
Post by: algy on September 12, 2024, 01:38:19 PM
I think what they have underestimated is how many of us were already feeling we were paying too much, already actually were paying too much against our incomes.Agree totally, Amfy. I think the big impact will be in 20-25 years. At the moment ... a bit like that analogy of a frog in boiling water vs slowly increasing the temperature ... they're increasing the temperature and whilst the frogs in the pot don't like it, they're hooked enough that they'll withstand the unreasonable price hikes.
That pricing just finally told a huge chunk of people that it’s time to stop trying to keep up.
That’s the problem they won’t see just yet, but there’ll be more than just those who didn’t buy for this game, that are thinking this season might be their last as a regular.
The problem is that there's a whole group of people who are on the outside and don't want to jump in to the clearly boiling water. I'm a bit of a shit example, but I'm also not the worst. I'll typically go to 6-8 games a season now. When the kids leave home in ~10 years, I would be inclined to get a season ticket, or at least go more. However, those 6-8 games a season are looking increasingly like it might be 2-3 games a season now. I can't afford to go to more than 1 or 2 Champions League games (and timings mean the most likely are the last 2 - Juventus and Celtic), and I'll almost certainly go to a league or FA cup game in December with all my cousins/uncles/... cos otherwise we never see eachother.
But then, are my kids going to want to go and watch the Villa when they've barely ever been? And it's not because I don't want to take them, or even that it's that problematic to take them (Saturday 3pms are fine and in a few years time they'll be OK with the late nights involved in later kickoffs) ... it's that I can't afford to take them. But if they're not hooked, then they're no longer that frog that you can keep turning up the temperature on. That loyal fanbase will be lost, replaced with people who expect some level of customer service for their £94. Cos honestly, they can charge me £50 and I don't give a shit about if I'm served or if the toilet's overflowing, cos I'll go anyway. But someone looking for an 'experience' and willing to pay 3 figures for it ... they are absolutely going to be bothered about the rivers of piss, atrocious service, and seats built for people the height of Bilbo fucking Baggins.
Post by: Risso on September 12, 2024, 01:42:12 PM
Post by: simboy on September 12, 2024, 01:57:07 PM
Sorting the “customer experience” of the “GA” muppets might get one time attendees going again.
Post by: paul_e on September 12, 2024, 02:02:21 PM
My point was the on-field success has put it on a plate to get better commercial deals. Anyone could have done it off the back of Emery's magic.
and your point is largely wrong, aside from anything else we had to negotiate exits from our existing deals which were both supposed to run for this season before we even started talks with replacements, that's not easy and should be shrugged away as something anyone could do.
After that, and given the time involved, the deals will also have been in talks since last Autumn (with Adidas almost certainly signed by about November at the latest) when all we had was a good start the season (with a couple of heavy defeats mixed in).
Is it really so hard for you to accept that there are things that Heck has done well since he arrived?
Post by: paul_e on September 12, 2024, 02:07:20 PM
Heck’s time in charge so far reminds me of Ellis, he knows the price of everything but the value of f*ck all.
Sorting the “customer experience” of the “GA” muppets might get one time attendees going again.
Maybe, but the problems at the Arsenal game were clearly unintented and resulted from the work during the summer not being completed in time or to the standard required. That's worthy of criticism and wasn't good enough but we only need to wait 2 more games to see if he's done anything about it and then we can revisit this, I think the fanzone thing is a clear attempt to improve the customer experience as is the work being done on the warehouse fan park thing.
Post by: john e on September 12, 2024, 02:20:01 PM
"Just don't go" is about the only thing you can actually do though. If the response to price increases was a drop in attendance that left us with 80% occupancy and no increase in turnover then the club would be forced to reconsider.
From the perspective of Heck/the club they'll have 5-6 initiatives (pricing, GA+, the fanzone, new shop, the warehouse thing to come later and maybe others) which individually might be worth a relative pittance but if between them it adds up to £25-30m a season that's a big percentage of the 'gap' between where we are and the targeted £400m. Have the same (or more) from sponsors and then add in the CL money and it all adds up to a big jump in revenue that they'll see as us giving Emery the funds he needs to take another big step forward.
We'll then be looking to take yet another big step forward with finances (and is when I suspect the big stadium changes would come in) because £500m gets us in the same area as the London clubs from the 'big 6'.
Sponsors is where the big increase in income should be coming from. I've stated before, if ManU can partner up with pressure washing and compressor companies why can't we do similar? Okay, it needs sustained achievements to become interesting to these organisations as our global reach becomes bigger but we can start with more of them on a smaller scale. It will take a lot of effort and hard work but it's what we should be aiming at. Heck wants to use the low hanging fruit to get almost instant gratification in an effort to get his bonus.
but I literally said that, if you'd just included the start of the sentence you added a bold bit to. Yes we need to get more money from sponsorship but it's just silly to ignore matchday revenue as a stream. From the last set of published accounts gate receipts were less than 19m, commercial was a little over 30m and sponsors were a shockingly low 16m for a total about 55m. In context in that same year Arsenal and Chelsea made over 300m each and the other 'big 6' were all over 400m.
To compete in the long term we need to improve on all 3 measures. GA+, hospitality, better merchandising and improved concession sales are where I'd have liked the club to focus but I'm not surprised that they've pushed on the gate receipts as well because there are only so many levers they can shift and the longer we take in closing that gap the harder it will become.
I'm not a Heck apologist (whatever the fuck that even means) but I think "he's just trying to earn his bonus" completely ignores the fact that if he has a bonus set at us hitting £400m t/o then getting to that figure is important to the owners and there's every chance that they have set the timescale.
(https://i.ibb.co/544m9wt/72410-FE1-F511-4165-B4-CC-0-E6-CD6-CF1270.jpg) (https://ibb.co/544m9wt)
Post by: London Villan on September 12, 2024, 02:22:20 PM
The fact the concourse areas and toilets hadn't even been cleaned (let alone refurbed) prior to the first game of the season shows the lack of focus on the facilities for the 35,000 general admission fans. There was a reference to the owners getting involved in sorting that.
Be interesting to see the improvements on Saturday - a simple one would be opening the gates 2hrs before kick off.
Post by: chrisw1 on September 12, 2024, 02:29:44 PM
At least at Spurs and Arsenal, in return for getting fleeced you get two modern stadiums with facilities fit for watching football in the 21st century. And with Arsenal, it's a piece of piss to both get to, and away from.Of course, but nevertheless it's clearly not true to say that other clubs have continually raised revenues without resorting to hammering loyal supporters in the pocket. Infact, without googling I strongly suspect that with the exception of Man City our league match day prices are cheaper than all the other 'Big 6' clubs we are trying to compete with.
For John's sake I will reconfirm my view that the CL prices were far too high. The truth is they could have sold all seats at a Cat A prices (which I again feel is too high but that is now an established price for this season) and surely there would have been much less outcry. As season ticket holders are paying that price anyway, we'd only be talking about knocking £15 off for what, about 6k general admission tickets?
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on September 12, 2024, 02:35:35 PM
Just don’t go!
You’ve been asked for a lot of cash. Just say no. Just don’t go just don’t go! ‘
Post by: The Edge on September 12, 2024, 03:07:32 PM
Newcastle and Liverpool have both recently done deals with concessions when playing in the Champions league. Liverpool even did a cheapest kids one for £9. Our fans are being hammered in their pockets. Whether you think it's justified or not is a different matter. My current circumstances mean I can afford it but I'm not a bloke in his thirties with a massive mortgage and young kids to feed. Ordinary people like that with averagely paid jobs are being frozen out and it's those people I'm voicing concern for. Lose 'em young and you risk losing 'em forever.At least at Spurs and Arsenal, in return for getting fleeced you get two modern stadiums with facilities fit for watching football in the 21st century. And with Arsenal, it's a piece of piss to both get to, and away from.Of course, but nevertheless it's clearly not true to say that other clubs have continually raised revenues without resorting to hammering loyal supporters in the pocket. Infact, without googling I strongly suspect that with the exception of Man City our league match day prices are cheaper than all the other 'Big 6' clubs we are trying to compete with.
For John's sake I will reconfirm my view that the CL prices were far too high. The truth is they could have sold all seats at a Cat A prices (which I again feel is too high but that is now an established price for this season) and surely there would have been much less outcry. As season ticket holders are paying that price anyway, we'd only be talking about knocking £15 off for what, about 6k general admission tickets?
Post by: Mister E on September 12, 2024, 03:10:31 PM
Robbing the loyal fanbase is the lazy, easy and pathetic option. What Heck should be focusing on is driving up the commercial sponsor revenue streams , that's where the big untapped opportunities lie.If it were that easy, it would have been done.
Sponsors and other commercial deals take time to be completed, and the putative partners are not just going to rock up and part with their dosh. If we're a regular Chumps League combatant, we'll get good, long-term and lucrative deals - for now, we've got what Heck has arranged. But it'll take time.
Unless you believe in the fabled money tree ...
Post by: Paul.S on September 12, 2024, 03:16:53 PM
Post by: chrisw1 on September 12, 2024, 03:28:04 PM
It's not just about the CL though is it? Would you be happy with minimum £1k + season tickets and £100+ pw ticket prices if we did a deal on the CL games? As that's what the alturistic 6 have been charging for years.Newcastle and Liverpool have both recently done deals with concessions when playing in the Champions league. Liverpool even did a cheapest kids one for £9. Our fans are being hammered in their pockets. Whether you think it's justified or not is a different matter. My current circumstances mean I can afford it but I'm not a bloke in his thirties with a massive mortgage and young kids to feed. Ordinary people like that with averagely paid jobs are being frozen out and it's those people I'm voicing concern for. Lose 'em young and you risk losing 'em forever.At least at Spurs and Arsenal, in return for getting fleeced you get two modern stadiums with facilities fit for watching football in the 21st century. And with Arsenal, it's a piece of piss to both get to, and away from.Of course, but nevertheless it's clearly not true to say that other clubs have continually raised revenues without resorting to hammering loyal supporters in the pocket. Infact, without googling I strongly suspect that with the exception of Man City our league match day prices are cheaper than all the other 'Big 6' clubs we are trying to compete with.
For John's sake I will reconfirm my view that the CL prices were far too high. The truth is they could have sold all seats at a Cat A prices (which I again feel is too high but that is now an established price for this season) and surely there would have been much less outcry. As season ticket holders are paying that price anyway, we'd only be talking about knocking £15 off for what, about 6k general admission tickets?
I'm not saying it's right, I'm just saying that other clubs have not continually raised revenues without resorting to hammering loyal supporters in the pocket.
I also don't think Newcastle are the greatest example as they are also fucked by PSR, just like us and they have the benefit of a 52k seater stadium.
Post by: chrisw1 on September 12, 2024, 03:33:53 PM
Are the club are interested in attracting young, long term supporters to be the lifeblood of this club for years?I don't think it's Heck's priority right now no. We seem to be making decisions on an incredibly short-term basis right now. I guess their gamble is that if we are successful the popularity with kids will follow, which is why you see Chelsea shirts in Wales and have Man U and Man C fans in Cornwall.
Post by: Accent Guy on September 12, 2024, 03:38:21 PM
"Just don't go" is about the only thing you can actually do though. If the response to price increases was a drop in attendance that left us with 80% occupancy and no increase in turnover then the club would be forced to reconsider.
From the perspective of Heck/the club they'll have 5-6 initiatives (pricing, GA+, the fanzone, new shop, the warehouse thing to come later and maybe others) which individually might be worth a relative pittance but if between them it adds up to £25-30m a season that's a big percentage of the 'gap' between where we are and the targeted £400m. Have the same (or more) from sponsors and then add in the CL money and it all adds up to a big jump in revenue that they'll see as us giving Emery the funds he needs to take another big step forward.
We'll then be looking to take yet another big step forward with finances (and is when I suspect the big stadium changes would come in) because £500m gets us in the same area as the London clubs from the 'big 6'.
Sponsors is where the big increase in income should be coming from. I've stated before, if ManU can partner up with pressure washing and compressor companies why can't we do similar? Okay, it needs sustained achievements to become interesting to these organisations as our global reach becomes bigger but we can start with more of them on a smaller scale. It will take a lot of effort and hard work but it's what we should be aiming at. Heck wants to use the low hanging fruit to get almost instant gratification in an effort to get his bonus.
but I literally said that, if you'd just included the start of the sentence you added a bold bit to. Yes we need to get more money from sponsorship but it's just silly to ignore matchday revenue as a stream. From the last set of published accounts gate receipts were less than 19m, commercial was a little over 30m and sponsors were a shockingly low 16m for a total about 55m. In context in that same year Arsenal and Chelsea made over 300m each and the other 'big 6' were all over 400m.
To compete in the long term we need to improve on all 3 measures. GA+, hospitality, better merchandising and improved concession sales are where I'd have liked the club to focus but I'm not surprised that they've pushed on the gate receipts as well because there are only so many levers they can shift and the longer we take in closing that gap the harder it will become.
I'm not a Heck apologist (whatever the fuck that even means) but I think "he's just trying to earn his bonus" completely ignores the fact that if he has a bonus set at us hitting £400m t/o then getting to that figure is important to the owners and there's every chance that they have set the timescale.
I agree with your points but there's not a hope in hell that we will ever turnover that kind of money. £400m? We have a 42,000 seater stadium in one of the most unfashionable cities in the UK.
Not being in London, Manchester or Liverpool really makes a difference. The majority of people I meet around the world (Asia/Africa/Latin America) have never even heard of Birmingham. We can thank our shit neighbours for that.
Manchester having the name of the city in it's two massive clubs names, as with Liverpool, is a huge factor. And London is London.
Post by: Toronto Villa on September 12, 2024, 03:44:19 PM
Are the club are interested in attracting young, long term supporters to be the lifeblood of this club for years?
The club will get them by being successful and being marketed well playing in the best competitions. Nobody wanted to be a Man City or Chelsea fan when they were shit. There are loads of us on here who remember those days well.
Post by: Paul.S on September 12, 2024, 03:49:03 PM
Are the club are interested in attracting young, long term supporters to be the lifeblood of this club for years?I don't think it's Heck's priority right now no. We seem to be making decisions on an incredibly short-term basis right now. I guess their gamble is that if we are successful the popularity with kids will follow, which is why you see Chelsea shirts in Wales and have Man U and Man C fans in Cornwall.
I agree, it’s definitely not his priority but it should be one of the owners priorities. I don’t think he’ll be here anywhere long enough to see kids from other cities wearing our shirts.
Celebrating our 150th anniversary by rinsing the loyal support whilst they wade in piss seems to be the thing.
Post by: RamboandBruno on September 12, 2024, 04:09:03 PM
Pail, I generally agree with lots of what you post, but the current financial strategy or at least that aimed at putting up matchday prices, is the height of short termism for our club."Just don't go" is about the only thing you can actually do though. If the response to price increases was a drop in attendance that left us with 80% occupancy and no increase in turnover then the club would be forced to reconsider.
From the perspective of Heck/the club they'll have 5-6 initiatives (pricing, GA+, the fanzone, new shop, the warehouse thing to come later and maybe others) which individually might be worth a relative pittance but if between them it adds up to £25-30m a season that's a big percentage of the 'gap' between where we are and the targeted £400m. Have the same (or more) from sponsors and then add in the CL money and it all adds up to a big jump in revenue that they'll see as us giving Emery the funds he needs to take another big step forward.
We'll then be looking to take yet another big step forward with finances (and is when I suspect the big stadium changes would come in) because £500m gets us in the same area as the London clubs from the 'big 6'.
Sponsors is where the big increase in income should be coming from. I've stated before, if ManU can partner up with pressure washing and compressor companies why can't we do similar? Okay, it needs sustained achievements to become interesting to these organisations as our global reach becomes bigger but we can start with more of them on a smaller scale. It will take a lot of effort and hard work but it's what we should be aiming at. Heck wants to use the low hanging fruit to get almost instant gratification in an effort to get his bonus.
but I literally said that, if you'd just included the start of the sentence you added a bold bit to. Yes we need to get more money from sponsorship but it's just silly to ignore matchday revenue as a stream. From the last set of published accounts gate receipts were less than 19m, commercial was a little over 30m and sponsors were a shockingly low 16m for a total about 55m. In context in that same year Arsenal and Chelsea made over 300m each and the other 'big 6' were all over 400m.
To compete in the long term we need to improve on all 3 measures. GA+, hospitality, better merchandising and improved concession sales are where I'd have liked the club to focus but I'm not surprised that they've pushed on the gate receipts as well because there are only so many levers they can shift and the longer we take in closing that gap the harder it will become.
I'm not a Heck apologist (whatever the fuck that even means) but I think "he's just trying to earn his bonus" completely ignores the fact that if he has a bonus set at us hitting £400m t/o then getting to that figure is important to the owners and there's every chance that they have set the timescale.
Man Utd have been average for years but they have such a global pull from their history since the 50s/60s, that it hasnt really mattered so far, in terms of their global brand, shirt sales, sponsorship deals and match day attendances.
If we dont make the champions league this year or actually if and when Emery leaves and we possibly suffer a downturn, all of us regular attenders who are being squeezed slowly but surely out now, very well may not return. My one vice is im not a gambler but i would pretty much bet my house that the new corporate brigade or even the punters that fork out £90 odd for my seats against Bolgona, won’t be there if we have a season where it looks like we’ll finish say 12th.
Heck will be long gone having met his remit, but there are risks being taken here on us becoming this global brand, where ultimately ‘us lot’ dont matter. Bayern Munich doesn’t matter in all this, but albeit a cliche, Brentford on a wet Sunday in November in two or three years might.
Post by: simboy on September 12, 2024, 04:30:42 PM
A lot of the above will push fans who go to B6 away to the comfort of a pub or the settee. A dip in form and the value of “GA” cash might be appreciated. God forbid we ever end up in the championship again.
As we stand currently Villa have got it very right on the pitch but pretty wrong off it. The value of the people attending was highlighted in Covid when no one attended. The game was sterile notwithstanding the 7-2.
Post by: The Edge on September 12, 2024, 04:55:00 PM
Why would we have to pay a grand for season tickets and 100 quid for matchday tickets in the PL just because the club offered concession package deals in the CL? As many on here have pointed out numerous times the price of a match ticket is a small percentage of the clubs overall revenue so it's just so unnecessary to squeeze the pips out of the fans. Add that to all the other crap things Heck has presided over and it doesn't paint a pretty picture. In his short spell at the club he has created a lot of animosity at a time when we should be having the time of our lives.It's not just about the CL though is it? Would you be happy with minimum £1k + season tickets and £100+ pw ticket prices if we did a deal on the CL games? As that's what the alturistic 6 have been charging for years.Newcastle and Liverpool have both recently done deals with concessions when playing in the Champions league. Liverpool even did a cheapest kids one for £9. Our fans are being hammered in their pockets. Whether you think it's justified or not is a different matter. My current circumstances mean I can afford it but I'm not a bloke in his thirties with a massive mortgage and young kids to feed. Ordinary people like that with averagely paid jobs are being frozen out and it's those people I'm voicing concern for. Lose 'em young and you risk losing 'em forever.At least at Spurs and Arsenal, in return for getting fleeced you get two modern stadiums with facilities fit for watching football in the 21st century. And with Arsenal, it's a piece of piss to both get to, and away from.Of course, but nevertheless it's clearly not true to say that other clubs have continually raised revenues without resorting to hammering loyal supporters in the pocket. Infact, without googling I strongly suspect that with the exception of Man City our league match day prices are cheaper than all the other 'Big 6' clubs we are trying to compete with.
For John's sake I will reconfirm my view that the CL prices were far too high. The truth is they could have sold all seats at a Cat A prices (which I again feel is too high but that is now an established price for this season) and surely there would have been much less outcry. As season ticket holders are paying that price anyway, we'd only be talking about knocking £15 off for what, about 6k general admission tickets?
I'm not saying it's right, I'm just saying that other clubs have not continually raised revenues without resorting to hammering loyal supporters in the pocket.
I also don't think Newcastle are the greatest example as they are also fucked by PSR, just like us and they have the benefit of a 52k seater stadium.
Post by: chrisw1 on September 12, 2024, 05:17:18 PM
Right, the point I'm making is that all the 'Big 6' have not 'continually raised revenues without resorting to hammering loyal supporters in the pocket'Why would we have to pay a grand for season tickets and 100 quid for matchday tickets in the PL just because the club offered concession package deals in the CL? As many on here have pointed out numerous times the price of a match ticket is a small percentage of the clubs overall revenue so it's just so unnecessary to squeeze the pips out of the fans. Add that to all the other crap things Heck has presided over and it doesn't paint a pretty picture. In his short spell at the club he has created a lot of animosity at a time when we should be having the time of our lives.It's not just about the CL though is it? Would you be happy with minimum £1k + season tickets and £100+ pw ticket prices if we did a deal on the CL games? As that's what the alturistic 6 have been charging for years.Newcastle and Liverpool have both recently done deals with concessions when playing in the Champions league. Liverpool even did a cheapest kids one for £9. Our fans are being hammered in their pockets. Whether you think it's justified or not is a different matter. My current circumstances mean I can afford it but I'm not a bloke in his thirties with a massive mortgage and young kids to feed. Ordinary people like that with averagely paid jobs are being frozen out and it's those people I'm voicing concern for. Lose 'em young and you risk losing 'em forever.At least at Spurs and Arsenal, in return for getting fleeced you get two modern stadiums with facilities fit for watching football in the 21st century. And with Arsenal, it's a piece of piss to both get to, and away from.Of course, but nevertheless it's clearly not true to say that other clubs have continually raised revenues without resorting to hammering loyal supporters in the pocket. Infact, without googling I strongly suspect that with the exception of Man City our league match day prices are cheaper than all the other 'Big 6' clubs we are trying to compete with.
For John's sake I will reconfirm my view that the CL prices were far too high. The truth is they could have sold all seats at a Cat A prices (which I again feel is too high but that is now an established price for this season) and surely there would have been much less outcry. As season ticket holders are paying that price anyway, we'd only be talking about knocking £15 off for what, about 6k general admission tickets?
I'm not saying it's right, I'm just saying that other clubs have not continually raised revenues without resorting to hammering loyal supporters in the pocket.
I also don't think Newcastle are the greatest example as they are also fucked by PSR, just like us and they have the benefit of a 52k seater stadium.
I supported this by pointing to their £1k+ season tickets and £100 match day tickets for league games.
You responded by saying their CL tickets are cheaper. Implying that they indeed are not 'hammering loyal supporters' as per the original hypothesis.
And I responded to this by asking if you would prefer the higher League match ticket prices in return for the lower CL prices these clubs charge. This was my way of demonstrating to you that these clubs do indeed hammer their fans even if their CL tickets are cheaper than ours.
Sorry if this comes across badly, but I'm just trying to draw a line under this part of the discussion which was just in reference to that comment. I entirely agree that our CL prices are too high, I'm just pointing out that all the clubs we are trying to compete with (perhaps bar Man City - I haven't looked) also fleece their fans - and over the course of a season by substantially more than we do.
Post by: VillaTim on September 12, 2024, 05:23:11 PM
Given Sawari's is on the board at Adidas and one of the main shareholders any credit given to Heck for brokering the Adidas deal is laughable . Thank you Nas, Fuck off HeckMy point was the on-field success has put it on a plate to get better commercial deals. Anyone could have done it off the back of Emery's magic.
and your point is largely wrong, aside from anything else we had to negotiate exits from our existing deals which were both supposed to run for this season before we even started talks with replacements, that's not easy and should be shrugged away as something anyone could do.
After that, and given the time involved, the deals will also have been in talks since last Autumn (with Adidas almost certainly signed by about November at the latest) when all we had was a good start the season (with a couple of heavy defeats mixed in).
Is it really so hard for you to accept that there are things that Heck has done well since he arrived?
Post by: dave.woodhall on September 12, 2024, 05:26:50 PM
Given Sawari's is on the board at Adidas and one of the main shareholders any credit given to Heck for brokering the Adidas deal is laughable . Thank you Nas, Fuck off HeckMy point was the on-field success has put it on a plate to get better commercial deals. Anyone could have done it off the back of Emery's magic.
and your point is largely wrong, aside from anything else we had to negotiate exits from our existing deals which were both supposed to run for this season before we even started talks with replacements, that's not easy and should be shrugged away as something anyone could do.
After that, and given the time involved, the deals will also have been in talks since last Autumn (with Adidas almost certainly signed by about November at the latest) when all we had was a good start the season (with a couple of heavy defeats mixed in).
Is it really so hard for you to accept that there are things that Heck has done well since he arrived?
Do you know much about how football sponsorships work?
Post by: trinityoap on September 12, 2024, 06:50:55 PM
Post by: The Edge on September 12, 2024, 07:00:13 PM
Ok i see you have zoned in on one part of my post. I don't want to get bogged down with that. Liverpool are selling child's tickets for £9.50. Our cheapest child ticket for CL is £54. Man City and Newcastle have both done excellent package deals in respective seasons. London clubs just don't compare just because it's London. However we package this our club has absolutely cashed in on the fanbase and it's wrong.Right, the point I'm making is that all the 'Big 6' have not 'continually raised revenues without resorting to hammering loyal supporters in the pocket'Why would we have to pay a grand for season tickets and 100 quid for matchday tickets in the PL just because the club offered concession package deals in the CL? As many on here have pointed out numerous times the price of a match ticket is a small percentage of the clubs overall revenue so it's just so unnecessary to squeeze the pips out of the fans. Add that to all the other crap things Heck has presided over and it doesn't paint a pretty picture. In his short spell at the club he has created a lot of animosity at a time when we should be having the time of our lives.It's not just about the CL though is it? Would you be happy with minimum £1k + season tickets and £100+ pw ticket prices if we did a deal on the CL games? As that's what the alturistic 6 have been charging for years.Newcastle and Liverpool have both recently done deals with concessions when playing in the Champions league. Liverpool even did a cheapest kids one for £9. Our fans are being hammered in their pockets. Whether you think it's justified or not is a different matter. My current circumstances mean I can afford it but I'm not a bloke in his thirties with a massive mortgage and young kids to feed. Ordinary people like that with averagely paid jobs are being frozen out and it's those people I'm voicing concern for. Lose 'em young and you risk losing 'em forever.At least at Spurs and Arsenal, in return for getting fleeced you get two modern stadiums with facilities fit for watching football in the 21st century. And with Arsenal, it's a piece of piss to both get to, and away from.Of course, but nevertheless it's clearly not true to say that other clubs have continually raised revenues without resorting to hammering loyal supporters in the pocket. Infact, without googling I strongly suspect that with the exception of Man City our league match day prices are cheaper than all the other 'Big 6' clubs we are trying to compete with.
For John's sake I will reconfirm my view that the CL prices were far too high. The truth is they could have sold all seats at a Cat A prices (which I again feel is too high but that is now an established price for this season) and surely there would have been much less outcry. As season ticket holders are paying that price anyway, we'd only be talking about knocking £15 off for what, about 6k general admission tickets?
I'm not saying it's right, I'm just saying that other clubs have not continually raised revenues without resorting to hammering loyal supporters in the pocket.
I also don't think Newcastle are the greatest example as they are also fucked by PSR, just like us and they have the benefit of a 52k seater stadium.
I supported this by pointing to their £1k+ season tickets and £100 match day tickets for league games.
You responded by saying their CL tickets are cheaper. Implying that they indeed are not 'hammering loyal supporters' as per the original hypothesis.
And I responded to this by asking if you would prefer the higher League match ticket prices in return for the lower CL prices these clubs charge. This was my way of demonstrating to you that these clubs do indeed hammer their fans even if their CL tickets are cheaper than ours.
Sorry if this comes across badly, but I'm just trying to draw a line under this part of the discussion which was just in reference to that comment. I entirely agree that our CL prices are too high, I'm just pointing out that all the clubs we are trying to compete with (perhaps bar Man City - I haven't looked) also fleece their fans - and over the course of a season by substantially more than we do.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on September 12, 2024, 07:28:19 PM
Liverpool are selling child's tickets for £9.50. Our cheapest child ticket for CL is £54. Man City and Newcastle have both done excellent package deals in respective seasons. London clubs just don't compare just because it's London. However we package this our club has absolutely cashed in on the fanbase and it's wrong.
Amen.
Post by: dave.woodhall on September 12, 2024, 07:36:53 PM
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on September 12, 2024, 07:39:52 PM
Are the club are interested in attracting young, long term supporters to be the lifeblood of this club for years?
The Law of Heck is pretty straight forward;
Don't be a child
Don't be a youth
Don't have a family
Be prepared to sell your kidney
Don't be a pensioner
Don't expect anything that doesn't come with additional cost
Do have a company with an extremely healthy 'entertainment' budget
Simple.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 12, 2024, 07:50:13 PM
(https://i.ibb.co/NL8shrm/Screenshot-20240912-193035-Chrome.jpg) (https://ibb.co/NL8shrm)
Post by: Gareth on September 12, 2024, 08:06:03 PM
Are the club are interested in attracting young, long term supporters to be the lifeblood of this club for years?
The Law of Heck is pretty straight forward;
Don't be a child
Don't be a youth
Don't have a family
Be prepared to sell your kidney
Don't be a pensioner
Don't expect anything that doesn't come with additional cost
Do have a company with an extremely healthy 'entertainment' budget
Simple.
Would have thought every board of directors in football would have that as a ‘nirvana’ list to be fair
Second thoughts I don’t want to be fair to him
Post by: Tuscans on September 12, 2024, 10:13:22 PM
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GXThMUtX0AA7ix7?format=jpg&name=medium)
Post by: chrisw1 on September 12, 2024, 10:25:42 PM
And I don’t think you can just discount London clubs from that discussion as I’m sure the majority of their traditional support was as working class as ours. Just because they’ve been priced out a few years before some of our fans doesn’t make the prices those clubs charge any more palatable.
Edit - just seen those Liverpool league prices. Fair play, they look cheaper than ours. I’d guess Man City’s are too.
Post by: Villan82 on September 12, 2024, 10:40:31 PM
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GXThMA5WAAIIl3U?format=jpg&name=medium)
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GXThMUtX0AA7ix7?format=jpg&name=medium)
New statue behind the North stand, intriguing.
Chris, I think we all want a bit of clarity about the stadium plans medium- to long- term
Post by: VillaTim on September 12, 2024, 11:02:48 PM
I just don’t see how you can argue one club is fleecing fans more than others based on just 4 CL games and ignoring the overall cost of supporting the respective teams over the season.They are , as are Man Utd
And I don’t think you can just discount London clubs from that discussion as I’m sure the majority of their traditional support was as working class as ours. Just because they’ve been priced out a few years before some of our fans doesn’t make the prices those clubs charge any more palatable.
Edit - just seen those Liverpool league prices. Fair play, they look cheaper than ours. I’d guess Man City’s are too.
Post by: cdbearsfan on September 12, 2024, 11:04:31 PM
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on September 12, 2024, 11:17:40 PM
Post by: Percy McCarthy on September 13, 2024, 01:04:59 AM
Well this has given us all a laugh this afternoon.I'm currently in a meeting with a Man City friend, he is a season ticket holder and in the cup scheme. His ticket for Inter next week was £37:50, and they have been moaning as that is a hike from last year. We have had our trousers pulled down.
Comparing us with Man City is meaningless, they have the turnover, backing and FFP 'clearance' to do whatever they like, as well as a ground that has a 54k capacity that was originally given to them for about £20m quid. They've also cheated the system to a ridiculous degree to create that situation.
The keyword being turnover. The commercial side of the other clubs in the top 5 dwarfs ours. Increasing ticket prices adds next to nothing in the big picture financially. Ditto GA+. Small fry revenue wise. Emery has raised our profile massively, making us very attractive to commercial partnerships. This is how the other clubs have made money, and plenty of it.
As you say City have the backing, then so do we with NSWE.
And yes they clearly are cheats.
But they are way more savvy commercially, along with your Spurs, Arsenals of the world, and this is what we need to learn now we have a successful team.
We are in the limelight for once and need to exploit it to the max.
Raising ticket prices to daft levels, relevant to average wages in the local community, is a business model that no other top club has adopted surprisingly. And about 80% on here are fuming/disillusioned/priced out.
It's a bad idea and hasn't been well received clearly.
I'm involved in the delivery of railway infrastructure projects that cost millions, new junctions/stations/new routes.
They are funded via commercial partnerships.
They are not funded by Mr Smith on the 8:15 to Paddington
It's how big business works. Perhaps if we get savvy we can charge £30 for Real Madrid like City did last year.
It’s nothing to do with being ‘savvy’. I think there’s no doubt we’re squeezing every penny we currently can out of sponsors. Sadly, sponsors are not willing to pay us what they’ll pay the other clubs you mention, which is quite understandable given the coverage we get in the media.
I watch Back Pages Tonight’ every night on SSN. We barely get a mention. So that’s the papers. Last season, I sat down to watch The Football Show every Monday morning, a three-hour show that waited about two hours and fifty minutes to mention fourth-placed Villa unless we’d beaten Arsenal. And then Arsenal were the story. We already know about MOTD. Last season The Guardian didn’t do match reports on our UECL games, nobody seemed to know we had any injuries, and we were either tagged on at the end of their podcast or completely ignored. I rarely listen to non-Villa pods but I suspect most general football ones don’t care about us either. The top football stories this week seem to be an Arsenal injury and an ex-player slagging off Manure’s manager, and that is the kind of coverage you can expect all season - hours and hours of it.
Sponsors know that we barely make a splash and pay accordingly. They’d be mad not to.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on September 13, 2024, 01:29:13 AM
Absolute tap-in deals that any of us could have pulled off on the back of the sterling work of Emery & Co.Robbing the loyal fanbase is the lazy, easy and pathetic option. What Heck should be focusing on is driving up the commercial sponsor revenue streams , that's where the big untapped opportunities lie.
in 22/23 (the last accounts before he arrived) sponsorship was a little over £16m. Our current shirt deal and main sponsor are both, individually, worth more than that (according to reports at least, we won't know the exact values for a while), so he's clearly been successful in focusing on commercial sponsorship revenue.
Yes, I’m confident that you could have negotiated those deals with Adidas and Betano. I mean, look how hard-nosed you were about getting full value from our £40m-rated second-choice striker who had 40 clubs after him.
Oh.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on September 13, 2024, 04:11:06 AM
Ok i see you have zoned in on one part of my post. I don't want to get bogged down with that. Liverpool are selling child's tickets for £9.50. Our cheapest child ticket for CL is £54.Right, the point I'm making is that all the 'Big 6' have not 'continually raised revenues without resorting to hammering loyal supporters in the pocket'Why would we have to pay a grand for season tickets and 100 quid for matchday tickets in the PL just because the club offered concession package deals in the CL? As many on here have pointed out numerous times the price of a match ticket is a small percentage of the clubs overall revenue so it's just so unnecessary to squeeze the pips out of the fans. Add that to all the other crap things Heck has presided over and it doesn't paint a pretty picture. In his short spell at the club he has created a lot of animosity at a time when we should be having the time of our lives.It's not just about the CL though is it? Would you be happy with minimum £1k + season tickets and £100+ pw ticket prices if we did a deal on the CL games? As that's what the alturistic 6 have been charging for years.Newcastle and Liverpool have both recently done deals with concessions when playing in the Champions league. Liverpool even did a cheapest kids one for £9. Our fans are being hammered in their pockets. Whether you think it's justified or not is a different matter. My current circumstances mean I can afford it but I'm not a bloke in his thirties with a massive mortgage and young kids to feed. Ordinary people like that with averagely paid jobs are being frozen out and it's those people I'm voicing concern for. Lose 'em young and you risk losing 'em forever.At least at Spurs and Arsenal, in return for getting fleeced you get two modern stadiums with facilities fit for watching football in the 21st century. And with Arsenal, it's a piece of piss to both get to, and away from.Of course, but nevertheless it's clearly not true to say that other clubs have continually raised revenues without resorting to hammering loyal supporters in the pocket. Infact, without googling I strongly suspect that with the exception of Man City our league match day prices are cheaper than all the other 'Big 6' clubs we are trying to compete with.
For John's sake I will reconfirm my view that the CL prices were far too high. The truth is they could have sold all seats at a Cat A prices (which I again feel is too high but that is now an established price for this season) and surely there would have been much less outcry. As season ticket holders are paying that price anyway, we'd only be talking about knocking £15 off for what, about 6k general admission tickets?
I'm not saying it's right, I'm just saying that other clubs have not continually raised revenues without resorting to hammering loyal supporters in the pocket.
I also don't think Newcastle are the greatest example as they are also fucked by PSR, just like us and they have the benefit of a 52k seater stadium.
I supported this by pointing to their £1k+ season tickets and £100 match day tickets for league games.
You responded by saying their CL tickets are cheaper. Implying that they indeed are not 'hammering loyal supporters' as per the original hypothesis.
And I responded to this by asking if you would prefer the higher League match ticket prices in return for the lower CL prices these clubs charge. This was my way of demonstrating to you that these clubs do indeed hammer their fans even if their CL tickets are cheaper than ours.
Sorry if this comes across badly, but I'm just trying to draw a line under this part of the discussion which was just in reference to that comment. I entirely agree that our CL prices are too high, I'm just pointing out that all the clubs we are trying to compete with (perhaps bar Man City - I haven't looked) also fleece their fans - and over the course of a season by substantially more than we do.
It can’t be. Me and my two youngest are all going for £145 all in. That’s an adult, an under-18 (she’s 14!), and an under-14.
Post by: jwarry on September 13, 2024, 07:23:57 AM
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-13844747/Aston-Villa-stadium-upgrade-scrapped.html
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on September 13, 2024, 07:29:48 AM
Post by: Drummond on September 13, 2024, 07:30:15 AM
It. Takes a while to be viewed in the big club category for the media. We need sustained success, on the pitch, to be more successful with sponsors. Let's hope the team can raise enough money to keep Emery happy with the signings he will continue to need.
If we qualify for the Champions League it'll. Be far easier, Europa will be a challenge but it's doable.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 13, 2024, 08:00:56 AM
That’s behind a paywall. But it looks very embarrassing from the headline.
https://archive.ph/MCYKQ
Post by: London Villan on September 13, 2024, 08:08:03 AM
Post by: Percy McCarthy on September 13, 2024, 08:10:48 AM
Percy is right, we just aren't interesting enough for sponsors, yet.
It. Takes a while to be viewed in the big club category for the media. We need sustained success, on the pitch, to be more successful with sponsors. Let's hope the team can raise enough money to keep Emery happy with the signings he will continue to need.
If we qualify for the Champions League it'll. Be far easier, Europa will be a challenge but it's doable.
Exactly. In the absence of other clubs’ attractiveness to sponsors, we are doing two things we don’t like that other clubs can do less of: big price rises and selling good players that lots of us would prefer to keep. Brace yourself for more of the same next season, but bear in mind it will allow for exciting investment in the squad too.
Post by: Somniloquism on September 13, 2024, 08:39:04 AM
That’s behind a paywall. But it looks very embarrassing from the headline.
Well the one line answer for the headline "Why Aston Villa scrapped £130m Stadium Upgrade" is
Quote
Emery and his advisers did not like the idea of playing European football in a three-sided ground.
Post by: Ads on September 13, 2024, 09:13:38 AM
Post by: Chris Smith on September 13, 2024, 09:16:29 AM
That’s behind a paywall. But it looks very embarrassing from the headline.
Well the one line answer for the headline "Why Aston Villa scrapped £130m Stadium Upgrade" isQuoteEmery and his advisers did not like the idea of playing European football in a three-sided ground.
It was the right decision. If on top of the outcry over prices imagine the additional noise if there were several thousand fewer tickets available to see us play Bayern.
Post by: Somniloquism on September 13, 2024, 09:28:13 AM
That’s behind a paywall. But it looks very embarrassing from the headline.
Well the one line answer for the headline "Why Aston Villa scrapped £130m Stadium Upgrade" isQuoteEmery and his advisers did not like the idea of playing European football in a three-sided ground.
It was the right decision. If on top of the outcry over prices imagine the additional noise if there were several thousand fewer tickets available to see us play Bayern.
I'm not saying it is or isn't. Just the main headline of the article had that as the answer. Of course Heck is getting all the blame of course for that as well and everything else in the article is definitely down to him.
Post by: Somniloquism on September 13, 2024, 09:30:32 AM
I remain utterly convinced we can build a new stand in behind the North. It will just be more expensive.
Well we are going ahead with the Stumps redevelopment apparently due in late 2025 /early 2026 or so. So I don't expect any new stand behind / in place of the North Stand to even be started until after then.
My opinion is Heck is milking it and building up the loss of earnings we can assign to it, with the hope that two more seasons of Euro means playing with only three stands for a season is not seen as an issues as it is not "special" nights any more.
Post by: Dogtanian on September 13, 2024, 09:33:06 AM
A good CEO is there to do the balancing act and make sure that they are reigned in and don't cause other issues because they have their blinkers on.
Post by: Brend'Watkins on September 13, 2024, 09:36:36 AM
Post by: sid1964 on September 13, 2024, 09:43:39 AM
Maybe if we had not of qualified for European Competitions for the last 2 seasons the North Stand would have been knocked down.
We should have therefore not sacked Stevie G or Purslow, and we would have now been building a new North Stand, but attendances would have 30,000 so there would have been no point really.
There are only 2 board members at our club, the owners and they make all the key decisions, what to spend etc..
Post by: algy on September 13, 2024, 09:50:32 AM
I think both of these are right. I think we can and will build a new North Stand ... just not one that involves playing in a 3-sided ground for any length of time. I also think that we're probably going to milk the corporate hospitality for all it's worth, so however long the North Stand is out of action for we'll be able to claim maximum PSR compensation for it.I remain utterly convinced we can build a new stand in behind the North. It will just be more expensive.
Well we are going ahead with the Stumps redevelopment apparently due in late 2025 /early 2026 or so. So I don't expect any new stand behind / in place of the North Stand to even be started until after then.
My opinion is Heck is milking it and building up the loss of earnings we can assign to it, with the hope that two more seasons of Euro means playing with only three stands for a season is not seen as an issues as it is not "special" nights any more.
I also hope (but not expecting!) atairos took one look at the Purslow North Stand, realised it wasn't anywhere near ambitious enough for the greatest team the world has ever seen, and have gone back to the drawing board to design a new stand that's bigger than the Holte End, has a fancier facade than the old Trinity Road, and is ... er ... Witton Lane .... er .... named after a more impressive director than the Witton Lane stand? Yeah, that'll do.
Post by: andyh on September 13, 2024, 10:10:31 AM
Liverpool did a good job of increasing and upgrading the Anfield Road end while minimising the effect of reduced attendance. Maybe we should be discussing with their designers. We have more space for manoeuvre too than they did/have.why would we ?
We now have board members (NSWE) who come from an industry leading stadium construction company.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on September 13, 2024, 10:29:59 AM
So it was Emery and his advisors (Vidagany / Monchi etc..) who did not want the North Stand knocking down, have a go at them tomorrow with your red cards!!!
Maybe if we had not of qualified for European Competitions for the last 2 seasons the North Stand would have been knocked down.
We should have therefore not sacked Stevie G or Purslow, and we would have now been building a new North Stand, but attendances would have 30,000 so there would have been no point really.
There are only 2 board members at our club, the owners and they make all the key decisions, what to spend etc..
There are 5 or 6 I think.
Post by: eamonn on September 13, 2024, 10:30:21 AM
Post by: paul_e on September 13, 2024, 10:34:55 AM
So it was Emery and his advisors (Vidagany / Monchi etc..) who did not want the North Stand knocking down, have a go at them tomorrow with your red cards!!!
Maybe if we had not of qualified for European Competitions for the last 2 seasons the North Stand would have been knocked down.
We should have therefore not sacked Stevie G or Purslow, and we would have now been building a new North Stand, but attendances would have 30,000 so there would have been no point really.
There are only 2 board members at our club, the owners and they make all the key decisions, what to spend etc..
There are 5 or 6 I think.
7 currently, I think. Nas and Wes, a couple from Atairos, a woman who worked with Wes at Bucks, a guy from Nas' construction company and the finance director. I can't remember the names though.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 13, 2024, 10:35:57 AM
Post by: rob_bridge on September 13, 2024, 10:40:51 AM
Anfield was different as they were adding a tier, so they could keep what was already there mainly open. We'd be doing a complete demolition of a stand.
Same with their main stand about 10 years ago. They managed to get the last shop purchased and started on the outside structure - did a a stadium tour there and their Main Stand really wasn't big and the changing rooms were really really small. Now they have 3 upgraded stands - centenary done a bit before and the Kop.
Post by: PeterWithe on September 13, 2024, 10:43:17 AM
I hope we commission the people who did that Liz n Phil statue.
Rather than having a brand new statue, we could save a bob or two by putting in a transfer bid for that Ronaldo statue, it would bring more tourists in and its really good. Think he might have scored at the end the once as well so it has relevance.
Post by: paul_e on September 13, 2024, 10:44:29 AM
Anfield was different as they were adding a tier, so they could keep what was already there mainly open. We'd be doing a complete demolition of a stand.
Isn't there also something about us needing to completely rebuild the foundation as well?
Post by: VillaTim on September 13, 2024, 10:57:34 AM
Anfield was different as they were adding a tier, so they could keep what was already there mainly open. We'd be doing a complete demolition of a stand.In my opinion The North and Witton both need to be done together , i don't know if there is a way of wrapping all the Lower tier together as a Phase I and get that open first, then work on an Upper Tier for both (wrapped around) as Phase II . Obviously the road is the big issue and CPO's etc re-routing that road
Post by: London Villan on September 13, 2024, 10:58:46 AM
Post by: Border villan on September 13, 2024, 11:04:59 AM
Anfield was different as they were adding a tier, so they could keep what was already there mainly open. We'd be doing a complete demolition of a stand.
Isn't there also something about us needing to completely rebuild the foundation as well?
Those of us old enough to remember the building of the North Stand may recall the following:
The contractors who did the ground work were alleged to have billed AVFC for enough concrete to build spaghetti junction several times over. It was difficult to argue with this as most of this was supposed to be under the stand.
When the North Stand is demolished/replaced the accuracy of this claim may or may not see the light of day.
Post by: PeterWithe on September 13, 2024, 11:07:12 AM
Anfield was different as they were adding a tier, so they could keep what was already there mainly open. We'd be doing a complete demolition of a stand.
Isn't there also something about us needing to completely rebuild the foundation as well?
Those of us old enough to remember the building of the North Stand may recall the following:
The contractors who did the ground work were alleged to have billed AVFC for enough concrete to build spaghetti junction several times over. It was difficult to argue with this as most of this was supposed to be under the stand.
When the North Stand is demolished/replaced the accuracy of this claim may or may not see the light of day.
Did Ellis' company build that or was that the WL?
Surely wouldn't be difficult for a Quantity Surveyor to argue with the bill?
Post by: VillaTim on September 13, 2024, 11:08:42 AM
Might be able to re-use that foundation if there is as much down there as folklore says . I remember my Grandad mentioning about the amount of concrete that went in thereAnfield was different as they were adding a tier, so they could keep what was already there mainly open. We'd be doing a complete demolition of a stand.
Isn't there also something about us needing to completely rebuild the foundation as well?
Those of us old enough to remember the building of the North Stand may recall the following:
The contractors who did the ground work were alleged to have billed AVFC for enough concrete to build spaghetti junction several times over. It was difficult to argue with this as most of this was supposed to be under the stand.
When the North Stand is demolished/replaced the accuracy of this claim may or may not see the light of day.
Post by: VillaTim on September 13, 2024, 11:11:05 AM
Ellmanton Construction (good old Herberts construction arm) definitely built the WLAnfield was different as they were adding a tier, so they could keep what was already there mainly open. We'd be doing a complete demolition of a stand.
Isn't there also something about us needing to completely rebuild the foundation as well?
Those of us old enough to remember the building of the North Stand may recall the following:
The contractors who did the ground work were alleged to have billed AVFC for enough concrete to build spaghetti junction several times over. It was difficult to argue with this as most of this was supposed to be under the stand.
When the North Stand is demolished/replaced the accuracy of this claim may or may not see the light of day.
Did Ellis' company build that or was that the WL?
Surely wouldn't be difficult for a Quantity Surveyor to argue with the bill?
Post by: London Villan on September 13, 2024, 11:12:08 AM
Anfield was different as they were adding a tier, so they could keep what was already there mainly open. We'd be doing a complete demolition of a stand.
Isn't there also something about us needing to completely rebuild the foundation as well?
Those of us old enough to remember the building of the North Stand may recall the following:
The contractors who did the ground work were alleged to have billed AVFC for enough concrete to build spaghetti junction several times over. It was difficult to argue with this as most of this was supposed to be under the stand.
When the North Stand is demolished/replaced the accuracy of this claim may or may not see the light of day.
Did Ellis' company build that or was that the WL?
Surely wouldn't be difficult for a Quantity Surveyor to argue with the bill?
Wasn't it the Bendalls and the chairman died before the court case??
Ellis came back in off the back of the financial mess.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 13, 2024, 11:16:27 AM
Post by: Border villan on September 13, 2024, 11:37:27 AM
Anfield was different as they were adding a tier, so they could keep what was already there mainly open. We'd be doing a complete demolition of a stand.
Isn't there also something about us needing to completely rebuild the foundation as well?
Those of us old enough to remember the building of the North Stand may recall the following:
The contractors who did the ground work were alleged to have billed AVFC for enough concrete to build spaghetti junction several times over. It was difficult to argue with this as most of this was supposed to be under the stand.
When the North Stand is demolished/replaced the accuracy of this claim may or may not see the light of day.
Did Ellis' company build that or was that the WL?
Surely wouldn't be difficult for a Quantity Surveyor to argue with the bill?
In the late 1970’s it may have not been good for your health to delve into such matters.
Post by: Bad English on September 13, 2024, 11:40:35 AM
Collomosse having a go todayQuoted just to fuck up the link to that rag.
https://www.dailyheil.co.uk/sport/football/article-13844747/Aston-Villa-stadium-upgrade-scrapped.html
Post by: algy on September 13, 2024, 12:07:08 PM
I wonder whether Atairos were brought on-board with one big eye on the investment and politicking involved in rebuilding the Witton Lane stand as that's the most difficult side of the ground to overhaul.Just talking mindlessly here, but looking at OpenStreetMap, the actual area that Spurs' new ground is built on isn't that much bigger than our site. If we could use the park land on the other side of Witton Lane, it'd be about the same size - you don't get the filled in corners at the Holte End, but the other 3 stands could be the same size, maybe even bigger in the North Stand's case. I reckon you could get that up to 60k capacity alright if Witton Lane wasn't an issue*
* and as a consequence, the people on Holte Road weren't against it happening, and the people in the local area could be placated from losing some valuable parkland.
Post by: Dogtanian on September 13, 2024, 12:18:35 PM
I wonder whether Atairos were brought on-board with one big eye on the investment and politicking involved in rebuilding the Witton Lane stand as that's the most difficult side of the ground to overhaul.Just talking mindlessly here, but looking at OpenStreetMap, the actual area that Spurs' new ground is built on isn't that much bigger than our site. If we could use the park land on the other side of Witton Lane, it'd be about the same size - you don't get the filled in corners at the Holte End, but the other 3 stands could be the same size, maybe even bigger in the North Stand's case. I reckon you could get that up to 60k capacity alright if Witton Lane wasn't an issue*
* and as a consequence, the people on Holte Road weren't against it happening, and the people in the local area could be placated from losing some valuable parkland.
I posted this back in the mists of the Redevelopment thread;
(https://i.ibb.co/h86QwK8/Spuds-Park.png)
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on September 13, 2024, 12:50:04 PM
I wonder whether Atairos were brought on-board with one big eye on the investment and politicking involved in rebuilding the Witton Lane stand as that's the most difficult side of the ground to overhaul.Just talking mindlessly here, but looking at OpenStreetMap, the actual area that Spurs' new ground is built on isn't that much bigger than our site. If we could use the park land on the other side of Witton Lane, it'd be about the same size - you don't get the filled in corners at the Holte End, but the other 3 stands could be the same size, maybe even bigger in the North Stand's case. I reckon you could get that up to 60k capacity alright if Witton Lane wasn't an issue*
* and as a consequence, the people on Holte Road weren't against it happening, and the people in the local area could be placated from losing some valuable parkland.
I posted this back in the mists of the Redevelopment thread;
(https://i.ibb.co/h86QwK8/Spuds-Park.png)
Where we're going, we don't need roads. Or playgrounds.
Post by: LeeB on September 13, 2024, 12:51:30 PM
I wonder whether Atairos were brought on-board with one big eye on the investment and politicking involved in rebuilding the Witton Lane stand as that's the most difficult side of the ground to overhaul.Just talking mindlessly here, but looking at OpenStreetMap, the actual area that Spurs' new ground is built on isn't that much bigger than our site. If we could use the park land on the other side of Witton Lane, it'd be about the same size - you don't get the filled in corners at the Holte End, but the other 3 stands could be the same size, maybe even bigger in the North Stand's case. I reckon you could get that up to 60k capacity alright if Witton Lane wasn't an issue*
* and as a consequence, the people on Holte Road weren't against it happening, and the people in the local area could be placated from losing some valuable parkland.
I posted this back in the mists of the Redevelopment thread;
(https://i.ibb.co/h86QwK8/Spuds-Park.png)
Where we're going, we don't need roads. Or playgrounds.
I'd say we could tunnel under the Trinity but it might upset Prince William a bit when he comes.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on September 13, 2024, 12:56:27 PM
Post by: RamboandBruno on September 13, 2024, 03:20:53 PM
He'll be alright once he's had something invigorating in the Square Peg.Surely the Windsor would be his pit stop
Post by: Rory on September 13, 2024, 03:25:35 PM
He'll be alright once he's had something invigorating in the Square Peg.Surely the Windsor would be his pit stop
If I know Paddy's filthy mind, I think there might be double meaning in 'peg'.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on September 13, 2024, 03:25:43 PM
He'll be alright once he's had something invigorating in the Square Peg.Surely the Windsor would be his pit stop
If the Windsor has pegs, he'll find them.
Post by: RamboandBruno on September 13, 2024, 03:53:27 PM
Ahh, i left my carry on hat in the hall, maaatronHe'll be alright once he's had something invigorating in the Square Peg.Surely the Windsor would be his pit stop
If the Windsor has pegs, he'll find them.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on September 13, 2024, 03:59:57 PM
Ahh, i left my carry on hat in the hall, maaatronHe'll be alright once he's had something invigorating in the Square Peg.Surely the Windsor would be his pit stop
If the Windsor has pegs, he'll find them.
Rumours he's starting ahead of Digne tomorrow.
Post by: FatSam on September 13, 2024, 04:54:11 PM
I don't think this is feasible without closing Trinity Road. It isn't possible to continue the lower tier of the Trinity Road (or Holte End) stands over the road, because they are too low. This is why the executive boxes in this corner are raised up above the seating in front. This means that there would always be a section of the 'stadium bowl' that could not be completed in this corner. I have always thought that the way the roads cuts into the stadium here is one of the most recognisable features of Villa Park, but it also precludes having a conventional 'stadium bowl', even if the stands span over the road. The road also cuts a swathe through what would be all of the facilities that are needed below a larger stand. That's why I think that if we are getting to the point where this sort of intervention is required to get up to capacity that we need, we might as well move location.I wonder whether Atairos were brought on-board with one big eye on the investment and politicking involved in rebuilding the Witton Lane stand as that's the most difficult side of the ground to overhaul.Just talking mindlessly here, but looking at OpenStreetMap, the actual area that Spurs' new ground is built on isn't that much bigger than our site. If we could use the park land on the other side of Witton Lane, it'd be about the same size - you don't get the filled in corners at the Holte End, but the other 3 stands could be the same size, maybe even bigger in the North Stand's case. I reckon you could get that up to 60k capacity alright if Witton Lane wasn't an issue*
* and as a consequence, the people on Holte Road weren't against it happening, and the people in the local area could be placated from losing some valuable parkland.
I posted this back in the mists of the Redevelopment thread;
(https://i.ibb.co/h86QwK8/Spuds-Park.png)
Post by: FatSam on September 13, 2024, 04:57:39 PM
Post by: algy on September 13, 2024, 07:00:30 PM
Well, I’d think it’s more that we would use the existing Holte End & Trinity Road stands, but extend the latter round the North & Witton Lane to form a horseshoe. You don’t have to recreate the spurs bowl exactly, just saying that the site is a similar size to Spurs’ if you add in the Witton Lane Gardens.I don't think this is feasible without closing Trinity Road. It isn't possible to continue the lower tier of the Trinity Road (or Holte End) stands over the road, because they are too low. This is why the executive boxes in this corner are raised up above the seating in front. This means that there would always be a section of the 'stadium bowl' that could not be completed in this corner. I have always thought that the way the roads cuts into the stadium here is one of the most recognisable features of Villa Park, but it also precludes having a conventional 'stadium bowl', even if the stands span over the road. The road also cuts a swathe through what would be all of the facilities that are needed below a larger stand. That's why I think that if we are getting to the point where this sort of intervention is required to get up to capacity that we need, we might as well move location.I wonder whether Atairos were brought on-board with one big eye on the investment and politicking involved in rebuilding the Witton Lane stand as that's the most difficult side of the ground to overhaul.Just talking mindlessly here, but looking at OpenStreetMap, the actual area that Spurs' new ground is built on isn't that much bigger than our site. If we could use the park land on the other side of Witton Lane, it'd be about the same size - you don't get the filled in corners at the Holte End, but the other 3 stands could be the same size, maybe even bigger in the North Stand's case. I reckon you could get that up to 60k capacity alright if Witton Lane wasn't an issue*
* and as a consequence, the people on Holte Road weren't against it happening, and the people in the local area could be placated from losing some valuable parkland.
I posted this back in the mists of the Redevelopment thread;
(https://i.ibb.co/h86QwK8/Spuds-Park.png)
Then, if it were me, I’d make damn sure the new North Stand looked fancy as hell so you retain that 4 separate stands feel, with the Holte End and North Stand ensuring that regardless of where you approach Villa Park from, you get a view that screams personality at you. Not some kind of identikit bowl, but a proper traditional football stadium with 4 proper stands, that gorgeous brickwork, so in 20 years time all the away fans assume it’s been that way since the 1920s.
Post by: London Villan on September 13, 2024, 07:38:08 PM
Post by: VillaTim on September 13, 2024, 07:43:58 PM
Interesting Emery has backed the support and our concerns over the pricing - no diplomatic swerve by Unai.any quotes ?
Post by: London Villan on September 13, 2024, 07:56:07 PM
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on September 13, 2024, 08:10:15 PM
"We are increasing and playing another level, we are excited and motivated. I can understand [why] they are not comfortable with increased prices, but hopefully it will be worth it at the end of the season because we have this level and we are keeping it."
"I am aware [of the protests] and I will try tomorrow to focus with our commitment with our supporters," Emery said. "Hopefully they will support us like they have done and hopefully we can connect with them.
"I respect them [the fans] and that they are not agreeing with the situation but we are increasing our level, playing Champions League and more matches. I know the supporters will support us still. I understand if they protest, but hopefully at the season, it'll be worth it. The effort they are doing, I know it and I respect it."
Post by: VillaTim on September 13, 2024, 08:12:58 PM
Post by: Risso on September 13, 2024, 08:16:54 PM
Post by: London Villan on September 13, 2024, 08:22:44 PM
Post by: Gareth on September 13, 2024, 08:28:21 PM
The red card thing is going to be very interesting to observe….will it be those determined to protest or will it be those ambivalent to everything or those who will get annoyed that people are protesting during play that win out!
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on September 13, 2024, 08:38:57 PM
It was on the fictional island of Isla Nublar somewhere off the Pacific coast where Dr Ian Malcolm, over a spot of lunch in a space-like booth, delivered a lesson in ethics that has felt pertinent in the real world over the past week or so. Until Aston Villa released their eye-popping Champions League ticket prices, a comparison between the club and a cutting line from Jurassic Park would have felt far-fetched. “Your scientists were so preoccupied with whether or not they could, they didn’t stop to think if they should,” said Malcolm, played by Jeff Goldblum, as the park’s altruistic founder got giddy at the prospect of bringing dinosaurs back to life.
Post by: djbone on September 13, 2024, 09:03:00 PM
Understanding the fans position as regards protests is similar to being told someone is ‘disappointed’ in you rather than bollocking you for something.
The red card thing is going to be very interesting to observe….will it be those determined to protest or will it be those ambivalent to everything or those who will get annoyed that people are protesting during play that win out!
I hope Twatter isnt an indictator of how it's going to go. The amount of vitriol aimed at the organisers today on there by "can't pay, don't go" tossers is something else. Disagree with tactics by all means, but to go after people trying to do something to stick up for and represent ordinary Villans is the worst type of 'modern' fan selfishness.
Really hope it's a roaring success.
Post by: UK Redsox on September 13, 2024, 09:30:29 PM
Anfield was different as they were adding a tier, so they could keep what was already there mainly open. We'd be doing a complete demolition of a stand.
Isn't there also something about us needing to completely rebuild the foundation as well?
Those of us old enough to remember the building of the North Stand may recall the following:
The contractors who did the ground work were alleged to have billed AVFC for enough concrete to build spaghetti junction several times over. It was difficult to argue with this as most of this was supposed to be under the stand.
When the North Stand is demolished/replaced the accuracy of this claim may or may not see the light of day.
Might also find a few things buried….Jimmy Hoffa, Lord Lucan, Shergar, Doctor Tony
Post by: The Edge on September 14, 2024, 11:43:05 AM
That Spurs ground is shaped like a toilet seat.I wonder whether Atairos were brought on-board with one big eye on the investment and politicking involved in rebuilding the Witton Lane stand as that's the most difficult side of the ground to overhaul.Just talking mindlessly here, but looking at OpenStreetMap, the actual area that Spurs' new ground is built on isn't that much bigger than our site. If we could use the park land on the other side of Witton Lane, it'd be about the same size - you don't get the filled in corners at the Holte End, but the other 3 stands could be the same size, maybe even bigger in the North Stand's case. I reckon you could get that up to 60k capacity alright if Witton Lane wasn't an issue*
* and as a consequence, the people on Holte Road weren't against it happening, and the people in the local area could be placated from losing some valuable parkland.
I posted this back in the mists of the Redevelopment thread;
(https://i.ibb.co/h86QwK8/Spuds-Park.png)
Post by: paul_e on September 14, 2024, 11:45:04 AM
(https://www.goonerholicsforever.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/toiletbowlsized.jpg)
Post by: john e on September 14, 2024, 12:48:34 PM
But I have to say I’m a bit uneasy about it as it’s nothing to do with the team or Unai Emery who deserve our full support
I don’t know what I will do I will probably go with the flow like a lemming, protests while the team are playing doesn’t seem right but then again what else can we do
I doubt Heck will show his face
Post by: VillaTim on September 14, 2024, 01:18:18 PM
Post by: Rigadon on September 14, 2024, 01:49:03 PM
I’ve been quite critical of Chris heck so I suppose I should be supporting the protest
But I have to say I’m a bit uneasy about it as it’s nothing to do with the team or Unai Emery who deserve our full support
I don’t know what I will do I will probably go with the flow like a lemming, protests while the team are playing doesn’t seem right but then again what else can we do
I doubt Heck will show his face
Protests are a complete waste of time aren’t they? The only protest that would make the club think twice is a mass stay away. If you’re not going to do that, then you might as well not bother.
Post by: Gareth on September 14, 2024, 01:56:44 PM
I’ve been quite critical of Chris heck so I suppose I should be supporting the protest
But I have to say I’m a bit uneasy about it as it’s nothing to do with the team or Unai Emery who deserve our full support
I don’t know what I will do I will probably go with the flow like a lemming, protests while the team are playing doesn’t seem right but then again what else can we do
I doubt Heck will show his face
Similar…I have been critical, probably more about the farce of the Arsenal game than I have been at the prices & whilst I wouldn’t ever want to stop anyone’s right to protest there is absolutely no way I will protesting against anything whilst the game is going on
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 14, 2024, 02:42:40 PM
That is the ultimate issue with what Heck and the club have done, they've split a club when we should be at the peak of togetherness as we push for success.
Post by: RamboandBruno on September 14, 2024, 02:57:24 PM
Imagine post-match after Sheff Utd twatted 4-1 under Bruce someone saying that 6 years later we'd have one of the best managers in the world, were about to play in the Champions League, and yet there would be fan unrest and talk of protests.
That is the ultimate issue with what Heck and the club have done, they've split a club when we should be at the peak of togetherness as we push for success.
This sums it up for me. Ill heading down in about an hour or so and I feel fairly flat, when I should be buzzing. Also got the whole 150th celebrations email in Hecks name, today. Hollow words after everything that has gone on.
Post by: Villan82 on September 14, 2024, 03:45:16 PM
That is the ultimate issue with what Heck and the club have done, they've split a club when we should be at the peak of togetherness as we push for success.
That's it there. I would go further and say that for 12 months he has been acting the big guy at villa and has too often taken the spotlight off the genius of Emery and the team.
But recent events are the final straw and it needs to be sorted out.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on September 14, 2024, 04:24:08 PM
Imagine post-match after Sheff Utd twatted 4-1 under Bruce someone saying that 6 years later we'd have one of the best managers in the world, were about to play in the Champions League, and yet there would be fan unrest and talk of protests.
That is the ultimate issue with what Heck and the club have done, they've split a club when we should be at the peak of togetherness as we push for success.
Yes.
Post by: Deano's Mullet on September 14, 2024, 04:44:16 PM
Post by: womble on September 14, 2024, 04:59:39 PM
Post by: astonvilla82 on September 14, 2024, 05:22:20 PM
Post by: Villan82 on September 14, 2024, 05:51:07 PM
Seeing some horrendous comments on line from people making snide remarks about photos of those handing out red cards including stuff about personal appearance and weight.
Yeah we seem to have a lot of rampant capitalists in our online support
Post by: Dogtanian on September 16, 2024, 10:44:19 AM
https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5744104/2024/09/16/aston-villa-ticket-issues/ (https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5744104/2024/09/16/aston-villa-ticket-issues/)
Post by: chrisw1 on September 16, 2024, 10:56:36 AM
Aston Villa fans protest with a banner that reads 'stop exploiting loyalty' during the Premier League match at Villa Park, Birmingham. Picture date: Saturday September 14, 2024. (Photo by Bradley Collyer/PA Images via Getty Images)
By Jacob Tanswell
5h ago
For more than a week after Aston Villa’s first home match of the season, 41 supporters were waiting for answers following a day they wished to forget.
Christopher White is a season-ticket holder in the Doug Ellis Stand. “They sold us something that doesn’t exist and it’s £1,800 ($2,300) straight out of our bank accounts,” he says. “We’ve got nothing to show for it.”
Villa went down 2-0 against Arsenal on August 24 but stadium issues dominated the afternoon. Urinals overflowed, a digital ticketing system caused large queues and disruption, and disabled supporters learned the news (on the day) that car parking fees had been doubled, prompting an apology from the club.
Christopher, his father Phil and 39 other fans were also left waiting in a Villa Park concourse, missing most of the first half. They had been sold season tickets for seats that did not exist.
Supporters left waiting in the concourse during the first half against Arsenal (Christopher White)
“We have been season-ticket holders for more than 20 years sitting in the Doug Ellis Lower,” Christopher says. “We received a letter that said our seats wouldn’t be available to renew for the forthcoming season. I was given a generic email address if I wished to express my discontent.
“I contacted the ticket office to see what the options were. The lower seats in the Doug Ellis Upper were price category one (the most expensive) and represented an additional £460 cost because there were no concessions in category one, despite my dad being over 60. But that was the best option as we didn’t want to move stands. One of the (ticket) staff said there were two seats available in the front row on the halfway line and they had just been put in as part of a redevelopment.
“So we bought them and were offered, by way of compensation for moving seats, an £80 voucher to spend in the club shop. Yet when I asked how we go about redeeming the voucher I was told, ‘We don’t know yet’.
“We managed to get to the ground despite the queues, where we saw our seats (row AA) and sat down. But then the guys to the left of us, who had been sitting there for years, said, ‘No, this is row CC, you’re three rows from the front’. We had been sold tickets for £910 each in rows where there were no seats. Those areas have been used for cameras and audio-visual equipment for around seven years.”
“People who were arriving late were saying, ‘This is our seat’,” adds Paul Raworth, also a supporter who was moved and purchased a season ticket in the same area. “Still, there was a massive camera in the way.”
(Paul Raworth)
Paul and Christopher approached the nearby stewards, who, unaware of the extent of the situation, pointed those without a seat to the concourse. After missing the first half, the lead stewards directed supporters to the corporate seats, ironically where they had been moved from, and they were told to find any spare seat they could.
Villa have made no secret of their desire to increase matchday revenue. This time last year, fans in the Holte End were not informed that the Holte Suite, which could hold around 1,000 fans and was an accessible route for disabled people, was no longer open to ordinary match-ticket holders.
Instead, Villa aimed to turn the suite into a hospitality area for 500 fans, calling the initiative ‘The Lower Grounds’, open three hours before matches with all-you-can-eat food and drinks packages. Presenters were hired to host entertainment in the suite, which included interviews with former players and pre-match build-up.
Premium seating continues to expand into new pockets of the stadium, increasing hospitality areas and making supporters such as Christopher and Phil move from their usual seats. This summer, 900 fans were told they either had to relocate seats or pay premium prices for newly installed hospitality in the Trinity, North and Doug Ellis Stands.
After the Arsenal game Villa sent an email to season-ticket holders acknowledging the difficulties, which was signed by Chris Heck, president of business operations.
When asked by The Athletic, Villa said all 41 fans affected by the issues at the Arsenal game had been contacted and moved into different seats for the Everton game and the next home league fixture against Wolverhampton Wanderers. They also said £50 compensation had been offered.
Matt Crossfield’s parents have been sitting to the right of the halfway line in the Doug Ellis Stand for nearly a decade. “Good seats, good views,” is how they would describe them.
Glenys, Matt’s mother, is friendly with the supporters around her, knowing all by name. Such familiarity plays a part in the overall enjoyment of going to games and, despite the increasing costs, Glenys and her husband Mark did not think twice about renewing their season tickets for this season.
They arrived at the Arsenal game expecting everything to be the same. The same faces, conversations and, most crucially, the same view. However, when Glenys tilted her head towards the North Stand, a large handrail stood in the way, installed due to updated health and safety regulations. “The view is now restricted,” Glenys says. “I’m really disappointed in the customer service from my club.”
“My mum is 66, small and just couldn’t see anything,” says Matt. “She spoke to Lee Preece, Villa’s supporter liaison manager, and he put her in touch with the ticket office, who said, ‘Well, we can’t do anything. We can move you but you and your husband have got to sit five seats apart from each other’. I thought that was insulting.”
Villa offered Glenys a discount on her season ticket, eventually classing the seat as a ‘restricted view’.
Glenys Crossfield’s view for the game against Everton (Glenys Crossfield)
“But it wasn’t a restricted view when she bought it,” adds Matt. “She hadn’t been given the chance to relocate properly. So I sent Lee Preece an email and he came back and said, ‘There’s nothing we can do’, with his exact phrase being, ‘We are where we are’.
“My mum can’t see any North Stand goal without really twisting her neck. The barrier is chunky. We’ve got so much right on the pitch over the past few years but there’s so much wrong off it. My parents are pensioners; they’re not fit and able and can’t deal with straining their necks.”
When tickets went on sale, the issue over the handrail had not been raised by building control. Glenys and her husband made their way to Villa Park on Saturday for the game against Everton, insisting they had not been offered alternative seats together. Her view remained the same.
The visit of Everton last season in the Carabao Cup provoked consternation from some sections of supporters. Previously, season-ticket holders received Villa’s first cup game free but this had changed, with the third-round fixture priced at £30.50. Villa later admitted they had got it wrong after only 23,851 attended. But considering there were up to 30,000 people on the season ticket waiting list, supply and demand had driven the pricing.
A crowdfunding page was set up before Everton’s visit in the Premier League this season, paying for the purchase of 16,000 red cards that read, “Stop exploiting loyalty.” The plan was for the cards to be raised in the first 97 seconds of the match in protest at Villa’s Champions League ticket prices, with £97 the maximum cost for non-season-ticket holders. In reality, only a smattering of cards were visible, with the crowd instead focusing on showing their support for Unai Emery’s side.
Aston Villa fans hold up red cards which read: ‘Stop exploiting loyalty’ (Matthew Lewis/Getty Images)
The Athletic revealed last week that Villa had refused a request from their fan advisory board (FAB) to cap the price of Champions League tickets, with the cheapest adult entry now starting at £70. For comparison, the cheapest Champions League final tickets at Wembley in June were £60.
Much of the subsequent ire has been directed at Heck, who spoke publicly after Villa confirmed a sell-out for their first Champions League home game, against Bayern Munich.
Heck declared the reason for the increased ticket prices was due to profit and sustainability rules (PSR) concerns yet Villa earned £15.7million for qualifying for the Champions League and will receive around £590,000 for a group-stage draw and a potential £9.3m if they reach the last 16. Those figures do not take into account earnings from the overall Champions League pot that will be distributed, additional broadcast money or further progress in the competition.
By Saturday evening, Villa Park was roaring. It had been shaken by Everton’s two-goal lead before Jhon Duran, nicknamed ‘Captain Chaos’, unleashed a thunderous strike to complete a 3-2 comeback win. Villa registered a third victory in four Premier League matches and offered another example of how spell-binding Emery’s side can be, especially at home.
From a footballing standpoint, they remain upwardly mobile and can now look forward to their first Champions League fixture on Tuesday against Young Boys. But as a tumultuous international break has demonstrated, off-the-field issues are putting a dampener on things for plenty of fans.
Post by: Border villan on September 16, 2024, 10:56:42 AM
Article in The Athletic about the issues with seats being missing, etc;
https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5744104/2024/09/16/aston-villa-ticket-issues/ (https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5744104/2024/09/16/aston-villa-ticket-issues/)
Behind paywall
Post by: chrisw1 on September 16, 2024, 10:58:30 AM
On iPhone just click 'reader view'Article in The Athletic about the issues with seats being missing, etc;
https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5744104/2024/09/16/aston-villa-ticket-issues/ (https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5744104/2024/09/16/aston-villa-ticket-issues/)
Behind paywall
On a PC stop the page loading by clicking the x to the left of the website address. You may need to refresh and try this a few times (alternatively right click on the page and disable java script)
Post by: Dogtanian on September 16, 2024, 11:22:32 AM
On iPhone just click 'reader view'Article in The Athletic about the issues with seats being missing, etc;
https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5744104/2024/09/16/aston-villa-ticket-issues/ (https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5744104/2024/09/16/aston-villa-ticket-issues/)
Behind paywall
On a PC stop the page loading by clicking the x to the left of the website address. You may need to refresh and try this a few times (alternatively right click on the page and disable java script)
You hacker! :D
Post by: dalians umbrella on September 16, 2024, 11:57:07 AM
Article in The Athletic about the issues with seats being missing, etc;
https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5744104/2024/09/16/aston-villa-ticket-issues/ (https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5744104/2024/09/16/aston-villa-ticket-issues/)
Behind paywall
The red box on this website is your friend here.
https://archive.ph/
Post by: Border villan on September 16, 2024, 12:00:07 PM
Article in The Athletic about the issues with seats being missing, etc;
https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5744104/2024/09/16/aston-villa-ticket-issues/ (https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5744104/2024/09/16/aston-villa-ticket-issues/)
Behind paywall
The red box on this website is your friend here.
https://archive.ph/
Cheers.
Post by: Drummond on September 16, 2024, 12:17:40 PM
(https://i.ibb.co/R0CYVv0/20240914-164728.jpg) (https://ibb.co/R0CYVv0)
Post by: Dogtanian on September 16, 2024, 12:18:52 PM
Can't wait for this. Saw it advertised in the bogs on Saturday.
(https://i.ibb.co/R0CYVv0/20240914-164728.jpg) (https://ibb.co/R0CYVv0)
To be fair, the team responsible for changing it are still waiting for their hazmat suits to arrive before they can safely wade in to swap it out.
Post by: chrisw1 on September 16, 2024, 12:26:52 PM
Can't wait for this. Saw it advertised in the bogs on Saturday.And Sprigsteen was advertised in the upper Holte toilet.
(https://i.ibb.co/R0CYVv0/20240914-164728.jpg) (https://ibb.co/R0CYVv0)
Post by: ironmaidenmania on September 16, 2024, 12:27:54 PM
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on September 16, 2024, 12:34:35 PM
Post by: Clampy on September 16, 2024, 12:41:30 PM
Can't wait for this. Saw it advertised in the bogs on Saturday.And Sprigsteen was advertised in the upper Holte toilet.
(https://i.ibb.co/R0CYVv0/20240914-164728.jpg) (https://ibb.co/R0CYVv0)
I saw one for Billy Graham.
Post by: Risso on September 16, 2024, 12:47:59 PM
Post by: Ger Regan on September 16, 2024, 12:48:57 PM
Post by: Clark W Griswold on September 16, 2024, 01:00:45 PM
Talking to 3 mates on Saturday who were moved from their seats in the Trinity to make way for the posh people. They said their new seats are shit and whenever one of my mates looked over at his old seat during the Arsenal game he could see a well-to-do-looking woman doing her nails throughout the game.Apparently it was her first visit to Villa Park
(https://i.ibb.co/nBcrg0p/IMG-1210.jpg) (https://ibb.co/nBcrg0p)
(https://imgbb.com/)
Post by: chrisw1 on September 16, 2024, 01:08:17 PM
Are all the hospitality areas open now or are some still being worked on? I spotted on the pitchside youtube video that there seemed to be an entire section of hospitality in the DE that had nobody in it.Yep, the middle section of the DE seats were all empty (in front of where the boxes used to be) I assume the lounge they are sold with isn't open yet.
There was also a lot of seats empty in the posh seats in the Trinity, some seats in the North upper and some of the Lower Grounds seats in both the Trinity and DE empty, so I assume they're well below capacity on hospitality and GA+ at the moment.
They were even advertising Terrace View season tickets on the LEDs during the game, which is a bit of a kick in the balls for people on the ST waiting list and people who just can't get a seat in the Holte for love nor money.
Post by: London Villan on September 16, 2024, 01:19:51 PM
Post by: eamonn on September 16, 2024, 01:22:21 PM
Post by: Clark W Griswold on September 16, 2024, 01:23:25 PM
Post by: Dogtanian on September 16, 2024, 01:28:43 PM
I hope those DE sections are sorted asap, otherwise Dogtanian will be having conniptions.
The blinds were all closed on Saturday so I couldn't see in...
I'm not sure what conniptions are, but as long as having them doesn't involve Mr Herriot sticking his thermometer where the sun don't shine, I'll live with em!
Post by: chrisw1 on September 16, 2024, 01:33:55 PM
I'm informed that the £300 ticket for Corner Flag hospitality included a padded seat that you couldn't actually sit down on as everyone on front was standing, and featured a heavy spat of fresh bird shit that no one had bothered to wipe off. The absolute clincher though was the gap directly above between the roofs, so open to a good soaking had it been a rainy afternoon.£300 to have one of the worst views in the stadium? JFC.
Post by: Demitri_C on September 16, 2024, 03:03:26 PM
Post by: Risso on September 16, 2024, 03:17:31 PM
Whens the next fans forum? I suspect they will be in no hurry to do one after the mountain of complaints they are going to receive
There was one last week.
Post by: London Villan on September 16, 2024, 03:29:50 PM
Post by: amfy on September 16, 2024, 03:34:28 PM
Talking to 3 mates on Saturday who were moved from their seats in the Trinity to make way for the posh people. They said their new seats are shit and whenever one of my mates looked over at his old seat during the Arsenal game he could see a well-to-do-looking woman doing her nails throughout the game.
I’m not in The Trinity and I don’t think I look like a ‘well to do woman’ but I feel duty bound to report that I am often found filing my nails during a game to stop myself from biting them all off!
Post by: Zouch Villa on September 20, 2024, 05:37:44 PM
What a mess. Did we get Dido Harding to them?
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on September 20, 2024, 05:57:36 PM
Whens the next fans forum? I suspect they will be in no hurry to do one after the mountain of complaints they are going to receive
There was one last week.
Did they mention how they're struggling to shift their GA+ tickets? Groups of empty seats around the ground and from the photos I saw of the Trinity against Everton, the middle Trinity must have been closed down due to the bogs flooding as there was nobody in there. Another "amazing success". Go Heck!
Post by: Mister E on September 20, 2024, 06:03:22 PM
I see the latest issue with the digital season tickets is that they seem to have expired in many peoples apple/google wallets, including mine. Simple fix is to toggle the ‘show expired passes’ option, but that now means I have a wallet full of old train and concert tickets.Interestingly, the season tickets are powered by FortressGB: is that anything to do with Wes Edens' Fortress Investment Group? - I couldn't find any obvious reference to a link but I know there are more resourceful people on here than me.
What a mess. Did we get Dido Harding to them?
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 21, 2024, 03:16:21 PM
Quote
Beyond a joke. 40mins to get in. Missed being able to pay our respects to Gary Shaw, just about made kick off.
@AVFCOfficial
you need to sort this out. Show your loyal fans some respect... This is an embarrassment #avfc #UTV
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GYAYcmfWQAE0ku2?format=jpg&name=small)
Post by: Steve67 on September 21, 2024, 03:23:12 PM
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 21, 2024, 03:23:53 PM
Post by: astonvilla82 on September 21, 2024, 04:03:21 PM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 21, 2024, 05:53:31 PM
How long before we have a crush and people get hurt?QuoteBeyond a joke. 40mins to get in. Missed being able to pay our respects to Gary Shaw, just about made kick off.
@AVFCOfficial
you need to sort this out. Show your loyal fans some respect... This is an embarrassment #avfc #UTV
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GYAYcmfWQAE0ku2?format=jpg&name=small)
So many mistakes off the pitch at the moment.
Post by: London Villan on September 21, 2024, 06:35:09 PM
Post by: Nev on September 21, 2024, 06:47:35 PM
Beyond embarrassing. She was lovely about it as we're the fans but it's so amateurish.
What a shit show.
Post by: Lsvilla on September 21, 2024, 06:56:49 PM
Post by: Dogtanian on September 21, 2024, 06:56:53 PM
That's from someone on Twitter, i'm comfy at home with cat.
Where’s Lister?
Post by: Brazilian Villain on September 21, 2024, 06:59:58 PM
That's from someone on Twitter, i'm comfy at home with cat.
Where’s Lister?
:)
Post by: CLEEVE on September 21, 2024, 07:00:59 PM
The Fan zone is so so shit.
There were lots and lots of empty seats in the upper trinity and Doug Ellis stand - unsold hospitality.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 21, 2024, 07:01:46 PM
That's from someone on Twitter, i'm comfy at home with cat.
Where’s Lister?
With Legion.
Post by: CLEEVE on September 21, 2024, 07:22:15 PM
(https://i.ibb.co/D5wsdfP/PXL-20240921-135856511.jpg) (https://ibb.co/D5wsdfP)
Post by: Dogtanian on September 21, 2024, 07:22:48 PM
That's from someone on Twitter, i'm comfy at home with cat.
Where’s Lister?
With Legion.
A scary thought!
Post by: Paul.S on September 21, 2024, 07:37:19 PM
The new seats in the Holte End are very dangerous . They come sharp and a friend got cut by a sharp part on them.
The Fan zone is so so shit.
There were lots and lots of empty seats in the upper trinity and Doug Ellis stand - unsold hospitality.
I’ve got a lovely 2 inch cut to my shin after today. The seats or the metal around them are too bloody sharp.
Post by: CLEEVE on September 21, 2024, 07:51:18 PM
The new seats in the Holte End are very dangerous . They come sharp and a friend got cut by a sharp part on them.
The Fan zone is so so shit.
There were lots and lots of empty seats in the upper trinity and Doug Ellis stand - unsold hospitality.
I’ve got a lovely 2 inch cut to my shin after today. The seats or the metal around them are too bloody sharp.
I'd be getting.the contractors back out to sort this problem if I was villa. Make sure you complain to lee preece
Post by: Villan82 on September 21, 2024, 07:52:34 PM
Post by: astonvilla82 on September 21, 2024, 07:56:03 PM
What time was that pic taken. I arrived about 2.15 no queue at the turnstiles for upper trinity or at the bar for a pint. And toilets okay in my section at ht.Arrived at 2.45 and got into the Holte at 3.20, mentioned earlier about a senior manager came outside because think because the stewards had enough of getting earache and she soon disappeared inside, when I did get inside seen a fan complaining to her and other stewards, one steward who was a contractor with a crowd safe high Viz on ironic considering the queue problems tried to be little him by telling him to go to his seat and thought I not having, she tried the same with me and by saying I going to miss the game I come to see , the senior manager stated that email will be sent to who it may concern, ruin my day because I left early and missed the last 2 goals because I was in a mood after that
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on September 21, 2024, 08:12:13 PM
Post by: Paul.S on September 21, 2024, 08:37:36 PM
The new seats in the Holte End are very dangerous . They come sharp and a friend got cut by a sharp part on them.
The Fan zone is so so shit.
There were lots and lots of empty seats in the upper trinity and Doug Ellis stand - unsold hospitality.
I’ve got a lovely 2 inch cut to my shin after today. The seats or the metal around them are too bloody sharp.
I'd be getting.the contractors back out to sort this problem if I was villa. Make sure you complain to lee preece
I’m not the only one. Someone I know a few rows away cut his knee. It’s the second time I’ve come away with a war wound this season. I got in on time today but was left queuing outside and missed 10/15 minutes of both the
Arsenal and Everton games.
On the pitch it’s fantastic but it’s so wrong off it.
Post by: not3bad on September 21, 2024, 08:40:02 PM
QuoteBeyond a joke. 40mins to get in. Missed being able to pay our respects to Gary Shaw, just about made kick off.
@AVFCOfficial
you need to sort this out. Show your loyal fans some respect... This is an embarrassment #avfc #UTV
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GYAYcmfWQAE0ku2?format=jpg&name=small)
Just about made kick off? Luxury! We were still queuing 10 minutes after kick off!
Post by: Nii Lamptey on September 21, 2024, 09:45:27 PM
Not going to thank Heck in any way, shape or form though. For the money they fleece from us, it’s the VERY LEAST we should expect.
Post by: Dave P on September 21, 2024, 11:03:38 PM
Post by: exigo on September 21, 2024, 11:06:33 PM
Post by: Paul.S on September 22, 2024, 09:50:09 AM
Walked straight into the lower Holte at 2:20. Couldn't believe it when the lads around me said they were queueing round the block 20 mins later. Where was everyone? Holte pub was half empty, not many in the Holte car park – were there loads in the fan zone?
I got there 5 minutes after that and it took me 15 minutes to get in. The queue behind me was growing then.
Post by: Clampy on September 22, 2024, 09:59:08 AM
Post by: LeeB on September 22, 2024, 10:03:03 AM
I got to the North Stand Upper turnstile about 2:20 and I was in my seat before 2:30. And we’ve had a lick of paint, new seats and a bigger bar area. Maybe we’re the elite now?
It was carnage out there before kick off, honestly my heart sinks every time I approach the stand and see the mass of people bottlenecked through the one shitty entry point.
Post by: Brend'Watkins on September 22, 2024, 10:04:00 AM
Post by: DeKuip on September 22, 2024, 10:15:27 AM
I’m increasingly of the opinion that this is all by design. Piss the fans off so much that they get in early and spend on food and drinks. They can fuck off if they think they’re getting anything extra out of me.Don’t worry, Flippin Heck will soon introduce a fast track entry lane where for an extra £10 a game you receive a book of vouchers and just rip one out each time and hand it over to a steward waiting by an open door.
Post by: Villan82 on September 22, 2024, 10:38:50 AM
As predicted, the cost of Champions League tickets combined with the gentrification of the existing ground will, as predicted, result in empty seats.
At some point the King of Bullshit will sit down to do one of his sanitised, PR pieces to Villa TV. He will talk up how great everything is with the business but will announce that we aren't selling out so there will be no medium-term redevelopment of Villa Park.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 22, 2024, 11:18:10 AM
Post by: Richard E on September 22, 2024, 11:20:24 AM
Post by: dave.woodhall on September 22, 2024, 11:30:01 AM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 22, 2024, 11:49:14 AM
I think Heck's worried that if the hospitality seats are sold as ordinary tickets, poshos might have to mix with the rabble.And this is what is baffling, they already do in the Upper Holte where the hard core fans are. If they'd done it properly they should have done work on the Upper Trinity, the only decent stand we've got, and put GA+ in A3 A4 A5 A6. A premium experience in the back row of the Holte makes no sense, the same as lower North 5 yards from the away fans, with one of the worst views in the stadium, which I can vouch for unfortunately.
Post by: AV82EC on September 22, 2024, 11:54:05 AM
Post by: ChicagoLion on September 22, 2024, 11:57:16 AM
I think you need to be careful describing GA+ as a premium experience, it is no where near the level of a hospitality offering. It's a normal GA seat with an added offering of some description. If I was properly posh or didnt want to mix with the Proles I'd be in hospitality.There is also a huge price disparity between GA+ and the hospitality options.
GA+ is GA with some shit food and a roof.
Post by: Risso on September 22, 2024, 11:57:40 AM
I think you need to be careful describing GA+ as a premium experience, it is no where near the level of a hospitality offering. It's a normal GA seat with an added offering of some description. If I was properly posh or didnt want to mix with the Proles I'd be in hospitality.
Exactly that, GA+ is nowhere near the level of hospitality. Nobody is going to take a client to the Lower Grounds, it’s nasty.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 22, 2024, 12:36:45 PM
I think you need to be careful describing GA+ as a premium experience, it is no where near the level of a hospitality offering. It's a normal GA seat with an added offering of some description. If I was properly posh or didnt want to mix with the Proles I'd be in hospitality.You are correct. It's not a premium experience, but at £210 for a cat A game I'd be expecting something way beyond a normal punter experience as a customer.
Post by: HolteL4 on September 22, 2024, 12:42:16 PM
QuoteBeyond a joke. 40mins to get in. Missed being able to pay our respects to Gary Shaw, just about made kick off.
@AVFCOfficial
you need to sort this out. Show your loyal fans some respect... This is an embarrassment #avfc #UTV
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GYAYcmfWQAE0ku2?format=jpg&name=small)
It's a joke it really is, vs Everton I got straight in but yesterday with my phone set up exactly the same way it took 3 attempts 1st attempt nothing 2nd everything went green but turnstile didn't react and then 3rd I got green and the turnstiles worked. I don't care what the club say it's not a case of the fans doing something wrong it's down to the poor system they are using.
Think it's time for the club to admit defeat and issue everyone a physical ticket
Post by: Brazilian Villain on September 22, 2024, 12:52:10 PM
I’ve got a lovely 2 inch cut to my shin after today. The seats or the metal around them are too bloody sharp.
I'd be getting.the contractors back out to sort this problem if I was villa. Make sure you complain to lee preece
I’m not the only one. Someone I know a few rows away cut his knee. It’s the second time I’ve come away with a war wound this season
This is what happens when you don't cut corners.
Post by: AV82EC on September 22, 2024, 01:05:39 PM
I think you need to be careful describing GA+ as a premium experience, it is no where near the level of a hospitality offering. It's a normal GA seat with an added offering of some description. If I was properly posh or didnt want to mix with the Proles I'd be in hospitality.You are correct. It's not a premium experience, but at £210 for a cat A game I'd be expecting something way beyond a normal punter experience as a customer.
Agree on that GA+ is nowhere near worth the money Heck is asking. Just so I can confirm I’m not totally talking out my arse, the only areas of GA+ we have are Lower Grounds, Terrace View and The Cells?
Post by: Risso on September 22, 2024, 01:06:30 PM
Post by: Ads on September 22, 2024, 01:07:42 PM
Post by: aj2k77 on September 22, 2024, 01:14:16 PM
Post by: Risso on September 22, 2024, 01:20:12 PM
Terrace View and the Cells seems to do pretty well. The Lower Grounds is the one that's way overpriced and seems to leave blocks empty in the Upper Trinity and Witton for most games.
At least with the Terrace View you've got somewhere half decent to go at half time, although £75 or whatever it is just to be able to buy a drink and use the toilets in comfort seems a bit of a piss take as well.
Post by: Villan82 on September 22, 2024, 01:23:30 PM
I think Heck's worried that if the hospitality seats are sold as ordinary tickets, poshos might have to mix with the rabble.
Indeed. And it's a crying shame that we had more people watching us under Steven Gerrard than we do under a world class manager and our best team in a generation. it's just wrong
Post by: simboy on September 22, 2024, 04:53:23 PM
Terrace View and the Cells seems to do pretty well. The Lower Grounds is the one that's way overpriced and seems to leave blocks empty in the Upper Trinity and Witton for most games.
At least with the Terrace View you've got somewhere half decent to go at half time, although £75 or whatever it is just to be able to buy a drink and use the toilets in comfort seems a bit of a piss take as well.
I know this is controversial but shouldn’t even the plebs have somewhere decent to go at half time, have a drink and piss?
Post by: London Villan on September 22, 2024, 05:16:37 PM
Post by: Des Little on September 22, 2024, 10:32:15 PM
Post by: Zouch Villa on September 22, 2024, 10:42:51 PM
Post by: andyh on September 22, 2024, 11:19:20 PM
I’m guessing the great Heck swindle is the reason we dont give out the match attendance figures during the game any more. Wouldn’t be a good look publishing one of your main kpi’s when its clearly being missed.I think we stopped giving attendance numbers long before Heck arrived.
But, if he is going to get shit for everything, then why not blame him for that too.
The traffic on the Coventry road was shit on Saturday. It took me nearly 40 mins for what’s normally a 30 minute journey.
What is Heck going to do about that, the ******?
Post by: Brazilian Villain on September 22, 2024, 11:29:41 PM
But, if he is going to get shit for everything, then why not blame him for that too.
The traffic on the Coventry road was shit on Saturday. It took me nearly 40 mins for what’s normally a 30 minute journey.
What is Heck going to do about that, the ******?
To be fair to him, he's doing his best to reduce the crowds.
Post by: SoccerHQ on September 22, 2024, 11:32:02 PM
QuoteBeyond a joke. 40mins to get in. Missed being able to pay our respects to Gary Shaw, just about made kick off.
@AVFCOfficial
you need to sort this out. Show your loyal fans some respect... This is an embarrassment #avfc #UTV
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GYAYcmfWQAE0ku2?format=jpg&name=small)
It's a joke it really is, vs Everton I got straight in but yesterday with my phone set up exactly the same way it took 3 attempts 1st attempt nothing 2nd everything went green but turnstile didn't react and then 3rd I got green and the turnstiles worked. I don't care what the club say it's not a case of the fans doing something wrong it's down to the poor system they are using.
Think it's time for the club to admit defeat and issue everyone a physical ticket
Ah right so it's the turnstiles playing up? I thought it was more people queueing and then messing around trying to get the code up once at the turnstiles.
There was a bit of a bottleneck for Everton but that pic looks similar to Arsenal which a month on simply isn't good enough.
There can't be thousands outside trying to get in when we play Bayern Munich as that would be even worse considering the price furore.
Post by: john2710 on September 22, 2024, 11:41:30 PM
https://www.footballwebpages.co.uk/aston-villa/attendances
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on September 22, 2024, 11:46:08 PM
Anyone who wants to know the attendances can look here
https://www.footballwebpages.co.uk/aston-villa/attendances
Well that can't be where Louzie gets her information from as the 2nd game is different.
Post by: Louzie0 on September 23, 2024, 12:10:42 AM
I use that site a lot if there’s nothing in the football mass media ( AVFC, BBC sport, newspapers, especially online, other sport radio/tv eg Sky, TS) within a week or so of the match. It doesn’t always agree with the club’s eventual figure - or the BBC’s, but then, some betting sites have quoted attendance as being some 100s over VP capacity, so at least it’s realistic!
I used a newspaper sport online report re Everton, found and signposted by Villa Lew ( thanks!).
Unfortunately, the same source is unhelpful re yesterday’s crowd, but I live in hope that someone, hopefully AVFC or the Beeb, will confirm the crowd for Villa v Wolves before GTC Round 4’s launched / completed!
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on September 23, 2024, 12:21:06 AM
Post by: tomd2103 on September 23, 2024, 12:45:48 AM
Terrace View and the Cells seems to do pretty well. The Lower Grounds is the one that's way overpriced and seems to leave blocks empty in the Upper Trinity and Witton for most games.
Yep. Think the pricing is the issue with that, not the potential demand. An additional £100 for a few beers and some hot dogs os obscene really. Around the £100 - £110 mark and I'm sure there would be more takers.
Post by: Louzie0 on September 23, 2024, 12:59:47 AM
I don't envy you sorting through all the bullshit!
Well, I still enjoy GTC ( and GTG) so tracking down the attendance total to find out everybody’s points is the challenge!
It could get a bit frustrating, otherwise, especially for football writers or stats compilers. :-\
Post by: Clampy on September 23, 2024, 07:54:32 AM
Post by: CLEEVE on September 23, 2024, 08:05:13 AM
Everton
Wolves
One 'big six' team on the opening day, a historic fixture and a local derby have all failed to sell out.
thousands want tickets , nothing available , especially seated together....get to match day and you see half of a block empty on the half way line. the whole thing is ridiculous.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on September 23, 2024, 08:52:34 AM
Arsenal
Everton
Wolves
One 'big six' team on the opening day, a historic fixture and a local derby have all failed to sell out.
thousands want tickets , nothing available , especially seated together....get to match day and you see half of a block empty on the half way line. the whole thing is ridiculous.
A Newcastle supporting colleague of mine told me that when you buy one-off match tickets for their home games, you just choose the block, and they then allocate the tickets to you. They do it because otherwise they would end up with exactly this, empty individual seats, as single seats are way, way harder to sell.
Post by: john e on September 23, 2024, 09:24:16 AM
Interestingly, they haven't announced the Bologna ticket prices on Twitter (X) yet, unless they plan to.
Think they just this minute did it
Same prices
Post by: London Villan on September 23, 2024, 09:28:09 AM
Post by: Risso on September 23, 2024, 09:32:17 AM
I’m guessing the great Heck swindle is the reason we dont give out the match attendance figures during the game any more. Wouldn’t be a good look publishing one of your main kpi’s when its clearly being missed.I think we stopped giving attendance numbers long before Heck arrived.
But, if he is going to get shit for everything, then why not blame him for that too.
The traffic on the Coventry road was shit on Saturday. It took me nearly 40 mins for what’s normally a 30 minute journey.
What is Heck going to do about that, the ******?
What a bizarre post.
Post by: nick harper on September 23, 2024, 09:40:59 AM
Interestingly, they haven't announced the Bologna ticket prices on Twitter (X) yet, unless they plan to.
Think they just this minute did it
Same prices
Will be interesting to see how this one sells. I’m a season ticket holder, but am giving it a miss as it follows too close to the Bayern game.
Post by: Dogtanian on September 23, 2024, 09:51:34 AM
It occurred to me that offering a new season ticket to a kid is almost guaranteeing that they are taking a reduced amount from that seat for a decade or so, and I wouldn't be surprised if they tried to avoid this.
Has anyone had an offer for a season ticket for a child? Or know of someone who has had their kid get one?
Maybe I am just being suspicious.
Post by: Duncan Shaw on September 23, 2024, 09:55:54 AM
I'm thinking about it but a) I'm booked in a hotel in Exeter that night for a meeting down there 1st thing Weds morning, so it would be a very late arrival and b) I'm scared of the Noses being at home on the same night :PInterestingly, they haven't announced the Bologna ticket prices on Twitter (X) yet, unless they plan to.
Think they just this minute did it
Same prices
Will be interesting to see how this one sells. I’m a season ticket holder, but am giving it a miss as it follows too close to the Bayern game.
Post by: eamonn on September 23, 2024, 10:10:04 AM
There were rows of tickets available at the back of A5 in the Trinity for Wolves. Albeit - expensive.
And that's why they're expensive. As soon as we have a sticky period of bad results or heaven forbids, Unai, leaves, the wheels on ticket prices will really start to wobble.
Post by: Villan82 on September 23, 2024, 10:19:43 AM
Yes, Heck will have a remit and a target. But how he goes about that will be up to him. Paul Lambert was given a remit and a target - keep us above 18th position on a small budget. It doesn't mean I had to like how Paul Lambert went about it.
Post by: chrisw1 on September 23, 2024, 10:20:35 AM
;D ;DBut, if he is going to get shit for everything, then why not blame him for that too.
The traffic on the Coventry road was shit on Saturday. It took me nearly 40 mins for what’s normally a 30 minute journey.
What is Heck going to do about that, the ******?
To be fair to him, he's doing his best to reduce the crowds.
Post by: chrisw1 on September 23, 2024, 10:27:36 AM
Post by: VillaTim on September 23, 2024, 10:37:37 AM
Can't see that selling out at those pricesInterestingly, they haven't announced the Bologna ticket prices on Twitter (X) yet, unless they plan to.
Think they just this minute did it
Same prices
Post by: amfy on September 23, 2024, 10:46:11 AM
The traffic on the Coventry road was shit on Saturday. It took me nearly 40 mins for what’s normally a 30 minute journey.
What is Heck going to do about that, the ******?
Weirdly - reading this thread that does appear to have been a contributory factor on Saturday. We were coming in from Sutton and the traffic was terrible from that direction too. We also took 10-15 mins longer getting to Villa Park than we usually would. We got there at 2.40 & got in at 3.15. If we had got there nearer 2.30 like we usually would have done, it doesn’t look like we’d have had the same issues.
Obviously this is beyond the club’s control, but the slowness of the turnstiles was really evident and I have sent videos of this to Lee which clearly show the problems people were having - the screens are random and the instructions don’t match what you have to do. Stewards are asking you to try different things til something works. That’s the issue!
Post by: CLEEVE on September 23, 2024, 11:05:15 AM
Post by: Risso on September 23, 2024, 11:21:38 AM
What I also noticed on Saturday was the new LED boards that are everywhere seem to only advertise his crap Hospitality/GA packages and Betano...watching Man City yesterday there was all sorts being advertised...maybe he needs to stop being so lazy and get more sponsors on board instead of fleecing the fans
One of the adverts at the Emptihad was for their "Water Treatment Partner."
Post by: eamonn on September 23, 2024, 11:25:36 AM
Also, I wonder how much Wix are paying them, their name is prominent for long spells on the advertising hoardings.
Post by: Bully2345 on September 23, 2024, 11:26:58 AM
Post by: john e on September 23, 2024, 11:31:15 AM
I’m blaming him for that as well, the massive tossbucket
Post by: Risso on September 23, 2024, 11:43:10 AM
Post by: Dogtanian on September 23, 2024, 11:44:16 AM
Post by: john2710 on September 23, 2024, 11:50:40 AM
Post by: Des Little on September 23, 2024, 11:51:22 AM
Post by: Villan82 on September 23, 2024, 11:54:58 AM
Somebody on Twitter is claiming that the attendance for Wolves was 39Kish. If true, for a Saturday 3pm kick off that's not televised, that's woeful.
It is absolutely nailed on that Heck will use this sort of example, out of context, to ensure we get no stadium expansion so long as he is employed here. I can hear him already 'As I said we were at risk of adding too many seats too fast'.
Post by: andyh on September 23, 2024, 11:55:09 AM
Whoosh !!!!!I’m guessing the great Heck swindle is the reason we dont give out the match attendance figures during the game any more. Wouldn’t be a good look publishing one of your main kpi’s when its clearly being missed.I think we stopped giving attendance numbers long before Heck arrived.
But, if he is going to get shit for everything, then why not blame him for that too.
The traffic on the Coventry road was shit on Saturday. It took me nearly 40 mins for what’s normally a 30 minute journey.
What is Heck going to do about that, the ******?
What a bizarre post.
Post by: john2710 on September 23, 2024, 11:55:29 AM
Post by: Nunkin1965 on September 23, 2024, 11:56:44 AM
Am I right in saying that no STs go on resale until every last seat (inc GA+) has been sold by the club? If true, it won't ever happen.I missed the Everton game and put mine up for sale and was refunded by the club, so does that mean that GA+ was sold out?
Post by: Pat Mustard on September 23, 2024, 11:59:10 AM
This is where I really don't get anyone defending the prices - we are going to lose thousands on the gate for every home game this season. There are still loads left for Man Utd a week on Sunday (looking at it the same ones that were empty on Saturday), and even the supposed fastest sell-out in history against Bayern still has tickets available. We might make a bit more money overall in the grand scheeme, but it won't be anywhere near as much as people think once you take into account the lost income on games that would have sold-out before, and in the long-run we are potentially losing thousands of fans who could become regulars.
Post by: Dogtanian on September 23, 2024, 12:00:15 PM
"We can't expand this god-damn stadium and let more of those c******kers in. Who's gonna pay two hundred bucks to see us play a nobody when there's cheap seats empty? And we ain't findin' eight thousand more rubes willing to pay what I'm gonna charge them!"
Post by: ChicagoLion on September 23, 2024, 12:03:17 PM
39k for Wolves sounds about right if they are being honest about attendances - we could see a few empty blocks, and there were lots of single empty seats dotted around.I wonder how long it will take him to realise this. Unfortunately idiots with power rarely understand their own failings and are the worst people to try to remedy them.
This is where I really don't get anyone defending the prices - we are going to lose thousands on the gate for every home game this season. There are still loads left for Man Utd a week on Sunday (looking at it the same ones that were empty on Saturday), and even the supposed fastest sell-out in history against Bayern still has tickets available. We might make a bit more money overall in the grand scheeme, but it won't be anywhere near as much as people think once you take into account the lost income on games that would have sold-out before, and in the long-run we are potentially losing thousands of fans who could become regulars.
Post by: Villan82 on September 23, 2024, 12:11:55 PM
And another point, surely the renovated shop was a waste of time if Heck's agenda is driving attendances down?
It's been one heck (!) of a clusterfuck under this man.
Post by: DB on September 23, 2024, 12:22:58 PM
Somebody on Twitter is claiming that the attendance for Wolves was 39Kish. If true, for a Saturday 3pm kick off that's not televised, that's woeful.
That AV Updates? Not the most reliable. MoTD had attendance as well over 42k.
Post by: Nii Lamptey on September 23, 2024, 12:35:47 PM
Fill the ground by selling at an attractive price and sort concourse catering out - Job done! Full house, better atmosphere, people actually able to spend money on food and drink as they're not stuck in queues from 15 minutes before HT till 15 minutes AFTER HT.
He's a narcissist though, so no way will he admit he's been wrong and back down. He'll no doubt double-down on this shitshow, losing priced out true fans and the next generation of fans in the process.
Post by: purpletrousers on September 23, 2024, 12:37:48 PM
39k for Wolves sounds about right if they are being honest about attendances - we could see a few empty blocks, and there were lots of single empty seats dotted around.
This is where I really don't get anyone defending the prices - we are going to lose thousands on the gate for every home game this season. There are still loads left for Man Utd a week on Sunday (looking at it the same ones that were empty on Saturday), and even the supposed fastest sell-out in history against Bayern still has tickets available. We might make a bit more money overall in the grand scheeme, but it won't be anywhere near as much as people think once you take into account the lost income on games that would have sold-out before, and in the long-run we are potentially losing thousands of fans who could become regulars.
Absolutely, we are sabotaging the prime period of younger fans catching a lifelong bug, like I was being brought along at a pivotal moment, maybe this could be another golden age in our history.
I wasn't the best judge juggling little ones who hadn't had their funzone experience (I understand we'll easy be two seasons without it, not the one the club have let on) but from where I was in the family zone the atmosphere didn't seem great when we were struggling Saturday.
So there is
1) the long term loss of empty seats in developing newer fans,
2) loss of cash of sales (to balance against the higher European prices income)
3) the embarrassment to our profile on TV etc of looking either chaotic (which is the case) or that we can't attract fans
4) it impacting on the pitch, possibly the loss energy from a full house missing some extra excited occasional attenders.
I think Gary Shaw's death potentially deflects potentially more protest/criticism at the stadium, but
also
5) the disgruntlement/disgust caused by the prices/things being generally appalling off the pitch, can impact atmosphere/positivity therefore the players too.
Maybe I should copy this to Lee Preece, what harm can it do...
Post by: Sexual Ealing on September 23, 2024, 12:50:00 PM
Post by: Risso on September 23, 2024, 01:07:48 PM
Somebody on Twitter is claiming that the attendance for Wolves was 39Kish. If true, for a Saturday 3pm kick off that's not televised, that's woeful.
That AV Updates? Not the most reliable. MoTD had attendance as well over 42k.
I'd say that's even more unreliable, what with the vast swathes of empty corporate seats.
Post by: Risso on September 23, 2024, 01:08:23 PM
Whoosh !!!!!I’m guessing the great Heck swindle is the reason we dont give out the match attendance figures during the game any more. Wouldn’t be a good look publishing one of your main kpi’s when its clearly being missed.I think we stopped giving attendance numbers long before Heck arrived.
But, if he is going to get shit for everything, then why not blame him for that too.
The traffic on the Coventry road was shit on Saturday. It took me nearly 40 mins for what’s normally a 30 minute journey.
What is Heck going to do about that, the ******?
What a bizarre post.
I'm fairly certain there's no 'whoosh' there.
Post by: Des Little on September 23, 2024, 01:09:21 PM
Post by: chrisw1 on September 23, 2024, 01:39:44 PM
Absolutely no chance it was above 42k.Somebody on Twitter is claiming that the attendance for Wolves was 39Kish. If true, for a Saturday 3pm kick off that's not televised, that's woeful.
That AV Updates? Not the most reliable. MoTD had attendance as well over 42k.
Post by: chrisw1 on September 23, 2024, 01:44:10 PM
Am I right in saying that no STs go on resale until every last seat (inc GA+) has been sold by the club? If true, it won't ever happen.Not quite. They do leave it very late though. There was loads of unsold GA+ against Wolves but they put the resales up on Friday I believe.
Post by: ChicagoLion on September 23, 2024, 01:46:36 PM
He won't realise Chicago. if we have learned anything about this man it's that he does it his way, he doesn't pass any heed to how much of a shitshow his way causes and then he materialises when things settle down to bizarrely claim credit for things more to do with the wider context of our improved form since Emery arrived.Totally agree mate.
And another point, surely the renovated shop was a waste of time if Heck's agenda is driving attendances down?
It's been one heck (!) of a clusterfuck under this man.
As someone said, wait for his next VT folksy American interview where he will completely ignore all the shit he has created and pump his condescending self promoting story line.
Post by: Pat Mustard on September 23, 2024, 01:47:31 PM
Absolutely no chance it was above 42k.Somebody on Twitter is claiming that the attendance for Wolves was 39Kish. If true, for a Saturday 3pm kick off that's not televised, that's woeful.
That AV Updates? Not the most reliable. MoTD had attendance as well over 42k.
Not unless he managed to squeeze in the mythical 3k extra seats Heck reckons we could install in the current layout.
What else is remarkable is that it looks like there are still at least a few hundred tickets available for Bayern across corporate and GA+. Now I thought our capacity was reduced for CL games due to the UEFA hoardings blocking the first couple of rows (capacity in the Confrence League last year was about 41k). Effectively, he has managed to take what for a whole host of reasons is possibly the most attractive fixture we have had in nearly 50 years and failed to sell it out at first time of asking even at a lower capacity than we have for regular league matches. It's not a great look.
Post by: dalians umbrella on September 23, 2024, 01:55:01 PM
https://x.com/avfcry/status/1837491361974526266?s=12 (https://x.com/avfcry/status/1837491361974526266?s=12)
Post by: Villan82 on September 23, 2024, 01:59:30 PM
He won't realise Chicago. if we have learned anything about this man it's that he does it his way, he doesn't pass any heed to how much of a shitshow his way causes and then he materialises when things settle down to bizarrely claim credit for things more to do with the wider context of our improved form since Emery arrived.Totally agree mate.
And another point, surely the renovated shop was a waste of time if Heck's agenda is driving attendances down?
It's been one heck (!) of a clusterfuck under this man.
As someone said, wait for his next VT folksy American interview where he will completely ignore all the shit he has created and pump his condescending self promoting story line.
Indeed mate. At one point during the summer I muted the club socials because I was so fed up of Heck
Let's hope his reign is short lived.
Post by: VillaTim on September 23, 2024, 02:04:30 PM
why would MOTD know the attendanceSomebody on Twitter is claiming that the attendance for Wolves was 39Kish. If true, for a Saturday 3pm kick off that's not televised, that's woeful.
That AV Updates? Not the most reliable. MoTD had attendance as well over 42k.
Post by: Hookeysmith on September 23, 2024, 02:35:17 PM
Post by: Villan82 on September 23, 2024, 02:39:01 PM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 23, 2024, 03:05:56 PM
It's not rocket science. People are more likely to fork out big money on a GA+ 'experience' if it is inside a shiny new spacious structure built for that purpose than they are when it is inside a part of a stand they have been in on and off for 20 years before it got rebranded as a GA+ experienceFor a non London team, who haven't won anything for years, our ticket prices are very high now. GA+ would sell if the food offering was much improved and the pricing reduced. Who wants 7/8 pints of lager to watch the game, I don't get it? Why offer the same food in GA+ that we can all buy outside the stadium from a greasy van.
Post by: Risso on September 23, 2024, 03:11:21 PM
It's not rocket science. People are more likely to fork out big money on a GA+ 'experience' if it is inside a shiny new spacious structure built for that purpose than they are when it is inside a part of a stand they have been in on and off for 20 years before it got rebranded as a GA+ experienceFor a non London team, who haven't won anything for years, our ticket prices are very high now. GA+ would sell if the food offering was much improved and the pricing reduced. Who wants 7/8 pints of lager to watch the game, I don't get it? Why offer the same food in GA+ that we can all buy outside the stadium from a greasy van.
And at least the food from the burger vans is freshly cooked, and not a burger that's been sat covered in foil, on a warming shelf, sweating like John McGinn in a Castore shirt.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 23, 2024, 03:13:21 PM
Post by: London Villan on September 23, 2024, 03:30:06 PM
Post by: Dogtanian on September 23, 2024, 03:33:58 PM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 23, 2024, 03:37:09 PM
Post by: AV82EC on September 23, 2024, 03:39:50 PM
I don't think anyone's expecting Masterchef, but an offering to reflect 2024 cuisine that doesn’t focus on bread rolls and chips would be a start.
With your username I can’t believe you’re moaning about bread rolls and chips.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 23, 2024, 03:47:38 PM
True lol, ..I just don't want to pay £125+ for my Butty thoughI don't think anyone's expecting Masterchef, but an offering to reflect 2024 cuisine that doesn’t focus on bread rolls and chips would be a start.
With your username I can’t believe you’re moaning about bread rolls and chips.
Post by: VillaTim on September 23, 2024, 03:56:08 PM
I don't think anyone's expecting Masterchef, but an offering to reflect 2024 cuisine that doesn’t focus on bread rolls and chips would be a start.Even the food in corporate is garbage , you can better in Wetherspoons and it comes with a free pint that isn't Carling .
Post by: AV82EC on September 23, 2024, 04:08:46 PM
True lol, ..I just don't want to pay £125+ for my Butty thoughI don't think anyone's expecting Masterchef, but an offering to reflect 2024 cuisine that doesn’t focus on bread rolls and chips would be a start.
With your username I can’t believe you’re moaning about bread rolls and chips.
Is a very fair comment.
Post by: Risso on September 23, 2024, 04:21:20 PM
I don't think anyone's expecting Masterchef, but an offering to reflect 2024 cuisine that doesn’t focus on bread rolls and chips would be a start.Even the food in corporate is garbage , you can better in Wetherspoons and it comes with a free pint that isn't Carling .
It used to be very good in full hospitality (ie not GA+).
Post by: The Edge on September 23, 2024, 04:47:51 PM
The food in the McGregor has always been top notch imo.The beer in the old Holte Suite was putrid. Haven't been in there since it became GA+I don't think anyone's expecting Masterchef, but an offering to reflect 2024 cuisine that doesn’t focus on bread rolls and chips would be a start.Even the food in corporate is garbage , you can better in Wetherspoons and it comes with a free pint that isn't Carling .
It used to be very good in full hospitality (ie not GA+).
Post by: London Villan on September 23, 2024, 04:52:04 PM
I don't think anyone's expecting Masterchef, but an offering to reflect 2024 cuisine that doesn’t focus on bread rolls and chips would be a start.Even the food in corporate is garbage , you can better in Wetherspoons and it comes with a free pint that isn't Carling .
It used to be very good in full hospitality (ie not GA+).
Agreed - the handful of times I've done proper hospitality it's always been very good. But I can't imagine the Holte Suites re-incarnation is any better than the crap I had served to me in the Holte Hotel.
The margins on it must be massive.
Post by: VillaTim on September 23, 2024, 05:33:03 PM
is that the 1982 lounge ? the food is definitely not "top notch" , pub food at best , ridiculously overpriced for what you get . The beer isn't the best either , flat , not sure they clean the lines properly in there and in football grounds generallyThe food in the McGregor has always been top notch imo.The beer in the old Holte Suite was putrid. Haven't been in there since it became GA+I don't think anyone's expecting Masterchef, but an offering to reflect 2024 cuisine that doesn’t focus on bread rolls and chips would be a start.Even the food in corporate is garbage , you can better in Wetherspoons and it comes with a free pint that isn't Carling .
It used to be very good in full hospitality (ie not GA+).
Post by: andrew08 on September 23, 2024, 05:54:20 PM
Post by: astonvilla82 on September 23, 2024, 05:58:29 PM
Post by: cdbearsfan on September 23, 2024, 06:01:38 PM
Post by: VillaTim on September 23, 2024, 06:03:37 PM
No, Lee Preece has.Jesus, he was one of the good guys
Post by: astonvilla82 on September 23, 2024, 06:05:02 PM
No, Lee Preece has.Okay,son messaged me said bloke everyone complaining about left,had my hopes up
Post by: Brazilian Villain on September 23, 2024, 06:05:22 PM
No, Lee Preece has.
Jesus, he was one of the good guys
Can't blame him really with all the emails he's received in the last few weeks, and that was just from H&V.
Post by: Gareth on September 23, 2024, 06:34:39 PM
No, Lee Preece has.
Pleased for him if he’s found another role…no one wants to spend their whole day answering complaints about their utter c bomb of a boss. Soul destroying I can imagine after the Arsenal game
Post by: VillaTim on September 23, 2024, 06:36:02 PM
100% this , shame though i think he's been at Villa a long time .No, Lee Preece has.
Pleased for him if he’s found another role…no one wants to spend their whole day answering complaints about their utter c bomb of a boss. Soul destroying I can imagine after the Arsenal game
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 23, 2024, 06:37:04 PM
Makes you wonder what team morale is in there. Poor chap taking ownership of all the cock ups to some degree because he actually cares, obviously tipped him over the edge if true.No, Lee Preece has.Jesus, he was one of the good guys
Post by: Villan82 on September 23, 2024, 06:41:12 PM
Makes you wonder what team morale is in there. Poor chap taking ownership of all the cock ups to some degree because he actually cares, obviously tipped him over the edge if true.No, Lee Preece has.Jesus, he was one of the good guys
That statement earlier this year, purportedly from demoralised staff? Why was that not taken more seriously? From what I remember social media sort of dismissed it out of hand. To me it seemed like something very elaborate and too detailed to be a total hoax. And quite revealing of how society tends to react to whistle blowing.
Post by: dalians umbrella on September 23, 2024, 06:56:22 PM
Makes you wonder what team morale is in there. Poor chap taking ownership of all the cock ups to some degree because he actually cares, obviously tipped him over the edge if true.No, Lee Preece has.Jesus, he was one of the good guys
That statement earlier this year, purportedly from demoralised staff? Why was that not taken more seriously? From what I remember social media sort of dismissed it out of hand. To me it seemed like something very elaborate and too detailed to be a total hoax. And quite revealing of how society tends to react to whistle blowing.
I’m not sure if it is how society reacts to whistleblowers, but it is definitely how football fans react to whistleblowing at their club when things are going well on the pitch. The whistleblowers are usually viewed as disgruntled people who were holding things back or doing things wrong and quickly forgotten.
Post by: Richard E on September 23, 2024, 07:00:56 PM
Post by: john e on September 23, 2024, 07:08:25 PM
Post by: VillaTim on September 23, 2024, 07:09:27 PM
Post by: FrankyH on September 23, 2024, 07:09:52 PM
100% this , shame though i think he's been at Villa a long time .No, Lee Preece has.
Pleased for him if he’s found another role…no one wants to spend their whole day answering complaints about their utter c bomb of a boss. Soul destroying I can imagine after the Arsenal game
35 years . I have worked for Lee in the past ( Match days) . I can confirm he is a really professional guy . The club will have a big job replacing him with someone of the same calibre.
Post by: SaddVillan on September 23, 2024, 07:23:50 PM
Can't keep it up forever.
Post by: BC54 VFC on September 23, 2024, 08:34:41 PM
No, Lee Preece has.That's really sad to hear. He responded by email to a complaint of mine a couple of weeks ago and was as professional as ever. I made a point of going back to him and thanking him, saying 'keep up the good work', for which he expressed gratitude. The Club simply cannot afford to be losing long-serving staff of the calibre of Lee Preece.
Post by: BC54 VFC on September 23, 2024, 08:37:48 PM
I posted my above response before seeing yours; the fact that we have both used the words professional and calibre speaks volumes.100% this , shame though i think he's been at Villa a long time .No, Lee Preece has.
Pleased for him if he’s found another role…no one wants to spend their whole day answering complaints about their utter c bomb of a boss. Soul destroying I can imagine after the Arsenal game
35 years . I have worked for Lee in the past ( Match days) . I can confirm he is a really professional guy . The club will have a big job replacing him with someone of the same calibre.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 23, 2024, 08:58:35 PM
When you think of all the daft threads that get started lately...
Anyway thanks Lee, all the best for the future
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 23, 2024, 09:02:33 PM
Post by: CLEEVE on September 23, 2024, 09:06:30 PM
Post by: HolteL4 on September 23, 2024, 09:08:08 PM
Post by: PeterWithe on September 23, 2024, 09:11:12 PM
Surprised it hasn't got it's own thread judging by the respect shown on here for his service over the years.
When you think of all the daft threads that get started lately...
Anyway thanks Lee, all the best for the future
Anyone who wishes can start a thread?
Sad to see Lee Preece go, must have been a tough couple of weeks. I look forward to the H&V exclusive scoop with him.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 23, 2024, 09:20:23 PM
It was a nod to Footy actually, perhaps he's still in the Israel/Palestine chat?Surprised it hasn't got it's own thread judging by the respect shown on here for his service over the years.
When you think of all the daft threads that get started lately...
Anyway thanks Lee, all the best for the future
Anyone who wishes can start a thread?
Sad to see Lee Preece go, must have been a tough couple of weeks. I look forward to the H&V exclusive scoop with him.
Hopefully Lee is allowed to pass on his insight as to what is going on behind the scenes.
Post by: Des Little on September 23, 2024, 09:20:32 PM
Post by: London Villan on September 23, 2024, 09:26:26 PM
Post by: VillaTim on September 23, 2024, 09:43:03 PM
Where is confirmation of this ? I actually had an email response from lee this afternoon stating that my complaint had been logged?Yeah , said earlier , where is this news coming from ? Maybe wait for any official news. Hope he's ok mostly , wankers like Heck should not be forcing employees out who have dedicated their lives to the club.
Post by: astonvilla82 on September 23, 2024, 09:43:39 PM
Just wondering about the Holte Suite, and I really can’t see how anyone can look at the opportunity it had to generate real revenue, by getting staffed and run properly, and not doing so. Especially with the Witton Arms down the road packing them in pre and post match. You can’t tell me that the Holte Suite takes more money on a match day than the Witton Arms does?Don't know about before the game or after but enjoyed having a drink there at halftime, trouble is you had to shovel a pint down your neck in about 15 minutes and that's if opened on time and then shouted at by that pain of a steward to get out now or he would put you against a firing squad,( slight exaggeration) and I now refuse to buy any alcohol or food in the ground so lost revenue there
Post by: TonyD on September 23, 2024, 10:44:56 PM
That would explain a lot of empty seats.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on September 23, 2024, 11:06:07 PM
Somebody on Twitter is claiming that the attendance for Wolves was 39Kish. If true, for a Saturday 3pm kick off that's not televised, that's woeful.
That AV Updates? Not the most reliable. MoTD had attendance as well over 42k.
SSN played their clip of the game on Saturday night and the score caption included the attendance as 42,700-ish. Sorry Lou for not remembering exactly.
Post by: VillaTim on September 23, 2024, 11:12:21 PM
I think I read somewhere that across the board they doubled the price of all the hospitality seats this season.Correct , there or thereabouts depending which area you were. I know a few who said adios , and some bit the bullet and coughed up
That would explain a lot of empty seats.
Post by: TonyD on September 23, 2024, 11:26:56 PM
They would have sold it out at last season’s prices.
There is a new place in the Witton Lane called The Aston. Looks nice.
But it is a grand a seat. £1,080 for one game. What the actual fuck. Who is going to pay that?
Post by: Rory on September 24, 2024, 01:04:41 AM
Loads of hospitality left for the Munich game.
They would have sold it out at last season’s prices.
There is a new place in the Witton Lane called The Aston. Looks nice.
But it is a grand a seat. £1,080 for one game. What the actual fuck. Who is going to pay that?
Risso 😉
Post by: purpletrousers on September 24, 2024, 01:36:44 AM
Where is confirmation of this ? I actually had an email response from lee this afternoon stating that my complaint had been logged?
Was thinking the same, we exchanged texts end of Friday:
My haranguing (read very politely following up) where face painters were going to be. as it turned out, they were not going to be anywhere as promised, including to a 3 and 5yo.(Heck out etc).
You may not be surprised my last minute effort against the clock in the car before the schlepp to the ground resulted in tears from my eldest little AV🥲, though my youngest was more accepting.
My Halloween efforts have gone down exceptionally well but a true artist needs time blah blah.
Back to the off topic; Lee indeed appreciated the positive feedback for fielding the recent sh*tshow.
Post by: adrenachrome on September 24, 2024, 01:41:11 AM
Loads of hospitality left for the Munich game.
They would have sold it out at last season’s prices.
There is a new place in the Witton Lane called The Aston. Looks nice.
But it is a grand a seat. £1,080 for one game. What the actual fuck. Who is going to pay that?
Risso 😉
That's a cracker!
Seriously, though, has Heck considered donating these ticket to Labour Party Cabinet members? Rachel Reeves would be up for it, and Jessie Phillips says it fine and dandy. A bit on influence for ground redevelopment issues and suchlike would not go amiss.
Gotta grease dem wheels.
Post by: Risso on September 24, 2024, 09:10:40 AM
Loads of hospitality left for the Munich game.
They would have sold it out at last season’s prices.
There is a new place in the Witton Lane called The Aston. Looks nice.
But it is a grand a seat. £1,080 for one game. What the actual fuck. Who is going to pay that?
Risso 😉
Not guilty your honour! That's what they were trying to charge us, which is more than double for the same thing last year, so they were politely invited to poke it.
Post by: Ads on September 24, 2024, 09:20:50 AM
Post by: Risso on September 24, 2024, 09:28:42 AM
217 hospitality tickets left.
Be interesting to see how many GA+ season tickets are left unsold after the deadline to buy those passes.
Post by: Ads on September 24, 2024, 09:30:19 AM
Post by: Dogtanian on September 24, 2024, 09:31:12 AM
There's definitely something going on, either with people getting their seats held and then declining them, or something to give the illusion there are less available to convince people to buy no or miss out.
Post by: The Edge on September 24, 2024, 10:03:55 AM
Post by: exigo on September 24, 2024, 10:44:42 AM
Where is confirmation of this ? I actually had an email response from lee this afternoon stating that my complaint had been logged?
Was thinking the same, we exchanged texts end of Friday:
My haranguing (read very politely following up) where face painters were going to be. as it turned out, they were not going to be anywhere as promised, including to a 3 and 5yo.(Heck out etc).
You may not be surprised my last minute effort against the clock in the car before the schlepp to the ground resulted in tears from my eldest little AV🥲, though my youngest was more accepting.
My Halloween efforts have gone down exceptionally well but a true artist needs time blah blah.
Back to the off topic; Lee indeed appreciated the positive feedback for fielding the recent sh*tshow.
He's leaving some point in November. Would be nice if we could all send him positive emails wishing him well in that time, god knows he's earned it.
Post by: purpletrousers on September 24, 2024, 11:34:17 AM
I’ve really appreciated him.
Post by: exigo on September 24, 2024, 11:37:38 AM
Post by: sid1964 on September 24, 2024, 11:46:16 AM
Post by: chrisw1 on September 24, 2024, 11:55:45 AM
Just completed the questionnaire from the Villa about my match day experience on Saturday - it will be interesting to see what the feedback is from the Villa fans
Other than the lower Holte access, were there any other problems on Saturday? Holte Upper seemed to run as smoothly as any other matchday really. So however I feel about the empty seats, catering and ticket prices etc, I can't say there was anything bad about my experience tbf.
Post by: andyh on September 24, 2024, 12:11:13 PM
DE upper was fine at 2:30 too, although there was a latecomer who said there were queues at 3pm to get inJust completed the questionnaire from the Villa about my match day experience on Saturday - it will be interesting to see what the feedback is from the Villa fans
Other than the lower Holte access, were there any other problems on Saturday? Holte Upper seemed to run as smoothly as any other matchday really. So however I feel about the empty seats, catering and ticket prices etc, I can't say there was anything bad about my experience tbf.
Post by: Bad English on September 24, 2024, 12:12:56 PM
He's confirmed he's here until the end of November.Given the elogious comments on here and elsewhere, he should be on gardening leave s of 01/10/24.
Post by: purpletrousers on September 24, 2024, 12:46:51 PM
Post by: The Edge on September 24, 2024, 01:46:00 PM
eulogious? (Red ink, must do… etc)I had to Google "elogious" lol
Post by: artvandelay on September 24, 2024, 01:54:02 PM
Post by: Toronto Villa on September 24, 2024, 01:57:18 PM
Upper Holte was a nightmare to enter on Saturday. Arriving at 1442 we finally got into the ground at 1501, missing the Gary Shaw tribute
18 minutes before kick off when there have been some known challenges getting in is cutting it very tight.
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on September 24, 2024, 02:01:14 PM
Post by: chrisw1 on September 24, 2024, 02:08:01 PM
Upper Holte was a nightmare to enter on Saturday. Arriving at 1442 we finally got into the ground at 1501, missing the Gary Shaw tributeStrange, left-hand side I was at the steps no earlier than 2.35pm, picked the shortest queue and got in within minutes.
Post by: chrisw1 on September 24, 2024, 02:08:57 PM
Tbf, Art's van was delayed.Upper Holte was a nightmare to enter on Saturday. Arriving at 1442 we finally got into the ground at 1501, missing the Gary Shaw tribute
18 minutes before kick off when there have been some known challenges getting in is cutting it very tight.
Post by: Bully2345 on September 24, 2024, 02:11:46 PM
I don't know why some people are so quick to defend Villa on stuff like this
Post by: Risso on September 24, 2024, 02:19:10 PM
Upper Holte was a nightmare to enter on Saturday. Arriving at 1442 we finally got into the ground at 1501, missing the Gary Shaw tribute
18 minutes before kick off when there have been some known challenges getting in is cutting it very tight.
Not a great reply mate, twenty minutes SHOULD be (and used to be) plenty of time to get in. It's not like the majority of people are getting there at that time, most people are getting there in plenty of time but are still missing bits of the game because the club haven't organised things properly.
Post by: LeeB on September 24, 2024, 02:46:48 PM
Upper Holte was a nightmare to enter on Saturday. Arriving at 1442 we finally got into the ground at 1501, missing the Gary Shaw tribute
18 minutes before kick off when there have been some known challenges getting in is cutting it very tight.
Not a great reply mate, twenty minutes SHOULD be (and used to be) plenty of time to get in. It's not like the majority of people are getting there at that time, most people are getting there in plenty of time but are still missing bits of the game because the club haven't organised things properly.
You've got to laugh, for probably 20 years I D have considered getting to the ground more than 5 mins before kick off extremely uncool, and time wasted that could've have been spent in the pub.
Post by: Villan82 on September 24, 2024, 02:51:49 PM
I've seen people on social media be told to get there earlier but if Tesco put in a new till that made the queues three times as long with the same customer behaviours, it wouldn't be acceptable for Tesco to say "just allow more time for your shopping then".
I don't know why some people are so quick to defend Villa on stuff like this
Indeed, it is like they think being a fan means Villa can never be wrong
Post by: artvandelay on September 24, 2024, 03:15:33 PM
No it's not, I've been going into that turnstile every game for 25 years, with certain exceptions 5 minutes has historically been enough time. In any case, how insensitive to comment on someone's timekeeping when you don't know the circumstances that caused the timing, in my case it was a family bereavement. Easy to comment from afar I suppose.Upper Holte was a nightmare to enter on Saturday. Arriving at 1442 we finally got into the ground at 1501, missing the Gary Shaw tribute
18 minutes before kick off when there have been some known challenges getting in is cutting it very tight.
Post by: Paul.S on September 24, 2024, 03:53:48 PM
Upper Holte was a nightmare to enter on Saturday. Arriving at 1442 we finally got into the ground at 1501, missing the Gary Shaw tribute
18 minutes before kick off when there have been some known challenges getting in is cutting it very tight.
Not a great reply mate, twenty minutes SHOULD be (and used to be) plenty of time to get in. It's not like the majority of people are getting there at that time, most people are getting there in plenty of time but are still missing bits of the game because the club haven't organised things properly.
I gave myself half an hour at the Arsenal and Everton games and still missed the kick off. I still waited 15 minutes on Saturday which was lucky as the queues had doubled 5 minutes after I had got there. The queues don’t move quickly enough so I’m thinking how early do I have to get there for the Bayern game?
Post by: Drummond on September 24, 2024, 04:15:49 PM
I've seen people on social media be told to get there earlier but if Tesco put in a new till that made the queues three times as long with the same customer behaviours, it wouldn't be acceptable for Tesco to say "just allow more time for your shopping then".
I don't know why some people are so quick to defend Villa on stuff like this
Indeed, it is like they think being a fan means Villa can never be wrong
And yet there are others who criticise at every turn, as if that's their raison d'etre.
Balance is needed, praise and criticism where it's due. And given this is a discussion forum, it's good to have opposing views, unless of course you don't agree with mine.
Post by: Risso on September 24, 2024, 04:24:03 PM
Post by: Villan82 on September 24, 2024, 04:24:35 PM
Post by: Drummond on September 24, 2024, 05:00:30 PM
But queues at the turnstiles aren't remotely defensible, and nor is the attitude of "well get there earlier then."
People should get there, have a fucking think about how the ticket works beforehand and be ready.
It's the equivalent of being in a supermarket and the person in front starts scrabbling around in their handbag looking for the exact change, or the person at the ATM who checks their balance, checks their balance on another card, goes back to the first card and fucks about holding everyone else up.
This will all be forgotten soon enough when people learn how to do it. We're not the only club doing it this way, and surely it's not much to ask people to be prepared?
I've used contactless tickets at Villa for years and not been held up, tap and go. It's the way the world is going.
What the club should have done of course, is help everyone, have stewards checking phones were ready before people got to the turnstile and sorted it. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to work that out. The club fucked it up.
Post by: Toronto Villa on September 24, 2024, 05:33:35 PM
Upper Holte was a nightmare to enter on Saturday. Arriving at 1442 we finally got into the ground at 1501, missing the Gary Shaw tribute
18 minutes before kick off when there have been some known challenges getting in is cutting it very tight.
Not a great reply mate, twenty minutes SHOULD be (and used to be) plenty of time to get in. It's not like the majority of people are getting there at that time, most people are getting there in plenty of time but are still missing bits of the game because the club haven't organised things properly.
I get that. But it’s not like it used to be. I’m not excusing what’s happening and it should be better. The club have to fix it. But given that it’s not perfect I’d be giving myself more time. I understand people have a routine and they like to stick to that. And even in a perfect situation shit can still go wrong.
Post by: London Villan on September 24, 2024, 05:44:01 PM
Post by: Risso on September 24, 2024, 05:54:32 PM
I get that. But it’s not like it used to be. I’m not excusing what’s happening and it should be better. The club have to fix it. But given that it’s not perfect I’d be giving myself more time. I understand people have a routine and they like to stick to that. And even in a perfect situation shit can still go wrong.
Or people have jobs and family commitments that mean they can't get there earlier just because the club can't implement things properly.
Post by: HolteL4 on September 24, 2024, 05:56:07 PM
But queues at the turnstiles aren't remotely defensible, and nor is the attitude of "well get there earlier then."
People should get there, have a fucking think about how the ticket works beforehand and be ready.
It's the equivalent of being in a supermarket and the person in front starts scrabbling around in their handbag looking for the exact change, or the person at the ATM who checks their balance, checks their balance on another card, goes back to the first card and fucks about holding everyone else up.
This will all be forgotten soon enough when people learn how to do it. We're not the only club doing it this way, and surely it's not much to ask people to be prepared?
I've used contactless tickets at Villa for years and not been held up, tap and go. It's the way the world is going.
What the club should have done of course, is help everyone, have stewards checking phones were ready before people got to the turnstile and sorted it. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to work that out. The club fucked it up.
If it was that simple, I have IT qualifications so I have no problem with getting my phone ready to go through the turnstiles as I did with 0 problems at the Everton match but when I did the exact same thing against Wolves it took 3 attempts. In my opinion this isn't a user error this is quite clearly a rubbish system that Villa are using.
Post by: amfy on September 24, 2024, 06:02:27 PM
But queues at the turnstiles aren't remotely defensible, and nor is the attitude of "well get there earlier then."
People should get there, have a fucking think about how the ticket works beforehand and be ready.
It's the equivalent of being in a supermarket and the person in front starts scrabbling around in their handbag looking for the exact change, or the person at the ATM who checks their balance, checks their balance on another card, goes back to the first card and fucks about holding everyone else up.
This will all be forgotten soon enough when people learn how to do it. We're not the only club doing it this way, and surely it's not much to ask people to be prepared?
I've used contactless tickets at Villa for years and not been held up, tap and go. It's the way the world is going.
What the club should have done of course, is help everyone, have stewards checking phones were ready before people got to the turnstile and sorted it. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to work that out. The club fucked it up.
Never had any issues last season Drummond, but this season it is different. It’s a large screen and there seems to be a slightly different knack for each type of phone. The instruction for mine is to hold it up & tap the top of my phone screen, but that just makes my season ticket disappear from the screen. I think mine works best held near the top of the screen, but that’s not the same for everyone. The stewards are just saying ‘try this, ok, try that, ok, turn it round, move it up a. It, move it down a bit’. No one knows, it’s not just a case of people not being ready.
Post by: dekko on September 24, 2024, 06:16:45 PM
Arsenal - tried the NFC method (tap the phone against the top) and no response. Opened up the QR code and got in using that.
Everton - tried NFC - got the green lights that should indicate it worked, turnstile wouldn't budge. Tried again and this time got a red light. Opened up the QR code and got in using that.
Wolves - NFC method worked first time.
There's clearly some kind of inconsistency or issue with the technology or how its been employed. Even though it eventually worked each time it was taking me a hell of a lot longer than tapping the physical ticket ever did - multiply that extra time by several thousand for everyone else trying to get in and its no surprise that there are crazy queues.
Post by: London Villan on September 24, 2024, 06:20:27 PM
Post by: chrisw1 on September 24, 2024, 07:54:02 PM
Yes but there's clearly a specific problem with the Holte Lower as the queues there seem to be far worse than everywhere else. As I mentioned I got pretty much straight in the upper at 2.35 whereas the queues for the lower at that time were reaching the car parkBut queues at the turnstiles aren't remotely defensible, and nor is the attitude of "well get there earlier then."
People should get there, have a fucking think about how the ticket works beforehand and be ready.
It's the equivalent of being in a supermarket and the person in front starts scrabbling around in their handbag looking for the exact change, or the person at the ATM who checks their balance, checks their balance on another card, goes back to the first card and fucks about holding everyone else up.
This will all be forgotten soon enough when people learn how to do it. We're not the only club doing it this way, and surely it's not much to ask people to be prepared?
I've used contactless tickets at Villa for years and not been held up, tap and go. It's the way the world is going.
What the club should have done of course, is help everyone, have stewards checking phones were ready before people got to the turnstile and sorted it. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to work that out. The club fucked it up.
.
Post by: astonvilla82 on September 24, 2024, 08:14:15 PM
Steward did say people had issues with the digital ticket and were sent to the ticket office and came back with a printed ticket and it still didn't work,I only used the OR code on the phone and no problemBut queues at the turnstiles aren't remotely defensible, and nor is the attitude of "well get there earlier then."
People should get there, have a fucking think about how the ticket works beforehand and be ready.
It's the equivalent of being in a supermarket and the person in front starts scrabbling around in their handbag looking for the exact change, or the person at the ATM who checks their balance, checks their balance on another card, goes back to the first card and fucks about holding everyone else up.
This will all be forgotten soon enough when people learn how to do it. We're not the only club doing it this way, and surely it's not much to ask people to be prepared?
I've used contactless tickets at Villa for years and not been held up, tap and go. It's the way the world is going.
What the club should have done of course, is help everyone, have stewards checking phones were ready before people got to the turnstile and sorted it. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to work that out. The club fucked it up.
Post by: The Edge on September 24, 2024, 08:26:25 PM
The queues for the North Stand have stretched half way across the car park 15 minutes before kick off for EvertonYes but there's clearly a specific problem with the Holte Lower as the queues there seem to be far worse than everywhere else. As I mentioned I got pretty much straight in the upper at 2.35 whereas the queues for the lower at that time were reaching the car parkBut queues at the turnstiles aren't remotely defensible, and nor is the attitude of "well get there earlier then."
People should get there, have a fucking think about how the ticket works beforehand and be ready.
It's the equivalent of being in a supermarket and the person in front starts scrabbling around in their handbag looking for the exact change, or the person at the ATM who checks their balance, checks their balance on another card, goes back to the first card and fucks about holding everyone else up.
This will all be forgotten soon enough when people learn how to do it. We're not the only club doing it this way, and surely it's not much to ask people to be prepared?
I've used contactless tickets at Villa for years and not been held up, tap and go. It's the way the world is going.
What the club should have done of course, is help everyone, have stewards checking phones were ready before people got to the turnstile and sorted it. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to work that out. The club fucked it up.
.
and Wolves.
Post by: CLEEVE on September 24, 2024, 11:26:41 PM
Post by: Louzie0 on September 24, 2024, 11:37:27 PM
Somebody on Twitter is claiming that the attendance for Wolves was 39Kish. If true, for a Saturday 3pm kick off that's not televised, that's woeful.
That AV Updates? Not the most reliable. MoTD had attendance as well over 42k.
SSN played their clip of the game on Saturday night and the score caption included the attendance as 42,700-ish. Sorry Lou for not remembering exactly.
Thanks Percy, Risso. That’s very interesting, as the Beeb has put out 39,978 as their official figure, sometime today!
Appreciate the comment re MOTD as well, DB 👍
Post by: Risso on September 24, 2024, 11:38:55 PM
Post by: FrankyH on September 24, 2024, 11:48:12 PM
39,978 is on a few pages now. That is dreadful, frankly.
Yep , and that lies at the door of one employee of Aston Villa Football Club.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 24, 2024, 11:49:32 PM
Post by: Risso on September 24, 2024, 11:53:11 PM
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on September 24, 2024, 11:55:21 PM
Post by: Brend'Watkins on September 24, 2024, 11:56:58 PM
39,978 is on a few pages now. That is dreadful, frankly.
Yep , and that lies at the door of one employee of Aston Villa Football Club.
On the face of it yes. Heck will be looking at gate receipts and all the add ons to determine if it’s that bad. Assume it’s a loss of £100k on gate receipts alone, will the hospitality packages make up the shortfall?
Post by: Dogtanian on September 25, 2024, 12:15:36 AM
But queues at the turnstiles aren't remotely defensible, and nor is the attitude of "well get there earlier then."
People should get there, have a fucking think about how the ticket works beforehand and be ready.
It's the equivalent of being in a supermarket and the person in front starts scrabbling around in their handbag looking for the exact change, or the person at the ATM who checks their balance, checks their balance on another card, goes back to the first card and fucks about holding everyone else up.
This will all be forgotten soon enough when people learn how to do it. We're not the only club doing it this way, and surely it's not much to ask people to be prepared?
I've used contactless tickets at Villa for years and not been held up, tap and go. It's the way the world is going.
What the club should have done of course, is help everyone, have stewards checking phones were ready before people got to the turnstile and sorted it. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to work that out. The club fucked it up.
If it was that simple, I have IT qualifications so I have no problem with getting my phone ready to go through the turnstiles as I did with 0 problems at the Everton match but when I did the exact same thing against Wolves it took 3 attempts. In my opinion this isn't a user error this is quite clearly a rubbish system that Villa are using.
Pretty sure your IT qualifications will swiftly be revoked if your first response isn’t ‘user error’. :P
Post by: artvandelay on September 25, 2024, 02:22:06 AM
Post by: Toronto Villa on September 25, 2024, 03:59:59 AM
You clearly chosen to live in Canada and don’t bother going to games. You’ve insulted me because my grandma had the audacity to die, what else would you like to work perfectly? Any apology?
I didn’t know where to start with that. I’m sorry your grandma died. You didn’t give the impression you still went to the game and arrived when you did because of a family tragedy. As for me living in Canada. Well yeh I do. What that has to do with anything I have no idea.
Post by: Risso on September 25, 2024, 07:48:44 AM
Post by: London Villan on September 25, 2024, 08:04:53 AM
The problems at Villa Park this season have been when the weather is good too - imagine standing outside for 40 minutes in the freezing rain - hardly ideal for younger and older fans, even more so when the previous system worked efficiently.
It's another backward step by the club.
Post by: dave.woodhall on September 25, 2024, 08:14:25 AM
Post by: PeterWithe on September 25, 2024, 08:17:52 AM
Post by: Nev on September 25, 2024, 08:40:57 AM
As for arriving early, the concourse in the UH is particularly inhospitable. Always freezing in the winter and that's before you mention the poor catering so I'm happy to spend the least amount of time there as possible. The Fan Zone(s) just don't appeal so I'll stay in the pub. Which is precisely why the club don't want me. My commitment to a ST is not nearly enough and eventually I'll stop going and they can charge someone three times the price for my seat, the problem with that is the lack of market which we are seeing now.....Birmingham, and in particular, Aston is not London however well we do on the pitch.
Post by: Dogtanian on September 25, 2024, 08:41:32 AM
Post by: LeeB on September 25, 2024, 09:07:42 AM
The queues stuff will ease in a few games, what wont get better is the feeling that once again, the club have introduced this to take something away from us. The ability to pass on tix easily if we cant go.
To he fair to the club I believe this is mandated across the whole league, fir reasons that are unclear.
Post by: olaftab on September 25, 2024, 09:21:16 AM
Obviously not as almost all the 2000+ plus empty seats were GA+ set-aside seats. Hospitality packages are not selling.On the face of it yes. Heck will be looking at gate receipts and all the add ons to determine if it’s that bad. Assume it’s a loss of £100k on gate receipts alone, will the hospitality packages make up the shortfall?39,978 is on a few pages now. That is dreadful, frankly.Yep , and that lies at the door of one employee of Aston Villa Football Club.
Post by: Ads on September 25, 2024, 09:25:52 AM
Post by: Des Little on September 25, 2024, 10:08:39 AM
Post by: amfy on September 25, 2024, 10:20:37 AM
Without getting too forensic about this, but wasn't one of the contributing factors to Hillsborough a lack of capacity at the turnstiles which caused a dangerous build-up of fans outside the stadium. Fast forward to the Champions League final a couple of years ago when Liverpool fans again had issues with the capacity of turnstiles.
The problems at Villa Park this season have been when the weather is good too - imagine standing outside for 40 minutes in the freezing rain - hardly ideal for younger and older fans, even more so when the previous system worked efficiently.
It's another backward step by the club.
When I was outside after 3pm people were shouting ‘Just open the gates!’ ….everyone saying amongst themselves ‘it’s not as if we’d be stood here for this long without tickets..’
I know the whole set up of the Holte End is different to Hillsborough, but I found it chilling tbh.
Post by: London Villan on September 25, 2024, 10:31:20 AM
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on September 25, 2024, 10:39:13 AM
I don't think people would be quite so patient if it hammering down with rain or freezing cold.
Or if an early goal was scored while people were stuck outside.
Post by: LeeB on September 25, 2024, 10:43:32 AM
Post by: Gareth on September 25, 2024, 10:46:48 AM
Without getting too forensic about this, but wasn't one of the contributing factors to Hillsborough a lack of capacity at the turnstiles which caused a dangerous build-up of fans outside the stadium. Fast forward to the Champions League final a couple of years ago when Liverpool fans again had issues with the capacity of turnstiles.
The problems at Villa Park this season have been when the weather is good too - imagine standing outside for 40 minutes in the freezing rain - hardly ideal for younger and older fans, even more so when the previous system worked efficiently.
It's another backward step by the club.
When I was outside after 3pm people were shouting ‘Just open the gates!’ ….everyone saying amongst themselves ‘it’s not as if we’d be stood here for this long without tickets..’
I know the whole set up of the Holte End is different to Hillsborough, but I found it chilling tbh.
At the Arsenal game whilst we were waiting outside I was saying to those around me to brace themselves if that walk on music booms out because there could be a surge from behind as one of two pissed people were already jostling trying to get through the queues….it was potentially very dangerous
Post by: Stinkin_Thinkin on September 25, 2024, 10:55:16 AM
Post by: PeterWithe on September 25, 2024, 10:58:19 AM
The queues stuff will ease in a few games, what wont get better is the feeling that once again, the club have introduced this to take something away from us. The ability to pass on tix easily if we cant go.
To he fair to the club I believe this is mandated across the whole league, fir reasons that are unclear.
You are right, all clubs have committed to this within 2 years. But the reasons are perfectly clear, none of the clubs want me to be able to pass my ticket to you to use for nothing if I cant go. They want you to pay £150 for my ticket from them, and they'll throw in a cheese roll.
Post by: LeeB on September 25, 2024, 11:02:35 AM
The queues stuff will ease in a few games, what wont get better is the feeling that once again, the club have introduced this to take something away from us. The ability to pass on tix easily if we cant go.
To he fair to the club I believe this is mandated across the whole league, fir reasons that are unclear.
You are right, all clubs have committed to this within 2 years. But the reasons are perfectly clear, none of the clubs want me to be able to pass my ticket to you to use for nothing if I cant go. They want you to pay £150 for my ticket from them, and they'll throw in a cheese roll.
Yes sorry of course the reasons are clear, I meant I haven't seen any weak-as-piss excuse rolled out to justify it.
Post by: PeterWithe on September 25, 2024, 11:16:35 AM
The queues stuff will ease in a few games, what wont get better is the feeling that once again, the club have introduced this to take something away from us. The ability to pass on tix easily if we cant go.
To he fair to the club I believe this is mandated across the whole league, fir reasons that are unclear.
You are right, all clubs have committed to this within 2 years. But the reasons are perfectly clear, none of the clubs want me to be able to pass my ticket to you to use for nothing if I cant go. They want you to pay £150 for my ticket from them, and they'll throw in a cheese roll.
Yes sorry of course the reasons are clear, I meant I haven't seen any weak-as-piss excuse rolled out to justify it.
Progress innit.
'People fascinated by the idea of progress never suspect that every step forward is also a step on the way to the end'
Post by: LeeB on September 25, 2024, 11:18:25 AM
Post by: dekko on September 25, 2024, 11:22:17 AM
I have a sneaking suspision the main cause of the queue is operator error...nfc is disabled or something like that. Blokes of a certain age use a phone as a phone with a bit of perving at naked women thrown in. Unless you've been to stadium concerts nfc is something people turn off to preserve battery life, like bluetoof and all the other bullshit running in the background.
I'm pretty good with technology (its my day job) and I had no idea until just before the 2nd game that with my phone you've actually gotta go into the settings and turn NFC on manually.
Still had problems with the turnstile itself mind (it accepted the ticket but then the gate wouldnt open etc).
Post by: Duncan Shaw on September 25, 2024, 11:28:11 AM
Having empty seats in the stands when we are performing as we are on the pitch is, quite frankly, unforgiveable - whichever way you look at it. Denying fans the opportunity to support the team purely at the altar of greed is not a good look at all.This is the post that has hit the nail on the head for me. Should be shared wide and far.
Post by: CLEEVE on September 25, 2024, 11:37:44 AM
Something needs to change
Post by: Ads on September 25, 2024, 11:40:11 AM
I've yet to attend anywhere, football or otherwise where NFC/QR code access doesn't increase queue time.
Post by: LeeB on September 25, 2024, 11:40:49 AM
Heck actually posted a picture of the current north stand once the Adidas logo was added (with seats that are cutting people) and put 'progress' if he thinks this is progress then we are in the shit .
Something needs to change
Yeah, 'progress' is my seat now being wedged in just under the roof in the North Stand on the bit where I used to put my coat and any drinks previously.
Post by: Drummond on September 25, 2024, 12:12:50 PM
Heck actually posted a picture of the current north stand once the Adidas logo was added (with seats that are cutting people) and put 'progress' if he thinks this is progress then we are in the shit .
Something needs to change
Yeah, 'progress' is my seat now being wedged in just under the roof in the North Stand on the bit where I used to put my coat and any drinks previously.
Fuckers. Imagine having to hold your own coat. We're going to the dogs (if not the bogs) I tell you.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on September 25, 2024, 12:15:54 PM
Heck actually posted a picture of the current north stand once the Adidas logo was added (with seats that are cutting people) and put 'progress' if he thinks this is progress then we are in the shit .
Something needs to change
Yeah, 'progress' is my seat now being wedged in just under the roof in the North Stand on the bit where I used to put my coat and any drinks previously.
Fuckers. Imagine having to hold your own coat. We're going to the dogs (if not the bogs) I tell you.
Lee likes to have somewhere to put his coat and drinks so he can conspicuously applaud Heck as he makes his way to the Directors' Box.
Post by: LeeB on September 25, 2024, 12:19:48 PM
Post by: Drummond on September 25, 2024, 12:24:28 PM
Post by: Des Little on September 25, 2024, 01:19:31 PM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on September 25, 2024, 02:23:17 PM
Post by: LeeB on September 25, 2024, 02:26:51 PM
And people still have the temerity to complain about our GA+ offerings. https://x.com/Copa90/status/1838930701934067803
Much like many a teacher reading out the register in my youth, they have the 'r' and the 'y' the wrong way around.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on September 25, 2024, 04:45:38 PM
And people still have the temerity to complain about our GA+ offerings. https://x.com/Copa90/status/1838930701934067803
Much like many a teacher reading out the register in my youth, they have the 'r' and the 'y' the wrong way around.
My cousins don't have that issue as they spell it with 'ei' rather than a 'y'.
Post by: eamonn on September 25, 2024, 05:39:36 PM
Post by: Nii Lamptey on September 25, 2024, 06:27:11 PM
Da fuq is nfc ?
'Near field communication' - The tech behind mobile phone contactless payments, etc 🥸
Post by: exigo on September 25, 2024, 07:39:18 PM
The queues stuff will ease in a few games, what wont get better is the feeling that once again, the club have introduced this to take something away from us. The ability to pass on tix easily if we cant go.
To he fair to the club I believe this is mandated across the whole league, fir reasons that are unclear.
You are right, all clubs have committed to this within 2 years. But the reasons are perfectly clear, none of the clubs want me to be able to pass my ticket to you to use for nothing if I cant go. They want you to pay £150 for my ticket from them, and they'll throw in a cheese roll.
I DMed Villa support on Monday morning to do exactly this, and they transferred it inside an hour. No charge. No issue. It was clarified at the start of the season that it was legit to reassign your season ticket for a game you can't make.
Post by: john e on September 25, 2024, 07:45:26 PM
The queues stuff will ease in a few games, what wont get better is the feeling that once again, the club have introduced this to take something away from us. The ability to pass on tix easily if we cant go.
To he fair to the club I believe this is mandated across the whole league, fir reasons that are unclear.
You are right, all clubs have committed to this within 2 years. But the reasons are perfectly clear, none of the clubs want me to be able to pass my ticket to you to use for nothing if I cant go. They want you to pay £150 for my ticket from them, and they'll throw in a cheese roll.
I DMed Villa support on Monday morning to do exactly this, and they transferred it inside an hour. No charge. No issue. It was clarified at the start of the season that it was legit to reassign your season ticket for a game you can't make.
When you say you DM’d them do you mean on X
Did you then sort it all out on X
I’m only asking because I reassigned mine but did it on the phone which took an hour and a half to get through which I’m not doing again
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 25, 2024, 07:48:11 PM
When you say you DM’d them do you mean on X
Did you then sort it all out on X
I’m only asking because I reassigned mine but did it on the phone which took an hour and a half to get through which I’m not doing again
People seem to get decent ticket responses when messaging Villa through this page
https://x.com/AVFCSupport
Post by: spangley1812 on September 25, 2024, 07:55:30 PM
When you say you DM’d them do you mean on X
Did you then sort it all out on X
I’m only asking because I reassigned mine but did it on the phone which took an hour and a half to get through which I’m not doing again
People seem to get decent ticket responses when messaging Villa through this page
https://x.com/AVFCSupport
Yes that works fine but you need to give them your fan ID and the fan ID of the person who you are transferring it to
Post by: London Villan on September 25, 2024, 08:01:22 PM
They don’t make it easy.
Post by: WassallVillain on September 25, 2024, 08:25:38 PM
It’s taken me 7 days of trying and an hour and fifteen minutes on hold today to upgrade a ticket this week. Can’t do it online as you have to pay the difference.I finally got through today. I’ve been trying since Friday and kept getting “we’re too busy go away” message. Tried the ring after 16:30 Approach. 27 in the Queue finally got to an answer in 30 minutes. Excellent operator sorted me with print at home tickets in 2 minutes. Could have moaned but they’ve ground me down to being grateful for a morsel.
They don’t make it easy.
Post by: exigo on September 25, 2024, 10:04:30 PM
The queues stuff will ease in a few games, what wont get better is the feeling that once again, the club have introduced this to take something away from us. The ability to pass on tix easily if we cant go.
To he fair to the club I believe this is mandated across the whole league, fir reasons that are unclear.
You are right, all clubs have committed to this within 2 years. But the reasons are perfectly clear, none of the clubs want me to be able to pass my ticket to you to use for nothing if I cant go. They want you to pay £150 for my ticket from them, and they'll throw in a cheese roll.
I DMed Villa support on Monday morning to do exactly this, and they transferred it inside an hour. No charge. No issue. It was clarified at the start of the season that it was legit to reassign your season ticket for a game you can't make.
When you say you DM’d them do you mean on X
Did you then sort it all out on X
I’m only asking because I reassigned mine but did it on the phone which took an hour and a half to get through which I’m not doing again
Yep, it's one of the few reasons to stay on whatever twitter is called.
Post by: PeterWithe on September 26, 2024, 07:17:29 AM
The queues stuff will ease in a few games, what wont get better is the feeling that once again, the club have introduced this to take something away from us. The ability to pass on tix easily if we cant go.
To he fair to the club I believe this is mandated across the whole league, fir reasons that are unclear.
You are right, all clubs have committed to this within 2 years. But the reasons are perfectly clear, none of the clubs want me to be able to pass my ticket to you to use for nothing if I cant go. They want you to pay £150 for my ticket from them, and they'll throw in a cheese roll.
I DMed Villa support on Monday morning to do exactly this, and they transferred it inside an hour. No charge. No issue. It was clarified at the start of the season that it was legit to reassign your season ticket for a game you can't make.
Well, speaking as you find, I got not response on Twitter when trying to reassign the Arsenal game, then a long wait on the phone to be put through, then a very frustrating conversation which still ended without what I wanted. Simply passing a plastic card was far too simple and easy it seems. But keeping the punters happy no longer seems a priority.
Post by: john e on September 26, 2024, 09:26:02 AM
The queues stuff will ease in a few games, what wont get better is the feeling that once again, the club have introduced this to take something away from us. The ability to pass on tix easily if we cant go.
To he fair to the club I believe this is mandated across the whole league, fir reasons that are unclear.
You are right, all clubs have committed to this within 2 years. But the reasons are perfectly clear, none of the clubs want me to be able to pass my ticket to you to use for nothing if I cant go. They want you to pay £150 for my ticket from them, and they'll throw in a cheese roll.
I DMed Villa support on Monday morning to do exactly this, and they transferred it inside an hour. No charge. No issue. It was clarified at the start of the season that it was legit to reassign your season ticket for a game you can't make.
When you say you DM’d them do you mean on X
Did you then sort it all out on X
I’m only asking because I reassigned mine but did it on the phone which took an hour and a half to get through which I’m not doing again
Yep, it's one of the few reasons to stay on whatever twitter is called.
I was upgrading from a u18 to adult so there was a cash adjustment
I’m not sure they can take money on X
Post by: MorrisNielson on September 26, 2024, 10:46:58 AM
I'm not convinced that's right. 39,978 was our attendance v Wolves 4th Jan 2023. Seems a hell of a coincidence to have exactly the same again against the same side when that's our lowest PL attendance since promotion, barring covid obviously.I'm not convinced too, the odds must be very small. Which got me thinking about how many times we’ve had the same attendance figure, so I had a look………..
We’ve been playing league home games at Villa Park since easter 1897, that’s 2316 league games.
Specific attendance figures were only a regular thing post war. Before then it looks like attendances were rounded or estimated. Although there are many specific attendances stated before WWII, such as 41357 for the championship decider in 1898-99.
I have 603 rounded/estimated figures (all taken from the complete record books), that leaves 1713 Villa Park league games. Of them 1565 are individual figures and have never been duplicated, which leaves me a total list of 148 entries of individual home league games.
Since we’ve been all-seater, from 1994-95, we’ve had a total of 53 duplicated attendances, I assume all are sell-outs; namely:
39339 - 7 times in 1996-97
39241 - 7 times in 1998-99
42640 - 6 times in 2007-08
39217 - 6 times in 1999-00
42551 - 5 times in 2005-06 & 2006-07
39372 - 5 times in 1997-98
42602 - 4 times in 2002-03
42585 - 4 times in 2008-09
42788 - 3 times in 2009-10
42593 - 3 times in 2004-05
42573 - 3 times in 2003-04
So that leaves 95 listed Villa Park duplicated attendances.
Only one of these have been duplicated three times, namely 32140 in 1947-48(Chelsea), 1960-61(Fulham) & 1971-72(Oldham).
The other 92 entries are twice replicated.
So then, in terms of attendance figures only 47 have been replicated (92 divide by 2 plus 1).
Interestingly, of these duplicated figures, we’ve never had the same team with the same attendance figure (I’m not counting the 42551 sell-out Liverpool games in 2005-06 & 2006-07). Until now. Assuming the Wolves attendance is accurate.
Disclaimer: Some attendances figures over the years sometimes differ depending on the sources used. Plus the volume of data needed for this means I could have typed errors. So I could be talking nonsense. Also as a general rule, I talk nonsense.
Post by: eamonn on September 26, 2024, 10:55:42 AM
Post by: CLEEVE on September 26, 2024, 04:33:59 PM
The match on Saturday did not sell out. Some of the larger groups of seats are GA+ seating. Had the match of sold out and demand still there, these would have been released in stages as we do for most fixtures.
We all know if these were listed earlier they would sell out as groups/couples/families can't get seats together. It seems they aren't willing to change and are happy to have empty seats for a 3pm KO local derby when we're the best we have been for years. As I said before who has empty seats in the premier league these days? especially a club of our size
Post by: pauliewalnuts on September 26, 2024, 04:45:41 PM
Reply from club regarding empty seats
The match on Saturday did not sell out. Some of the larger groups of seats are GA+ seating. Had the match of sold out and demand still there, these would have been released in stages as we do for most fixtures.
We all know if these were listed earlier they would sell out as groups/couples/families can't get seats together. It seems they aren't willing to change and are happy to have empty seats for a 3pm KO local derby when we're the best we have been for years. As I said before who has empty seats in the premier league these days? especially a club of our size
Yes, who the YABADABADOO do they think they are fooling?
Post by: Brazilian Villain on September 26, 2024, 07:44:00 PM
We all know if these were listed earlier they would sell out as groups/couples/families can't get seats together. It seems they aren't willing to change and are happy to have empty seats for a 3pm KO local derby when we're the best we have been for years. As I said before who has empty seats in the premier league these days? especially a club of our size
Yes, who the YABADABADOO do they think they are fooling?
Sooner or later, they'll realise that those couples and families are the bedrock of our future fanbase.
Post by: Dave on September 26, 2024, 07:50:30 PM
We all know if these were listed earlier they would sell out as groups/couples/families can't get seats together. It seems they aren't willing to change and are happy to have empty seats for a 3pm KO local derby when we're the best we have been for years. As I said before who has empty seats in the premier league these days? especially a club of our size
Yes, who the YABADABADOO do they think they are fooling?
Sooner or later, they'll realise that those couples and families are the bedrock of our future fanbase.
If they don't then there's going to be a proper barney between the club and supporters.
Post by: Ads on September 26, 2024, 08:46:55 PM
We all know if these were listed earlier they would sell out as groups/couples/families can't get seats together. It seems they aren't willing to change and are happy to have empty seats for a 3pm KO local derby when we're the best we have been for years. As I said before who has empty seats in the premier league these days? especially a club of our size
Yes, who the YABADABADOO do they think they are fooling?
Sooner or later, they'll realise that those couples and families are the bedrock of our future fanbase.
If they don't then there's going to be a proper barney between the club and supporters.
And we'll reduce the club to rubble.
Post by: TonyD on September 26, 2024, 10:04:10 PM
£1,080.
I bought 4.
Did I fuck.
My first season ticket on the Holte cost £14.
Post by: VillaTim on September 26, 2024, 10:08:38 PM
Email from the club trying to sell the hospitality seats for Wednesday.That's Club Chelsea Platinum prices , what is Heck playing at, absolute buffoon
£1,080.
I bought 4.
Did I fuck.
My first season ticket on the Holte cost £14.
Post by: ender4 on September 26, 2024, 10:32:57 PM
I know around 50 people who would definitely have bought a standard ticket for the Wolves match if Villa had any tickets to sell. And not singles obviously, no-one is going to go and sit alone for a one-off match.
Heck is a complete idiot.
Post by: Brend'Watkins on September 26, 2024, 10:46:12 PM
Post by: CLEEVE on September 26, 2024, 11:38:21 PM
Post by: Gareth on September 27, 2024, 08:06:39 AM
Just take a look on the ticket website now and see how many STH have not exercised their right for Bologna. Wow!
Anyone picking the one of four to skip is likely to choose that one…the tw@ will be happy if he can get the extra £20 a head for a non STH to fill the seat.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 27, 2024, 08:21:52 AM
This was going to be the acid test for the pricing. If the members don't take up the slack on empty seats and follow the STH with giving it a miss, it could be a poor attendance. I'm not sure how many tourists fancy Bologna on a cold October night in Aston for £97 ? I'd be very surprised if Bologna bring over 1500 judging by how many empty seats they had at home for their previous tie. It could be as flat as a fartJust take a look on the ticket website now and see how many STH have not exercised their right for Bologna. Wow!
Anyone picking the one of four to skip is likely to choose that one…the tw@ will be happy if he can get the extra £20 a head for a non STH to fill the seat.
Post by: Nev on September 27, 2024, 08:22:12 AM
Just take a look on the ticket website now and see how many STH have not exercised their right for Bologna. Wow!
Anyone picking the one of four to skip is likely to choose that one…the tw@ will be happy if he can get the extra £20 a head for a non STH to fill the seat.
Which is the driver to having such a tight window for claiming your seat. I'm not going but all my mates are, I'll save the money for our beano to Bruges.
Post by: Risso on September 27, 2024, 08:23:30 AM
Post by: London Villan on September 27, 2024, 08:49:37 AM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 27, 2024, 09:03:02 AM
On a quick look, I'd estimate about a third of season ticket holders haven't taken up their tickets.So about 10,000 going begging then. What a great businessman he is, can't even sell Champions League tickets to STH when we haven't been in the Competition for 40yrs. Know your market, know your customer...he knows neither.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on September 27, 2024, 09:03:07 AM
We all know if these were listed earlier they would sell out as groups/couples/families can't get seats together. It seems they aren't willing to change and are happy to have empty seats for a 3pm KO local derby when we're the best we have been for years. As I said before who has empty seats in the premier league these days? especially a club of our size
Yes, who the YABADABADOO do they think they are fooling?
Sooner or later, they'll realise that those couples and families are the bedrock of our future fanbase.
If they don't then there's going to be a proper barney between the club and supporters.
And we'll reduce the club to rubble.
They had Betty get this sorted soon.
Post by: Ads on September 27, 2024, 09:12:18 AM
Edit just musing over the ticket page and the crazy reality that we're trying to fill a stadium with £90+ tickets and against nobodies as well. The other 3 games have a little something about them whether it's the opposition, the ocassion or geography, but Bologna? Deary me. I've been had off for the thick end of 80 notes for me, never mind thinking £90 is some sort of value. The pricing is abysmal.
Post by: London Villan on September 27, 2024, 09:27:01 AM
Post by: Villan82 on September 27, 2024, 09:34:24 AM
We are not future proofing the club, we are wrecking it.
Post by: Chris Smith on September 27, 2024, 09:46:24 AM
On a quick look, I'd estimate about a third of season ticket holders haven't taken up their tickets.
The flip side I know a couple of former season ticket holders who are on the waiting list looking at this as probably the only Champions League game they are likely to be able to go to. I am absolutely not using that as a justification for the prices but just to suggest that there is still some demand there.
Post by: Holte132 on September 27, 2024, 09:48:58 AM
Post by: Bent Neilsens Screamer on September 27, 2024, 10:08:48 AM
On a quick look, I'd estimate about a third of season ticket holders haven't taken up their tickets.
The flip side I know a couple of former season ticket holders who are on the waiting list looking at this as probably the only Champions League game they are likely to be able to go to. I am absolutely not using that as a justification for the prices but just to suggest that there is still some demand there.
I’d agree. When the draw was first made I thought, as a member, I’d try and get to all the champions league games. I was lucky enough to get a Bayern ticket and will try and get one for Celtic and Juve but as it stands something has got to give so I’ll save my money for better games.
If I hadn’t got a Bayern ticket I’d probably go to Bologna to say I’d seen us in the champions league.
Post by: Mister E on September 27, 2024, 10:09:55 AM
Reply from club regarding empty seatsA bit crazy: dynamic pricing works both ways - if an organisation can't sell out at £x, they would normally reduce 'x' until they find traction on sales. Heck doesn't seem to be doing this.
The match on Saturday did not sell out. Some of the larger groups of seats are GA+ seating. Had the match of sold out and demand still there, these would have been released in stages as we do for most fixtures.
We all know if these were listed earlier they would sell out as groups/couples/families can't get seats together. It seems they aren't willing to change and are happy to have empty seats for a 3pm KO local derby when we're the best we have been for years. As I said before who has empty seats in the premier league these days? especially a club of our size
Post by: Gareth on September 27, 2024, 10:13:12 AM
On a quick look, I'd estimate about a third of season ticket holders haven't taken up their tickets.
The flip side I know a couple of former season ticket holders who are on the waiting list looking at this as probably the only Champions League game they are likely to be able to go to. I am absolutely not using that as a justification for the prices but just to suggest that there is still some demand there.
I know what you are saying, the two old guys I sit next to aren’t going to Champs League games due to the prices but they have reallocated their tickets to others who were ‘desperate’ to go….upgrade from concession to adult, only a few quid but exactly why they made the concession prices so damn high
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 27, 2024, 10:29:33 AM
Post by: itbrvilla on September 27, 2024, 10:39:53 AM
I wonder if the criteria will change for Juve e.g. priority to members who have attended both games in CL prior.On a quick look, I'd estimate about a third of season ticket holders haven't taken up their tickets.
The flip side I know a couple of former season ticket holders who are on the waiting list looking at this as probably the only Champions League game they are likely to be able to go to. I am absolutely not using that as a justification for the prices but just to suggest that there is still some demand there.
I’d agree. When the draw was first made I thought, as a member, I’d try and get to all the champions league games. I was lucky enough to get a Bayern ticket and will try and get one for Celtic and Juve but as it stands something has got to give so I’ll save my money for better games.
If I hadn’t got a Bayern ticket I’d probably go to Bologna to say I’d seen us in the champions league.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 27, 2024, 10:45:21 AM
I hope not, despite being a member and going to all the European games last season including Hibernian I couldn't get a Bayern ticket despite being in the queue at 9amI wonder if the criteria will change for Juve e.g. priority to members who have attended both games in CL prior.On a quick look, I'd estimate about a third of season ticket holders haven't taken up their tickets.
The flip side I know a couple of former season ticket holders who are on the waiting list looking at this as probably the only Champions League game they are likely to be able to go to. I am absolutely not using that as a justification for the prices but just to suggest that there is still some demand there.
I’d agree. When the draw was first made I thought, as a member, I’d try and get to all the champions league games. I was lucky enough to get a Bayern ticket and will try and get one for Celtic and Juve but as it stands something has got to give so I’ll save my money for better games.
If I hadn’t got a Bayern ticket I’d probably go to Bologna to say I’d seen us in the champions league.
Post by: Ads on September 27, 2024, 10:46:20 AM
We hit the "rocks" in 2010 because we'd allowed 1 man to max out the (limited) Lerner family trust. Lerner was more interested in Jewish folk history come 2010 than running a football club by that point and it appeared that his sister had been updated by the family lawyer to see just how much money he'd wasted. A discreet set of circumstances.
We're owned by 3 entities of extreme wealth. As miraculous as our rise has been, it would be equally miraculous to go the same way in reverse. It is all indexed to those 3 entities and Emery, with Emery's structure around him.
Great Man Theroy in action; Lerner and O'Neil these lot are not. They're infinite levels of wealth, knowledge and ability above.
Prices are elastic, they can expand or contract. There's no way of carving £90 or £79 anyway that I'd like or many of us would like. There might be reasons for this beyond maximising revenue such as structural or regulatory ones- that would make a lot of sense.
But the idea that if Heck leaves in say 18 months when his son has finished at university, that the club with a ~£400m turnover is some how irreparably damaged and not significantly financially stronger is just garbage. And garbage that's repeated time and time again.
Post by: itbrvilla on September 27, 2024, 10:47:09 AM
I suppose for group games they will keep it open to give opportunity to all fans (as if they really care...).I hope not, despite being a member and going to all the European games last season including Hibernian I couldn't get a Bayern ticket despite being in the queue at 9amI wonder if the criteria will change for Juve e.g. priority to members who have attended both games in CL prior.On a quick look, I'd estimate about a third of season ticket holders haven't taken up their tickets.
The flip side I know a couple of former season ticket holders who are on the waiting list looking at this as probably the only Champions League game they are likely to be able to go to. I am absolutely not using that as a justification for the prices but just to suggest that there is still some demand there.
I’d agree. When the draw was first made I thought, as a member, I’d try and get to all the champions league games. I was lucky enough to get a Bayern ticket and will try and get one for Celtic and Juve but as it stands something has got to give so I’ll save my money for better games.
If I hadn’t got a Bayern ticket I’d probably go to Bologna to say I’d seen us in the champions league.
Post by: Villan82 on September 27, 2024, 10:47:46 AM
Post by: Ads on September 27, 2024, 10:49:11 AM
OK. I get it ADs thanks.
I'm not sure you do. Being the Steve Bray of H&V is really tedious.
Post by: London Villan on September 27, 2024, 10:49:26 AM
On a quick look, I'd estimate about a third of season ticket holders haven't taken up their tickets.
The flip side I know a couple of former season ticket holders who are on the waiting list looking at this as probably the only Champions League game they are likely to be able to go to. I am absolutely not using that as a justification for the prices but just to suggest that there is still some demand there.
I know what you are saying, the two old guys I sit next to aren’t going to Champs League games due to the prices but they have reallocated their tickets to others who were ‘desperate’ to go….upgrade from concession to adult, only a few quid but exactly why they made the concession prices so damn high
My dad is the same - as he said, you can buy a firestick and watch every single Villa game for the cost of one ticket.
Post by: Ads on September 27, 2024, 10:51:41 AM
On a quick look, I'd estimate about a third of season ticket holders haven't taken up their tickets.
The flip side I know a couple of former season ticket holders who are on the waiting list looking at this as probably the only Champions League game they are likely to be able to go to. I am absolutely not using that as a justification for the prices but just to suggest that there is still some demand there.
I know what you are saying, the two old guys I sit next to aren’t going to Champs League games due to the prices but they have reallocated their tickets to others who were ‘desperate’ to go….upgrade from concession to adult, only a few quid but exactly why they made the concession prices so damn high
My dad is the same - as he said, you can buy a firestick and watch every single Villa game for the cost of one ticket.
Watching football on the tele is really shit though. Especially when you'd rather be there, hence the exploitative wankery of £90+ notes.
Post by: AV82EC on September 27, 2024, 10:54:09 AM
I get you don't like Heck, your Carthago daellenda est approach to every post you make leaves us in no doubt, but I really don't understand the analysis there.
We hit the "rocks" in 2010 because we'd allowed 1 man to max out the (limited) Lerner family trust. Lerner was more interested in Jewish folk history come 2010 than running a football club by that point and it appeared that his sister had been updated by the family lawyer to see just how much money he'd wasted. A discreet set of circumstances.
We're owned by 3 entities of extreme wealth. As miraculous as our rise has been, it would be equally miraculous to go the same way in reverse. It is all indexed to those 3 entities and Emery, with Emery's structure around him.
Great Man Theroy in action; Lerner and O'Neil these lot are not. They're infinite levels of wealth, knowledge and ability above.
Prices are elastic, they can expand or contract. There's no way of carving £90 or £79 anyway that I'd like or many of us would like. There might be reasons for this beyond maximising revenue such as structural or regulatory ones- that would make a lot of sense.
But the idea that if Heck leaves in say 18 months when his son has finished at university, that the club with a ~£400m turnover is some how irreparably damaged and not significantly financially stronger is just garbage. And garbage that's repeated time and time again.
I suppose Ads at what cost to goodwill from your supporter base. Could that be long lasting or could it be repaired?
I fully agree with your post btw.
Post by: LeeB on September 27, 2024, 10:57:20 AM
On a quick look, I'd estimate about a third of season ticket holders haven't taken up their tickets.
The flip side I know a couple of former season ticket holders who are on the waiting list looking at this as probably the only Champions League game they are likely to be able to go to. I am absolutely not using that as a justification for the prices but just to suggest that there is still some demand there.
I know what you are saying, the two old guys I sit next to aren’t going to Champs League games due to the prices but they have reallocated their tickets to others who were ‘desperate’ to go….upgrade from concession to adult, only a few quid but exactly why they made the concession prices so damn high
My dad is the same - as he said, you can buy a firestick and watch every single Villa game for the cost of one ticket.
Watching football on the tele is really shit though. Especially when you'd rather be there, hence the exploitative wankery of £90+ notes.
I would always have agreed with you, but as I get older I'm not so sure.
I'm not sure if it's just me changing, or the hassle getting to/from/just bloody into Villa Park, but it's really not appealing to me as it used to which is mad considering what we're actually seeing on the pitch.
Post by: VillaTim on September 27, 2024, 11:02:02 AM
Just take a look on the ticket website now and see how many STH have not exercised their right for Bologna. Wow!they'll do well to scrape 35,000 for this one .
Post by: Risso on September 27, 2024, 11:10:40 AM
I'm not sure if it's just me changing, or the hassle getting to/from/just bloody into Villa Park, but it's really not appealing to me as it used to which is mad considering what we're actually seeing on the pitch.
Same for me mate. Other than the excitement from watching the match itself (and even that's not guaranteed) everything about Villa Park is a massive faff. Getting there, parking, getting in, getting served, needing a slash, and especially getting away afterwards.
Post by: Ads on September 27, 2024, 11:15:45 AM
I feel the same about getting to work too. And I moan about how crap Manchester Airport is everytime I use it.
I think we're just moaning buggers, but that's humans for you.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on September 27, 2024, 11:24:22 AM
Post by: Brend'Watkins on September 27, 2024, 11:26:56 AM
On a quick look, I'd estimate about a third of season ticket holders haven't taken up their tickets.
The flip side I know a couple of former season ticket holders who are on the waiting list looking at this as probably the only Champions League game they are likely to be able to go to. I am absolutely not using that as a justification for the prices but just to suggest that there is still some demand there.
I know what you are saying, the two old guys I sit next to aren’t going to Champs League games due to the prices but they have reallocated their tickets to others who were ‘desperate’ to go….upgrade from concession to adult, only a few quid but exactly why they made the concession prices so damn high
My dad is the same - as he said, you can buy a firestick and watch every single Villa game for the cost of one ticket.
Watching football on the tele is really shit though. Especially when you'd rather be there, hence the exploitative wankery of £90+ notes.
I would always have agreed with you, but as I get older I'm not so sure.
I'm not sure if it's just me changing, or the hassle getting to/from/just bloody into Villa Park, but it's really not appealing to me as it used to which is mad considering what we're actually seeing on the pitch.
The gloss has been taken off all the good work done by the playing side. I've missed 30 to 40 minutes of playing time so far this season due to 'technical issues' at the turnstiles. This isn't acceptable. Everyone I know is pissed off with this, everyone I know is pissed off with the extent of increases to Season tickets, everyone I know is astounded at the prices for CL home games and flabbergasted at the £1,080 that the club have put on a CL corporate experience...for just the first phase of the CL, That price is so laughable if it wasn't so obscene for any stage of the CL.
The hierarchy need to get a grip soon because I fear this could turn ugly if results go wrong. I think commercial staff are pissed off too. I asked one of the suited ones to have a word with their boss while queuing last week. I got a knowing look and a roll of the eyes in return.
None of our group of 5 ST holders are taking up their option on the Bologna match. I'm undecided regarding the remainder of CL home games too.
Post by: Clampy on September 27, 2024, 11:28:02 AM
It is an absolute disgrace these prices. How do I get a ticket for Bologna? Asking for a friend.
It would be cheaper to go to Bologna.
Post by: Drummond on September 27, 2024, 11:28:14 AM
Most of the time it's drive down early, park, walk about 20 mins, to stretch my legs having been in the car for a couple of hours, pop to the shop if I'm with my lad, or for a pint if I'm not, watch the game, walk back to the car and come home. I get there early, because otherwise I feel like I've just sat in the car, so don't get impacted in the same way and try not to get stressed by waiting around. I've tried the Bartons, but last time I went the service was diabolical, and I couldn't be bothered. I don't have a routine for meeting anyone before, probably because I'm coming from so far away, and in reality don't have the relationships others do.
I'd love to know I could get served inside, without waiting for an age, but that's a gamble the closer to kick off it gets and having waited 30 minutes at half time, don't bother with that now.
I still feel excited for a game, but it would be nice to be excited about the whole experience, not just the football. I find it hard to understand why the club get it so wrong.
Post by: Gareth on September 27, 2024, 11:29:33 AM
Be interesting to hear from any who have taken up GA+ options this year to get on ticket treadmill as to whether they feel they are getting value for money and whether at this point they’ll look to renew.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on September 27, 2024, 12:34:39 PM
It is an absolute disgrace these prices. How do I get a ticket for Bologna? Asking for a friend.
It would be cheaper to go to Bologna.
Wonder if they will have a live broadcast from their stadium - might check it out.
Post by: Dogtanian on September 27, 2024, 01:00:44 PM
Post by: London Villan on September 27, 2024, 01:06:38 PM
Parking is a nightmare - I now drop them off at the Heart then get a parking space near the ground so the walk is as short as possible post-match. It means we have to arrive at least 2 hours before kick-off.
Post-match is as bad. The council's attempts to gridlock the city work a treat and because of the ages/mobility of the family public transport isn't an option. It now takes 90 minutes to get home (12 miles) whereas in the olden days we were home in half an hour.
Add to that trying to swap tickets - another hour and a half wasted, just to change the name and upgrade a ticket - after 7 days of trying to get through to the ticket office.
Add the disgusting facilities in the ground, the cost of tickets, the general attitude to fans who have supported the club through some (very recent) shit times.
People looking in must wonder why we bother!!
Post by: DB on September 27, 2024, 01:20:59 PM
Post by: Flamingo Lane on September 27, 2024, 01:22:02 PM
Post by: Nii Lamptey on September 27, 2024, 01:32:29 PM
I live down in Kidderminster and from your standard 3pm Saturday kick-off, I'm home on the dot by 6pm, via M6>M5 - Never leave the ground early either, so I'm properly 'in the rush' if you like.
Of most grounds I've been too, it's always a pain in the arse. Never going to be straightforward when there are 40k+ people trying to exit a single area.
Regarding the clamour for a new ground - Be careful what you wish for. I'd rather sit in traffic a bit longer and watch my team plying their trade at the majestic Villa Park, rather than some souless bowl shoehorned in elsewhere.
Post by: LeeB on September 27, 2024, 01:42:11 PM
I know people are always moaning about getting in/out of Villa Park, but to me it's never been any different.
I live down in Kidderminster and from your standard 3pm Saturday kick-off, I'm home on the dot by 6pm, via M6>M5 - Never leave the ground early either, so I'm properly 'in the rush' if you like.
Of most grounds I've been too, it's always a pain in the arse. Never going to be straightforward when there are 40k+ people trying to exit a single area.
Regarding the clamour for a new ground - Be careful what you wish for. I'd rather sit in traffic a bit longer and watch my team plying their trade at the majestic Villa Park, rather than some souless bowl shoehorned in elsewhere.
This would have always been my view, but now I think I'd rather a well appointed soulless bowl.
Post by: Tony Daleys Shorts on September 27, 2024, 01:44:13 PM
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on September 27, 2024, 01:59:03 PM
I'll be going for mine later. It's blood expensive and Prem matches are hard to get to with my lad...so want to take him to as many CL matches as possible.
You literally need a transfusion it seems to get to a match these days.
Post by: Ads on September 27, 2024, 01:59:20 PM
Post by: eamonn on September 27, 2024, 02:13:40 PM
I do think it’s a generational thing, I moan about the whole experience to my Sons who are late teens, early twenties and they either just don’t get it or don’t care. They basically tell me to shut the fuck up and enjoy the day.
Fair play to them. I hope they don't curse at their dad, though.
Post by: AV82EC on September 27, 2024, 02:19:17 PM
I do think it’s a generational thing, I moan about the whole experience to my Sons who are late teens, early twenties and they either just don’t get it or don’t care. They basically tell me to shut the fuck up and enjoy the day.
I get the distinct impression Gen Z see things very differently to many of us predominantly Boomer/Gen X old farts on here.
Post by: London Villan on September 27, 2024, 02:31:06 PM
So much self-serve,do it yourself, but at premium prices.
Post by: Hookeysmith on September 27, 2024, 03:02:19 PM
They were all advertised between £51 - £53 (i knew that they would relate to probably 10% of the capacity) but was prepared to pay a little more.
28 mins in the queue and it advised me i am in and have 10 mins to make my purchase or i go back to the line, nothing like pressurised sales!
Once in no tickets on the dates i can attend at any price but a lovely little banner directed me to the VIP deluxe tickets that were available at £347 ea.
So i came off that and the next ticket site i tried - exactly the same , albeit a slightly longer queue wait.
Its not just Villa - every fucker is trying to shaft everyone
Post by: Nev on September 27, 2024, 03:08:30 PM
This is not to support the villa pricing but this morning i was in a queue trying to get Ricky Gervais tickets.
They were all advertised between £51 - £53 (i knew that they would relate to probably 10% of the capacity) but was prepared to pay a little more.
28 mins in the queue and it advised me i am in and have 10 mins to make my purchase or i go back to the line, nothing like pressurised sales!
Once in no tickets on the dates i can attend at any price but a lovely little banner directed me to the VIP deluxe tickets that were available at £347 ea.
So i came off that and the next ticket site i tried - exactly the same , albeit a slightly longer queue wait.
Its not just Villa - every fucker is trying to shaft everyone
See my post in the music section about trying to get Iron Maiden tickets.
Post by: Clampy on September 27, 2024, 03:11:42 PM
This is not to support the villa pricing but this morning i was in a queue trying to get Ricky Gervais tickets.
They were all advertised between £51 - £53 (i knew that they would relate to probably 10% of the capacity) but was prepared to pay a little more.
28 mins in the queue and it advised me i am in and have 10 mins to make my purchase or i go back to the line, nothing like pressurised sales!
Once in no tickets on the dates i can attend at any price but a lovely little banner directed me to the VIP deluxe tickets that were available at £347 ea.
So i came off that and the next ticket site i tried - exactly the same , albeit a slightly longer queue wait.
Its not just Villa - every fucker is trying to shaft everyone
See my post in the music section about trying to get Iron Maiden tickets.
Scandalous. I'd run to the hills.
Post by: Drummond on September 27, 2024, 03:55:06 PM
This is not to support the villa pricing but this morning i was in a queue trying to get Ricky Gervais tickets.
They were all advertised between £51 - £53 (i knew that they would relate to probably 10% of the capacity) but was prepared to pay a little more.
28 mins in the queue and it advised me i am in and have 10 mins to make my purchase or i go back to the line, nothing like pressurised sales!
Once in no tickets on the dates i can attend at any price but a lovely little banner directed me to the VIP deluxe tickets that were available at £347 ea.
So i came off that and the next ticket site i tried - exactly the same , albeit a slightly longer queue wait.
Its not just Villa - every fucker is trying to shaft everyone
See my post in the music section about trying to get Iron Maiden tickets.
Bloody hell, you really are a masochist.
Post by: TonyD on September 27, 2024, 04:28:36 PM
They could build a 4 sided new ground. Doesn’t have to be a soulless bowl.I know people are always moaning about getting in/out of Villa Park, but to me it's never been any different.
I live down in Kidderminster and from your standard 3pm Saturday kick-off, I'm home on the dot by 6pm, via M6>M5 - Never leave the ground early either, so I'm properly 'in the rush' if you like.
Of most grounds I've been too, it's always a pain in the arse. Never going to be straightforward when there are 40k+ people trying to exit a single area.
Regarding the clamour for a new ground - Be careful what you wish for. I'd rather sit in traffic a bit longer and watch my team plying their trade at the majestic Villa Park, rather than some souless bowl shoehorned in elsewhere.
This would have always been my view, but now I think I'd rather a well appointed soulless bowl.
Post by: LeeB on September 27, 2024, 04:31:29 PM
They could build a 4 sided new ground. Doesn’t have to be a soulless bowl.I know people are always moaning about getting in/out of Villa Park, but to me it's never been any different.
I live down in Kidderminster and from your standard 3pm Saturday kick-off, I'm home on the dot by 6pm, via M6>M5 - Never leave the ground early either, so I'm properly 'in the rush' if you like.
Of most grounds I've been too, it's always a pain in the arse. Never going to be straightforward when there are 40k+ people trying to exit a single area.
Regarding the clamour for a new ground - Be careful what you wish for. I'd rather sit in traffic a bit longer and watch my team plying their trade at the majestic Villa Park, rather than some souless bowl shoehorned in elsewhere.
This would have always been my view, but now I think I'd rather a well appointed soulless bowl.
They could, but where do you see that now? No chance anyone would build a big new stadium at a huge cost and leave the 4 corners empty for aesthetic purposes.
Post by: Skerra on September 27, 2024, 04:32:29 PM
Post by: Ads on September 27, 2024, 04:40:30 PM
Post by: Border villan on September 27, 2024, 04:44:40 PM
Post by: LeeB on September 27, 2024, 04:45:50 PM
Why would the club want to get rid of season ticket holders?
To get in more day trippers? Doesn't seem too mad a concept given the way things are going.
Post by: VillaTim on September 27, 2024, 04:47:21 PM
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 27, 2024, 04:52:48 PM
Post by: Skerra on September 27, 2024, 05:32:09 PM
Post by: BC54 VFC on September 27, 2024, 05:41:56 PM
I get you don't like Heck, your Carthago daellenda est approach to every post you make leaves us in no doubt, but I really don't understand the analysis there.When Lerner sold his shares in MBNA to Bank of America (deal completed 01/01/06) he took the majority of his consideration in Bank of America shares. The Bank of America share price plummeted by more than 90% between January 2006 and February 2009, as a result of the banking crash, resulting in a sizeable decrease in Lerner's personal net worth. This, along with his divorce and philanthropy, were the prime reasons for the mess he got himself in.
We hit the "rocks" in 2010 because we'd allowed 1 man to max out the (limited) Lerner family trust. Lerner was more interested in Jewish folk history come 2010 than running a football club by that point and it appeared that his sister had been updated by the family lawyer to see just how much money he'd wasted. A discreet set of circumstances.
We're owned by 3 entities of extreme wealth. As miraculous as our rise has been, it would be equally miraculous to go the same way in reverse. It is all indexed to those 3 entities and Emery, with Emery's structure around him.
Great Man Theroy in action; Lerner and O'Neil these lot are not. They're infinite levels of wealth, knowledge and ability above.
Prices are elastic, they can expand or contract. There's no way of carving £90 or £79 anyway that I'd like or many of us would like. There might be reasons for this beyond maximising revenue such as structural or regulatory ones- that would make a lot of sense.
But the idea that if Heck leaves in say 18 months when his son has finished at university, that the club with a ~£400m turnover is some how irreparably damaged and not significantly financially stronger is just garbage. And garbage that's repeated time and time again.
Post by: Archbishop Herbert Cockthrottle on September 27, 2024, 05:47:22 PM
Post by: amfy on September 27, 2024, 05:51:39 PM
If you were running a football club, surely you'd want as many season ticket holders as possible. Guaranteed income at the start of the year regardless of what's going on on the pitch.
I’d say you want to get a certain number to give you a clear bottom line, but not as many as possible. There is more profit in one off attendees both in terms of ticket price and what they’ll spend while they’re there. High number of ST holders keep high profit customers out.
Post by: London Villan on September 27, 2024, 05:54:22 PM
You can imagine a season ticket holder is defined as a "Legacy Fan" and their spend level will be very low - (GA season ticket holder, doesn't spend in the ground, doesn't buy official merch) therefore, low revenue per head £45 per match.
Replace 10% of these each year with a different type of fan, let's call them "Big Match Followers" (Use ex-season ticker seat as GA+, attends once or twice a year, spends in shops) high revenue per head £300 per match and you've upped you match day income by £13m. ( fag packet maths)
It makes it very attractive - assuming you can sell all those seats as premium or even full-price admission.
Post by: VillaTim on September 27, 2024, 05:56:44 PM
Its the same logic with airlines and hotels , you don't want them full too soon cos you can charge a lot more as the availability runs outIf you were running a football club, surely you'd want as many season ticket holders as possible. Guaranteed income at the start of the year regardless of what's going on on the pitch.
I’d say you want to get a certain number to give you a clear bottom line, but not as many as possible. There is more profit in one off attendees both in terms of ticket price and what they’ll spend while they’re there. High number of ST holders keep high profit customers out.
Post by: BC54 VFC on September 27, 2024, 05:59:10 PM
I understand that a few Villa fans are doing just that!It is an absolute disgrace these prices. How do I get a ticket for Bologna? Asking for a friend.
It would be cheaper to go to Bologna.
Post by: Lsvilla on September 27, 2024, 06:07:21 PM
Post by: Sexual Ealing on September 27, 2024, 06:11:08 PM
Post by: BC54 VFC on September 27, 2024, 06:20:44 PM
87pSeventeen shillings and fivepence.
Post by: dave.woodhall on September 27, 2024, 06:21:45 PM
It's probably been covered many times in this debate, but what do people think would be a reasonable ticket price for our first Cl venture in 41 years watching a team of world class talent under the guidance of one of the best managers in the world taking on the cream of European football ?
Cat A prices, same as when we take on other cream of Europe teams.
Post by: AV82EC on September 27, 2024, 06:23:04 PM
It's probably been covered many times in this debate, but what do people think would be a reasonable ticket price for our first Cl venture in 41 years watching a team of world class talent under the guidance of one of the best managers in the world taking on the cream of European football ?
Probably £50 for Z4 and up to £65 for Z1 for Bayern and Juve, maybe slightly less for Celtic, particulalrly if we've "qualified" by then and I'd have made the Bologna game much cheaper than that.
Post by: Clampy on September 27, 2024, 06:24:48 PM
It's probably been covered many times in this debate, but what do people think would be a reasonable ticket price for our first Cl venture in 41 years watching a team of world class talent under the guidance of one of the best managers in the world taking on the cream of European football ?
What do you think?
Post by: Meanwood Villa on September 27, 2024, 06:35:36 PM
Post by: Lsvilla on September 27, 2024, 06:45:52 PM
Well put it this way. I'm not doing the complaining.It's probably been covered many times in this debate, but what do people think would be a reasonable ticket price for our first Cl venture in 41 years watching a team of world class talent under the guidance of one of the best managers in the world taking on the cream of European football ?
What do you think?
Post by: Lsvilla on September 27, 2024, 06:48:00 PM
So we're all wetting the bed over about £15-20 then.It's probably been covered many times in this debate, but what do people think would be a reasonable ticket price for our first Cl venture in 41 years watching a team of world class talent under the guidance of one of the best managers in the world taking on the cream of European football ?
Probably £50 for Z4 and up to £65 for Z1 for Bayern and Juve, maybe slightly less for Celtic, particulalrly if we've "qualified" by then and I'd have made the Bologna game much cheaper than that.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on September 27, 2024, 06:48:14 PM
If you were running a football club, surely you'd want as many season ticket holders as possible. Guaranteed income at the start of the year regardless of what's going on on the pitch.
If you have a product where demand exceeds supply, largely, then you look at maximising your revenue from the supply you do have.
Season ticket holders return a lot lower revenue-per-supporter than one off ticket sales do.
I am sure the bit about UE not wanting a three sided ground for our CL return is true, but i think there's also a degree of Heck binning the North Stand rebuild because he thinks he can drive up revenue in the short term - and remember, no NS for two or three seasons means reduced revenue - with the number of seats we already have and therefore without us having to spend 100m+ on a new stand.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on September 27, 2024, 06:49:10 PM
So we're all wetting the bed over about £15-20 then.It's probably been covered many times in this debate, but what do people think would be a reasonable ticket price for our first Cl venture in 41 years watching a team of world class talent under the guidance of one of the best managers in the world taking on the cream of European football ?
Probably £50 for Z4 and up to £65 for Z1 for Bayern and Juve, maybe slightly less for Celtic, particulalrly if we've "qualified" by then and I'd have made the Bologna game much cheaper than that.
"Wetting the bed". Honestly, how is language like that adding to the debate?
We've got the most expensive Champions League tickets of any of the English clubs. It's not exactly a surprise people are not impressed.
Post by: Gareth on September 27, 2024, 06:49:30 PM
It's probably been covered many times in this debate, but what do people think would be a reasonable ticket price for our first Cl venture in 41 years watching a team of world class talent under the guidance of one of the best managers in the world taking on the cream of European football ?
Cat A prices, same as when we take on other cream of Europe teams.
Absolutely the correct answer
Bayern / Juventus are genuine CatA and Celtic / Bologna are equivalent of Wolves I guess
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 27, 2024, 06:50:41 PM
Post by: Clampy on September 27, 2024, 06:58:18 PM
Well put it this way. I'm not doing the complaining.It's probably been covered many times in this debate, but what do people think would be a reasonable ticket price for our first Cl venture in 41 years watching a team of world class talent under the guidance of one of the best managers in the world taking on the cream of European football ?
What do you think?
Then pay it. If you dont like people complaining, I'd stay off this thread or is that too difficult?
Post by: Pat Mustard on September 27, 2024, 07:00:04 PM
The club made a big thing about data at one of the networking events. An element of this was about profiling fans and they will have segmented the entire fan base based on the data they have. Then compare the revenue and you can see why a season ticket holder is the last type of fan they want.
You can imagine a season ticket holder is defined as a "Legacy Fan" and their spend level will be very low - (GA season ticket holder, doesn't spend in the ground, doesn't buy official merch) therefore, low revenue per head £45 per match.
Replace 10% of these each year with a different type of fan, let's call them "Big Match Followers" (Use ex-season ticker seat as GA+, attends once or twice a year, spends in shops) high revenue per head £300 per match and you've upped you match day income by £13m. ( fag packet maths)
It makes it very attractive - assuming you can sell all those seats as premium or even full-price admission.
This is what I don’t get - they must have the wrong data, or they are interpreting it incorrectly. The price points at every level are wrong, and there are not enough people in the local area who can afford them, or would be interested enough in Villa to travel and pay them. If there were we wouldn’t still have tickets available for our biggest home game in 50 years in 5 days time.
Post by: Paul.S on September 27, 2024, 07:01:50 PM
It's probably been covered many times in this debate, but what do people think would be a reasonable ticket price for our first Cl venture in 41 years watching a team of world class talent under the guidance of one of the best managers in the world taking on the cream of European football ?
If they could guarantee I’d get in on time and wouldn’t suffer injuries off the seats then I reckon £50 would be more than enough.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 27, 2024, 07:02:29 PM
...not many is the answer, absolutely loads left all round the stadium, some sections below 50% sold.
As most have said the pricing for this was a mistake, may get to general sale with one game since 1874 criteria
Post by: Clampy on September 27, 2024, 07:03:22 PM
So we're all wetting the bed over about £15-20 then.It's probably been covered many times in this debate, but what do people think would be a reasonable ticket price for our first Cl venture in 41 years watching a team of world class talent under the guidance of one of the best managers in the world taking on the cream of European football ?
Probably £50 for Z4 and up to £65 for Z1 for Bayern and Juve, maybe slightly less for Celtic, particulalrly if we've "qualified" by then and I'd have made the Bologna game much cheaper than that.
"Wetting the bed". Honestly, how is language like that adding to the debate?
We've got the most expensive Champions League tickets of any of the English clubs. It's not exactly a surprise people are not impressed.
Because he's happy to pay it, he thinks everyone else should too.
Post by: Pat Mustard on September 27, 2024, 07:04:38 PM
Well I've just looked to see how many seats members have taken up on tonight's sales window...
...not many is the answer, absolutely loads left all round the stadium, some sections below 50% sold.
As most have said the pricing for this was a mistake, may get to general sale with one game since 1874 criteria
And I’d venture the GA+ will get zero interest as a result
Post by: pauliewalnuts on September 27, 2024, 07:04:39 PM
What they won't do is spend money on food and drink at the ground, and they won't then go and get shirts and all sorts of shit at the club shop after.
A 'this is my first time' style match attender is worth way, way more than 'season ticket price / 19'
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 27, 2024, 07:09:59 PM
100% correct Pat, and so easy for most on here to seeWell I've just looked to see how many seats members have taken up on tonight's sales window...
...not many is the answer, absolutely loads left all round the stadium, some sections below 50% sold.
As most have said the pricing for this was a mistake, may get to general sale with one game since 1874 criteria
And I’d venture the GA+ will get zero interest as a result
Post by: SaddVillan on September 27, 2024, 07:21:25 PM
When we won it in 80-81 our average home attendance was around 34,000. He's working on getting it down from full houses to that level.
That's the genius of the man.
Post by: Lsvilla on September 27, 2024, 07:24:07 PM
Well put it this way. I'm not doing the complaining.It's probably been covered many times in this debate, but what do people think would be a reasonable ticket price for our first Cl venture in 41 years watching a team of world class talent under the guidance of one of the best managers in the world taking on the cream of European football ?
What do you think?
Then pay it. If you dont like people complaining, I'd stay off this thread or is that too difficult?
I have. And I have no problem with people complaining. Equally they could just say it's too much for me thanks and leave it to someone else. Like any other rpurchase decision.
Post by: VillaTim on September 27, 2024, 07:35:34 PM
Post by: astonvilla82 on September 27, 2024, 07:46:35 PM
Post by: VillaTim on September 27, 2024, 07:49:15 PM
Post by: amfy on September 27, 2024, 07:50:13 PM
So we're all wetting the bed over about £15-20 then.It's probably been covered many times in this debate, but what do people think would be a reasonable ticket price for our first Cl venture in 41 years watching a team of world class talent under the guidance of one of the best managers in the world taking on the cream of European football ?
Probably £50 for Z4 and up to £65 for Z1 for Bayern and Juve, maybe slightly less for Celtic, particulalrly if we've "qualified" by then and I'd have made the Bologna game much cheaper than that.
It’s because the £50-£65 is already a lot of money. It already about a tenner more than last year, when it was already a lot of money to keep finding. A lot more than most of us want to pay but we are somehow stretching to keep doing it because we really want to keep being there even though it’s more than we can afford if we’re really honest with ourselves.
THEN they add on another £15-£20.
Post by: Ads on September 27, 2024, 07:51:26 PM
Post by: astonvilla82 on September 27, 2024, 07:52:44 PM
No one wetting the bed,So we're all wetting the bed over about £15-20 then.It's probably been covered many times in this debate, but what do people think would be a reasonable ticket price for our first Cl venture in 41 years watching a team of world class talent under the guidance of one of the best managers in the world taking on the cream of European football ?
Probably £50 for Z4 and up to £65 for Z1 for Bayern and Juve, maybe slightly less for Celtic, particulalrly if we've "qualified" by then and I'd have made the Bologna game much cheaper than that.
Post by: Ads on September 27, 2024, 07:54:15 PM
Post by: Lsvilla on September 27, 2024, 08:07:49 PM
I've pissed in your bed. Wiped me cock on the curtains too.The best day of my life..........
Post by: Bent Neilsens Screamer on September 27, 2024, 08:52:42 PM
The other thing about season ticket holders - they come to every home match, probably with the same mates / family, they have a routine, and it isn't going to involve spending loads of cash at the ground. They'll meet in town or whichever local boozer before the match, and they'll go there after.
What they won't do is spend money on food and drink at the ground, and they won't then go and get shirts and all sorts of shit at the club shop after.
A 'this is my first time' style match attender is worth way, way more than 'season ticket price / 19'
I agree that one timers or less frequent visitors may spend more but they’re really missing a trick with the poor service etc, although it seems it’s been going on since the dawn of time. It’s not earth shattering but every little helps so if you had everyone getting a drink or food that wanted it without missing any of the match you’re talking of millions in extra revenue that’s currently being missed.
Post by: Dogtanian on September 27, 2024, 08:53:54 PM
Post by: VillaTim on September 27, 2024, 09:03:08 PM
Post by: Percy McCarthy on September 27, 2024, 09:21:14 PM
On a quick look, I'd estimate about a third of season ticket holders haven't taken up their tickets.
The flip side I know a couple of former season ticket holders who are on the waiting list looking at this as probably the only Champions League game they are likely to be able to go to. I am absolutely not using that as a justification for the prices but just to suggest that there is still some demand there.
I know what you are saying, the two old guys I sit next to aren’t going to Champs League games due to the prices but they have reallocated their tickets to others who were ‘desperate’ to go….upgrade from concession to adult, only a few quid but exactly why they made the concession prices so damn high
My dad is the same - as he said, you can buy a firestick and watch every single Villa game for the cost of one ticket.
I’ve had two and got sick of the buffering. My mate invited me round to watch the Palace game (0-5) last season and I went round at half-time. Buffered the entire second half thankfully. “It was working fine til you came in” he said.
I sometimes watch games round my uncle’s via his firestick. Even with minimal buffering, I find the pressure unbearable if it freezes during an opposition attack. Official channels and going to games is expensive, but worth it to me.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on September 27, 2024, 09:24:18 PM
Post by: Percy McCarthy on September 27, 2024, 09:31:07 PM
I get you don't like Heck, your Carthago daellenda est approach to every post you make leaves us in no doubt, but I really don't understand the analysis there.When Lerner sold his shares in MBNA to Bank of America (deal completed 01/01/06) he took the majority of his consideration in Bank of America shares. The Bank of America share price plummeted by more than 90% between January 2006 and February 2009, as a result of the banking crash, resulting in a sizeable decrease in Lerner's personal net worth. This, along with his divorce and philanthropy, were the prime reasons for the mess he got himself in.
We hit the "rocks" in 2010 because we'd allowed 1 man to max out the (limited) Lerner family trust. Lerner was more interested in Jewish folk history come 2010 than running a football club by that point and it appeared that his sister had been updated by the family lawyer to see just how much money he'd wasted. A discreet set of circumstances.
We're owned by 3 entities of extreme wealth. As miraculous as our rise has been, it would be equally miraculous to go the same way in reverse. It is all indexed to those 3 entities and Emery, with Emery's structure around him.
Great Man Theroy in action; Lerner and O'Neil these lot are not. They're infinite levels of wealth, knowledge and ability above.
Prices are elastic, they can expand or contract. There's no way of carving £90 or £79 anyway that I'd like or many of us would like. There might be reasons for this beyond maximising revenue such as structural or regulatory ones- that would make a lot of sense.
But the idea that if Heck leaves in say 18 months when his son has finished at university, that the club with a ~£400m turnover is some how irreparably damaged and not significantly financially stronger is just garbage. And garbage that's repeated time and time again.
Correct.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 27, 2024, 09:37:11 PM
2000 GA+ seats at £150 = £300,000
Then we have 2000 unsold GA seats say
Add on the fact that each GA+ customer will get through £30 in food/drink for free
So we generate in reality £240,000 when you take off £30 ×2000, for all 2000 seats
If we sold all 4000 seats at the GA price of £72 that's £288,000, and that's without any of them spending on food/drink
Apologies if this is garbage and I have this wrong but the Shiraz is open...
Post by: Lsvilla on September 27, 2024, 10:47:32 PM
Prove it. I don't believe you.So we're all wetting the bed over about £15-20 then.It's probably been covered many times in this debate, but what do people think would be a reasonable ticket price for our first Cl venture in 41 years watching a team of world class talent under the guidance of one of the best managers in the world taking on the cream of European football ?
Probably £50 for Z4 and up to £65 for Z1 for Bayern and Juve, maybe slightly less for Celtic, particulalrly if we've "qualified" by then and I'd have made the Bologna game much cheaper than that.
"Wetting the bed". Honestly, how is language like that adding to the debate?
We've got the most expensive Champions League tickets of any of the English clubs. It's not exactly a surprise people are not impressed.
Post by: HolteL4 on September 28, 2024, 08:37:06 AM
If you were running a football club, surely you'd want as many season ticket holders as possible. Guaranteed income at the start of the year regardless of what's going on on the pitch.
If you have a product where demand exceeds supply, largely, then you look at maximising your revenue from the supply you do have.
Season ticket holders return a lot lower revenue-per-supporter than one off ticket sales do.
I am sure the bit about UE not wanting a three sided ground for our CL return is true, but i think there's also a degree of Heck binning the North Stand rebuild because he thinks he can drive up revenue in the short term - and remember, no NS for two or three seasons means reduced revenue - with the number of seats we already have and therefore without us having to spend 100m+ on a new stand.
But if the North Stand was knocked down you'd then have in 2 years a purpose built stand designed for GA+ so would be able to charge even more than they are now because of the standard of the facilities would be at least twice as good as they are now. What Heck is doing is showing he's not a business brain at all. Other thing he could have done is offer every season ticket holder a physical ticket and pitched it as a 150 year anniversary special and could have got away with charging more than £20 and because of the significance of the anniversary people would have paid.
Post by: dekko on September 28, 2024, 08:40:38 AM
Post by: HolteL4 on September 28, 2024, 08:46:19 AM
I wonder if the return of the 10% discount is to help them track season ticket holder’s spend better.
Even that was a joke, gave season ticket holders 10% discount then straight away gave everyone a code to get a 10% discount
Post by: Villan82 on September 28, 2024, 09:51:02 AM
So we're all wetting the bed over about £15-20 then.It's probably been covered many times in this debate, but what do people think would be a reasonable ticket price for our first Cl venture in 41 years watching a team of world class talent under the guidance of one of the best managers in the world taking on the cream of European football ?
Probably £50 for Z4 and up to £65 for Z1 for Bayern and Juve, maybe slightly less for Celtic, particulalrly if we've "qualified" by then and I'd have made the Bologna game much cheaper than that.
"Wetting the bed". Honestly, how is language like that adding to the debate?
We've got the most expensive Champions League tickets of any of the English clubs. It's not exactly a surprise people are not impressed.
Just be grateful he didn't use Latin.
Post by: LeeB on September 28, 2024, 09:56:43 AM
Can you not read? It must make you very easy to manipulate.Prove it. I don't believe you.So we're all wetting the bed over about £15-20 then.It's probably been covered many times in this debate, but what do people think would be a reasonable ticket price for our first Cl venture in 41 years watching a team of world class talent under the guidance of one of the best managers in the world taking on the cream of European football ?
Probably £50 for Z4 and up to £65 for Z1 for Bayern and Juve, maybe slightly less for Celtic, particulalrly if we've "qualified" by then and I'd have made the Bologna game much cheaper than that.
"Wetting the bed". Honestly, how is language like that adding to the debate?
We've got the most expensive Champions League tickets of any of the English clubs. It's not exactly a surprise people are not impressed.
Post by: VillaTim on September 28, 2024, 10:58:14 AM
Post by: dave.woodhall on September 28, 2024, 11:00:09 AM
I assume if we make the knockout phase prices will be held and not rise again.
Wanna buy a bridge?
Post by: Smirker on September 28, 2024, 11:35:23 AM
I assume if we make the knockout phase prices will be held and not rise again.
Wanna buy a bridge?
😂
Post by: Gareth on September 28, 2024, 02:11:09 PM
It's impossible to spend loads of cash in the Witton Upper once you're in. The queues are miles back to get food or drink, then queues for a piss . It's a joke
Just to clarify the cbomb isn’t charging is to pee
Yet
Post by: TonyD on September 28, 2024, 03:32:04 PM
Heck is to reduce the capacity for normal fans and squeeze us til the pips squeak.
Post by: Demitri_C on September 28, 2024, 04:18:26 PM
So Leeds to up the capacity to 53,000 so more fans can enjoy the games..guys a absolute idiot. A bigger ground and cheaper tickets is a better option then smaller ground with expensive tickets for a shit experience
Heck is to reduce the capacity for normal fans and squeeze us til the pips squeak.
Post by: Toronto Villa on September 28, 2024, 04:22:52 PM
Post by: Demitri_C on September 28, 2024, 04:57:44 PM
A bigger ground hardly happens with the click of fingers. It takes time and massive amounts of planning from many people. Mostly not related to the club. And again, it’s not all his decision. It would be entirely supported by the owners and board. This isn’t at all me defending the ticket prices because they are way too high. But if you’re going to hammer him for the ground capacity and not expanding Villa Park, it’s stupid to pin it all on Heck.
The thing is purslow was all for it. Heck comes in and he even said the reasons why in his opinion why not to extend the stadium. I really do think he made the decision ans relaid it back to the owners
Post by: Toronto Villa on September 28, 2024, 05:02:23 PM
Post by: eamonn on September 28, 2024, 05:05:48 PM
Post by: Rigadon on September 28, 2024, 05:11:32 PM
I’d be amazed if he made a decision of that magnitude on his own.
Indeed. I get that people want somebody to pin their frustrations on and that people are loathe to the idea that our owners might misstep, but there is zero chance Chris Heck makes these decisions without getting them sanctioned from above. Literally no chance that's happening. He's either following orders or making recommendations that are being OK'd.
Post by: ChicagoLion on September 28, 2024, 05:24:42 PM
There seems to be an mis understanding of how this corporate governance works, No they don’t determine match game ticket prices, Yes they do have the final say on millions of £ worth of capital expenditure.I’d be amazed if he made a decision of that magnitude on his own.
Indeed. I get that people want somebody to pin their frustrations on and that people are loathe to the idea that our owners might misstep, but there is zero chance Chris Heck makes these decisions without getting them sanctioned from above. Literally no chance that's happening. He's either following orders or making recommendations that are being OK'd.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on September 28, 2024, 05:32:48 PM
Post by: Ads on September 28, 2024, 06:06:32 PM
Post by: Dante Lavelli on September 28, 2024, 06:09:48 PM
Post by: Toronto Villa on September 28, 2024, 06:10:01 PM
Post by: Ads on September 28, 2024, 06:16:10 PM
What was the timing of the Atairos investment and pulling the North Stand development?
Almost simultaneous. It happened when we were in Mostar, then the stand was canned a few days later.
Post by: Dante Lavelli on September 28, 2024, 06:21:36 PM
Reasonable to assume that the decision was linked to their investment then. I’d speculate that they must have their own development plans as otherwise ‘business as usual’ would have happened, like with the other facets of the club
Post by: Toronto Villa on September 28, 2024, 06:24:46 PM
Post by: Demitri_C on September 28, 2024, 07:04:31 PM
I’d be amazed if he made a decision of that magnitude on his own.
Indeed. I get that people want somebody to pin their frustrations on and that people are loathe to the idea that our owners might misstep, but there is zero chance Chris Heck makes these decisions without getting them sanctioned from above. Literally no chance that's happening. He's either following orders or making recommendations that are being OK'd.
But the reason i feel he was a vital part of it was that interview he did speaking about the reasons why they are nit going ahead
Post by: pauliewalnuts on September 28, 2024, 07:13:51 PM
I think us committing to Villa Park is a very today and short term decision. Heck has said what he’s been directed to say about how great our home is and he’s right. But I cannot believe the long term plan to grow commercial revenues doesn’t include significant investment in the overall area or a new stadium entirely. Clubs around us and even the likes of Everton all have bigger stadiums. We won’t be left behind.
Well, currently the 'plan' seems to consist of fewer seats than we had before and sky high prices.
I don't really give a shit what he says about the ground or however many times he says 'Up The Villa' in an attempt to sound like he 'gets' us, what we have actually seen thus far - insanely expensive corporate outing options appearing around the ground, overflowing bogs and high ticket prices for the rest of us - doesn't really fill me with confidence that he gets much at all, especially seeing as those corporate options seem to be embarassingly empty.
Post by: dave.woodhall on September 28, 2024, 07:32:27 PM
Post by: adrenachrome on September 28, 2024, 07:58:17 PM
My worry isn't that Heck doesn't know what he's doing, but rather that he knows exactly what he's doing and it's what NSWE want.
I agree.
They have all the social, economic, demographic and financial data. Heck has form in implementing
My worry isn't that Heck doesn't know what he's doing, but rather that he knows exactly what he's doing and it's what NSWE want.
There is little doubt in my mind that you are right.
Post by: algy on September 28, 2024, 08:06:32 PM
My worry isn't that Heck doesn't know what he's doing, but rather that he knows exactly what he's doing and it's what NSWE want.This, I feel, is the most likely scenario.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on September 28, 2024, 08:17:35 PM
My worry isn't that Heck doesn't know what he's doing, but rather that he knows exactly what he's doing and it's what NSWE want.
I get where you're coming from but I think you're overestimating Heck's intelligence.
Post by: VillaTim on September 28, 2024, 08:18:49 PM
Post by: ChicagoLion on September 28, 2024, 08:25:42 PM
My worry isn't that Heck doesn't know what he's doing, but rather that he knows exactly what he's doing and it's what NSWE want.Of course this is the nightmare scenario.
If things continue as they are then it will be the case. What a horrible situation to be so involved and supportive of the team and everything that Emery does, but to be treated with contempt by the people running the club. I hope it’s not true.
Post by: Meanwood Villa on September 28, 2024, 08:58:16 PM
Post by: Exeter 77 on September 28, 2024, 09:05:16 PM
My worry isn't that Heck doesn't know what he's doing, but rather that he knows exactly what he's doing and it's what NSWE want.I think may well be the case but it seems Heck is doing the job with the relish of a man who knows he has been set up as the bad guy.
Post by: ChicagoLion on September 28, 2024, 09:07:13 PM
Course Heck is doing the owners' bidding and anyone thinking our benevolent overlords are somehow being duped along with the rest of us by his actions are in cloud cuckooland.I do not think any one is disputing that Heck is attempting to meet financial targets set by “ our overlords”
The issue here is to what extent are they cognisant of the impact it is having on many supporters.
As I said if this continues and Heck is still here next season we will know the answer, right now we don’t.
Post by: Meanwood Villa on September 28, 2024, 09:10:43 PM
Post by: VillaTim on September 28, 2024, 09:18:09 PM
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on September 28, 2024, 09:23:13 PM
Guess what, to delve properly into the archive you now have to pay a subscription for "premium content".
This must have only happened in the last week or so. Fuck 'em, I'm not paying to help recall my memories from years gone by.
Post by: Meanwood Villa on September 28, 2024, 09:27:23 PM
I'd say they are on a fast trajectory to build the "asset" and flip it . There are already others involved now in ownership . These guys aren't fans as much as we love what they've done to bring us on since Xia , once they are gone they will quickly forget the name Aston Villa.
I don't agree with this necessarily but I think it's all about getting as much cash out of us as they can and hang the consequences.
Post by: ender4 on September 28, 2024, 09:38:02 PM
I'd say they are on a fast trajectory to build the "asset" and flip it . There are already others involved now in ownership . These guys aren't fans as much as we love what they've done to bring us on since Xia , once they are gone they will quickly forget the name Aston Villa.
I disagree. Does an investor who is looking to flip an asset come to watch the youth team play midweek in a fourth-rate competition in Wycombe? I don’t think so.
Post by: VillaTim on September 28, 2024, 09:42:23 PM
That is a fair point. Then again R Lerner did this sort of stuff too until he got bored. Hopefully Sawaris is different .I'd say they are on a fast trajectory to build the "asset" and flip it . There are already others involved now in ownership . These guys aren't fans as much as we love what they've done to bring us on since Xia , once they are gone they will quickly forget the name Aston Villa.
I disagree. Does an investor who is looking to flip an asset come to watch the youth team play midweek in a fourth-rate competition in Wycombe? I don’t think so.
Post by: dalians umbrella on September 28, 2024, 09:42:45 PM
I think us committing to Villa Park is a very today and short term decision. Heck has said what he’s been directed to say about how great our home is and he’s right. But I cannot believe the long term plan to grow commercial revenues doesn’t include significant investment in the overall area or a new stadium entirely. Clubs around us and even the likes of Everton all have bigger stadiums. We won’t be left behind.
I don't really give a shit what he says about the ground or however many times he says 'Up The Villa' in an attempt to sound like he 'gets' us,
He admitted on that interview he did in America that after bad feedback about his first catchphrase, “on brand”, he replaced it with “up the villa”. The fact that he thinks these two phrases are synonymous, tells you everything that you need to know.
Post by: Villan82 on September 28, 2024, 09:44:41 PM
My worry isn't that Heck doesn't know what he's doing, but rather that he knows exactly what he's doing and it's what NSWE want.
It's like looking at jigsaw pieces. I can see NSWE, I can see the arrival of Atairos/ Comcast and I can see the things Heck has announced. Something isn't adding up because I can't see the final piece.
I have thought it's a ruthless executive trying to hit his targets quickly. I have wondered if it is a preparation for a sale of the club in about 2 years. The bit I can't reconcile with either is the Comcast angle.
Post by: Des Little on September 28, 2024, 10:36:52 PM
Post by: andyh on September 28, 2024, 11:08:08 PM
The owners and the people they employ to run it don't care about the fans, they are running this as an investment opportunity and anything getting in the way is collateral damage . Hard to digest but those are the facts .That is utter, utter bollocks.
If our owners were not 100% committed to seeing the club succeed, win things and being the best it can be, then why was Sawaris at Wycombe on Tuesday night?
I’m sure there were a million places where our billionaire owner could have been, but he chose to watch the stiffs at Wycombe.
Post by: VillaTim on September 28, 2024, 11:33:18 PM
So he must be fully aware of the discontent around ticket prices etc etc .The owners and the people they employ to run it don't care about the fans, they are running this as an investment opportunity and anything getting in the way is collateral damage . Hard to digest but those are the facts .That is utter, utter bollocks.
If our owners were not 100% committed to seeing the club succeed, win things and being the best it can be, then why was Sawaris at Wycombe on Tuesday night?
I’m sure there were a million places where our billionaire owner could have been, but he chose to watch the stiffs at Wycombe.
Post by: TonyD on September 29, 2024, 12:27:01 AM
I suspect the truth lies somewhere in between.The owners and the people they employ to run it don't care about the fans, they are running this as an investment opportunity and anything getting in the way is collateral damage . Hard to digest but those are the facts .That is utter, utter bollocks.
If our owners were not 100% committed to seeing the club succeed, win things and being the best it can be, then why was Sawaris at Wycombe on Tuesday night?
I’m sure there were a million places where our billionaire owner could have been, but he chose to watch the stiffs at Wycombe.
Post by: ROBBO on September 29, 2024, 07:58:29 AM
Post by: Dante Lavelli on September 29, 2024, 08:06:23 AM
Do people think that if we move into a new, bigger stadium tickets would get cheaper? Because they won’t. They’d only get cheaper if we got shit again, God forbid, so be careful what you wish for!
I know I do. My hope is that with an extra 15,000 seats all price thresholds can be catered for and the spaces fit for purpose. I think a lot of what heck is doing is testing the elasticity of demand for different price points and offerings so any new development/stadium will be tailored to suit.
Post by: Brend'Watkins on September 29, 2024, 09:31:22 AM
Do people think that if we move into a new, bigger stadium tickets would get cheaper? Because they won’t. They’d only get cheaper if we got shit again, God forbid, so be careful what you wish for!
I know a do. My hope is that with an extra 15,000 seats all price thresholds can be catered for and the spaces fit for purpose. I think a lot of what heck is doing is testing the elasticity of demand for different price points and offerings so any new development/stadium will be tailored to suit.
You’re giving Heck too much credit. He’s purely out to make his bonus in the quickest possible time and then will be gone.
Post by: Villan82 on September 29, 2024, 10:14:37 AM
Do people think that if we move into a new, bigger stadium tickets would get cheaper? Because they won’t. They’d only get cheaper if we got shit again, God forbid, so be careful what you wish for!
I know a do. My hope is that with an extra 15,000 seats all price thresholds can be catered for and the spaces fit for purpose. I think a lot of what heck is doing is testing the elasticity of demand for different price points and offerings so any new development/stadium will be tailored to suit.
Presumably that sort of modeling was done when the new stand was designed? It seemed to be based on the idea we can sell out 42,000 and above easily but need to continue and improve on the existing GA+ etc offered in the Trinity. If that's what they are doing now they are really wasting years on this
Post by: The Edge on September 29, 2024, 10:25:51 AM
Post by: Pat Mustard on September 29, 2024, 10:59:34 AM
My worry isn't that Heck doesn't know what he's doing, but rather that he knows exactly what he's doing and it's what NSWE want.
I agree.
They have all the social, economic, demographic and financial data. Heck has form in implementingMy worry isn't that Heck doesn't know what he's doing, but rather that he knows exactly what he's doing and it's what NSWE want.
There is little doubt in my mind that you are right.
This is where I struggle to believe he does know what he’s doing. If they were interpreting the data correctly he must surely realise the pricing structure is wrong - there are not enough people who want to watch Villa who can afford the current prices.
People keep saying we want to attract day trippers ahead of regular match goers as they spend more money. If that were true and they looked to limit STs to, say, 25k then that’s 15k seats we have to sell for every game, effectively 400k tickets to sell to day-trippers. With the best will in the world, we are never going to sell 400k tickets to individual purchasers - we need a good chunk of people who go week after week. The reality is that with prices as they are, those people that would go to multiple games can’t afford it.
I’m going back to something I’ve repeated multiple times - for the last 5 years we as family of 3 have gone to almost all matches. This year we will probably go to no more than half all together. Where are our replacements, when we haven’t managed to sell out a single game so far this season, including Wednesday which is our biggest home game in 50 years.
He’s screwing up the long-term in pursuit of a short-term objective, but in doing so he is screwing up the short-term as well. We are not making anything like the increase in income he is expecting with thousands of seats that were previously full now empty, and there will be games later in the season where the deficit in atmosphere could well end up costing us on the pitch. Last season we finished 4th by 2 points - one more draw or defeat and we would have lost £50 million.
Post by: john e on September 29, 2024, 11:06:42 AM
My worry isn't that Heck doesn't know what he's doing, but rather that he knows exactly what he's doing and it's what NSWE want.
I agree.
They have all the social, economic, demographic and financial data. Heck has form in implementingMy worry isn't that Heck doesn't know what he's doing, but rather that he knows exactly what he's doing and it's what NSWE want.
There is little doubt in my mind that you are right.
This is where I struggle to believe he does know what he’s doing. If they were interpreting the data correctly he must surely realise the pricing structure is wrong - there are not enough people who want to watch Villa who can afford the current prices.
People keep saying we want to attract day trippers ahead of regular match goers as they spend more money. If that were true and they looked to limit STs to, say, 25k then that’s 15k seats we have to sell for every game, effectively 400k tickets to sell to day-trippers. With the best will in the world, we are never going to sell 400k tickets to individual purchasers - we need a good chunk of people who go week after week. The reality is that with prices as they are, those people that would go to multiple games can’t afford it.
I’m going back to something I’ve repeated multiple times - for the last 5 years we as family of 3 have gone to almost all matches. This year we will probably go to no more than half all together. Where are our replacements, when we haven’t managed to sell out a single game so far this season, including Wednesday which is our biggest home game in 50 years.
He’s screwing up the long-term in pursuit of a short-term objective, but in doing so he is screwing up the short-term as well. We are not making anything like the increase in income he is expecting with thousands of seats that were previously full now empty, and there will be games later in the season where the deficit in atmosphere could well end up costing us on the pitch. Last season we finished 4th by 2 points - one more draw or defeat and we would have lost £50 million.
I agree with Pat
Post by: john2710 on September 29, 2024, 11:55:32 AM
GA+ is where there's clearly blocks of seats that aren't selling, I don't know what the ratio of sales is needed to make it profitable but I would hazard a guess that over the season the club will make substantially more money than if they were left as GA & especially so as season tickets.
The club are clearly trying to understand the appetite for GA+ & will be learning as they go. The level of change has been rapid & it's possible they've gone too far too soon. You can do all the profiling you like but It will still only give a indication. The thought of paying £1k+ for a game is as alien to me as paying £97 is for others. They may scale it back but I think that's highly unlikely & even less likely that they'd admit it.
Anyone saying we can't sell out the Bayern game need to look at the price of the 50 or so tickets left ranging from £340-£1080.
Post by: olaftab on September 29, 2024, 12:14:48 PM
Post by: Stu82 on September 29, 2024, 12:27:37 PM
My worry isn't that Heck doesn't know what he's doing, but rather that he knows exactly what he's doing and it's what NSWE want.
I agree.
They have all the social, economic, demographic and financial data. Heck has form in implementingMy worry isn't that Heck doesn't know what he's doing, but rather that he knows exactly what he's doing and it's what NSWE want.
There is little doubt in my mind that you are right.
This is where I struggle to believe he does know what he’s doing. If they were interpreting the data correctly he must surely realise the pricing structure is wrong - there are not enough people who want to watch Villa who can afford the current prices.
People keep saying we want to attract day trippers ahead of regular match goers as they spend more money. If that were true and they looked to limit STs to, say, 25k then that’s 15k seats we have to sell for every game, effectively 400k tickets to sell to day-trippers. With the best will in the world, we are never going to sell 400k tickets to individual purchasers - we need a good chunk of people who go week after week. The reality is that with prices as they are, those people that would go to multiple games can’t afford it.
I’m going back to something I’ve repeated multiple times - for the last 5 years we as family of 3 have gone to almost all matches. This year we will probably go to no more than half all together. Where are our replacements, when we haven’t managed to sell out a single game so far this season, including Wednesday which is our biggest home game in 50 years.
He’s screwing up the long-term in pursuit of a short-term objective, but in doing so he is screwing up the short-term as well. We are not making anything like the increase in income he is expecting with thousands of seats that were previously full now empty, and there will be games later in the season where the deficit in atmosphere could well end up costing us on the pitch. Last season we finished 4th by 2 points - one more draw or defeat and we would have lost £50 million.
Great post Pat.
People are saying that NSWE are aware and have approved or even planned this approach from Heck. I think that the targets have been set and Heck has put his plans into action to achieve this, if the result is not a success or creates too much negativity the owners will not be happy. They want the fans on board and Villa Park full, I would not be surprised if adjustments are made if the uproar continues and the seats remain unsold. After all they will be planning expansion/ a move and want more demand not less.
Post by: john2710 on September 29, 2024, 12:29:07 PM
It's clear from response so far that Bologna at home is not going to be sold out. Heck was no doubt encouraged by the rush that resulted in Bayern game GA selling out in under 24 hours and stuck with the same pricing structure. This could be a commercial mistake. Furthermore club are having trouble shifting GA+ stuff for the Bayern game. We could have another Wolves situation on Wednesday night with 100's if not a couple of thousand empty seats. This would be a shame.
There's less than 50 GA+ tickets left for Wednesday night, with a top price of £1080. There's no chance of 2000 empty seats.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on September 29, 2024, 12:33:21 PM
Post by: Pat Mustard on September 29, 2024, 12:35:52 PM
The Wolves game last week there were no GA tickets available on Thursday. It was sold out. There were GA+ tickets available. On Friday before the game resale tickets were made available, mostly single seats. Many were left available but that's not lost revenue it's just season ticket holders who didn't attend.
GA+ is where there's clearly blocks of seats that aren't selling, I don't know what the ratio of sales is needed to make it profitable but I would hazard a guess that over the season the club will make substantially more money than if they were left as GA & especially so as season tickets.
The club are clearly trying to understand the appetite for GA+ & will be learning as they go. The level of change has been rapid & it's possible they've gone too far too soon. You can do all the profiling you like but It will still only give a indication. The thought of paying £1k+ for a game is as alien to me as paying £97 is for others. They may scale it back but I think that's highly unlikely & even less likely that they'd admit it.
Anyone saying we can't sell out the Bayern game need to look at the price of the 50 or so tickets left ranging from £340-£1080.
There’s a lot more than 50 tickets left available for Bayern, and that is the one game where even I thought they would get away with charging whatever they want and would still sell out (there are also still 100s available through third party resellers too). With Wolves, the club would have known the resale tickets that would be available, but try to hold a noose around our necks by not making them available till the last minute in order to force people to buy GA+ - it clearly didn’t work with a couple of thousand empty seats as far as we know.
The reality is that Heck’s pricing structure is clearly not working, the club might be making a few more quid but it’s nothing like the level he expected because of the losses in seats that are just not selling. We will also soon be approaching games where GA+ is even less attractive - who is going to buy a package for Bologna when there are 10k seats available? Who will buy one for a midweek game in December against Brentford?
Post by: amfy on September 29, 2024, 12:47:08 PM
This is where I struggle to believe he does know what he’s doing. If they were interpreting the data correctly he must surely realise the pricing structure is wrong - there are not enough people who want to watch Villa who can afford the current prices.
People keep saying we want to attract day trippers ahead of regular match goers as they spend more money. If that were true and they looked to limit STs to, say, 25k then that’s 15k seats we have to sell for every game, effectively 400k tickets to sell to day-trippers. With the best will in the world, we are never going to sell 400k tickets to individual purchasers - we need a good chunk of people who go week after week. The reality is that with prices as they are, those people that would go to multiple games can’t afford it.
I’m going back to something I’ve repeated multiple times - for the last 5 years we as family of 3 have gone to almost all matches. This year we will probably go to no more than half all together. Where are our replacements, when we haven’t managed to sell out a single game so far this season, including Wednesday which is our biggest home game in 50 years.
He’s screwing up the long-term in pursuit of a short-term objective, but in doing so he is screwing up the short-term as well. We are not making anything like the increase in income he is expecting with thousands of seats that were previously full now empty, and there will be games later in the season where the deficit in atmosphere could well end up costing us on the pitch. Last season we finished 4th by 2 points - one more draw or defeat and we would have lost £50 million.
Bob on! Absolutely what the ‘fans need to understand that if we want success we have to pay for it’ brigade are missing.
Post by: Villan82 on September 29, 2024, 12:50:00 PM
Post by: maidstonevillain on September 29, 2024, 01:21:37 PM
He’s screwing up the long-term in pursuit of a short-term objective, but in doing so he is screwing up the short-term as well. We are not making anything like the increase in income he is expecting with thousands of seats that were previously full now empty, and there will be games later in the season where the deficit in atmosphere could well end up costing us on the pitch. Last season we finished 4th by 2 points - one more draw or defeat and we would have lost £50 million.
Exactly Pat.
“HOLTE END THE 11 1/2TH MAN”
This will be Heck’s legacy by the time he has finished.
Post by: RamboandBruno on September 29, 2024, 01:39:07 PM
It's clear from response so far that Bologna at home is not going to be sold out. Heck was no doubt encouraged by the rush that resulted in Bayern game GA selling out in under 24 hours and stuck with the same pricing structure. This could be a commercial mistake. Furthermore club are having trouble shifting GA+ stuff for the Bayern game. We could have another Wolves situation on Wednesday night with 100's if not a couple of thousand empty seats. This would be a shame.If you’d told me I wouldnt be taking my kids to watch Villa at home in a champions league game, I wouldnt of believed you. However, i can’t afford the Bologna game and can’t justify the outlay after already paying for the Bayern game. It will be interesting to see if our seats sell for the inflated price.
Post by: TonyD on September 29, 2024, 01:46:09 PM
Post by: Pat Mustard on September 29, 2024, 01:56:42 PM
It’s not our biggest home game in 50 years.
In terms of profile it absolutely is
Post by: TonyD on September 29, 2024, 02:03:31 PM
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 29, 2024, 02:05:53 PM
Post by: Pat Mustard on September 29, 2024, 02:31:44 PM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 29, 2024, 07:23:09 PM
It's very high profile but nowhere near our biggest game, it's not even top 10 biggest home games in 50 years.Juventus and Barcelona early eighties were big games, but other than that I'm struggling to think of another eight bigger than Bayern. Anyone else think of any ?
Post by: pauliewalnuts on September 29, 2024, 07:28:21 PM
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 29, 2024, 07:30:42 PM
Post by: Beard82 on September 29, 2024, 07:43:44 PM
I think this is the thing - people just cant afford it. I was expecting some kind of package to make it more reasonable. Its everywhere though - I bought tickets for England v India at Edgbaston next summer. I normally try and do 2 test a summer but probably wont be able to at those prices. Going to a gig- even for a smaller band - is suddenly £50 kid a ticket.It's clear from response so far that Bologna at home is not going to be sold out. Heck was no doubt encouraged by the rush that resulted in Bayern game GA selling out in under 24 hours and stuck with the same pricing structure. This could be a commercial mistake. Furthermore club are having trouble shifting GA+ stuff for the Bayern game. We could have another Wolves situation on Wednesday night with 100's if not a couple of thousand empty seats. This would be a shame.If you’d told me I wouldnt be taking my kids to watch Villa at home in a champions league game, I wouldnt of believed you. However, i can’t afford the Bologna game and can’t justify the outlay after already paying for the Bayern game. It will be interesting to see if our seats sell for the inflated price.
Post by: astonvilla82 on September 29, 2024, 07:49:04 PM
Birmingham City of courseIt's very high profile but nowhere near our biggest game, it's not even top 10 biggest home games in 50 years.Juventus and Barcelona early eighties were big games, but other than that I'm struggling to think of another eight bigger than Bayern. Anyone else think of any ?
Post by: Pat Mustard on September 29, 2024, 07:51:40 PM
There's a difference between massively high profile and it being one of our biggest games. To me there is anyway.
To me this is the nub of the problem. For the likes of us I absolutely agree - Albion in a play-off semi final was a much bigger game. To the people Heck is trying to attract, however, they would find that idea laughable.
Post by: ChicagoLion on September 29, 2024, 08:41:51 PM
I think you are right Pat, he has completely misjudged the situation.My worry isn't that Heck doesn't know what he's doing, but rather that he knows exactly what he's doing and it's what NSWE want.
I agree.
They have all the social, economic, demographic and financial data. Heck has form in implementingMy worry isn't that Heck doesn't know what he's doing, but rather that he knows exactly what he's doing and it's what NSWE want.
There is little doubt in my mind that you are right.
This is where I struggle to believe he does know what he’s doing. If they were interpreting the data correctly he must surely realise the pricing structure is wrong - there are not enough people who want to watch Villa who can afford the current prices.
People keep saying we want to attract day trippers ahead of regular match goers as they spend more money. If that were true and they looked to limit STs to, say, 25k then that’s 15k seats we have to sell for every game, effectively 400k tickets to sell to day-trippers. With the best will in the world, we are never going to sell 400k tickets to individual purchasers - we need a good chunk of people who go week after week. The reality is that with prices as they are, those people that would go to multiple games can’t afford it.
I’m going back to something I’ve repeated multiple times - for the last 5 years we as family of 3 have gone to almost all matches. This year we will probably go to no more than half all together. Where are our replacements, when we haven’t managed to sell out a single game so far this season, including Wednesday which is our biggest home game in 50 years.
He’s screwing up the long-term in pursuit of a short-term objective, but in doing so he is screwing up the short-term as well. We are not making anything like the increase in income he is expecting with thousands of seats that were previously full now empty, and there will be games later in the season where the deficit in atmosphere could well end up costing us on the pitch. Last season we finished 4th by 2 points - one more draw or defeat and we would have lost £50 million.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 29, 2024, 08:42:59 PM
Who are these people Heck is trying to attract?There's a difference between massively high profile and it being one of our biggest games. To me there is anyway.
To me this is the nub of the problem. For the likes of us I absolutely agree - Albion in a play-off semi final was a much bigger game. To the people Heck is trying to attract, however, they would find that idea laughable.
I can't fathom it?
People who haven't been to football before?
People who haven't been to Villa before?
People who have been to Villa but want to spend more?
People who have nothing to do on a winters night but fancy a game?
Who are they?
Post by: VillaTim on September 29, 2024, 08:52:07 PM
yeah agree, Leeds in that FA Cup QF, Tranmere ? Athletico, WBA in the FA Cup QF , loads of "bigger games" , the list goes onThere's a difference between massively high profile and it being one of our biggest games. To me there is anyway.
To me this is the nub of the problem. For the likes of us I absolutely agree - Albion in a play-off semi final was a much bigger game. To the people Heck is trying to attract, however, they would find that idea laughable.
Post by: Brend'Watkins on September 29, 2024, 08:55:24 PM
Who are these people Heck is trying to attract?There's a difference between massively high profile and it being one of our biggest games. To me there is anyway.
To me this is the nub of the problem. For the likes of us I absolutely agree - Albion in a play-off semi final was a much bigger game. To the people Heck is trying to attract, however, they would find that idea laughable.
I can't fathom it?
People who haven't been to football before?
People who haven't been to Villa before?
People who have been to Villa but want to spend more?
People who have nothing to do on a winters night but fancy a game?
Who are they?
Tourists. Bugger all tourists in Birmingham in October. He thinks we can tap into those in London who fancy a CL game, the eejit.
Voting with our feet is the only way it changes.
Post by: Dante Lavelli on September 29, 2024, 08:55:43 PM
It's very high profile but nowhere near our biggest game, it's not even top 10 biggest home games in 50 years.Juventus and Barcelona early eighties were big games, but other than that I'm struggling to think of another eight bigger than Bayern. Anyone else think of any ?
Personally I’d put Tranmere up there, or any league cup semi final. The play off v West Brom too. That was one game away from a final whereas Munich is more about watching expensive players running about which I’m a bit meh about.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on September 29, 2024, 09:08:26 PM
I'd put the Inter games and Atletico Madrid on a par with Bayern as they were knock out games. Boro at home in the play offs would also be in the mix just for the tension and great atmosphere.It's very high profile but nowhere near our biggest game, it's not even top 10 biggest home games in 50 years.Juventus and Barcelona early eighties were big games, but other than that I'm struggling to think of another eight bigger than Bayern. Anyone else think of any ?
Personally I’d put Tranmere up there, or any league cup semi final. The play off v West Brom too. That was one game away from a final whereas Munich is more about watching expensive players running about which I’m a bit meh about.
Post by: VillaTim on September 29, 2024, 09:11:08 PM
Yep, not expecting a great game.It's very high profile but nowhere near our biggest game, it's not even top 10 biggest home games in 50 years.Juventus and Barcelona early eighties were big games, but other than that I'm struggling to think of another eight bigger than Bayern. Anyone else think of any ?
Personally I’d put Tranmere up there, or any league cup semi final. The play off v West Brom too. That was one game away from a final whereas Munich is more about watching expensive players running about which I’m a bit meh about.
Post by: Des Little on September 29, 2024, 10:17:34 PM
Personally I can think of many games that have been bigger - I won’t list them, because others have done it in earlier posts. They’re the ones where you’re sick with nerves for days leading up to the game, and I just don’t think this one does.
Post by: DeKuip on September 29, 2024, 10:31:22 PM
Post by: algy on September 29, 2024, 10:50:29 PM
There's a very easy mnemonic to help remember all this stuff. Heck's a c*nt, NSWE are c*nts, Purslow was/is a c*nt, David O'Leary was/is a c*nt.When i was young my great aunt Ada taught me a useful rhyme
If it’s twats you seek,
The name’s NSWE
If it’s a cnut you want
Try that Chris Heck bloke
To find a prick be astute
Purslow’s the wanker in a suit
And if it’s an arsehole you’re bound to see
That’ll either be O’Leary or Stevìe Gee
Always comes in handy :)
Post by: Drummond on September 30, 2024, 01:49:59 PM
I’m trying to think which games would be an easier sell than our first Champions League game in 41 years, against Bayern Munich, in a period when most people don’t view football matches as potential riots. I’m struggling to be honest.
Bayern Munich in the Champions League.
Think back to all those games, Rotherham away, Derby County, Stevenage, Doncaster under O'Leary, Wigan, Bolton, etc. Those games against Inter Milan, Tranmere in the League Cup.
All of the defeats against ManU, the loss to Bradford City, the Cup Finals, all of them leading back to this. The Top echelons of football again, at Villa Park.
This is the pinnacle of club football, and we're back. Sure we could have drawn Real or Barcelona, but this is Bayern Munich, against whom we triumphed 42 years ago, and no game since has matched it, how could it? This though is our return.
Post by: algy on September 30, 2024, 04:04:42 PM
I agree here. Because of the opposition - because they're intertwined with arguably the biggest single event in the club's history - because it's a competition we've not qualified for for 41 years, and it's the first time we've played Bayern Munich since then ... it IS the biggest game we've had probably since 26th May 1982. If we'd won another European Cup it'd be different ... but we haven't, so it isn't.I’m trying to think which games would be an easier sell than our first Champions League game in 41 years, against Bayern Munich, in a period when most people don’t view football matches as potential riots. I’m struggling to be honest.
Bayern Munich in the Champions League.
Think back to all those games, Rotherham away, Derby County, Stevenage, Doncaster under O'Leary, Wigan, Bolton, etc. Those games against Inter Milan, Tranmere in the League Cup.
All of the defeats against ManU, the loss to Bradford City, the Cup Finals, all of them leading back to this. The Top echelons of football again, at Villa Park.
This is the pinnacle of club football, and we're back. Sure we could have drawn Real or Barcelona, but this is Bayern Munich, against whom we triumphed 42 years ago, and no game since has matched it, how could it? This though is our return.
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on October 02, 2024, 11:08:30 AM
Post by: Drummond on October 02, 2024, 11:10:21 AM
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on October 02, 2024, 11:12:29 AM
Post by: Ads on October 02, 2024, 11:23:07 AM
Edit, sorry 9, 2 in the Star and Lion have popped up.
Post by: VillaTim on October 02, 2024, 11:29:57 AM
Post by: London Villan on October 02, 2024, 11:58:07 AM
Post by: PeterWithe on October 02, 2024, 12:47:13 PM
Purslow on Radio 4 this morning, talking about our rise over the last few seasons, culminating in tonight’s game. Good on the interviewer for mentioning the prices for tonight’s game and asking if this is a fair way to treat loyal fans.
I heard that, he did lose points for saying 'only five years ago we were playing in front of 25k fans at home in the Champ'
We didn't have an attendance that low did we.
Post by: London Villan on October 02, 2024, 01:08:06 PM
Post by: Demitri_C on October 03, 2024, 08:02:32 AM
Post by: Villatillidie25 on October 03, 2024, 08:28:24 AM
Post by: DC1874 on October 03, 2024, 08:36:04 AM
Post by: Nev on October 03, 2024, 08:46:06 AM
"You're not moaning about ticket prices now!"
Yes I fucking am, it was still a rip off last night.
Post by: Demitri_C on October 03, 2024, 09:30:59 AM
I've heard it couple of times today:
"You're not moaning about ticket prices now!"
Yes I fucking am, it was still a rip off last night.
Yeah i know but if you are gonna be ripped off at least you can say you was there nev. What a amazing night
Post by: Sexual Ealing on October 03, 2024, 09:37:48 AM
Post by: caster troy on October 03, 2024, 09:40:06 AM
The thousand quid seats in Lower Witton Lane were sparsely populated!
Was that the section between the away fans and our fans? We were wondering what was going on there with all the empty seats.
Post by: Marlon From Bearwood on October 03, 2024, 09:45:02 AM
The thousand quid seats in Lower Witton Lane were sparsely populated!
Was that the section between the away fans and our fans? We were wondering what was going on there with all the empty seats.
That was there in last season’s European games too, and seemed to be the away teams families / guests. Last night in looked like the Bayern youth team were there, all in matching tracksuits.
Post by: Demitri_C on October 03, 2024, 09:47:34 AM
Post by: London Villan on October 03, 2024, 09:48:50 AM
Post by: DB on October 03, 2024, 09:52:24 AM
The thousand quid seats in Lower Witton Lane were sparsely populated!
Was that the section between the away fans and our fans? We were wondering what was going on there with all the empty seats.
That was there in last season’s European games too, and seemed to be the away teams families / guests. Last night in looked like the Bayern youth team were there, all in matching tracksuits.
Yeah def Bayern area, a lot of red /black tracksuits, the stewards were on the right of that section. Shame that we couldn't have sold those, but I guess we get the money for loss of revenue?
Post by: VILLA MOLE on October 03, 2024, 09:57:44 AM
I've heard it couple of times today:
"You're not moaning about ticket prices now!"
Yes I fucking am, it was still a rip off last night.
Yeah i know but if you are gonna be ripped off at least you can say you was there nev. What a amazing night
It was an amazing night , shame it couldnt have been shared with more
Post by: Risso on October 03, 2024, 10:04:38 AM
Do wonder if people will re consider after last night for bologna game as alot of people said they wouldn't pay it
I haven’t.
Post by: amfy on October 03, 2024, 10:11:03 AM
Do wonder if people will re consider after last night for bologna game as alot of people said they wouldn't pay it
I haven’t.
Nor me.
I feel really gutted not to have been there, but I don’t regret my decision not to be.
Post by: LeeB on October 03, 2024, 10:12:20 AM
Do wonder if people will re consider after last night for bologna game as alot of people said they wouldn't pay it
I haven’t.
Nor me.
I feel really gutted not to have been there, but I don’t regret my decision not to be.
Same here.
Post by: Nev on October 03, 2024, 10:15:04 AM
Do wonder if people will re consider after last night for bologna game as alot of people said they wouldn't pay it
I haven’t.
Nor me.
I feel really gutted not to have been there, but I don’t regret my decision not to be.
My decision not to go to Bologna has absolutely nothing to do with football and everything to do with the feeling that my support is neither wanted or appreciated and that my love for the club can be exploited in monetary terms.
Post by: PeterWithe on October 03, 2024, 10:16:42 AM
Post by: eamonn on October 03, 2024, 10:25:22 AM
Post by: sid1964 on October 03, 2024, 10:32:21 AM
Post by: Brend'Watkins on October 03, 2024, 11:58:04 AM
Emery's not half making Heck's job easier.
Was thinking exactly this after the game. Whatever bonus he gets he should give half of it to Unai. Heck is the only thing that’s taking the gloss off the club’s feel good factor currently. Not that he gives a shit.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on October 03, 2024, 01:16:59 PM
The thousand quid seats in Lower Witton Lane were sparsely populated!
Heck had to give them away. See Thogden's video below in The Aston.
Post by: LeeB on October 03, 2024, 01:26:24 PM
I'm not going either. Will almost certainly do the Juventus one, not sure about Celtic, depends on the price.
That's the same here, I'll do Juve and the kids can get it me for my birthday.
Post by: Ads on October 03, 2024, 01:35:59 PM
Post by: j66acd on October 03, 2024, 01:38:14 PM
The thousand quid seats in Lower Witton Lane were sparsely populated!
Heck had to give them away. See Thogden's video below in The Aston.
It looked soulless in there and a bit like the Tory conference after party.
Post by: London Villan on October 03, 2024, 02:46:35 PM
Post by: DeKuip on October 03, 2024, 03:11:20 PM
What on earth is that rubbish?!I watched for as long as I could stand it and thought to myself - This country is long overdue a war.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on October 03, 2024, 03:29:54 PM
Post by: darren woolley on October 03, 2024, 03:32:43 PM
Last night was the best value for money I've ever spent on the football.
I agree.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on October 03, 2024, 04:32:55 PM
What on earth is that rubbish?!
The food or Thogden? He's what Heck would call an 'influencer'. Almost 2 million followers worldwide on youtube, 600k+ on Instagram and almost 60k on X. Sadly it's where we're heading right now. Shame about the empty seats.
Post by: astonvilla82 on October 03, 2024, 04:40:05 PM
I be lucky to have 10 friends on social mediaWhat on earth is that rubbish?!
The food or Thogden? He's what Heck would call an 'influencer'. Almost 2 million followers worldwide on youtube, 600k+ on Instagram and almost 60k on X. Sadly it's where we're heading right now. Shame about the empty seats.
Post by: Flamingo Lane on October 03, 2024, 04:41:14 PM
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on October 03, 2024, 04:54:11 PM
I be lucky to have 10 friends on social mediaWhat on earth is that rubbish?!
The food or Thogden? He's what Heck would call an 'influencer'. Almost 2 million followers worldwide on youtube, 600k+ on Instagram and almost 60k on X. Sadly it's where we're heading right now. Shame about the empty seats.
10? There's a reason I don't do social media.
Post by: London Villan on October 03, 2024, 05:31:54 PM
Did he pay for his ticket?
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on October 03, 2024, 05:44:24 PM
Did he pay for his ticket?
What do you think..
Post by: Demitri_C on October 03, 2024, 05:54:00 PM
Do wonder if people will re consider after last night for bologna game as alot of people said they wouldn't pay it
I haven’t.
Id pay it if i could have got day off
Post by: saunders_heroes on October 03, 2024, 06:03:20 PM
Do wonder if people will re consider after last night for bologna game as alot of people said they wouldn't pay it
I haven’t.
Id pay it if i could have got day off
There’s not many tickets left by the looks of it.
Post by: The Edge on October 03, 2024, 06:40:29 PM
Post by: Clampy on October 03, 2024, 06:42:00 PM
I bought a ticket for the United game a while back and I can't make it now. Spent two fkn days trying to get through to the ticket office to return it. It's a shambles. Does anyone know if the ticket office will we re-opening or is that it now everything online? If so it's a complete shit show.
Someone said to me the phone lines are only open from 10am till 2pm which is a bit naff really.
Post by: Neal and Winton on October 03, 2024, 06:58:41 PM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on October 03, 2024, 07:06:24 PM
An awful lot of tickets have gone since last night. General sale tomorrow so should sell out I'd imagine.Do wonder if people will re consider after last night for bologna game as alot of people said they wouldn't pay it
I haven’t.
Id pay it if i could have got day off
There’s not many tickets left by the looks of it.
A win and we're in the pot, so should be another good one. Well done Unai on selling it out again.
Post by: spangley1812 on October 03, 2024, 07:18:38 PM
I bought a ticket for the United game a while back and I can't make it now. Spent two fkn days trying to get through to the ticket office to return it. It's a shambles. Does anyone know if the ticket office will we re-opening or is that it now everything online? If so it's a complete shit show.
If you use twitter try direct messaging the AVFC Support page giving them the details and your fan ID
Post by: The Edge on October 03, 2024, 07:33:11 PM
I'll give it a go. Thank you.I bought a ticket for the United game a while back and I can't make it now. Spent two fkn days trying to get through to the ticket office to return it. It's a shambles. Does anyone know if the ticket office will we re-opening or is that it now everything online? If so it's a complete shit show.
If you use twitter try direct messaging the AVFC Support page giving them the details and your fan ID
Post by: FrankyH on October 04, 2024, 08:29:02 AM
The thousand quid seats in Lower Witton Lane were sparsely populated!
Heck had to give them away. See Thogden's video below in The Aston.
A grand and you end up sitting next to that Herbert. I noticed how the ground fell silent when the Champions League athem was played , he still doesn't come up for air though.
Post by: PeterWithe on October 04, 2024, 09:09:36 AM
Post by: Brend'Watkins on October 04, 2024, 09:37:18 AM
Let us never forget that loyal fans of many years are being discarded in the unceasing efforts to attract ****** like him.
It’s not just confined to such people it’s anyone with expendable income who will pay over the odds and more on top for merch and other add ons. It was interesting for me to see who took up the seats of my absentee mates. Two 30 somethings from Cardiff paying £95 each. 5 games a season lads each with a bag full of merchandise. I’m a season ticket holder of way more than their years. The only way you’d know I was a fan is if you looked me up and down really well you might notice the tiny platinum effect badge that the Lerner era issued as reward for my loyalty. It’s the only thing that I bring to the game these days that shows who I support and it was a freebie. Heck would see The two Cardiff lads as more deserving.
Post by: ChicagoLion on October 04, 2024, 09:44:07 AM
Not sure "deserving" is the word you are looking for Bren, welcome, exploitable, monetazable?Let us never forget that loyal fans of many years are being discarded in the unceasing efforts to attract ****** like him.
It’s not just confined to such people it’s anyone with expendable income who will pay over the odds and more on top for merch and other add ons. It was interesting for me to see who took up the seats of my absentee mates. Two 30 somethings from Cardiff paying £95 each. 5 games a season lads each with a bag full of merchandise. I’m a season ticket holder of way more than their years. The only way you’d know I was a fan is if you looked me up and down really well you might notice the tiny platinum effect badge that the Lerner era issued as reward for my loyalty. It’s the only thing that I bring to the game these days that shows who I support and it was a freebie. Heck would see The two Cardiff lads as more deserving.
Post by: The Edge on October 04, 2024, 09:44:12 AM
Cos he's a ****.Let us never forget that loyal fans of many years are being discarded in the unceasing efforts to attract ****** like him.
It’s not just confined to such people it’s anyone with expendable income who will pay over the odds and more on top for merch and other add ons. It was interesting for me to see who took up the seats of my absentee mates. Two 30 somethings from Cardiff paying £95 each. 5 games a season lads each with a bag full of merchandise. I’m a season ticket holder of way more than their years. The only way you’d know I was a fan is if you looked me up and down really well you might notice the tiny platinum effect badge that the Lerner era issued as reward for my loyalty. It’s the only thing that I bring to the game these days that shows who I support and it was a freebie. Heck would see The two Cardiff lads as more deserving.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on October 04, 2024, 01:06:32 PM
Give me a seat in The Holte and a pie + pint over that Aston experience every time. Not even close to a £1000 experience from that evidenceThe thousand quid seats in Lower Witton Lane were sparsely populated!
Heck had to give them away. See Thogden's video below in The Aston.
A grand and you end up sitting next to that Herbert. I noticed how the ground fell silent when the Champions League athem was played , he still doesn't come up for air though.
Post by: Exeter 77 on October 04, 2024, 01:11:19 PM
Well his father either was or still is a Tory councillor.The thousand quid seats in Lower Witton Lane were sparsely populated!
Heck had to give them away. See Thogden's video below in The Aston.
It looked soulless in there and a bit like the Tory conference after party.
Post by: Nev on October 04, 2024, 01:12:26 PM
Fuck off back to Rugby Union!
Post by: exigo on October 04, 2024, 01:27:24 PM
Give me a seat in The Holte and a pie + pint over that Aston experience every time. Not even close to a £1000 experience from that evidenceThe thousand quid seats in Lower Witton Lane were sparsely populated!
Heck had to give them away. See Thogden's video below in The Aston.
A grand and you end up sitting next to that Herbert. I noticed how the ground fell silent when the Champions League athem was played , he still doesn't come up for air though.
I can see myself on the Holte through this. I know where I'd rather be.
Post by: Stu82 on October 04, 2024, 02:02:17 PM
Fucking Tories at the football?
Fuck off back to Rugby Union!
How dare someone with different political views attend football.
I noticed that apart from the lad who had the freebie, a couple of Germans and one guy on his own, there were loads of empty seats.
What a roaring success that is for Heck in the biggest game at Villa for years and years.
What’s the chance to sell that at Fulham, it’s a farce.
Look forward to seeing the back of this charlatan soon.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on October 04, 2024, 02:08:41 PM
Let us never forget that loyal fans of many years are being discarded in the unceasing efforts to attract ****** like him.
It's what he does, travels around the world getting freebies in exchange for filming the 'experience'. I'd imagine other than the one German fella with his lad the rest were on freebies and even then Heck couldn't fill it. As for The Aston, even if the price doesn't put you off, having to listen to a jazz trio playing Sweet Caroline whilst your eating would be a deciding factor for me. Seriously, WTF!?
Post by: Stu82 on October 04, 2024, 02:14:13 PM
Let us never forget that loyal fans of many years are being discarded in the unceasing efforts to attract ****** like him.
It's what he does, travels around the world getting freebies in exchange for filming the 'experience'. I'd imagine other than the one German fella with his lad the rest were on freebies and even then Heck couldn't fill it. As for The Aston, even if the price doesn't put you off, having to listen to a jazz trio playing Sweet Caroline whilst your eating would be a deciding factor for me. Seriously, WTF!?
Spot on
Post by: Villan82 on October 04, 2024, 02:16:12 PM
Post by: Sexual Ealing on October 04, 2024, 02:28:16 PM
Fucking Tories at the football?
Fuck off back to Rugby Union!
How dare someone with different political views attend football.
I noticed that apart from the lad who had the freebie, a couple of Germans and one guy on his own, there were loads of empty seats.
What a roaring success that is for Heck in the biggest game at Villa for years and years.
What’s the chance to sell that at Fulham, it’s a farce.
Look forward to seeing the back of this charlatan soon.
There are people with differing political views, and there are fucking Tory councillors.
Post by: LeeB on October 04, 2024, 02:31:47 PM
I mean, if you can imagine.
Post by: Stu82 on October 04, 2024, 02:44:35 PM
Fucking Tories at the football?
Fuck off back to Rugby Union!
How dare someone with different political views attend football.
I noticed that apart from the lad who had the freebie, a couple of Germans and one guy on his own, there were loads of empty seats.
What a roaring success that is for Heck in the biggest game at Villa for years and years.
What’s the chance to sell that at Fulham, it’s a farce.
Look forward to seeing the back of this charlatan soon.
There are people with differing political views, and there are fucking Tory councillors.
Fair enough.
Post by: Somniloquism on October 04, 2024, 02:54:14 PM
Let us never forget that loyal fans of many years are being discarded in the unceasing efforts to attract ****** like him.
It's what he does, travels around the world getting freebies in exchange for filming the 'experience'. I'd imagine other than the one German fella with his lad the rest were on freebies and even then Heck couldn't fill it. As for The Aston, even if the price doesn't put you off, having to listen to a jazz trio playing Sweet Caroline whilst your eating would be a deciding factor for me. Seriously, WTF!?
Not sure on that being as the Youtuber knew them as well.
Post by: DC1874 on October 04, 2024, 04:57:29 PM
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on October 04, 2024, 05:42:04 PM
Christ that was a difficult watch and sums up everything that is wrong with Britain in 2024! Football really has sold it's soul...
Funny thing is, he'd have been happy with a normal ticket on the Holte but it was obviously the Club (Heck) who decided to blow smoke up his arse and put him in The Aston. His video of the game has already had almost 300k views in two days. Add to that the level of coverage we've had in the last few days, you can expect we'll be getting a lot of day trippers and new fans - thanks to Unai and the lads. How many want to take in a game at The Aston we can probably count on our thumbs.
Post by: PeterWithe on October 04, 2024, 06:10:08 PM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on October 04, 2024, 06:28:23 PM
How far will he push this Heck-onomics??
At what price do you say not for me?
£100
£120
£140
For people taking kids it's ridiculous
Post by: Villan82 on October 04, 2024, 06:30:17 PM
In the Dave Woodhall article 'Falling in love again' he mentions ticket price increases for the CL knockout stage.
How far will he push this Heck-onomics??
At what price do you say not for me?
£100
£120
£140
For people taking kids it's ridiculous
Yeah, I noticed that in the article. Anyway, I am not saying much more on the subject.
Post by: AV82EC on October 04, 2024, 06:31:07 PM
In the Dave Woodhall article 'Falling in love again' he mentions ticket price increases for the CL knockout stage.
How far will he push this Heck-onomics??
At what price do you say not for me?
£100
£120
£140
For people taking kids it's ridiculous
Depends on the opposition, Barca Real or Inter I’d pay over what we’re paying now, anyone else, not more than now.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on October 04, 2024, 06:34:20 PM
Out of interest how much?In the Dave Woodhall article 'Falling in love again' he mentions ticket price increases for the CL knockout stage.
How far will he push this Heck-onomics??
At what price do you say not for me?
£100
£120
£140
For people taking kids it's ridiculous
Depends on the opposition, Barca Real or Inter I’d pay over what we’re paying now, anyone else, not more than now.
Post by: LeeB on October 04, 2024, 06:34:25 PM
Post by: PeterWithe on October 04, 2024, 06:38:19 PM
I'm right up at the edge of what I'm prepared to pay, I wont watch the Celtic game unless the price comes down to something reasonable, and for me thats £50ish
Post by: London Villan on October 04, 2024, 06:45:13 PM
Somewhere up there Doug is looking down on Heck, wiping away a tear, and no doubt boring someone like Franz Beckenbauer about how "he's like son to me"
Even down to covering the claret and blue balconies with advertising.
Post by: Stu82 on October 04, 2024, 07:14:54 PM
Somewhere up there Doug is looking down on Heck, wiping away a tear, and no doubt boring someone like Franz Beckenbauer about how "he's like son to me"
Bravo, he would love Heck.
Post by: eamonn on October 04, 2024, 07:29:33 PM
Somewhere up there Doug is looking down on Heck, wiping away a tear, and no doubt boring someone like Franz Beckenbauer about how "he's like son to me"
While Gary Shaw rolls his eyes, has a chuckle and a pint.
Post by: andyh on October 04, 2024, 10:26:41 PM
https://youtu.be/_XLC4LVbzEk?si=Kf83GZbeTNOGXDk6
Post by: dave.woodhall on October 04, 2024, 10:42:10 PM
Somewhere up there Doug is looking down on Heck, wiping away a tear, and no doubt boring someone like Franz Beckenbauer about how "he's like son to me"
Bravo, he would love Heck.
All those money-making scams and rules to stop him spending it. Doug will be spinning in his urn.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on October 05, 2024, 04:10:14 AM
Well his father either was or still is a Tory councillor.The thousand quid seats in Lower Witton Lane were sparsely populated!
Heck had to give them away. See Thogden's video below in The Aston.
It looked soulless in there and a bit like the Tory conference after party.
Knock me down with a feather.
Post by: john e on October 05, 2024, 09:59:17 AM
These are long-standing Villa fans go to every home game so it must be biting ( they could be sitting elsewhere, obviously, but I doubt it)
I’ve already had the emails this morning from Villa trying to flog the ‘last remaining’ tickets for the Man United game tomorrow, I haven’t checked but I presume they are hospitality
If you can’t flog the tickets now when we’re at the very top of our game watching the most successful team for decades you know that somethings not working out
I had my say on Heck earlier when the price increases were announced and it’s pointless banging on about it
Needless to say I haven’t change my mind I think he’s got it wrong
The biggest question is whether he’s doing it with the full blessing of the owners, if that’s the case then it’s very disappointing as they’ve not put a foot wrong so far, when they’ve made mistakes they’ve rectified it i.e. Steven Gerrard, they need to rectify this one
We’ve probably earned more money out of the two wins in the Champions League than we will out of all the price increases, the revenue will be up this year mainly because of Unai Emery he’s doing his job Heck can’t even sell the stadium out for the best team a lot of people have ever seen
He needs to go imo
Post by: Ads on October 05, 2024, 10:10:16 AM
Take it further, if we win all 4 home games, we'll make £21m. The turnover of those minnows down the road from an entire year, earned in 4 games. Levels and gaps.
Post by: Gareth on October 05, 2024, 10:23:34 AM
I’ve already had the emails this morning from Villa trying to flog the ‘last remaining’ tickets for the Man United game tomorrow, I haven’t checked but I presume they are hospitality
If you can’t flog the tickets now when we’re at the very top of our game watching the most successful team for decades you know that somethings not working out
He needs to go imo
I clicked that link John and had a look through….some of the prices and packages are almost comical
Post by: Brend'Watkins on October 05, 2024, 10:23:40 AM
Post by: VillaTim on October 05, 2024, 10:28:33 AM
Who dreamed up the £1000 figure to watch a game? What’s the justification apart from, there are mugs who will pay it. Clearly there aren’t many of them.largely taken up by corporates and expense accounts i'd imagine
Post by: Gareth on October 05, 2024, 10:34:23 AM
Who dreamed up the £1000 figure to watch a game? What’s the justification apart from, there are mugs who will pay it. Clearly there aren’t many of them.largely taken up by corporates and expense accounts i'd imagine
Or given away as ‘freebies’ to entice people to take up other games hospitality packages would be my guess
Post by: Bent Neilsens Screamer on October 05, 2024, 11:20:32 AM
We already pay way too much to watch the best teams in the world, they are all in the PL.
I'm right up at the edge of what I'm prepared to pay, I wont watch the Celtic game unless the price comes down to something reasonable, and for me thats £50ish
You’ll be disappointed as, imo, there is no way that the Celtic game or any other game in the champions league will be that cheap. Let us know though as I’ll have your seat!!
Post by: john e on October 05, 2024, 11:31:41 AM
I don’t know what the difference is between that and a not sell out at increased and new hospitality prices, it must be worth it financially but I’m not sure about the other aspects as we’ve discussed on previous pages
Post by: dave.woodhall on October 05, 2024, 04:06:52 PM
Who dreamed up the £1000 figure to watch a game? What’s the justification apart from, there are mugs who will pay it. Clearly there aren’t many of them.largely taken up by corporates and expense accounts i'd imagine
Or given away as ‘freebies’ to entice people to take up other games hospitality packages would be my guess
To be honest, if I was looking to spend serious money on hospitality and had been given a freebie on Wednesday I'd have been signing the deal before the players had left the pitch. If money was no object that was an incredible night to give your customers.
Post by: Gareth on October 05, 2024, 04:10:01 PM
Who dreamed up the £1000 figure to watch a game? What’s the justification apart from, there are mugs who will pay it. Clearly there aren’t many of them.largely taken up by corporates and expense accounts i'd imagine
Or given away as ‘freebies’ to entice people to take up other games hospitality packages would be my guess
To be honest, if I was looking to spend serious money on hospitality and has been given a freebie on Wednesday I'd have been signing the deal before the players had left the pitch. If money was no object that was an incredible night to give your customers.
Couldn’t agree more Dave…look what this win has done to us :-)
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on October 10, 2024, 09:15:48 PM
Post by: Ads on October 10, 2024, 10:20:24 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on October 10, 2024, 11:51:06 PM
It's a matter of principle for me. Great, I am sure you will sell the tickets and what not, but fuck that, that's insanely spendy.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on October 11, 2024, 02:49:08 AM
I'll be totally honest, me and my brother were talking about going to a match soon, and both of us can afford the ticket price for a CL game without having to sacrifice something elsewhere, we're very fortunate (although I've just spent two years not working, when it would have been out of the question, and those concerns tend to linger) but we both recoiled at the idea of spending over 90 quid to watch a football match.
It's a matter of principle for me. Great, I am sure you will sell the tickets and what not, but fuck that, that's insanely spendy.
I’ve told the kids we’re only going to CL games this side of Christmas. I’ve basically sacrificed all the other games so they can have the memories that I’ve been rambling on about for years. Even then I’ll be spending over £600 for us to go to four games. A couple of knockout games and it’s a grand.
Having said that, I’ll probably go to Palace in the cup as I’m off work and it’s half-term.
Post by: Demitri_C on October 11, 2024, 05:38:45 AM
I'll be totally honest, me and my brother were talking about going to a match soon, and both of us can afford the ticket price for a CL game without having to sacrifice something elsewhere, we're very fortunate (although I've just spent two years not working, when it would have been out of the question, and those concerns tend to linger) but we both recoiled at the idea of spending over 90 quid to watch a football match.
It's a matter of principle for me. Great, I am sure you will sell the tickets and what not, but fuck that, that's insanely spendy.
I’ve told the kids we’re only going to CL games this side of Christmas. I’ve basically sacrificed all the other games so they can have the memories that I’ve been rambling on about for years. Even then I’ll be spending over £600 for us to go to four games. A couple of knockout games and it’s a grand.
Having said that, I’ll probably go to Palace in the cup as I’m off work and it’s half-term.
Good for you. This isn't a pop at you or any poster in particular going percy but this is why he put prices him - he knew tickets would sell for these games. There was abit of uproar on social media but thats all. Hecks survived that.
You would think this would have a impact for league games but it doeant appear to. Was looking at tickets for Bournemouth and not many at all available. Managed to get one but i did think the league games wouldnt be as demanding as fans spending so much for CL game
Post by: andyh on October 11, 2024, 06:12:28 AM
They are overjoyed they have got tickets for a CL game as 6 weeks ago they thought they would have no chance of seeing a CL game live, even if it has cost them £200 each, just for the tickets.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on October 11, 2024, 06:52:34 AM
I'll be totally honest, me and my brother were talking about going to a match soon, and both of us can afford the ticket price for a CL game without having to sacrifice something elsewhere, we're very fortunate (although I've just spent two years not working, when it would have been out of the question, and those concerns tend to linger) but we both recoiled at the idea of spending over 90 quid to watch a football match.
It's a matter of principle for me. Great, I am sure you will sell the tickets and what not, but fuck that, that's insanely spendy.
I’ve told the kids we’re only going to CL games this side of Christmas. I’ve basically sacrificed all the other games so they can have the memories that I’ve been rambling on about for years. Even then I’ll be spending over £600 for us to go to four games. A couple of knockout games and it’s a grand.
Having said that, I’ll probably go to Palace in the cup as I’m off work and it’s half-term.
Good for you. This isn't a pop at you or any poster in particular going percy but this is why he put prices him - he knew tickets would sell for these games. There was abit of uproar on social media but thats all. Hecks survived that.
You would think this would have a impact for league games but it doeant appear to. Was looking at tickets for Bournemouth and not many at all available. Managed to get one but i did think the league games wouldnt be as demanding as fans spending so much for CL game
The home fixtures are a dream come true for Heck/the club. I desperately wanted the kids to see the Bayern and Juventus games, and I would really like to see the Celtic game, as I used to go up there a lot in the eighties.
Post by: Ads on October 11, 2024, 07:15:33 AM
Post by: Percy McCarthy on October 11, 2024, 07:33:53 AM
He's got a limited window he can get away with 79/90 odd quid though, as it becomes a routine competition like the League and FA Cup, the novelty diminishes and so does the desire to pay the exploitative prices.
I agree with that forecast. As long as it becomes routine 🙏🏽
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on October 11, 2024, 09:16:49 AM
2 chaps in my office have snapped up two tickets each for the Bologna game.
They are overjoyed they have got tickets for a CL game as 6 weeks ago they thought they would have no chance of seeing a CL game live, even if it has cost them £200 each, just for the tickets.
Why so “overjoyed” at paying £200 each when they’re available for half that price at the moment?
Post by: Brend'Watkins on October 11, 2024, 10:04:16 AM
2 chaps in my office have snapped up two tickets each for the Bologna game.
They are overjoyed they have got tickets for a CL game as 6 weeks ago they thought they would have no chance of seeing a CL game live, even if it has cost them £200 each, just for the tickets.
Why so “overjoyed” at paying £200 each when they’re available for half that price at the moment?
It's like Booking.com getting a ticket at the Villa these days. "Only two seats left at this price"
Post by: Pat Mustard on October 11, 2024, 10:11:10 AM
I've seen a few Tweets put out by people trying to imply this is close to selling out. With a week and a half to go and it already being on general sale it really isn't, take up is the worst it's been for a 'big' game in a very long time.
Post by: AV82EC on October 11, 2024, 10:59:27 AM
Unless something dramatic happens the Bologna game is going to have chunks of empty seats all round the ground. There are whole blocks of tickets available in the wings of the North, Trinity and Witton, and massive chunks of unsold GA+ in the Holte End and other areas.
I've seen a few Tweets put out by people trying to imply this is close to selling out. With a week and a half to go and it already being on general sale it really isn't, take up is the worst it's been for a 'big' game in a very long time.
It’s bizarre. I checked about a week or so back to get one for my mate who has a booking history and there was nowhere near the availability there is today? Looks like they’re releasing in a staggered fashion for some reason. I suppose creating the illusion of scarcity helps drive sales. <rolls eyes>
I imagine once they do a bit of advertising the tickets will gradually sell out but there’ll be a few left.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on October 11, 2024, 11:35:15 AM
Christ, just clicked on 'The Aston'. £1080. A ticket for one match which costs over a thousand pounds.
I know it's not individuals who buy that sort of thing, it's aimed at businesses, but fucking hell, that is absolutely insane.
Post by: AV82EC on October 11, 2024, 11:39:51 AM
I am looking at it now and I don't see swathes of unsold seats anywhere.
Christ, just clicked on 'The Aston'. £1080. A ticket for one match which costs over a thousand pounds.
I know it's not individuals who buy that sort of thing, it's aimed at businesses, but fucking hell, that is absolutely insane.
A1, P1 and P2
Post by: pauliewalnuts on October 11, 2024, 11:45:13 AM
I am looking at it now and I don't see swathes of unsold seats anywhere.
Christ, just clicked on 'The Aston'. £1080. A ticket for one match which costs over a thousand pounds.
I know it's not individuals who buy that sort of thing, it's aimed at businesses, but fucking hell, that is absolutely insane.
A1, P1 and P2
I reckon about 500 seats in total.
Although I haven't counted them.
Having said that, I bet someone will now.
Post by: Pat Mustard on October 11, 2024, 11:55:13 AM
I am looking at it now and I don't see swathes of unsold seats anywhere.
Christ, just clicked on 'The Aston'. £1080. A ticket for one match which costs over a thousand pounds.
I know it's not individuals who buy that sort of thing, it's aimed at businesses, but fucking hell, that is absolutely insane.
A1, P1 and P2
I reckon about 500 seats in total.
Although I haven't counted them.
Having said that, I bet someone will now.
There's hundreds left in blocks in T1, T5 and T6. There are also tonnes of GA+ available, meaning loads of unsold seats in the upper Holte and upper Trinity, it looks like a lot more than 500 around the ground.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on October 11, 2024, 11:56:02 AM
I am looking at it now and I don't see swathes of unsold seats anywhere.Here you go Paulie..
Christ, just clicked on 'The Aston'. £1080. A ticket for one match which costs over a thousand pounds.
I know it's not individuals who buy that sort of thing, it's aimed at businesses, but fucking hell, that is absolutely insane.
P Block 342 left
K block 419 left
T Block 537 left
A1 210 left
A2 150 left...
I can't be bothered to do any more , sorry
Post by: AV82EC on October 11, 2024, 01:07:55 PM
http://I am looking at it now and I don't see swathes of unsold seats anywhere.Here you go Paulie..
Christ, just clicked on 'The Aston'. £1080. A ticket for one match which costs over a thousand pounds.
I know it's not individuals who buy that sort of thing, it's aimed at businesses, but fucking hell, that is absolutely insane.
P Block 342 left
K block 419 left
T Block 537 left
A1 210 left
A2 150 left...
I can't be bothered to do any more , sorry
Thanks CB. Be intrigued to see how many of those go in the next 10 days. I’d reckon at least 1000 as people either find the money or those with just booking history fancy a night out.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on October 11, 2024, 01:12:38 PM
Post by: AV82EC on October 11, 2024, 01:16:34 PM
Let's hope they go, now we are down to the criteria of 'Anyone who has seen Villa Park from the M6' territory
Mega lol. Which always reminds me of that Barnet fanzine called “There’s Villas ground”.
Post by: andyh on October 11, 2024, 02:11:17 PM
Each person has paid £200...for 2 tickets2 chaps in my office have snapped up two tickets each for the Bologna game.
They are overjoyed they have got tickets for a CL game as 6 weeks ago they thought they would have no chance of seeing a CL game live, even if it has cost them £200 each, just for the tickets.
Why so “overjoyed” at paying £200 each when they’re available for half that price at the moment?
Post by: ender4 on October 11, 2024, 02:34:47 PM
You would think this would have a impact for league games but it doeant appear to. Was looking at tickets for Bournemouth and not many at all available. Managed to get one but i did think the league games wouldnt be as demanding as fans spending so much for CL game
I think it has had a little impact for league games. The Man Utd game tickets went on sale close to the Bayern game tickets and Man Utd didn't sell out did it?
Post by: Pat Mustard on October 11, 2024, 02:48:21 PM
You would think this would have a impact for league games but it doeant appear to. Was looking at tickets for Bournemouth and not many at all available. Managed to get one but i did think the league games wouldnt be as demanding as fans spending so much for CL game
I think it has had a little impact for league games. The Man Utd game tickets went on sale close to the Bayern game tickets and Man Utd didn't sell out did it?
Bournemouth tickets selling well would be more evidence of what an impact the prices are having - it's our cheapest home game of the season so far, be a great illustration if we sold that more tickets for Bournemouth than we did for Wolves or Man Utd. We've also got at least an extra 500 tickets to shift for that one as the away end upper tier is now available.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on October 15, 2024, 07:45:03 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on October 15, 2024, 08:21:47 PM
You would think this would have a impact for league games but it doeant appear to. Was looking at tickets for Bournemouth and not many at all available. Managed to get one but i did think the league games wouldnt be as demanding as fans spending so much for CL game
I think it has had a little impact for league games. The Man Utd game tickets went on sale close to the Bayern game tickets and Man Utd didn't sell out did it?
It sold out of all but insanely spendy tickets.
We're not going to be selling many £1000 tickets, no matter who we play.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on October 15, 2024, 08:24:23 PM
I am looking at it now and I don't see swathes of unsold seats anywhere.
Christ, just clicked on 'The Aston'. £1080. A ticket for one match which costs over a thousand pounds.
I know it's not individuals who buy that sort of thing, it's aimed at businesses, but fucking hell, that is absolutely insane.
A1, P1 and P2
Looking now, a few days later - A1 has about 10 single seats, P1 about 20, and P2 has 4.
Post by: AV82EC on October 15, 2024, 09:08:32 PM
I am looking at it now and I don't see swathes of unsold seats anywhere.
Christ, just clicked on 'The Aston'. £1080. A ticket for one match which costs over a thousand pounds.
I know it's not individuals who buy that sort of thing, it's aimed at businesses, but fucking hell, that is absolutely insane.
A1, P1 and P2
Looking now, a few days later - A1 has about 10 single seats, P1 about 20, and P2 has 4.
I've just had a quick check and there's about 300 GA tickets left, most in T1 and T6. I couldn't be arsed to count GA+ and Hosp.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on October 15, 2024, 09:17:04 PM
Yes it's slowly selling out on GA, GA+ is the issue. About 140 left in K2 alone. The sooner we revisit the pricing on this the better.I am looking at it now and I don't see swathes of unsold seats anywhere.
Christ, just clicked on 'The Aston'. £1080. A ticket for one match which costs over a thousand pounds.
I know it's not individuals who buy that sort of thing, it's aimed at businesses, but fucking hell, that is absolutely insane.
A1, P1 and P2
Looking now, a few days later - A1 has about 10 single seats, P1 about 20, and P2 has 4.
I've just had a quick check and there's about 300 GA tickets left, most in T1 and T6. I couldn't be arsed to count GA+ and Hosp.
Post by: AV82EC on October 15, 2024, 09:36:52 PM
Yes it's slowly selling out on GA, GA+ is the issue. About 140 left in K2 alone. The sooner we revisit the pricing on this the better.I am looking at it now and I don't see swathes of unsold seats anywhere.
Christ, just clicked on 'The Aston'. £1080. A ticket for one match which costs over a thousand pounds.
I know it's not individuals who buy that sort of thing, it's aimed at businesses, but fucking hell, that is absolutely insane.
A1, P1 and P2
Looking now, a few days later - A1 has about 10 single seats, P1 about 20, and P2 has 4.
I've just had a quick check and there's about 300 GA tickets left, most in T1 and T6. I couldn't be arsed to count GA+ and Hosp.
He won't because he's probably hitting targets left right and centre with the current strategy. So no matter how iniquitous many of us feel it is, as long as he's delivering well above 99% on available capacity I don't think the owners will be too fussed about some of us having a bit of a whinge. In the longer term, different story.....
Post by: Dante Lavelli on October 15, 2024, 09:42:49 PM
Post by: AV82EC on October 15, 2024, 09:48:07 PM
Fair point, but even in the long term the new customers/fans generated on the journey will fill some voids from disgruntled fans..
Yep, ultimately we’re all replaceable as long as the product on the pitch keeps delivering. I got moved out of A2 this season and my old seat has a person willing to pay £3,500 a season to sit in it. They also paid £420 to sit in it for the Bayern game.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on October 15, 2024, 09:49:07 PM
He probably does think that about the Bayern game.
Post by: Dante Lavelli on October 15, 2024, 10:00:13 PM
I’m torn, as I want us to compete but I hate the faff of buying tickets for odd games (like I do). I also think we, and football, has outgrown Villa Park.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on October 15, 2024, 10:03:39 PM
To be honest if he's hitting targets with 425 empty GA+ seats in the Upper Holte, for a Champions League game after winning our first two, he has very low targets. I'd say he's sold less than 50% of the GA+ for this game.Yes it's slowly selling out on GA, GA+ is the issue. About 140 left in K2 alone. The sooner we revisit the pricing on this the better.I am looking at it now and I don't see swathes of unsold seats anywhere.
Christ, just clicked on 'The Aston'. £1080. A ticket for one match which costs over a thousand pounds.
I know it's not individuals who buy that sort of thing, it's aimed at businesses, but fucking hell, that is absolutely insane.
A1, P1 and P2
Looking now, a few days later - A1 has about 10 single seats, P1 about 20, and P2 has 4.
I've just had a quick check and there's about 300 GA tickets left, most in T1 and T6. I couldn't be arsed to count GA+ and Hosp.
He won't because he's probably hitting targets left right and centre with the current strategy. So no matter how iniquitous many of us feel it is, as long as he's delivering well above 99% on available capacity I don't think the owners will be too fussed about some of us having a bit of a whinge. In the longer term, different story.....
Post by: ChicagoLion on October 15, 2024, 10:11:14 PM
in the scheme of things that really does not matter.To be honest if he's hitting targets with 425 empty GA+ seats in the Upper Holte, for a Champions League game after winning our first two, he has very low targets. I'd say he's sold less than 50% of the GA+ for this game.Yes it's slowly selling out on GA, GA+ is the issue. About 140 left in K2 alone. The sooner we revisit the pricing on this the better.I am looking at it now and I don't see swathes of unsold seats anywhere.
Christ, just clicked on 'The Aston'. £1080. A ticket for one match which costs over a thousand pounds.
I know it's not individuals who buy that sort of thing, it's aimed at businesses, but fucking hell, that is absolutely insane.
A1, P1 and P2
Looking now, a few days later - A1 has about 10 single seats, P1 about 20, and P2 has 4.
I've just had a quick check and there's about 300 GA tickets left, most in T1 and T6. I couldn't be arsed to count GA+ and Hosp.
He won't because he's probably hitting targets left right and centre with the current strategy. So no matter how iniquitous many of us feel it is, as long as he's delivering well above 99% on available capacity I don't think the owners will be too fussed about some of us having a bit of a whinge. In the longer term, different story.....
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on October 15, 2024, 10:19:55 PM
In what way?in the scheme of things that really does not matter.To be honest if he's hitting targets with 425 empty GA+ seats in the Upper Holte, for a Champions League game after winning our first two, he has very low targets. I'd say he's sold less than 50% of the GA+ for this game.Yes it's slowly selling out on GA, GA+ is the issue. About 140 left in K2 alone. The sooner we revisit the pricing on this the better.I am looking at it now and I don't see swathes of unsold seats anywhere.
Christ, just clicked on 'The Aston'. £1080. A ticket for one match which costs over a thousand pounds.
I know it's not individuals who buy that sort of thing, it's aimed at businesses, but fucking hell, that is absolutely insane.
A1, P1 and P2
Looking now, a few days later - A1 has about 10 single seats, P1 about 20, and P2 has 4.
I've just had a quick check and there's about 300 GA tickets left, most in T1 and T6. I couldn't be arsed to count GA+ and Hosp.
He won't because he's probably hitting targets left right and centre with the current strategy. So no matter how iniquitous many of us feel it is, as long as he's delivering well above 99% on available capacity I don't think the owners will be too fussed about some of us having a bit of a whinge. In the longer term, different story.....
At less than than 50% occupancy we are making nothing out of it, having spent money on the GA+ areas to begin with, providing food and drink and losing £90 on 425 seats as it stands. If it sells out happy days as we make money.
Post by: Des Little on October 15, 2024, 10:28:22 PM
Post by: Percy McCarthy on October 15, 2024, 11:47:07 PM
£100 GA tickets will be the norm next season, that’s for sure.
I don’t think so. Not quite. I didn’t pay that for Bayern, the most perfect fixture we could have for bumping up prices. It’s not gonna be that for PL games.
Post by: ChicagoLion on October 16, 2024, 05:02:53 AM
It looks awful but he does not care about optics.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on October 16, 2024, 01:54:49 PM
Sorry Chip Butty, I meant as far as the owners are concerned, he will spin that he is maxing profit across the CL games.
It looks awful but he does not care about optics.
They will have gone into the whole endeavour knowing it is going to take time to be a success. He won't be selling out GA+ in the early days, and his budget won't expect him to.
As for occasional unsold GA seats here and there for matches, he's not going to give much of a toss about that.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on October 16, 2024, 05:30:09 PM
Sorry Chip Butty, I meant as far as the owners are concerned, he will spin that he is maxing profit across the CL games.No worries we were looking at different angles. Although I moan about GA+ I don't think it's a bad idea in general. I just think we've gone about it in a bad way, the seats are mostly in the wrong areas and it's overpriced. The most disappointing thing is the leftover empty seats now we are flying on the pitch. It'll be interesting to see if Juventus turns out to be more like Bayern or Bologna for sales.
It looks awful but he does not care about optics.
Post by: Lucky Eddie on October 16, 2024, 10:33:12 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on October 16, 2024, 10:46:50 PM
Sorry Chip Butty, I meant as far as the owners are concerned, he will spin that he is maxing profit across the CL games.No worries we were looking at different angles. Although I moan about GA+ I don't think it's a bad idea in general. I just think we've gone about it in a bad way, the seats are mostly in the wrong areas and it's overpriced. The most disappointing thing is the leftover empty seats now we are flying on the pitch. It'll be interesting to see if Juventus turns out to be more like Bayern or Bologna for sales.
It looks awful but he does not care about optics.
Bologna is largely sold out.
I get your general point, but it's not like we're going to be playing in front of thousands of empty seats.
Post by: jon collett on October 16, 2024, 11:04:21 PM
I think we probably play and watch more sports than most countries but I thought the interesting insight is he clearly sees us as a captive audience!
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on October 16, 2024, 11:11:41 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on October 16, 2024, 11:17:33 PM
Saw a weird quote from Heck today where he essentially implied English people are obsessed with football because there aren’t other sports here. He compounded this by saying it’s a family thing.
I think we probably play and watch more sports than most countries but I thought the interesting insight is he clearly sees us as a captive audience!
He is right though.
There's football and what comes after?
Rugby Union - a shit sport loved by a few hundred thousand Barbour jacket wearing racists.
Cricket - a sport which doesn't have any form of recognisable season or championship
Rugby League - like Rugby Union except for people from weird northern places the rest of us would rather not think of.
F1 - all a bit Alan Partridge, and fundamentally, not even a sport.
In the US they have way, way less of a gap between the top sport and the rest.
They even have nonsense like college 'football'.
Post by: jon collett on October 16, 2024, 11:39:38 PM
Saw a weird quote from Heck today where he essentially implied English people are obsessed with football because there aren’t other sports here. He compounded this by saying it’s a family thing.
I think we probably play and watch more sports than most countries but I thought the interesting insight is he clearly sees us as a captive audience!
He is right though.
There's football and what comes after?
Rugby Union - a shit sport loved by a few hundred thousand Barbour jacket wearing racists.
Cricket - a sport which doesn't have any form of recognisable season or championship
Rugby League - like Rugby Union except for people from weird northern places the rest of us would rather not think of.
F1 - all a bit Alan Partridge, and fundamentally, not even a sport.
In the US they have way, way less of a gap between the top sport and the rest.
They even have nonsense like college 'football'.
That’s almost all pejorative nonsense but as I said I think the more interesting insight is him seeing Villa supporters as a captive audience!
Post by: pauliewalnuts on October 16, 2024, 11:46:53 PM
Saw a weird quote from Heck today where he essentially implied English people are obsessed with football because there aren’t other sports here. He compounded this by saying it’s a family thing.
I think we probably play and watch more sports than most countries but I thought the interesting insight is he clearly sees us as a captive audience!
He is right though.
There's football and what comes after?
Rugby Union - a shit sport loved by a few hundred thousand Barbour jacket wearing racists.
Cricket - a sport which doesn't have any form of recognisable season or championship
Rugby League - like Rugby Union except for people from weird northern places the rest of us would rather not think of.
F1 - all a bit Alan Partridge, and fundamentally, not even a sport.
In the US they have way, way less of a gap between the top sport and the rest.
They even have nonsense like college 'football'.
That’s almost all pejorative nonsense but as I said I think the more interesting insight is him seeing Villa supporters as a captive audience!
Yes but it’s his argument that it’s football and then a massive gap in this country, and he’s right isn’t he?
Certainly compared to the US.
There really aren’t many other top level sports competing for attention and people do not switch club.
If you’re a sports fan in Philadelphia you might follow the Eagles, the 76ers, whatever their ice hockey team is called plus the local college teams. All serious competitors for sports attending money.
How many Villa fans do you think say “I can either spend my money on going to Villa Park or go to
edgbaston and shiver with the other 500 people watching county cricket”?
He’s absolutely spot on
Post by: Lucky Eddie on October 17, 2024, 11:34:55 AM
Post by: Ads on October 17, 2024, 11:38:33 AM
There is nothing remotely close to the popularity of football in the city of Birmingham. Heck is right.
Post by: Risso on October 17, 2024, 11:41:21 AM
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on October 17, 2024, 11:57:53 AM
Post by: Somniloquism on October 17, 2024, 12:00:39 PM
It's hardly nonsense. In 2022 professional football had 50m spectators. The next biggest, rugby, had 5m, so it's a difference by a factor of 10. I don't imagine the attendances for rugby with helmets, netball for lanky blokes, rounders for men with fat arses etc in the US is anything like as different.
Well on the question of sports popularities.....
https://www.statista.com/statistics/630708/share-sports-fans-among-esports-fans-us/
10% difference between NFL and NBA/Baseball. Obviously the same people might have responded they like all three, or some might have stated they like one more then the other (I suspect depending if there is a franchise of one of the teams near the location of the respondent.).
Similar question in the UK
https://www.statista.com/chart/28160/most-followed-sports-in-the-uk/
Post by: Sexual Ealing on October 17, 2024, 12:12:57 PM
Saw a weird quote from Heck today where he essentially implied English people are obsessed with football because there aren’t other sports here. He compounded this by saying it’s a family thing.
I think we probably play and watch more sports than most countries but I thought the interesting insight is he clearly sees us as a captive audience!
He is right though.
There's football and what comes after?
Rugby Union - a shit sport loved by a few hundred thousand Barbour jacket wearing racists.
Cricket - a sport which doesn't have any form of recognisable season or championship
Rugby League - like Rugby Union except for people from weird northern places the rest of us would rather not think of.
F1 - all a bit Alan Partridge, and fundamentally, not even a sport.
In the US they have way, way less of a gap between the top sport and the rest.
They even have nonsense like college 'football'.
I endorse all the descriptions of these soon-to-be-banned sports.
Post by: Risso on October 17, 2024, 12:40:08 PM
It's hardly nonsense. In 2022 professional football had 50m spectators. The next biggest, rugby, had 5m, so it's a difference by a factor of 10. I don't imagine the attendances for rugby with helmets, netball for lanky blokes, rounders for men with fat arses etc in the US is anything like as different.
Well on the question of sports popularities.....
https://www.statista.com/statistics/630708/share-sports-fans-among-esports-fans-us/
10% difference between NFL and NBA/Baseball. Obviously the same people might have responded they like all three, or some might have stated they like one more then the other (I suspect depending if there is a franchise of one of the teams near the location of the respondent.).
Similar question in the UK
https://www.statista.com/chart/28160/most-followed-sports-in-the-uk/
There's following though, and there's paying good money to go and watch. I "follow" athletics, but I've never spent as much as a brass farthing to go and watch it. Likewise I like the England cricket test team, but have rarely spent any money on it.
How on earth the cricket counties stay in business, having the county championship matches played midweek in front of 6 people and a dog is beyond me.
Post by: jon collett on October 17, 2024, 12:41:43 PM
My point was how revealing the mindset of Heck was. Not only patronising but entitled. Even given our success one would expect him to be marketing Villa and expanding support and attendance. Instead he seems to revel he has a captive audience to milk! This may explain his attitude (although I am not sure about the owners) towards ground expansion.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on October 17, 2024, 01:01:03 PM
Where do you think GA+ tickets should be located?Not at the back of the Holte, or by the away fans with a lousy view for starters. Where you are sitting would be the major point for me if I were buying GA+ ticket.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on October 17, 2024, 01:14:50 PM
My point is we shouldn't have any empty seats in the CL. It's madness. We should all be desperate to get our hands on one, it should be the Holy Grail of tickets. And yet a week before the game they are available to basically anyone who has ever been over Spaghetti Junction. It's a bit daft.Sorry Chip Butty, I meant as far as the owners are concerned, he will spin that he is maxing profit across the CL games.No worries we were looking at different angles. Although I moan about GA+ I don't think it's a bad idea in general. I just think we've gone about it in a bad way, the seats are mostly in the wrong areas and it's overpriced. The most disappointing thing is the leftover empty seats now we are flying on the pitch. It'll be interesting to see if Juventus turns out to be more like Bayern or Bologna for sales.
It looks awful but he does not care about optics.
Bologna is largely sold out.
I get your general point, but it's not like we're going to be playing in front of thousands of empty seats.
Post by: ender4 on October 17, 2024, 01:40:42 PM
£100 GA tickets will be the norm next season, that’s for sure.
We pay £72 for a Cat A PL game in most of the ground now if you're not a season ticket holder. And £50 for a Cat B game.
I assume next season will be £75 and £55.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on October 17, 2024, 02:41:29 PM
Where do you think GA+ tickets should be located?Not at the back of the Holte, or by the away fans with a lousy view for starters. Where you are sitting would be the major point for me if I were buying GA+ ticket.
I would’ve thought if it’s aimed at mini corporate and day tripper types then at the other end of the Witton by the tunnel would’ve made more sense so they can take their selfies when the players come out.
Post by: claret+blue ed on October 17, 2024, 02:46:15 PM
£100 GA tickets will be the norm next season, that’s for sure.
We pay £72 for a Cat A PL game in most of the ground now if you're not a season ticket holder. And £50 for a Cat B game.
I assume next season will be £75 and £55.
If it goes up 12% like this season, we'll be looking at £80 and £61 respectively
The club made a big thing of keeping ST rises at 5%, but us members got well screwed over
Post by: Ads on October 17, 2024, 02:58:03 PM
I was trying to avoid going down the rabbit hole of the relative merits and popularity of sports. Both of which I’d disagree with the recent comments on here although the world has changed so much since the advent of Sky and the Premier League and decline of hooliganism.
My point was how revealing the mindset of Heck was. Not only patronising but entitled. Even given our success one would expect him to be marketing Villa and expanding support and attendance. Instead he seems to revel he has a captive audience to milk! This may explain his attitude (although I am not sure about the owners) towards ground expansion.
He made the comments in awe of the regard football is held in, as a quasi religious exprience. He wasn't patronising at all. Total misrepresentation.
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on October 17, 2024, 03:27:04 PM
Post by: jon collett on October 17, 2024, 03:37:34 PM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on October 17, 2024, 04:25:29 PM
Saw a weird quote from Heck today where he essentially implied English people are obsessed with football because there aren’t other sports here. He compounded this by saying it’s a family thing.And the funny thing to me was in the same breath he said he didn't know anything about sport, just business. And bragged about something he'd done, but couldn't remember what, which was 'wildly successful' but he was getting hammered by 20 or 30 people for it. You couldn't make it up. If I didnt know anything about sport I wouldn't be talking about it. The guy just keeps digging himself into a hole when interviewed, and turning the conversation so it's all about him. He cracks me up..
I think we probably play and watch more sports than most countries but I thought the interesting insight is he clearly sees us as a captive audience!
Post by: john2710 on October 17, 2024, 07:52:32 PM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on October 17, 2024, 08:22:56 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on October 17, 2024, 08:31:33 PM
There's about 130 GA tickets available for Bologna, many of which are single seats. Considering, when the prices were announced, some predicted the embarrassment of playing a Champions League game with big areas of empty seats.
Indeed, single seats are hard to shift.
Expect us to end up with a Newcastle style thing where you specify the block you want, and they choose the seat, so there are way fewer empty singles.
Post by: john2710 on October 17, 2024, 08:33:23 PM
More than 130 GA + in K2 , K6 similar and plenty of others in K block, A2 A3 the same . Still GA about , T Block your best chance by the look of it.
There's about 130 GA tickets available.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on October 17, 2024, 08:34:50 PM
More than 130 GA + in K2 , K6 similar and plenty of others in K block, A2 A3 the same . Still GA about , T Block your best chance by the look of it.
There are literally 2 GA in T2, 14 in T1, 1 in T5
The match is, to all intents and purposes, sold out.
And Heck doesn't give a fuck about 4 or 5 empty GA seats here and there, he only needs to sell one GA+ at the right level to make up for that.
Post by: john e on October 17, 2024, 09:22:38 PM
Post by: Ads on October 17, 2024, 09:38:20 PM
I can’t see any normal tickets left for the Bournemouth game only GA+
On sale in P9 where the away fans normally are.
Post by: john2710 on October 17, 2024, 09:46:22 PM
Post by: AV82EC on October 17, 2024, 10:01:21 PM
There are thousands left for the Palace cup game & it's on general sale. I guess even at £25 it's a hard sell to get people to watch the stiffs play in what's now classed as a 4th rate competition.
Similar to other games though it’s pointless calling it now 2 weeks out when we know tickets will gradually move
Post by: Des Little on October 17, 2024, 10:24:02 PM
Post by: john e on October 17, 2024, 10:36:39 PM
I can’t see any normal tickets left for the Bournemouth game only GA+
On sale in P9 where the away fans normally are.
Thanks
Just got on there and booked 3 for some friends that wanted to go
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on October 17, 2024, 10:46:19 PM
(https://i.ibb.co/kJ55dZM/Screenshot-20241017-224233-Chrome.jpg) (https://ibb.co/kJ55dZM)
Post by: pauliewalnuts on October 17, 2024, 10:53:21 PM
Just now,
(https://i.ibb.co/kJ55dZM/Screenshot-20241017-224233-Chrome.jpg) (https://ibb.co/kJ55dZM)
Yes. GA+ seats.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on October 17, 2024, 11:03:58 PM
Post by: Ads on October 17, 2024, 11:39:21 PM
I can’t see any normal tickets left for the Bournemouth game only GA+
On sale in P9 where the away fans normally are.
Thanks
Just got on there and booked 3 for some friends that wanted to go
Happy to help mate.
Post by: Somniloquism on October 18, 2024, 09:08:54 AM
That's right GA+ like i said earlier, you said 4 or 5 here and there, and that's not 4 or 5 here and there is it?Paulie's quote was for GA as you added there are GA seats available as well and he countered with about five. He specifically stated GA in there.
I also expect between you with 130 GA+ and John with his 130 GA seats comments, there could have been a misquote going on.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on October 18, 2024, 09:11:44 AM
That's right GA+ like i said earlier, you said 4 or 5 here and there, and that's not 4 or 5 here and there is it?Paulie's quote was for GA as you added there are GA seats available as well and he countered with about five. He specifically stated GA in there.
I also expect between you with 130 GA+ and John with his 130 GA seats comments, there could have been a misquote going on.
Yes, I said GA seats.
Post by: London Villan on October 18, 2024, 09:17:52 AM
It's how it affects other matches. Palace will do well to sell between 25-30k. Bournemouth and Brighton will do very well to get anywhere near a sell-out, as people will pick and choose games. If you were looking to select a game to go to would it be Juventus or Brentford... no brainer really.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on October 18, 2024, 09:20:25 AM
From Heck's perspective, he'll say job well done come the day of the match if all that's left are a handful of tickets. The perfect balance of demand and supply...
It's how it affects other matches. Palace will do well to sell between 25-30k. Bournemouth and Brighton will do very well to get anywhere near a sell-out, as people will pick and choose games. If you were looking to select a game to go to would it be Juventus or Brentford... no brainer really.
Bournemouth is already near a sell out - a few single GA seats dotted around, but then massive availability in the upper away area which they've not taken, and which is greyed out as unavailable on the seat selector but actually available if you click through.
I don't know why they don't make this more clear - if i hadn't read it mentioned on this thread just now, I'd have no idea there were seats there.
EDIT i almost suspect they don't want to sell them all, just to limit the numbers above the away fans.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on October 18, 2024, 09:23:14 AM
The CL GA prices are insane, but we are still selling them all.
They think we are mugs of whom there are enough to want to buy £95 tickets, because of the circumstances and the lack of price elasticity involved in football.
The obvious fact is, they're right.
Post by: simboy on October 18, 2024, 09:56:18 AM
Unpopular opinion - we are easily selling enough of these insanely priced seats for Heck to expect to see a significant uplift in our matchday revenue at the end of the season.
The CL GA prices are insane, but we are still selling them all.
They think we are mugs of whom there are enough to want to buy £95 tickets, because of the circumstances and the lack of price elasticity involved in football.
The obvious fact is, they're right.
Whilst i don't disagree with you, that we are indeed paying far too much at £95, I do think there is a novelty element to it all. A lot of fans boo the Champions League theme as teams walk out, we have shaggers smiles as they play it at Villa Park. The sustainability of higher prices will last as long as the novelty value remains. Half filled stadiums if we "only" qualify for the Europa or conference league next year will be the test. Even if we qualify for the Champions League bit I do wonder if the thrill will wear off for some.
Post by: Ads on October 18, 2024, 10:10:38 AM
To that end, what better time to cap your match day earnings at their absolute summit and reduce supply further, than by redeveloping Villa Park. You ensure prices remain high in the intervening period, you ensure demand grows for when supply improves and you get 2 years to claim that high match day revenue in compliance with the current and future rules. That would be strategic genuis.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on October 18, 2024, 10:21:08 AM
Post by: Pat Mustard on October 18, 2024, 10:40:22 AM
I can't see how this is anything other than a massive balls up - there's around 500 empty seats in the Upper Holte alone, probably around a thousand GA+ tickets left altogether, at a time when there are still GA tickets available. They are never going to sell these now, so commercially the gains we are making are surely not worth the resentment it's causing?
Post by: simboy on October 18, 2024, 11:04:04 AM
Familiarity does breed contempt or if we're not as entitled as Man City fans, an ennui at least.
To that end, what better time to cap your match day earnings at their absolute summit and reduce supply further, than by redeveloping Villa Park. You ensure prices remain high in the intervening period, you ensure demand grows for when supply improves and you get 2 years to claim that high match day revenue in compliance with the current and future rules. That would be strategic genuis.
I am not convinced Heck sees the demand curve like that. Match day revenue is quite small part of the revenue of a football club in the top league. If it goes to £28 mill over the season I would be surprised. Sounds a lot until you consider we get £1 million per win in the UCL and £2 mill for just qualifying.
I read somewhere letting fans in for free or a nominal amount to cover policing/stewarding etc would not hurt the profit made too badly, but like good little capitalists if you have the demand, increase your price. Every little helps. Your £95 helps pay someone's wages ...
Post by: PeterWithe on October 18, 2024, 11:37:20 AM
I read somewhere letting fans in for free or a nominal amount to cover policing/stewarding etc would not hurt the profit made too badly,
I've often thought this, that if clubs push fans too much then they are replaced by people who want to experience the atmosphere and can afford it but do little to contribute to it. Then 'the product' diminishes in value to the worldwide TV audience and the revenues shrink
Post by: ender4 on October 18, 2024, 11:43:46 AM
I am not convinced Heck sees the demand curve like that. Match day revenue is quite small part of the revenue of a football club in the top league. If it goes to £28 mill over the season I would be surprised. Sounds a lot until you consider we get £1 million per win in the UCL and £2 mill for just qualifying.
Matchday revenue is actually a significant part of revenue for a lot of football clubs in the Premier League. eg:
Chelsea - £77m matchday revenue
Spurs - £120m matchday revenue (£6m per game!)
Arsenal - £110m
Man Utd - £137m
and so on.
It's just that Villa have relatively tiny matchday revenues that makes us think it's not as important. Villa's total revenue is only £250-280m, compared to Spurs £120m matchday revenue.
Post by: Ads on October 18, 2024, 11:46:14 AM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on October 18, 2024, 12:05:47 PM
Yes there was a misquote, my bad. Apologies. My concern is around low GA+ sales and the myth they are generating a decent income. I did some fag packet maths on this in an earlier post.That's right GA+ like i said earlier, you said 4 or 5 here and there, and that's not 4 or 5 here and there is it?Paulie's quote was for GA as you added there are GA seats available as well and he countered with about five. He specifically stated GA in there.
I also expect between you with 130 GA+ and John with his 130 GA seats comments, there could have been a misquote going on.
Yes, I said GA seats.
At £85 GA and £175 GA+.... If we have 10 seats for sale and sell 5 of them at £175 GA+ =£875
If we have 10 seats for sale and sell 10 of them at £85 GA =£850
When you factor in giving free food and drink , preparing and staffing the GA+ area , where's the profit on 50% occupancy of GA+ ?? I'd say it a loss leader ATM
Post by: simboy on October 18, 2024, 12:09:14 PM
It's €2.1m per win, so a lot more than £1m.
I stand corrected. The point is perhaps further amplified.
Post by: rob_bridge on October 18, 2024, 12:10:08 PM
I read somewhere letting fans in for free or a nominal amount to cover policing/stewarding etc would not hurt the profit made too badly,
I've often thought this, that if clubs push fans too much then they are replaced by people who want to experience the atmosphere and can afford it but do little to contribute to it. Then 'the product' diminishes in value to the worldwide TV audience and the revenues shrink
I've be thinking this would happen for 30 years and it hasn't. Nouveaus have been going for more than 2 decades now.
Post by: simboy on October 18, 2024, 12:23:19 PM
I am not convinced Heck sees the demand curve like that. Match day revenue is quite small part of the revenue of a football club in the top league. If it goes to £28 mill over the season I would be surprised. Sounds a lot until you consider we get £1 million per win in the UCL and £2 mill for just qualifying.
Matchday revenue is actually a significant part of revenue for a lot of football clubs in the Premier League. eg:
Chelsea - £77m matchday revenue
Spurs - £120m matchday revenue (£6m per game!)
Arsenal - £110m
Man Utd - £137m
and so on.
It's just that Villa have relatively tiny matchday revenues that makes us think it's not as important. Villa's total revenue is only £250-280m, compared to Spurs £120m matchday revenue.
And when you say … and so on … I suspect our match day revenue is not going to be anywhere near the “big six”. Also it needs to be compared with our overall revenue as it does with the teams you mention. It’s not a very high percentage and I suspect is less percentage-wise of overall income for Man U, Chelsea et al.
The “importance” of that revenue stream shoots as you drop out of the “elite”, so newcastle will rely upon it more this year (if they were not underwritten by an oil state) as will Burnley and Luton as they dropped down - but relying on parachute payments - but where it really becomes important is when you run out of PL support like WBA or Derby.
Of course those teams will have less coming in because most fans go to games at the more successful teams.
Anyway I’m talking pub bar bollox and I will shut up.
Post by: john e on October 18, 2024, 12:42:33 PM
Do they mean every single ticket GA, GA+, and all the hospitality areas
Or are we just talking about GA only where availability of these tickets has been reduced to cater for GA+ etc
Post by: eamonn on October 18, 2024, 01:07:00 PM
Unpopular opinion - we are easily selling enough of these insanely priced seats for Heck to expect to see a significant uplift in our matchday revenue at the end of the season.
The CL GA prices are insane, but we are still selling them all.
They think we are mugs of whom there are enough to want to buy £95 tickets, because of the circumstances and the lack of price elasticity involved in football.
The obvious fact is, they're right.
Whilst i don't disagree with you, that we are indeed paying far too much at £95, I do think there is a novelty element to it all. A lot of fans boo the Champions League theme as teams walk out, we have shaggers smiles as they play it at Villa Park. The sustainability of higher prices will last as long as the novelty value remains. Half filled stadiums if we "only" qualify for the Europa or conference league next year will be the test. Even if we qualify for the Champions League bit I do wonder if the thrill will wear off for some.
"Shaggers smiles" - good grief, what an expression.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on October 18, 2024, 01:12:41 PM
Post by: john2710 on October 18, 2024, 01:28:26 PM
If we included GA+ I doubt we'd ever see a sell out. Even the Bayern game had a few GA+ tickets unsold.
Post by: The Edge on October 18, 2024, 01:48:58 PM
Most people would associate a sell out as being GA tickets only. GA+ is probably out of the reach of most people.Yeah definitely. It was awful to see the video of that guy on tiktok who goes round sampling corporate hospitality at different clubs and right in front of him in the DE lower was loads of empty GA+ seats right next to the Bayern fans. There was thousands of Villa fans who missed out on that game who could not afford to pay the price for GA+. It's bloody scandalous in my opinion.
If we included GA+ I doubt we'd ever see a sell out. Even the Bayern game had a few GA+ tickets unsold.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on October 18, 2024, 01:57:13 PM
This is true. Lots of seats will be empty for games going forward. Lots in the Upper Holte where our most vocal and loyal fans would normally be.Most people would associate a sell out as being GA tickets only. GA+ is probably out of the reach of most people.Yeah definitely. It was awful to see the video of that guy on tiktok who goes round sampling corporate hospitality at different clubs and right in front of him in the DE lower was loads of empty GA+ seats right next to the Bayern fans. There was thousands of Villa fans who missed out on that game who could not afford to pay the price for GA+. It's bloody scandalous in my opinion.
If we included GA+ I doubt we'd ever see a sell out. Even the Bayern game had a few GA+ tickets unsold.
I'm afraid Mr Heck will become 'The Patron Saint of Empty Seats'
Post by: ChicagoLion on October 18, 2024, 02:00:03 PM
They have unbundled the Bologna tickets because the corporates are not flying off the shelf.
I find this behaviour pretty obnoxious.
Post by: john e on October 18, 2024, 02:00:39 PM
Most people would associate a sell out as being GA tickets only. GA+ is probably out of the reach of most people.
If we included GA+ I doubt we'd ever see a sell out. Even the Bayern game had a few GA+ tickets unsold.
i would say that the proper hospitality areas have always been dificult to know the numbers ie table covers etc,
but GA+ which is basically a normal match day seat somewhere in the ground that has been upgraded and repriced with a bit of food and drink should be included in whether a game sells out or not
so if GA+ isnt selling out then we havent got a sold out game imo
Post by: AV82EC on October 18, 2024, 02:02:04 PM
Apparently if you want to buy Corporate Tickets for the Juventus game, you have to buy the same amount of corporate tickets for a PL game but not the super category ones like Liverpool. For example if you buy 2 Juve tickets at £560 each then lowest level Chelsea at £300.00, then total spend is £1720.00.
They have unbundled the Bologna tickets because the corporates are not flying off the shelf.
I find this behaviour pretty obnoxious.
Tbh its in Corporate, I couldn't give a fuck.
Post by: AV82EC on October 18, 2024, 02:06:43 PM
Most people would associate a sell out as being GA tickets only. GA+ is probably out of the reach of most people.Yeah definitely. It was awful to see the video of that guy on tiktok who goes round sampling corporate hospitality at different clubs and right in front of him in the DE lower was loads of empty GA+ seats right next to the Bayern fans. There was thousands of Villa fans who missed out on that game who could not afford to pay the price for GA+. It's bloody scandalous in my opinion.
If we included GA+ I doubt we'd ever see a sell out. Even the Bayern game had a few GA+ tickets unsold.
I thought we established at the time that those empty seats were actually Bayern's allocation which were unsold and a bit of extra segregation.
Post by: ChicagoLion on October 18, 2024, 02:17:55 PM
Apparently if you want to buy Corporate Tickets for the Juventus game, you have to buy the same amount of corporate tickets for a PL game but not the super category ones like Liverpool. For example if you buy 2 Juve tickets at £560 each then lowest level Chelsea at £300.00, then total spend is £1720.00.
They have unbundled the Bologna tickets because the corporates are not flying off the shelf.
I find this behaviour pretty obnoxious.
Tbh its in Corporate, I couldn't give a fuck.
[/quote
You should because its indicative of a mindset that is fkin up the club. I do not think it makes much business sense either.
Post by: Dave on October 18, 2024, 02:29:31 PM
I can’t see any normal tickets left for the Bournemouth game only GA+
On sale in P9 where the away fans normally are.
Excellent. In which case I'm going to go from the kids having never been to VP before to taking them twice in five days.
They'd better fucking enjoy the Bologna game.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on October 18, 2024, 02:47:32 PM
(https://i.ibb.co/hK3NDSn/Screenshot-20241018-144312-Chrome.jpg) (https://ibb.co/hK3NDSn)
This might be a sell out at St Andrew's , but not at Villa Park..
Post by: AV82EC on October 18, 2024, 02:54:43 PM
(https://i.ibb.co/hK3NDSn/Screenshot-20241018-144312-Chrome.jpg) (https://ibb.co/hK3NDSn)
This might be a sell out at St Andrew's , but not at Villa Park..
Oh if thats in A2 I may slip across the aisle and sit in one of the padded seats.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on October 18, 2024, 03:00:04 PM
Have a lie down, make yourself at home my friend...
(https://i.ibb.co/hK3NDSn/Screenshot-20241018-144312-Chrome.jpg) (https://ibb.co/hK3NDSn)
This might be a sell out at St Andrew's , but not at Villa Park..
Oh if thats in A2 I may slip across the aisle and sit in one of the padded seats.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on October 18, 2024, 03:07:09 PM
Anyone got any spares?
Post by: Ads on October 18, 2024, 03:21:33 PM
(https://i.ibb.co/hK3NDSn/Screenshot-20241018-144312-Chrome.jpg) (https://ibb.co/hK3NDSn)
This might be a sell out at St Andrew's , but not at Villa Park..
Fucking state of you.
Post by: Villan82 on October 18, 2024, 06:02:29 PM
(https://i.ibb.co/hK3NDSn/Screenshot-20241018-144312-Chrome.jpg) (https://ibb.co/hK3NDSn)
This might be a sell out at St Andrew's , but not at Villa Park..
Fucking state of you.
The same thought occurs to me, day after day, when I read your abusive posts all over this forum.
Post by: SaddVillan on October 18, 2024, 07:29:35 PM
Does it chime?
"I can’t make Saturday’s derby game against West Ham and I am totally relaxed about it. Almost relieved. I have sold my ticket and can get on with other things. To my surprise, I have come to realise that I have never felt quite so out of love with the team I have supported since I was nine years old as I am now. In the past, there have been the odd dips, but nothing like this. It’s not even the results that have got to me. There have been plenty of times in the past 60 years when the team has been just this flakey. But now I’ve lapsed from anger and frustration into virtual indifference. When Spurs surrendered a two-goal lead at Brighton I really wasn’t that bothered. So what’s changed? Partly, it’s that I’m fed up with being treated as a revenue stream. One that the club could probably do without as I never buy anything from the shop or the food and drink concessions. I feel as if the owners care even less about results than I do. They aren’t interested in winning cups, just turning White Hart Lane into a corporate entertainment venue. A tourist destination."
Post by: dave.woodhall on October 18, 2024, 07:35:30 PM
(https://i.ibb.co/hK3NDSn/Screenshot-20241018-144312-Chrome.jpg) (https://ibb.co/hK3NDSn)
This might be a sell out at St Andrew's , but not at Villa Park..
Fucking state of you.
Less of that if you don't mind.
Post by: Brend'Watkins on October 18, 2024, 07:44:19 PM
This is a piece from The Guardian - John Crace is their political diarist and a lifelong (and genuine Spurs fan).
Does it chime?
"I can’t make Saturday’s derby game against West Ham and I am totally relaxed about it. Almost relieved. I have sold my ticket and can get on with other things. To my surprise, I have come to realise that I have never felt quite so out of love with the team I have supported since I was nine years old as I am now. In the past, there have been the odd dips, but nothing like this. It’s not even the results that have got to me. There have been plenty of times in the past 60 years when the team has been just this flakey. But now I’ve lapsed from anger and frustration into virtual indifference. When Spurs surrendered a two-goal lead at Brighton I really wasn’t that bothered. So what’s changed? Partly, it’s that I’m fed up with being treated as a revenue stream. One that the club could probably do without as I never buy anything from the shop or the food and drink concessions. I feel as if the owners care even less about results than I do. They aren’t interested in winning cups, just turning White Hart Lane into a corporate entertainment venue. A tourist destination."
Doesn’t it just! I’m not at that stage yet as I still care a lot. There is an empty feeling though and I do get the sense of “serves you right” when we fail to sell out.
Post by: London Villan on October 18, 2024, 07:48:28 PM
Post by: Percy McCarthy on October 18, 2024, 07:51:11 PM
I do think they’ve missed a trick with the Palace cup game though. A little bit cheaper and many would have been tempted, especially with it being at half-term.
Post by: ChicagoLion on October 18, 2024, 08:33:25 PM
^^ As I and others have pointed out, just falling short of selling out is the sweet spot for Heck that tells him he’s got the prices just about perfect. Demand outstripping supply is just lost revenue that tells him he should have charged more.You are right, but I am not sure that it works long term. The problem is when people are being gouged is that they really start to think about the next time.
I do think they’ve missed a trick with the Palace cup game though. A little bit cheaper and many would have been tempted, especially with it being at half-term.
It defeats the basic customer revenue principals - attract more, sell them more and hold on to them for longer.
Post by: Pat Mustard on October 18, 2024, 09:00:23 PM
^^ As I and others have pointed out, just falling short of selling out is the sweet spot for Heck that tells him he’s got the prices just about perfect. Demand outstripping supply is just lost revenue that tells him he should have charged more.You are right, but I am not sure that it works long term. The problem is when people are being gouged is that they really start to think about the next time.
I do think they’ve missed a trick with the Palace cup game though. A little bit cheaper and many would have been tempted, especially with it being at half-term.
It defeats the basic customer revenue principals - attract more, sell them more and hold on to them for longer.
It’s a dangerous game that has got the potential to backfire badly. There are lots of people who have been on a knife edge financially over the last years, yet Villa have managed to maintain near constant sell outs. The prices this year have been a massive fuck you to everyone and those who have decided it is too much may well never come back as regulars.
The above might be fine if these supporters were being replaced. The fact that there are still 1k+ tickets left for a Champions League game in 4 days time suggests they won’t be.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on October 18, 2024, 10:25:46 PM
....we've all had a bad day at school/work/ the wife's bumped the car etc...
(https://i.ibb.co/hK3NDSn/Screenshot-20241018-144312-Chrome.jpg) (https://ibb.co/hK3NDSn)
This might be a sell out at St Andrew's , but not at Villa Park..
Fucking state of you.
Less of that if you don't mind.
Would have been nice to have had some Latin to decipher though..
....anyway, no drama here..
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on October 18, 2024, 10:27:19 PM
Spot on again Pat...^^ As I and others have pointed out, just falling short of selling out is the sweet spot for Heck that tells him he’s got the prices just about perfect. Demand outstripping supply is just lost revenue that tells him he should have charged more.You are right, but I am not sure that it works long term. The problem is when people are being gouged is that they really start to think about the next time.
I do think they’ve missed a trick with the Palace cup game though. A little bit cheaper and many would have been tempted, especially with it being at half-term.
It defeats the basic customer revenue principals - attract more, sell them more and hold on to them for longer.
It’s a dangerous game that has got the potential to backfire badly. There are lots of people who have been on a knife edge financially over the last years, yet Villa have managed to maintain near constant sell outs. The prices this year have been a massive fuck you to everyone and those who have decided it is too much may well never come back as regulars.
The above might be fine if these supporters were being replaced. The fact that there are still 1k+ tickets left for a Champions League game in 4 days time suggests they won’t be.
Post by: Louzie0 on October 18, 2024, 10:30:25 PM
Post by: Drummond on October 18, 2024, 10:31:11 PM
I would describe a sell out as anyone daft enough to part with the cash that this idiot is demanding.
Anyone got any spares?
Yep
Post by: Ads on October 18, 2024, 10:34:26 PM
....we've all had a bad day at school/work/ the wife's bumped the car etc...
(https://i.ibb.co/hK3NDSn/Screenshot-20241018-144312-Chrome.jpg) (https://ibb.co/hK3NDSn)
This might be a sell out at St Andrew's , but not at Villa Park..
Fucking state of you.
Less of that if you don't mind.
Would have been nice to have had some Latin to decipher though..
....anyway, no drama here..
Mea culpa
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on October 18, 2024, 10:53:08 PM
accepted...bonum vesperum....we've all had a bad day at school/work/ the wife's bumped the car etc...
(https://i.ibb.co/hK3NDSn/Screenshot-20241018-144312-Chrome.jpg) (https://ibb.co/hK3NDSn)
This might be a sell out at St Andrew's , but not at Villa Park..
Fucking state of you.
Less of that if you don't mind.
Would have been nice to have had some Latin to decipher though..
....anyway, no drama here..
Mea culpa
Post by: Percy McCarthy on October 19, 2024, 12:18:49 AM
^^ As I and others have pointed out, just falling short of selling out is the sweet spot for Heck that tells him he’s got the prices just about perfect. Demand outstripping supply is just lost revenue that tells him he should have charged more.You are right, but I am not sure that it works long term. The problem is when people are being gouged is that they really start to think about the next time.
I do think they’ve missed a trick with the Palace cup game though. A little bit cheaper and many would have been tempted, especially with it being at half-term.
It defeats the basic customer revenue principals - attract more, sell them more and hold on to them for longer.
It’s a dangerous game that has got the potential to backfire badly. There are lots of people who have been on a knife edge financially over the last years, yet Villa have managed to maintain near constant sell outs. The prices this year have been a massive fuck you to everyone and those who have decided it is too much may well never come back as regulars.
The above might be fine if these supporters were being replaced. The fact that there are still 1k+ tickets left for a Champions League game in 4 days time suggests they won’t be.
And then the prices will drop. They’ve got 42,000 units to sell and will price them at a level where they’ll think they’ll sell all or nearly all of them.
I mean, that CL draw for us this year, I don’t think Heck could have hoped for better. I posted as soon as it was made he’d be rubbing his hands together. Does anyone seriously think that if you flipped our home and away games we’d be paying 90 quid?
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on October 19, 2024, 08:19:35 AM
I still think he'd have priced it at £90, but there'd have been less takers I guess^^ As I and others have pointed out, just falling short of selling out is the sweet spot for Heck that tells him he’s got the prices just about perfect. Demand outstripping supply is just lost revenue that tells him he should have charged more.You are right, but I am not sure that it works long term. The problem is when people are being gouged is that they really start to think about the next time.
I do think they’ve missed a trick with the Palace cup game though. A little bit cheaper and many would have been tempted, especially with it being at half-term.
It defeats the basic customer revenue principals - attract more, sell them more and hold on to them for longer.
It’s a dangerous game that has got the potential to backfire badly. There are lots of people who have been on a knife edge financially over the last years, yet Villa have managed to maintain near constant sell outs. The prices this year have been a massive fuck you to everyone and those who have decided it is too much may well never come back as regulars.
The above might be fine if these supporters were being replaced. The fact that there are still 1k+ tickets left for a Champions League game in 4 days time suggests they won’t be.
And then the prices will drop. They’ve got 42,000 units to sell and will price them at a level where they’ll think they’ll sell all or nearly all of them.
I mean, that CL draw for us this year, I don’t think Heck could have hoped for better. I posted as soon as it was made he’d be rubbing his hands together. Does anyone seriously think that if you flipped our home and away games we’d be paying 90 quid?
Post by: Pat Mustard on October 19, 2024, 08:28:58 AM
^^ As I and others have pointed out, just falling short of selling out is the sweet spot for Heck that tells him he’s got the prices just about perfect. Demand outstripping supply is just lost revenue that tells him he should have charged more.You are right, but I am not sure that it works long term. The problem is when people are being gouged is that they really start to think about the next time.
I do think they’ve missed a trick with the Palace cup game though. A little bit cheaper and many would have been tempted, especially with it being at half-term.
It defeats the basic customer revenue principals - attract more, sell them more and hold on to them for longer.
It’s a dangerous game that has got the potential to backfire badly. There are lots of people who have been on a knife edge financially over the last years, yet Villa have managed to maintain near constant sell outs. The prices this year have been a massive fuck you to everyone and those who have decided it is too much may well never come back as regulars.
The above might be fine if these supporters were being replaced. The fact that there are still 1k+ tickets left for a Champions League game in 4 days time suggests they won’t be.
And then the prices will drop. They’ve got 42,000 units to sell and will price them at a level where they’ll think they’ll sell all or nearly all of them.
I mean, that CL draw for us this year, I don’t think Heck could have hoped for better. I posted as soon as it was made he’d be rubbing his hands together. Does anyone seriously think that if you flipped our home and away games we’d be paying 90 quid?
The problem he’s got is that people already thought £50/60/70 for a game was too much. Up to now they’ve sucked it up by and large and kept going. By effectively pricing those people out of matches they have waited 40 years for how many will say forget it, I’m going on my own terms from now on, if at all. Also, with GA+ consistently failing to sell out, how much room for manoeuvre will he have to drop prices in the future and still hit his targets.
I maintain that he’s got this horribly wrong, and that it will take a long time to repair the damage Heck is doing.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on October 19, 2024, 08:43:26 AM
For arguments sake if we say someone who has been to Villa Park at least once, and would call themselves a Villa fan, is included in the numbers what does it look like?
If anyone has genuine insight on this then great.
I'm going to say his audience is around the 850,000 mark?
Post by: Skerra on October 19, 2024, 12:04:54 PM
Post by: Olneythelonely on October 22, 2024, 12:13:53 PM
Heck is a genius.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on October 22, 2024, 12:35:20 PM
Loads of tickets available on resale sites for less than half price.and he told us so in his fluff piece last week ...
Heck is a genius.
Post by: Brend'Watkins on October 22, 2024, 12:41:06 PM
I maintain that he’s got this horribly wrong, and that it will take a long time to repair the damage Heck is doing.
I fully agree. I sucked it up for the Bayern Game, first home game back at this level in over 40 years, I'd have reluctantly paid more in fact. I will also admit that I'm sort of glad this isn't going to even nearly sell out. They've massively overestimated their pricing and underestimated the potential damage this is doing. Should we go forward in the competition realistic pricing has to be adopted. I think the owners also need to look at the capability of this Opp's Director or whatever he's called as his understanding of his fan/customer base is sadly lacking.
Post by: The Edge on October 22, 2024, 12:50:50 PM
Fixed.
I maintain that he’s got this horribly wrong, and that it will take a long time to repair the damage Heck is doing.
I fully agree. I sucked it up for the Bayern Game, first home game back at this level in over 40 years, I'd have reluctantly paid more in fact. I will also admit that I'm sort of glad this isn't going to even nearly sell out. They've massively overestimated their pricing and underestimated the potential damage this is doing. Should we go forward in the competition realistic pricing has to be adopted. I think the owners also need to look at the capability of this Opp's Director or whatever he's called as his understanding of his fan/customer base is sadly non existent.
Post by: Duncan Shaw on October 22, 2024, 01:07:09 PM
Post by: john e on October 22, 2024, 01:21:00 PM
I know it's been said before, but the only metric he cares about, and the owners care about him delivering, it hitting £400m turnover. If he delivers that they will see him as having done his job, however unpalatable that is to us.
Most of the increased revenue this season will be nothing to do with Heck it will be down to Unai Emery and the on field
Champions League and winning bonuses etc
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on October 22, 2024, 01:28:30 PM
Exactly, ticket sales don't count for much regarding turnover. I bet Emery is fuming in the background with the ongoing Heck Pantomime and negativity it brings...I know it's been said before, but the only metric he cares about, and the owners care about him delivering, it hitting £400m turnover. If he delivers that they will see him as having done his job, however unpalatable that is to us.
Most of the increased revenue this season will be nothing to do with Heck it will be down to Unai Emery and the on field
Champions League and winning bonuses etc
Post by: Flamingo Lane on October 22, 2024, 02:15:15 PM
Post by: maidstonevillain on October 22, 2024, 02:17:09 PM
Loads of tickets available on resale sites for less than half price.But on the Villa books they will count as a full price sale, and count towards the attendance figure.
Heck is a genius.
Post by: aldridgeboy on October 22, 2024, 02:17:32 PM
Loads of tickets available on resale sites for less than half price.and he told us so in his fluff piece last week ...
Heck is a genius.
I don't think its via the club though. It's via private individuals. My mates just bought one for tonight for £39 and already has it in his apple wallet. He bought two for Bayern via the same site and paid around face value. He had to meet the man at the ground to get them, as he'd just had a couple spare
I suspect on the day, private individuals just "want rid" and will take whatever they can get, rather than just waste the ticket?
Post by: Pat Mustard on October 22, 2024, 02:24:57 PM
Loads of tickets available on resale sites for less than half price.and he told us so in his fluff piece last week ...
Heck is a genius.
I don't think its via the club though. It's via private individuals. My mates just bought one for tonight for £39 and already has it in his apple wallet. He bought two for Bayern via the same site and paid around face value. He had to meet the man at the ground to get them, as he'd just had a couple spare
I suspect on the day, private individuals just "want rid" and will take whatever they can get, rather than just waste the ticket?
These are available in blocks of 2-4, so I don't think it is just individuals wanting rid. It looks like the club have sold chunks of tickets to re-sellers who were expecting to be able to sell them on at a profit.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on October 22, 2024, 02:31:48 PM
I shouldn't think Emery is remotely aware of the issues, nor need he be.Really?... He'd need to be living on Mars if he isn’t. As much talk about the off field stuff as there is about the football, well covered by local and national media outlets recently. Emery and Monchi will be well aware, they are meticulous operators
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on October 22, 2024, 02:35:09 PM
Quite a few have disappeared from K2 this morning that were for sale as GA+, after sitting around for weeks unsold?Loads of tickets available on resale sites for less than half price.and he told us so in his fluff piece last week ...
Heck is a genius.
I don't think its via the club though. It's via private individuals. My mates just bought one for tonight for £39 and already has it in his apple wallet. He bought two for Bayern via the same site and paid around face value. He had to meet the man at the ground to get them, as he'd just had a couple spare
I suspect on the day, private individuals just "want rid" and will take whatever they can get, rather than just waste the ticket?
These are available in blocks of 2-4, so I don't think it is just individuals wanting rid. It looks like the club have sold chunks of tickets to re-sellers who were expecting to be able to sell them on at a profit.
Post by: aldridgeboy on October 22, 2024, 02:35:56 PM
Loads of tickets available on resale sites for less than half price.and he told us so in his fluff piece last week ...
Heck is a genius.
I don't think its via the club though. It's via private individuals. My mates just bought one for tonight for £39 and already has it in his apple wallet. He bought two for Bayern via the same site and paid around face value. He had to meet the man at the ground to get them, as he'd just had a couple spare
I suspect on the day, private individuals just "want rid" and will take whatever they can get, rather than just waste the ticket?
These are available in blocks of 2-4, so I don't think it is just individuals wanting rid. It looks like the club have sold chunks of tickets to re-sellers who were expecting to be able to sell them on at a profit.
You may well be correct with lots, but my mate met teh guy he bought his 2 Bayern tickets off. He just had spares he wanted rid of
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on October 22, 2024, 02:55:22 PM
Post by: maidstonevillain on October 22, 2024, 03:09:01 PM
All the 'Cocktail glass' tickets that are £400 + in A2 have gone this morning miraculously, along with most of the 'Beer glass' tickets. So something is going on..And none of the £1000 "Aston" tickets are shown as available, although the section does highlight (to indicate tickets are available) when you hover over it.
Post by: The Man With A Stick on October 22, 2024, 04:21:29 PM
Post by: Brend'Watkins on October 22, 2024, 05:01:54 PM
Seems more than coincidental that all of these £28 tickets have just suddenly become available. If I'd forked out £94 for this like I did for Bayern I'd be massively unimpressed. What an absolute(ly preditable) fuck up.
You said it.
Post by: Skerra on October 22, 2024, 06:24:29 PM
Post by: Clampy on October 22, 2024, 06:32:20 PM
Turning out to be a complete fiasco regarding the tickets. Villa/Heck have lost a lot of faith from long term supporters like me and, will be difficult for the club to turn this around. £35 would have been about right for this Bologna match. Good luck to whoever has got my seat for tonight for the bargain price of £97!! They will be right pissed off when they find out others have paid £25 or thereabouts!
Not sure about £35. They can charge more than that without pricing people out.
Post by: ChicagoLion on October 22, 2024, 06:49:27 PM
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on October 22, 2024, 07:23:37 PM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on October 22, 2024, 07:26:06 PM
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on October 22, 2024, 07:31:24 PM
Well I’m in my padded seat just been handed a glass of Moet. Eaten some wonderful nouvelle cuisine. All for £20.
Wetherspoon's?
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on October 22, 2024, 07:52:29 PM
Post by: SaddVillan on October 22, 2024, 07:53:51 PM
It doesn't make sense.
Questions:
What reselling sites are involved
Where did these tickets come from
How many are there
What's the price differential between the website price and face value.
Who gains/loses from selling this number at these prices in this way.
Don't know of many resellers who sell at below face value.
Post by: London Villan on October 23, 2024, 08:09:06 AM
Someone is telling porkies somewhere...
Post by: frank black on October 23, 2024, 08:45:14 AM
A few questions spring to kind about this ticket business.
It doesn't make sense.
Questions:
What reselling sites are involved
Where did these tickets come from
How many are there
What's the price differential between the website price and face value.
Who gains/loses from selling this number at these prices in this way.
Don't know of many resellers who sell at below face value.
They’re always getting burned in this way. On the day of the match what choice do they have, with a low demand game?
I doubt the club would use unofficial resale sites. It’ll be cup scheme members. Surely?
Post by: Villan82 on October 23, 2024, 09:03:30 AM
So according to the BBC the attendance was 41,847 - which is some achievement, as over 1500 seats were blocked off for advertising hoardings, hundreds were still sale last night and there were at least a couple of hundred spare in the Bolgona overflow seats.
Someone is telling porkies somewhere...
I don't think I have seen somebody blot their copybook so much in such a short space of time as the President of Business Operations. Everything else is first class except that part of the operation, and posters had flagged the pricing issue when it was announced.
Post by: astonvilla82 on October 23, 2024, 09:04:24 AM
Turning out to be a complete fiasco regarding the tickets. Villa/Heck have lost a lot of faith from long term supporters like me and, will be difficult for the club to turn this around. £35 would have been about right for this Bologna match. Good luck to whoever has got my seat for tonight for the bargain price of £97!! They will be right pissed off when they find out others have paid £25 or thereabouts!The lad who sat in the son's seat really enjoyed it and got involved in the singing and atmosphere, maybe it's a one off for him but it meant a lot to him
Post by: eye digress on October 23, 2024, 09:19:43 AM
Hyperbole no doubt, but they certainly weren't pointing out swathes of empty seats, or anything.
Thought that would have one or two on here bristling.
Post by: astonvilla82 on October 23, 2024, 09:22:10 AM
Watching on the telly last night, it was notable that the commentators referred multiple times to how the place was sold out, there wasn't a spare seat in the house, and other similar comments.From where I was looking which was lower Holte,I couldn't see large amount of empty seats
Hyperbole no doubt, but they certainly weren't pointing out swathes of empty seats, or anything.
Thought that would have one or two on here bristling.
Post by: Lsvilla on October 23, 2024, 09:32:05 AM
Me neither. Looked full to me.Watching on the telly last night, it was notable that the commentators referred multiple times to how the place was sold out, there wasn't a spare seat in the house, and other similar comments.From where I was looking which was lower Holte,I couldn't see large amount of empty seats
Hyperbole no doubt, but they certainly weren't pointing out swathes of empty seats, or anything.
Thought that would have one or two on here bristling.
Post by: sid1964 on October 23, 2024, 09:36:08 AM
Post by: john2710 on October 23, 2024, 09:37:27 AM
As far as the club is concerned, Heck's pricing policy, like it or not, is being vindicated.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on October 23, 2024, 09:42:57 AM
Post by: Percy McCarthy on October 23, 2024, 09:47:50 AM
So another win for Mr Heck then.
Yep, and with Juventus & Celtic to come, he’s guaranteed another 6 points.
The tosser.
Post by: eye digress on October 23, 2024, 10:08:30 AM
So another win for Mr Heck then.In textbook supply-and-demand terms, yes, although it might turn out to be a Pyrrhic victory. What price in the long term, for example, for putting people's noses out of joint?
But is that Heck or just what happens when you're owned by billionaires and venture capital funds?
Just putting that out there.
Post by: Dogtanian on October 23, 2024, 10:22:37 AM
I heard the couple beside me saying who knows when they might have the chance to watch Villa in the Champions League again.
I suspect that a lot of people have taken the opportunity to see a CL game live, even at a price point that they wouldn't normally pay.
But obviously a proportion of those people who have now seen us play in the CL are not going to keep paying through the nose for it.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on October 23, 2024, 10:30:12 AM
So according to the BBC the attendance was 41,847 - which is some achievement, as over 1500 seats were blocked off for advertising hoardings, hundreds were still sale last night and there were at least a couple of hundred spare in the Bolgona overflow seats.Clearly a bit of subterfuge going on with tickets/attendances. As was discussed yesterday on here, tickets were disappearing on the website in blocks, and people were picking up seatpick tickets all of a sudden? Tickets were still for sale in various areas before kick off? A surprising number of seats were empty again in the middle Trinity on the halfway line. With this in mind, and the empty seats ref the advertising hoardings, 41,847 would have been impossible given our current capacity? I dare say Ally McCoist and friends were unaware of seats being for sale while declaring it was another sell out.
Someone is telling porkies somewhere...
Post by: eye digress on October 23, 2024, 10:37:25 AM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on October 23, 2024, 10:51:40 AM
Yes no doubt (re McCoist et al). But in terms of perception, it just looked "full to the rafters" to them.The only areas showing availability before kick off were K, A and T Blocks, all high up and not really covered by TV coverage, and in the darkness wouldn't have been obvious. At the end of the day it doesn't really matter...unless you wanted to go and couldn't afford it !!
Post by: dave.woodhall on October 23, 2024, 10:54:10 AM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on October 23, 2024, 10:57:22 AM
For all the talk of cheap seats, did anyone get one?And did they work at the turnstiles??
Post by: Ads on October 23, 2024, 11:13:52 AM
Those once in a bluemooners got to witness some of the best football anybody is playing anywhere in Europe. They got a great atmosphere, they got total value for money. As did I.
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on October 23, 2024, 11:15:37 AM
Post by: eamonn on October 23, 2024, 11:31:41 AM
Thought that would have one or two on here bristling.
"The H&V Forum. Bristling since 1997"
Post by: AV82EC on October 23, 2024, 11:32:31 AM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on October 23, 2024, 11:33:47 AM
A lot of season ticket holders around me but also a lot of people I'd not seen before. I've reluctantly come to the conclusion that perhaps that is part of the aim.The plan is price the seat as high as they think is achievable, and see who is prepared to pay it. If it's not
Those once in a bluemooners got to witness some of the best football anybody is playing anywhere in Europe. They got a great atmosphere, they got total value for money. As did I.
A : A season ticket holder in the seat
Or B : A Villa fan in the seat
they ain't really bothered....is how it looks
Post by: john2710 on October 23, 2024, 11:51:42 AM
For all the talk of cheap seats, did anyone get one?
I'd treat the, "I know a bloke on Twitter who's mate said he got a ticket for £25" for what it is. If it sounds too good to be true, it almost certainly is.
Post by: stevo_st on October 23, 2024, 12:05:36 PM
Club have got to sort out temporary lighting in this area, it’s completely unacceptable and not helped by the fan zone setup.
Hopefully they were patched up and managed to get into the ground before kick off.
Post by: j66acd on October 23, 2024, 12:08:06 PM
For all the talk of cheap seats, did anyone get one?
My neighbour was sitting in the upper Doug with one he purchased yesterday so they were legit.
Post by: Pat Mustard on October 23, 2024, 12:10:22 PM
For all the talk of cheap seats, did anyone get one?
Yes, we got two yesterday morning - cost £60 for the pair including booking fee.
Post by: tomd2103 on October 23, 2024, 12:15:05 PM
Saw two instances of elderly fans with blood covered heads from tripping over the kerbs trying to navigate through the north stand car park.
Club have got to sort out temporary lighting in this area, it’s completely unacceptable and not helped by the fan zone setup.
Hopefully they were patched up and managed to get into the ground before kick off.
Yeah I saw an elderly woman have a really nasty fall stepping off a kerb I'm the North Stand car park. Luckily there were a lot of people around to help.
Post by: LeeB on October 23, 2024, 12:21:42 PM
Post by: jon collett on October 23, 2024, 12:24:27 PM
I think most people saw large queues outside the North Stand and were worried about getting in on time!
Post by: SoccerHQ on October 23, 2024, 12:27:05 PM
Turning out to be a complete fiasco regarding the tickets. Villa/Heck have lost a lot of faith from long term supporters like me and, will be difficult for the club to turn this around. £35 would have been about right for this Bologna match. Good luck to whoever has got my seat for tonight for the bargain price of £97!! They will be right pissed off when they find out others have paid £25 or thereabouts!
Not sure about £35. They can charge more than that without pricing people out.
Same prices as Cat B prem game like Bournemouth on Saturday would've been right for Bologna, 40-50 quid in all parts of the ground.
The club can and will get away with it this season but if we're in CL again next year it won't have quite the same pull as this season unless we draw Real Madrid and Barca at home (or one of the Milan clubs).
We could easily have three Bologna type matches at VP, maybe four. How well would the games have sold if the fixture list had flipped and we'd have Leipzig, Monaco, Brugge and Young Boys as the four home games.
One thing we can't do is play this trick v Celtic and Juventus as with the demand from their fanbase there will be away fans in home ends and all the security headaches that would bring so if the GA + dosen't sell it needs to remain unsold rather than being shifted at knock down prices.
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on October 23, 2024, 12:29:00 PM
Saw two instances of elderly fans with blood covered heads from tripping over the kerbs trying to navigate through the north stand car park.
We saw someone who looked in a bad way and was on the floor between the club shop and the back of the North stand. I hope they’re ok. It’s a proper bottle neck round there with the new fanzone and with people being made to walk all the way around the ground instead of being allowed to walk up Witton Lane.
Post by: LeeB on October 23, 2024, 12:34:40 PM
Saw two instances of elderly fans with blood covered heads from tripping over the kerbs trying to navigate through the north stand car park.
We saw someone who looked in a bad way and was on the floor between the club shop and the back of the North stand. I hope they’re ok. It’s a proper bottle neck round there with the new fanzone and with people being made to walk all the way around the ground instead of being allowed to walk up Witton Lane.
I've taken to just walking down Nelson Rd onto to Witton Rd, there's an entrance that brings you in by the side of the club shop that means I can avoid that bottle necked alley.
Post by: jon collett on October 23, 2024, 12:38:09 PM
Post by: SoccerHQ on October 23, 2024, 12:47:46 PM
Saw two instances of elderly fans with blood covered heads from tripping over the kerbs trying to navigate through the north stand car park.
We saw someone who looked in a bad way and was on the floor between the club shop and the back of the North stand. I hope they’re ok. It’s a proper bottle neck round there with the new fanzone and with people being made to walk all the way around the ground instead of being allowed to walk up Witton Lane.
I've taken to just walking down Nelson Rd onto to Witton Rd, there's an entrance that brings you in by the side of the club shop that means I can avoid that bottle necked alley.
I've used that for years, can save five minutes walking up to Trinity Road forecourt if coming in from Witton island as it's just a straight walk up rather than having to zigzag round all the barrier restrictions they put in now for the coach arrival.
Post by: Lucky Eddie on October 23, 2024, 01:02:08 PM
Post by: Holte132 on October 23, 2024, 01:08:31 PM
Yes no doubt (re McCoist et al). But in terms of perception, it just looked "full to the rafters" to them.The only areas showing availability before kick off were K, A and T Blocks, all high up and not really covered by TV coverage, and in the darkness wouldn't have been obvious. At the end of the day it doesn't really matter...unless you wanted to go and couldn't afford it !!
It looked as if the front row of the North Stand was empty
Post by: Olneythelonely on October 23, 2024, 01:11:13 PM
Yes no doubt (re McCoist et al). But in terms of perception, it just looked "full to the rafters" to them.The only areas showing availability before kick off were K, A and T Blocks, all high up and not really covered by TV coverage, and in the darkness wouldn't have been obvious. At the end of the day it doesn't really matter...unless you wanted to go and couldn't afford it !!
It looked as if the front row of the North Stand was empty
The front two rows around the ground are empty for CL games because of extra room needed for advertising
Post by: London Villan on October 23, 2024, 06:34:02 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on October 23, 2024, 06:48:45 PM
About 1300-1500 seats - which makes the ‘official’ attendance nonsense.
What was the official attendance?
Post by: London Villan on October 23, 2024, 06:50:08 PM
Post by: astonvilla82 on October 23, 2024, 07:53:35 PM
Manchester United had the same problem last season with 2000 away fans in home sections, believe it was season ticket holders selling them onTurning out to be a complete fiasco regarding the tickets. Villa/Heck have lost a lot of faith from long term supporters like me and, will be difficult for the club to turn this around. £35 would have been about right for this Bologna match. Good luck to whoever has got my seat for tonight for the bargain price of £97!! They will be right pissed off when they find out others have paid £25 or thereabouts!
Not sure about £35. They can charge more than that without pricing people out.
Same prices as Cat B prem game like Bournemouth on Saturday would've been right for Bologna, 40-50 quid in all parts of the ground.
The club can and will get away with it this season but if we're in CL again next year it won't have quite the same pull as this season unless we draw Real Madrid and Barca at home (or one of the Milan clubs).
We could easily have three Bologna type matches at VP, maybe four. How well would the games have sold if the fixture list had flipped and we'd have Leipzig, Monaco, Brugge and Young Boys as the four home games.
One thing we can't do is play this trick v Celtic and Juventus as with the demand from their fanbase there will be away fans in home ends and all the security headaches that would bring so if the GA + dosen't sell it needs to remain unsold rather than being shifted at knock down prices.
Post by: dave.woodhall on October 23, 2024, 08:09:39 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on October 23, 2024, 10:07:00 PM
Manchester United had the same problem last season with 2000 away fans in home sections, believe it was season ticket holders selling them onTurning out to be a complete fiasco regarding the tickets. Villa/Heck have lost a lot of faith from long term supporters like me and, will be difficult for the club to turn this around. £35 would have been about right for this Bologna match. Good luck to whoever has got my seat for tonight for the bargain price of £97!! They will be right pissed off when they find out others have paid £25 or thereabouts!
Not sure about £35. They can charge more than that without pricing people out.
Same prices as Cat B prem game like Bournemouth on Saturday would've been right for Bologna, 40-50 quid in all parts of the ground.
The club can and will get away with it this season but if we're in CL again next year it won't have quite the same pull as this season unless we draw Real Madrid and Barca at home (or one of the Milan clubs).
We could easily have three Bologna type matches at VP, maybe four. How well would the games have sold if the fixture list had flipped and we'd have Leipzig, Monaco, Brugge and Young Boys as the four home games.
One thing we can't do is play this trick v Celtic and Juventus as with the demand from their fanbase there will be away fans in home ends and all the security headaches that would bring so if the GA + dosen't sell it needs to remain unsold rather than being shifted at knock down prices.
No it wasn’t.
It was United selling hospitality tickets to people who were blatantly Galatasaray fans and bundling in seats in the home end.
Their fans were understandably upset*
*’GOOD, you ******.
Post by: SoccerHQ on October 23, 2024, 11:00:36 PM
Post by: Louzie0 on October 23, 2024, 11:05:50 PM
Post by: Ads on October 23, 2024, 11:14:31 PM
Post by: Pat McMahon on October 23, 2024, 11:47:36 PM
Manchester United had the same problem last season with 2000 away fans in home sections, believe it was season ticket holders selling them onTurning out to be a complete fiasco regarding the tickets. Villa/Heck have lost a lot of faith from long term supporters like me and, will be difficult for the club to turn this around. £35 would have been about right for this Bologna match. Good luck to whoever has got my seat for tonight for the bargain price of £97!! They will be right pissed off when they find out others have paid £25 or thereabouts!
Not sure about £35. They can charge more than that without pricing people out.
Same prices as Cat B prem game like Bournemouth on Saturday would've been right for Bologna, 40-50 quid in all parts of the ground.
The club can and will get away with it this season but if we're in CL again next year it won't have quite the same pull as this season unless we draw Real Madrid and Barca at home (or one of the Milan clubs).
We could easily have three Bologna type matches at VP, maybe four. How well would the games have sold if the fixture list had flipped and we'd have Leipzig, Monaco, Brugge and Young Boys as the four home games.
One thing we can't do is play this trick v Celtic and Juventus as with the demand from their fanbase there will be away fans in home ends and all the security headaches that would bring so if the GA + dosen't sell it needs to remain unsold rather than being shifted at knock down prices.
No it wasn’t.
It was United selling hospitality tickets to people who were blatantly Galatasaray fans and bundling in seats in the home end.
Their fans were understandably upset*
*’GOOD, you ******.
I know one of those Galatasaray fans through work and he absolutely hated the evening - teenage Mancs giving him the finger r across the throat gestures during the game once they worked out he was Turkish. He bought the ticket off a business contact in Manchester. He thought Manchester was a dump too.
I agree that we will potentially have similar problems with Celtic and Juventus tickets fans buying tickets if we keep the same inflated prices as the two home games thus far
Post by: maidstonevillain on October 24, 2024, 10:52:23 AM
I'm not sure it was the club selling them. There are plenty of examples in other sports of agencies buying up tickets then having to sell them at a loss.You can find them on Travelzoo. We had 6 all seated together for the Boxing Day game. "Basic hospitality"- Segregated concourse area. Pie and a beer. And padded seat.
Post by: Skerra on October 24, 2024, 02:36:25 PM
Post by: Olneythelonely on October 24, 2024, 02:52:03 PM
Apparently, they may keep these bargain prices the same for the knock out stages of the CL. Great for me as I’ll be keeping the money safely in my wallet!!
Of course they will. What have you the impression that they’d lower them? If anything, they’ll be increasing them.
Post by: Clampy on October 24, 2024, 03:07:42 PM
Post by: Brend'Watkins on October 24, 2024, 03:15:02 PM
Post by: Percy McCarthy on October 24, 2024, 04:13:56 PM
Why would they need to "hope" when it's all fully in their control? They either will or they won't. We can hope that they decrease them though.
They’ll be waiting to see who we get.
Post by: algy on October 24, 2024, 04:29:07 PM
This is it. The prices won't increase provided we get some shit team that isn't likely to sell out at a higher price point. But let's face it, if we get to the last 16 of the Champions League & beyond, it will almost certainly sell out, even at £100+ a ticket.Why would they need to "hope" when it's all fully in their control? They either will or they won't. We can hope that they decrease them though.
They’ll be waiting to see who we get.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on October 24, 2024, 05:15:30 PM
Post by: Sexual Ealing on November 07, 2024, 11:12:10 AM
Post by: Clampy on November 07, 2024, 11:14:50 AM
STOP WORRYING WE HAVE A VODKA PARTNER https://x.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1854479188121751644
Yes, that's the spirit.
Post by: BC Villain on November 07, 2024, 11:26:05 AM
STOP WORRYING WE HAVE A VODKA PARTNER https://x.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1854479188121751644
Perhaps Tyrone had been testing a few before kick off last night
Post by: Villan82 on November 07, 2024, 11:54:10 AM
Post by: Risso on November 07, 2024, 11:59:11 AM
STOP WORRYING WE HAVE A VODKA PARTNER https://x.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1854479188121751644
Perhaps Tyrone had been testing a few before kick off last night
The company Nemiroff have produced a limited edition batch celebrating Ty's involvement last night, called Gerrimoff.
Post by: Brend'Watkins on November 07, 2024, 12:14:34 PM
STOP WORRYING WE HAVE A VODKA PARTNER https://x.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1854479188121751644
I wonder how much additional revenue that brings in? Very little would be my guess, maybe we'll be getting preferential rates on multiple cases of this unheard of Vodka
Post by: algy on November 07, 2024, 05:59:29 PM
When I was at uni, the students union sold Odessa vodka which I've never seen before or since. 50p a shot though, so you couldn't complain - standard drink very quickly became 4 shots of Odessa, a can of Irn-Bru, and a pint glass for the princely sum of £2.60. Tasted rough as fuck. Still, it made a soundtrack comprising mostly of Kylie's greatest hits and random 80s TV theme tunes perfectly tolerable, so it wasn't all bad.STOP WORRYING WE HAVE A VODKA PARTNER https://x.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1854479188121751644
I wonder how much additional revenue that brings in? Very little would be my guess, maybe we'll be getting preferential rates on multiple cases of this unheard of Vodka
Post by: pauliewalnuts on November 07, 2024, 07:09:27 PM
I remember Walkers nightclub in Newcastle student night 86-90, pint of Skol 50p.
I mean, it was Skol, so it was rank, but it was 50p. You could get shitfaced on less than a fiver.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on November 07, 2024, 07:15:30 PM
STOP WORRYING WE HAVE A VODKA PARTNER https://x.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1854479188121751644
I wonder how much additional revenue that brings in? Very little would be my guess, maybe we'll be getting preferential rates on multiple cases of this unheard of Vodka
It's not unheard of Bren, globally it's one of the top sellers. I'll take a bottle of their premium vodka if you're offering. ;)
Post by: Beard82 on November 07, 2024, 07:58:44 PM
That's not a bad deal.For me - and this was in 2000-4 - it was always Worthingtons - 70p, shot of vodka 70p. Snakebite 90p - £10 could get twated, and a kebab on the way home. Last night I paid 6.70 fpr a pint of becks in my local. This is not the future we were promised.
I remember Walkers nightclub in Newcastle student night 86-90, pint of Skol 50p.
I mean, it was Skol, so it was rank, but it was 50p. You could get shitfaced on less than a fiver.
Things like that is why people vote for trump ;-)
Post by: astonvilla82 on November 07, 2024, 08:18:39 PM
If Trump can bring those prices back ,I even vote for himThat's not a bad deal.For me - and this was in 2000-4 - it was always Worthingtons - 70p, shot of vodka 70p. Snakebite 90p - £10 could get twated, and a kebab on the way home. Last night I paid 6.70 fpr a pint of becks in my local. This is not the future we were promised.
I remember Walkers nightclub in Newcastle student night 86-90, pint of Skol 50p.
I mean, it was Skol, so it was rank, but it was 50p. You could get shitfaced on less than a fiver.
Things like that is why people vote for trump ;-)
Post by: Risso on November 07, 2024, 09:39:35 PM
Post by: Beard82 on November 07, 2024, 09:54:40 PM
I guess, its just you've achieved so much more with your life than me. You know, 85k posts more.
Post by: Meanwood Villa on November 07, 2024, 10:08:36 PM
Post by: Beard82 on November 07, 2024, 10:11:21 PM
Double Vision on Monday night at Liverpool uni, quid for a double vodka. Used to get five and a can of red bull in a pint pot. I'd rarely remember getting home.I loved the way red bull made you wake up at 5am with your heart going a million miles an hour.
Post by: Meanwood Villa on November 07, 2024, 10:17:02 PM
Post by: Meanwood Villa on November 07, 2024, 10:18:53 PM
Double Vision on Monday night at Liverpool uni, quid for a double vodka. Used to get five and a can of red bull in a pint pot. I'd rarely remember getting home.I loved the way red bull made you wake up at 5am with your heart going a million miles an hour.
I don't drink caffeine and thought I was going to have a heart attack the morning after on a stag a few years ago with far too many Vodka Red Bulls the night before. Don't touch either these days.
Post by: Beard82 on November 07, 2024, 10:44:41 PM
Same - watched a high scoring game on a stage do ever goal a jagger bomb. Woke up about 4am fully dressed feeling like I was running full pelt.Double Vision on Monday night at Liverpool uni, quid for a double vodka. Used to get five and a can of red bull in a pint pot. I'd rarely remember getting home.I loved the way red bull made you wake up at 5am with your heart going a million miles an hour.
I don't drink caffeine and thought I was going to have a heart attack the morning after on a stag a few years ago with far too many Vodka Red Bulls the night before. Don't touch either these days.
Fortunately all my mate ate now married
Post by: Percy McCarthy on November 07, 2024, 11:49:49 PM
Same - watched a high scoring game on a stage do ever goal a jagger bomb. Woke up about 4am fully dressed feeling like I was running full pelt.Double Vision on Monday night at Liverpool uni, quid for a double vodka. Used to get five and a can of red bull in a pint pot. I'd rarely remember getting home.I loved the way red bull made you wake up at 5am with your heart going a million miles an hour.
I don't drink caffeine and thought I was going to have a heart attack the morning after on a stag a few years ago with far too many Vodka Red Bulls the night before. Don't touch either these days.
Fortunately all my mate ate now married
You sobered up yet? Reads like one of my old 6am Sunday posts after an all-day-and-nighter after which I’ve been woken up outside my house in the back of my mate Brains’s 4x4. And I haven’t been able to remember a thing that happened after midnight, never mind whatever the fuck I was drinking.
Post by: eamonn on November 08, 2024, 12:29:01 AM
Post by: Percy McCarthy on November 08, 2024, 02:41:04 AM
Now your 6am posts are about gangsters like Cash and Carlos while your boss sleeps soundly (or with the fishes) ;)
I know yeah. 33% shift allowance has ruined my life.
But the boss is here, sadly.
For now 😉
Post by: Rory on November 08, 2024, 03:14:53 AM
It was Blastaways for a quid in the guild at Brum Uni. White Lightning cider and Castaway in a pint pot. Rank, but did the job.
The Guild was shite when I was there, so we used to go to the Gun Barrels, which no longer exists.
That was shit too, but at least it wasn't full of freshers who'd insist on coming over and talking. As soon as they found I was local, the usual "aww, Biiirrrminguummm" ensued, before they saw from my face that it wasn't funny.
Probably different now, since Peaky Blinders. My brothers' girlfriends are from Liverpool and Hong Kong, and both think we are all Arthur Shelbys.
Which is better than thinking we're all imbeciles.
Post by: Risso on November 08, 2024, 09:02:36 AM
It was Blastaways for a quid in the guild at Brum Uni. White Lightning cider and Castaway in a pint pot. Rank, but did the job.
The Guild was shite when I was there, so we used to go to the Gun Barrels, which no longer exists.
That was shit too, but at least it wasn't full of freshers who'd insist on coming over and talking. As soon as they found I was local, the usual "aww, Biiirrrminguummm" ensued, before they saw from my face that it wasn't funny.
The Guild was quite good in my day. It's changed beyond recognition now, I took my eldest daughter for a look around the university last year and the guild building only seemed to have one combined café/bar. The Gun Barrels wasn't really a place for students back then, it was more the sort of establishment your parents would take you to for Sunday lunch if they came up to visit. The big student pub in Selly Oak was the OVT, but it tended to be full of rugby types, so we preferred The Brook over the road, which did decent beer and had a beer garden.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on November 08, 2024, 09:10:41 AM
It was Blastaways for a quid in the guild at Brum Uni. White Lightning cider and Castaway in a pint pot. Rank, but did the job.
The Guild was shite when I was there, so we used to go to the Gun Barrels, which no longer exists.
Gun Barrels was one of the first pubs i went to. Used to go down the hill from school, coats hiding blazers and put on our deepest voices.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on November 08, 2024, 09:11:37 AM
both think we are all Arthur Shelbys
We're all more Arthur Askey on here.
Post by: Brend'Watkins on November 08, 2024, 10:36:54 AM
STOP WORRYING WE HAVE A VODKA PARTNER https://x.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1854479188121751644
I wonder how much additional revenue that brings in? Very little would be my guess, maybe we'll be getting preferential rates on multiple cases of this unheard of Vodka
It's not unheard of Bren, globally it's one of the top sellers. I'll take a bottle of their premium vodka if you're offering. ;)
I'll bow to your superior knowledge on the subject Mark as it's new to me. A bit of research tells me it is one of 3 main suppliers to duty free shops in the world and is in the top 20 of global sales so not small beer.... or vodka for that matter!
If alcohol sponsorship is a lucrative avenue to pursue and it must be with Casillero Del Diablo a partner of ManU, Red wine/Red Devils we should look at an Argentinian producer, Trivento Reserve Malbec World's Number One selling Malbec....World's Number One keeper. I'm doing Heck's job for him.
Post by: Drummond on November 08, 2024, 12:03:20 PM
Tip a particular member of bar staff and they'd serve you first in the scrum. Set me up for the week that did.
Post by: Mister E on November 08, 2024, 12:12:41 PM
I used to love a Monday night out in Harrogate. £5 all you can eat at Deep Pan Pizza Co. Then on to Josephines nightclub. £4.50 then 10p a pint til Midnight.Rather different now, mate!
Tip a particular member of bar staff and they'd serve you first in the scrum. Set me up for the week that did.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on November 08, 2024, 01:27:44 PM
When I was at uni, the students union sold Odessa vodka which I've never seen before or since. 50p a shot though, so you couldn't complain - standard drink very quickly became 4 shots of Odessa, a can of Irn-Bru, and a pint glass for the princely sum of £2.60. Tasted rough as fuck. Still, it made a soundtrack comprising mostly of Kylie's greatest hits and random 80s TV theme tunes perfectly tolerable, so it wasn't all bad.STOP WORRYING WE HAVE A VODKA PARTNER https://x.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1854479188121751644
I wonder how much additional revenue that brings in? Very little would be my guess, maybe we'll be getting preferential rates on multiple cases of this unheard of Vodka
I think I was knocking around Edinburgh at the same time (or perhaps just before) your time at uni algy. We used to take advantage of the 50p shots and £1 cocktails at the Subway on Cowgate on a Wednesday. A terrible place, without which there would be significantly fewer notches on my bedpost!
Post by: Drummond on November 08, 2024, 01:32:57 PM
I used to love a Monday night out in Harrogate. £5 all you can eat at Deep Pan Pizza Co. Then on to Josephines nightclub. £4.50 then 10p a pint til Midnight.Rather different now, mate!
Tip a particular member of bar staff and they'd serve you first in the scrum. Set me up for the week that did.
Just a bit!
Post by: Risso on November 08, 2024, 01:39:49 PM
I used to love a Monday night out in Harrogate. £5 all you can eat at Deep Pan Pizza Co. Then on to Josephines nightclub. £4.50 then 10p a pint til Midnight.
Tip a particular member of bar staff and they'd serve you first in the scrum. Set me up for the week that did.
I bet it's more slice of Victoria sponge in a tea shop, a game of bridge before a brisk walk home for Songs of Praise now.
Post by: Beard82 on November 08, 2024, 01:39:57 PM
Wow - yeah - that made very little sense. I used to get told off for not texting the missus when I was out - so I would pre-write text to send. But she cottoned on because they made senseSame - watched a high scoring game on a stage do ever goal a jagger bomb. Woke up about 4am fully dressed feeling like I was running full pelt.Double Vision on Monday night at Liverpool uni, quid for a double vodka. Used to get five and a can of red bull in a pint pot. I'd rarely remember getting home.I loved the way red bull made you wake up at 5am with your heart going a million miles an hour.
I don't drink caffeine and thought I was going to have a heart attack the morning after on a stag a few years ago with far too many Vodka Red Bulls the night before. Don't touch either these days.
Fortunately all my mate ate now married
You sobered up yet? Reads like one of my old 6am Sunday posts after an all-day-and-nighter after which I’ve been woken up outside my house in the back of my mate Brains’s 4x4. And I haven’t been able to remember a thing that happened after midnight, never mind whatever the fuck I was drinking.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on November 08, 2024, 11:58:04 PM
Wow - yeah - that made very little sense. I used to get told off for not texting the missus when I was out - so I would pre-write text to send. But she cottoned on because they made senseSame - watched a high scoring game on a stage do ever goal a jagger bomb. Woke up about 4am fully dressed feeling like I was running full pelt.Double Vision on Monday night at Liverpool uni, quid for a double vodka. Used to get five and a can of red bull in a pint pot. I'd rarely remember getting home.I loved the way red bull made you wake up at 5am with your heart going a million miles an hour.
I don't drink caffeine and thought I was going to have a heart attack the morning after on a stag a few years ago with far too many Vodka Red Bulls the night before. Don't touch either these days.
Fortunately all my mate ate now married
You sobered up yet? Reads like one of my old 6am Sunday posts after an all-day-and-nighter after which I’ve been woken up outside my house in the back of my mate Brains’s 4x4. And I haven’t been able to remember a thing that happened after midnight, never mind whatever the fuck I was drinking.
Haha! Don’t worry, very easy to translate - didn’t even need my Pissed to English/English to Pissed dictionary.
Post by: Rory on November 09, 2024, 02:16:08 AM
It was Blastaways for a quid in the guild at Brum Uni. White Lightning cider and Castaway in a pint pot. Rank, but did the job.
The Guild was shite when I was there, so we used to go to the Gun Barrels, which no longer exists.
That was shit too, but at least it wasn't full of freshers who'd insist on coming over and talking. As soon as they found I was local, the usual "aww, Biiirrrminguummm" ensued, before they saw from my face that it wasn't funny.
The Guild was quite good in my day. It's changed beyond recognition now, I took my eldest daughter for a look around the university last year and the guild building only seemed to have one combined café/bar. The Gun Barrels wasn't really a place for students back then, it was more the sort of establishment your parents would take you to for Sunday lunch if they came up to visit. The big student pub in Selly Oak was the OVT, but it tended to be full of rugby types, so we preferred The Brook over the road, which did decent beer and had a beer garden.
By my time I was there, the Barrels had blacked out windows and was definitely not a family place, but the OVT doesn't sound like it's changed at all.
I stopped going there after a bloke in a Wales rugby shirt challenged me to an arm wrestle, and the loser had to suck the winner's dick.
This guy had arms like tree trunks, but even if I'd been confident of winning, I didn't want him to suck my dick.
Post by: Rory on November 09, 2024, 02:21:41 AM
It was Blastaways for a quid in the guild at Brum Uni. White Lightning cider and Castaway in a pint pot. Rank, but did the job.
The Guild was shite when I was there, so we used to go to the Gun Barrels, which no longer exists.
Gun Barrels was one of the first pubs i went to. Used to go down the hill from school, coats hiding blazers and put on our deepest voices.
'Down the hill'? You're not a KE lad, surely?
Post by: algy on November 09, 2024, 07:21:36 AM
Subway was quite the place. We’d go wandering down the Cowgate most Thursday nights and almost inevitably end up going there at some point, mostly because it was excessively cheap - the most expensive pint (Stella) on a Friday/Saturday night was £1.80, though it was 2 for 1 midnight to lure the punters in early.When I was at uni, the students union sold Odessa vodka which I've never seen before or since. 50p a shot though, so you couldn't complain - standard drink very quickly became 4 shots of Odessa, a can of Irn-Bru, and a pint glass for the princely sum of £2.60. Tasted rough as fuck. Still, it made a soundtrack comprising mostly of Kylie's greatest hits and random 80s TV theme tunes perfectly tolerable, so it wasn't all bad.STOP WORRYING WE HAVE A VODKA PARTNER https://x.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1854479188121751644
I wonder how much additional revenue that brings in? Very little would be my guess, maybe we'll be getting preferential rates on multiple cases of this unheard of Vodka
I think I was knocking around Edinburgh at the same time (or perhaps just before) your time at uni algy. We used to take advantage of the 50p shots and £1 cocktails at the Subway on Cowgate on a Wednesday. A terrible place, without which there would be significantly fewer notches on my bedpost!
The owners took over the honeycomb and for one brief summer in 2006 (?) it was amazing - you still got the honeycomb’s music policy (house/techno/funk) and clientele, but free entry and Subway bar prices. I believe it’s descended in to a lowest common denominator place these days though.
Post by: Monty on November 09, 2024, 07:28:56 AM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on November 09, 2024, 02:46:16 PM
It was Blastaways for a quid in the guild at Brum Uni. White Lightning cider and Castaway in a pint pot. Rank, but did the job.
The Guild was shite when I was there, so we used to go to the Gun Barrels, which no longer exists.
Gun Barrels was one of the first pubs i went to. Used to go down the hill from school, coats hiding blazers and put on our deepest voices.
'Down the hill'? You're not a KE lad, surely?
I was. Left after O Levels, though, did my A levels at a sixth form college. I hated that school.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on November 09, 2024, 02:51:56 PM
Subway nostalgia? Fuck me, it'll be The Hive next!
I think I'm a decade older than you, Monty. We didn't have dating apps. We had drunk people who were out at 2am on a Thursday morning. Much less targeted but it was hella effective.
Post by: algy on November 09, 2024, 07:24:52 PM
Subway nostalgia? Fuck me, it'll be The Hive next!Monty, you’re not going to believe this but when the Honeycomb was taken over by the Subway management they changed the name to …
I’ll let you fill in the blank there.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on November 09, 2024, 07:36:06 PM
Subway nostalgia? Fuck me, it'll be The Hive next!Monty, you’re not going to believe this but when the Honeycomb was taken over by the Subway management they changed the name to …
I’ll let you fill in the blank there.
.... GRANNY'S PUBES?
Post by: Rory on November 09, 2024, 07:51:39 PM
Subway nostalgia? Fuck me, it'll be The Hive next!Monty, you’re not going to believe this but when the Honeycomb was taken over by the Subway management they changed the name to …
I’ll let you fill in the blank there.
.... GRANNY'S PUBES?
It's responses like this that are behind my surprise at you being an Old Edwardian 😉
Post by: Risso on November 09, 2024, 07:57:30 PM
Subway nostalgia? Fuck me, it'll be The Hive next!Monty, you’re not going to believe this but when the Honeycomb was taken over by the Subway management they changed the name to …
I’ll let you fill in the blank there.
.... GRANNY'S PUBES?
Big dog's cock!
Post by: pauliewalnuts on November 09, 2024, 08:00:10 PM
Subway nostalgia? Fuck me, it'll be The Hive next!Monty, you’re not going to believe this but when the Honeycomb was taken over by the Subway management they changed the name to …
I’ll let you fill in the blank there.
.... GRANNY'S PUBES?
Big dog's cock!
PISS UP A ROPE, FUCKSTICK!
Post by: Risso on November 09, 2024, 08:09:12 PM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on November 09, 2024, 08:10:36 PM
Post by: rooboy316 on November 10, 2024, 09:52:40 AM
Such filth, I despair. Can we please get back on-topic, this thread is for discussing Chris Heck and Villa's business operations.
Haven’t seen him in a while… where’s he gone?
Post by: Somniloquism on November 11, 2024, 08:43:59 AM
Such filth, I despair. Can we please get back on-topic, this thread is for discussing Chris Heck and Villa's business operations.
Haven’t seen him in a while… where’s he gone?
Taking a break. Back in the new year apparently.
Post by: Chap on November 11, 2024, 10:22:27 AM
UP YER ARSE, CUNTY CHOPS!This is an appropriate response to anything Heck related!
Post by: sid1964 on November 12, 2024, 05:51:53 AM
Post by: ChicagoLion on November 12, 2024, 06:52:17 AM
He is in the US being interviewed for the Border job, The Donald reckons if he can do the same for the USA as he has done for Villa Park.Such filth, I despair. Can we please get back on-topic, this thread is for discussing Chris Heck and Villa's business operations.
Haven’t seen him in a while… where’s he gone?
Post by: Brazilian Villain on November 12, 2024, 02:58:36 PM
Such filth, I despair. Can we please get back on-topic, this thread is for discussing Chris Heck and Villa's business operations.
Haven’t seen him in a while… where’s he gone?
He is in the US being interviewed for the Border job, The Donald reckons if he can do the same for the USA as he has done for Villa Park.
I heard Heck didn't get it because the first thing he wanted to do was change the U.S. flag to this.
(https://assets.editorial.aetnd.com/uploads/2017/06/alternate-flag-design.jpg)
Post by: Chris Stares on November 13, 2024, 10:22:44 AM
I just spat out my tea!
I heard Heck didn't get it because the first thing he wanted to do was change the U.S. flag to this.
(https://assets.editorial.aetnd.com/uploads/2017/06/alternate-flag-design.jpg)
Post by: purpletrousers on November 13, 2024, 09:13:02 PM
He is in the US being interviewed for the Border job, The Donald reckons if he can do the same for the USA as he has done for Villa Park.Such filth, I despair. Can we please get back on-topic, this thread is for discussing Chris Heck and Villa's business operations.
Haven’t seen him in a while… where’s he gone?
I thought the whereabouts was about a beloved parishioner. Anyway, the thread made me laugh.
Post by: rooboy316 on November 14, 2024, 09:49:45 AM
He is in the US being interviewed for the Border job, The Donald reckons if he can do the same for the USA as he has done for Villa Park.Such filth, I despair. Can we please get back on-topic, this thread is for discussing Chris Heck and Villa's business operations.
Haven’t seen him in a while… where’s he gone?
I thought the whereabouts was about a beloved parishioner. Anyway, the thread made me laugh.
Was wracking my brain trying to figure out what said parishioner would be doing about the US border, thinking I must have missed something. Turns out Chicago was talking about Heck on the… err, Chris Heck thread. You can understand my confusion!
Post by: SaddVillan on November 27, 2024, 03:59:41 PM
Pretty obvious that one of Ratcliffe's roles is to shield the Glazers from criticism when ManU perpetrate shit on those they don't care about - locals/season ticket holders and junior low paid employees.
https://www.theguardian.com/football/2024/nov/27/manchester-united-raise-member-ticket-prices-remove-concessions
Post by: LeeB on November 27, 2024, 04:05:20 PM
Where Offshore Jim and Ineos go, will others follow?
Pretty obvious that one of Ratcliffe's roles is to shield the Glazers from criticism when ManU perpetrate shit on those they don't care about - locals/season ticket holders and junior low paid employees.
https://www.theguardian.com/football/2024/nov/27/manchester-united-raise-member-ticket-prices-remove-concessions
I read yesterday his round of cost saving redundancies cost £8m. The thing is with people like this, it's like they actually enjoy putting ordinary people into misery. It's a mental illness and a danger to wider society.
Post by: dcdavecollett on November 27, 2024, 04:46:14 PM
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on November 27, 2024, 05:30:32 PM
For all the talk of cheap seats, did anyone get one?
€40 for great seats (bought through the club) to see Sporting gift a very average Arsenal 3 points.
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on November 29, 2024, 07:53:09 AM
Post by: Mister E on November 29, 2024, 08:50:27 AM
Everyone else get the Black Friday offer of BOGOF for GA+ seats. It’s almost as if they’re struggling to sell them or something? Maybe that explains the empty seats by me on Wednesday night? Or maybe that’s my personal hygiene issue again.I got the BOGOF email yesterday.
The Brentford and Sourhampton games do feel a bit 'after the Lord Mayor's show' after the high-priced European games. They are exactly the games where we should be filling the ground with noisy fans making the place a nightmare for the away side.
Post by: Nev on November 29, 2024, 09:20:05 AM
Post by: darren woolley on November 29, 2024, 09:27:57 AM
Everyone else get the Black Friday offer of BOGOF for GA+ seats. It’s almost as if they’re struggling to sell them or something? Maybe that explains the empty seats by me on Wednesday night? Or maybe that’s my personal hygiene issue again.
Same here there were four empty seats by me.
Post by: Ads on November 29, 2024, 09:44:33 AM
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on November 29, 2024, 10:01:30 AM
Post by: LeeB on November 29, 2024, 10:06:16 AM
Same with Bologna, loads of empty seats in the Upper Holte. What a grubby, grasping little twat Heck is.
I know you're no fool mate but I think it's important to remember Heck is an employee, and presumably this grasping is sanctioned by our multi-billionaires owners.
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on November 29, 2024, 10:11:04 AM
Same with Bologna, loads of empty seats in the Upper Holte. What a grubby, grasping little twat Heck is.
I know you're no fool mate but I think it's important to remember Heck is an employee, and presumably this grasping is sanctioned by our multi-billionaires owners.
Of course you’re right, Heck sold the tickets and met his remit. The fact that nobody actually sat there means fuck all to him, the money’s already in the bank. And the long term impact on our support is not his problem either. Still think he’s a twat though- he looks like one in all the photos I’ve seen of him.
Post by: Villan82 on November 29, 2024, 10:18:26 AM
Same with Bologna, loads of empty seats in the Upper Holte. What a grubby, grasping little twat Heck is.
I know you're no fool mate but I think it's important to remember Heck is an employee, and presumably this grasping is sanctioned by our multi-billionaires owners.
Of course you’re right, Heck sold the tickets and met his remit. The fact that nobody actually sat there means fuck all to him, the money’s already in the bank. And the long term impact on our support is not his problem either. Still think he’s a twat though- he looks like one in all the photos I’ve seen of him.
The vibe has been off from the get go. You can do that job without coming across like you relish pissing people off.
Post by: LeeB on November 29, 2024, 10:22:15 AM
Same with Bologna, loads of empty seats in the Upper Holte. What a grubby, grasping little twat Heck is.
I know you're no fool mate but I think it's important to remember Heck is an employee, and presumably this grasping is sanctioned by our multi-billionaires owners.
Of course you’re right, Heck sold the tickets and met his remit. The fact that nobody actually sat there means fuck all to him, the money’s already in the bank. And the long term impact on our support is not his problem either. Still think he’s a twat though- he looks like one in all the photos I’ve seen of him.
He does indeed. He looks like someone that would get extremely upset over how a hedge separating your properties was trimmed.
Post by: Des Little on November 29, 2024, 10:59:48 AM
Post by: DB on November 29, 2024, 12:16:16 PM
Post by: jon collett on November 29, 2024, 12:34:33 PM
Same with Bologna, loads of empty seats in the Upper Holte. What a grubby, grasping little twat Heck is.
I know you're no fool mate but I think it's important to remember Heck is an employee, and presumably this grasping is sanctioned by our multi-billionaires owners.
Of course you’re right, Heck sold the tickets and met his remit. The fact that nobody actually sat there means fuck all to him, the money’s already in the bank. And the long term impact on our support is not his problem either. Still think he’s a twat though- he looks like one in all the photos I’ve seen of him.
Yep and I doubt he’s being micromanaged.
A lot of these initiatives only started when he came in.
The obvious analysis is he has a target and is going to make sure he meets it whatever the ramifications.
Post by: purpletrousers on November 29, 2024, 12:48:16 PM
He is in the US being interviewed for the Border job, The Donald reckons if he can do the same for the USA as he has done for Villa Park.Such filth, I despair. Can we please get back on-topic, this thread is for discussing Chris Heck and Villa's business operations.
Haven’t seen him in a while… where’s he gone?
I thought the whereabouts was about a beloved parishioner. Anyway, the thread made me laugh.
Was wracking my brain trying to figure out what said parishioner would be doing about the US border, thinking I must have missed something. Turns out Chicago was talking about Heck on the… err, Chris Heck thread. You can understand my confusion!
Sorry just seen this. A couple of other posters responded to your where has he gone, thinking it was referring to our filth-fest averse Footy rather than Heck. Anyway not important!
There was nearly a serious incident outside the Holte as the stewards weren’t going to let me in as the 2nd half had started and scanners were shut. Nightmare diversions in London, across 20mph country lanes and motorway limits meant 4hrs driving. Had to go up the chain of command twice to get someone sensible. Hopefully that’s the most expensive 45mins of football I’ll ever pay for at villa park.
Post by: LeeB on November 29, 2024, 12:51:21 PM
I suppose it's not really a point, I just get a bit fed up in general at people going on at the likes of Heck.
I mean yes he's a bellend, and yes I'm sure he understands that he has to be the lightening rod for the unpopular moves he makes and he's happy enough to take it in exchange for his healthy renumeration, but the ire should be shared out to the owners too.
Post by: exigo on November 29, 2024, 01:51:08 PM
So, yes, some of the ire should still go their way. But who was it that told them not to do that and install corporate hospitality seating all over the gaff?
Post by: LeeB on November 29, 2024, 01:54:20 PM
These were the same owners who were happy to bulldoze the North Stand and get an extra 8,000 seats in for regular oiks 18 months ago.
So, yes, some of the ire should still go their way. But who was it that told them not to do that and install corporate hospitality seating all over the gaff?
You honestly think that's all on Heck? And even if it was his suggestion, they still have to agree to it.
Billionaires are not our friends.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on November 29, 2024, 02:08:45 PM
Post by: VillaTim on November 29, 2024, 02:32:33 PM
Everyone else get the Black Friday offer of BOGOF for GA+ seats. It’s almost as if they’re struggling to sell them or something? Maybe that explains the empty seats by me on Wednesday night? Or maybe that’s my personal hygiene issue again.You'd still be looking at £130 to sit in the lower north , not really worth it for 2 pints a programme/lanyard and some nachos
Post by: Dick Edwards on November 29, 2024, 02:42:21 PM
I’d expect the club to be giving away GA+ for the Brentford game, no one is going to be buying that for a Wednesday night nothing game wedged in between a Champs League game and Christmas.And live on Amazon Prime.
Post by: Paul.S on November 30, 2024, 02:01:26 PM
Post by: john e on November 30, 2024, 02:14:44 PM
He doesn't need to be micro managed, he's doing the job they want him to do. That is my point.
I suppose it's not really a point, I just get a bit fed up in general at people going on at the likes of Heck.
I mean yes he's a bellend, and yes I'm sure he understands that he has to be the lightening rod for the unpopular moves he makes and he's happy enough to take it in exchange for his healthy renumeration, but the ire should be shared out to the owners too.
I’m not giving him the benefit of the doubt
I personally think he’s going about his remit in the wrong way however much discretion he has and the owners will come to regret his tenure
Post by: N'ZMAV on November 30, 2024, 02:32:16 PM
Could probably save putting lots of people at risk if we hadn't got players being way over-paidWhere Offshore Jim and Ineos go, will others follow?
Pretty obvious that one of Ratcliffe's roles is to shield the Glazers from criticism when ManU perpetrate shit on those they don't care about - locals/season ticket holders and junior low paid employees.
https://www.theguardian.com/football/2024/nov/27/manchester-united-raise-member-ticket-prices-remove-concessions
I read yesterday his round of cost saving redundancies cost £8m. The thing is with people like this, it's like they actually enjoy putting ordinary people into misery. It's a mental illness and a danger to wider society.
Post by: eamonn on November 30, 2024, 03:32:58 PM
Celtic money coming out on Monday, just shy of 2 months before the game. The other games if I’m correct, were about a month before the game.
At least you know that you're contributing to Morgan Rogers' new contract.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on November 30, 2024, 03:35:11 PM
Modern football club owners in the Premier League are generally not looking at the long game, and couldn't care less what they do today and the effect it may have in the long term for the fan base. Teenagers and pensioners will be like rocking horse shit in stadiums of the future, priced out totally. Season tickets will be phased out so we can all be rinsed on a game ɓy game basis. We're being had for mugs.Could probably save putting lots of people at risk if we hadn't got players being way over-paidWhere Offshore Jim and Ineos go, will others follow?
Pretty obvious that one of Ratcliffe's roles is to shield the Glazers from criticism when ManU perpetrate shit on those they don't care about - locals/season ticket holders and junior low paid employees.
https://www.theguardian.com/football/2024/nov/27/manchester-united-raise-member-ticket-prices-remove-concessions
I read yesterday his round of cost saving redundancies cost £8m. The thing is with people like this, it's like they actually enjoy putting ordinary people into misery. It's a mental illness and a danger to wider society.
Post by: dave.woodhall on November 30, 2024, 04:00:42 PM
He doesn't need to be micro managed, he's doing the job they want him to do. That is my point.
I suppose it's not really a point, I just get a bit fed up in general at people going on at the likes of Heck.
I mean yes he's a bellend, and yes I'm sure he understands that he has to be the lightening rod for the unpopular moves he makes and he's happy enough to take it in exchange for his healthy renumeration, but the ire should be shared out to the owners too.
I’m not giving him the benefit of the doubt
I personally think he’s going about his remit in the wrong way however much discretion he has and the owners will come to regret his tenure
He doesn't need to be micro managed, he's doing the job they want him to do. That is my point.
I suppose it's not really a point, I just get a bit fed up in general at people going on at the likes of Heck.
I mean yes he's a bellend, and yes I'm sure he understands that he has to be the lightening rod for the unpopular moves he makes and he's happy enough to take it in exchange for his healthy renumeration, but the ire should be shared out to the owners too.
I’m not giving him the benefit of the doubt
I personally think he’s going about his remit in the wrong way however much discretion he has and the owners will come to regret his tenure
Have you thought that he might be doing exactly what they want?
Post by: Paul.S on November 30, 2024, 05:54:53 PM
Celtic money coming out on Monday, just shy of 2 months before the game. The other games if I’m correct, were about a month before the game.
At least you know that you're contributing to Morgan Rogers' new contract.
I hope he remembers the sacrifices I’ve made for him.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on November 30, 2024, 06:53:36 PM
Have you thought that he might be doing exactly what they want?
I think he has far too high of an opinion of himself to ever listen to others.
Post by: Skerra on November 30, 2024, 07:02:52 PM
Post by: Nev on November 30, 2024, 07:04:43 PM
There is no use raging at it, it's just how it is.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on November 30, 2024, 07:12:22 PM
Have you thought that he might be doing exactly what they want?
I think he has far too high of an opinion of himself to ever listen to others.
That doesn't stack up, though. You don't get to where he is without listening to the people you work for.
Too many people taking any route possible to imagine him as some sort of rogue operator NSWE would fire if only they were fully aware of what he were doing.
At that level, you appoint someone like Heck and then let them do the job as they see fit, you don't micro-manage them, and these things we get het up about are mere details to the likes of Sawiris and Edens.
Post by: Nunkin1965 on November 30, 2024, 07:29:52 PM
Exactly.Have you thought that he might be doing exactly what they want?
I think he has far too high of an opinion of himself to ever listen to others.
That doesn't stack up, though. You don't get to where he is without listening to the people you work for.
Too many people taking any route possible to imagine him as some sort of rogue operator NSWE would fire if only they were fully aware of what he were doing.
At that level, you appoint someone like Heck and then let them do the job as they see fit, you don't micro-manage them, and these things we get het up about are mere details to the likes of Sawiris and Edens.
If the owners weren't happy with his decision making he'd have been down the road a long time ago.
Like it or loathe it, he's doing exactly what he's being told to do.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on November 30, 2024, 07:57:21 PM
Have you thought that he might be doing exactly what they want?
I think he has far too high of an opinion of himself to ever listen to others.
That doesn't stack up, though. You don't get to where he is without listening to the people you work for.
Too many people taking any route possible to imagine him as some sort of rogue operator NSWE would fire if only they were fully aware of what he were doing.
At that level, you appoint someone like Heck and then let them do the job as they see fit, you don't micro-manage them, and these things we get het up about are mere details to the likes of Sawiris and Edens.
Of course he has a briefing from the owners but as you hint at, it's not going to be detailed in strategy, it will more likely just be objectives.
Increase matchday income.
Develop and increase our corporate offer
Go and speak with Adidas to be our new kit sponsor
Increase revenue from other sponsorship deals
Etc
I don't think of a milisecond the owners told him to piss of the loyal fanbase, ignore tradition, have a customer acquisition strategy that doesn't include retention, flood the bogs in the Holte and minimise spending on non-corporate facilities, have no plan or understanding to bring in-house the refreshment kiosks/bars around the ground..you get the picture.
You've worked in advertising agencies, Heck is like a glorified Account Exec that understands the square root of fuck all and relies on professionals around him to clean up his shit and make him look good. Watch that video he made with the US podcaster. Heck believes his own press releases and if you didn't know different you'd believe everything he's done has been a "fantastic success".
'Fake it 'til you make it' seems to be his motto and deep down he knows he's out of his depth, his thin skin shows when he either ignores (fans groups) or files any questioning of his methods and decisions as "very anti-American". He's a man child.
Post by: algy on November 30, 2024, 10:14:24 PM
This is the same thing right here. Purslow, the guy who proposed the new north stand (and appointed Gerrard), was deemed not to be doing his job properly and sent on his way. Heck has replaced him, cancelled the NS development, and has not been sent on his way yet.
I feel like the most likely thing here is NSWE’s wishes are more in line with what Heck is doing than what Purslow was doing on the commercial front.
Remember, these fuckers sided with Manchester City. They don’t see football the way we do.
Post by: ChicagoLion on November 30, 2024, 10:17:08 PM
They are sticking with their General.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on November 30, 2024, 10:30:11 PM
Yes by now,the owners would know that the peasants have been revolting.
They are sticking with their General.
Sorry but that's too simplistic. Maybe at the end of the season they give him a review but I'd imagine their weekly/monthly meetings involve revenue growth and what's happening on the pitch. If they spoke to Heck about it he probably said 'a few peasants have been revolting but they're anti-American. Best to ignore. All changes have been a fantastic success'. It's not like we haven't been (almost) selling out every game or Villa fans are joining Everton, Liverpool, Manchester City and Manchester United in their protest against high ticket prices and clubs exploiting loyal fans.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on November 30, 2024, 10:47:19 PM
He doesn’t care who buys the tickets and the corporates so long as someone does.
All this stuff about how the club has changed, they don’t need us any more, they’re trampling over loyal fans for money etc etc must have spent the last three decades asleep if they’ve only just noticed this.
Post by: dave.woodhall on November 30, 2024, 11:34:35 PM
Post by: VillaTim on December 01, 2024, 12:35:35 AM
yeah, i'm very uncomfortable with Sawaris support for the 115 . Who are these imposters who have taken over our club and are now supporting these owners who are up on so many charges of cheating .
Remember, these fuckers sided with Manchester City. They don’t see football the way we do.
Post by: Villan82 on December 01, 2024, 10:04:30 AM
And yes he was sacked from his first 'soccer' job for making the relationship with fans toxic.
Post by: Clampy on December 01, 2024, 10:29:19 AM
Post by: Drummond on December 01, 2024, 10:41:01 AM
Billionaires with global business interests tend not to let senior management run high-profile, £250 million turnover companies without being in contact on at least a weekly basis. The idea that NSWE are a couple of benevolent, kindly old uncles who would get rid of Heck if only they knew how unpopular he was, is naive to the point of being laughable. He knows what they want, they know how he'll achieve it. Annoying a few supporters is collateral damage.
And that folks, is it.
If we want to compete, we need to raise revenue, and the way to do that is to make people pay, whoever that is.
That's his brief, and by all accounts he's doing it.
As for people never to return, that happened in the 80s when crowds everywhere were ridiculously low. The game has found a way to survive,and flourish, it just feels a bit different now, and I reckon similar things will happen again.
Post by: eamonn on December 01, 2024, 11:22:29 AM
Quote from: Rudy Can't Fail
I don't think of a milisecond the owners told him to piss of the loyal fanbase, ignore tradition, have a customer acquisition strategy that doesn't include retention, flood the bogs in the Holte and minimise...
Maybe he's in league with God. His initials are very similar to Jesus Christ's...
(https://i.ibb.co/pjLDYws/Screenshot-20241201-081621-Chrome.jpg) (https://ibb.co/pjLDYws)
Post by: Percy McCarthy on December 01, 2024, 11:28:52 AM
Billionaires with global business interests tend not to let senior management run high-profile, £250 million turnover companies without being in contact on at least a weekly basis. The idea that NSWE are a couple of benevolent, kindly old uncles who would get rid of Heck if only they knew how unpopular he was, is naive to the point of being laughable. He knows what they want, they know how he'll achieve it. Annoying a few supporters is collateral damage.
And that folks, is it.
If we want to compete, we need to raise revenue, and the way to do that is to make people pay, whoever that is.
That's his brief, and by all accounts he's doing it.
As for people never to return, that happened in the 80s when crowds everywhere were ridiculously low. The game has found a way to survive,and flourish, it just feels a bit different now, and I reckon similar things will happen again.
Yep, turnover for last season about £270m - I’d hazard an educated guess that there are six teams on double that or more (you know the ones), and two about the same (West Ham, Jaudis). We may out-perform the last two this season, let’s say £320m, but still only a dent in the gap to the first six. Great selling and recruitment, great coaching and what we consider extortionate pricing (in the absence of a new revenue-creating stadium) are the three pillars of us competing.
Post by: john e on December 01, 2024, 12:31:42 PM
I’m just saying that when everything is washed through he’ll do more harm than good
That’s just my opinion right now whether right or wrong
If that’s on the owners as well then so be it although I’m Loath to say it because they haven’t done much wrong so far
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on December 01, 2024, 07:21:08 PM
Heck is here to grow revenue. So long as he does that enough, they’ll be more than happy.
He doesn’t care who buys the tickets and the corporates so long as someone does.
All this stuff about how the club has changed, they don’t need us any more, they’re trampling over loyal fans for money etc etc must have spent the last three decades asleep if they’ve only just noticed this.
That last part doesn't make much sense as over the last three decades tickets have been some of the cheapest, especially season tickets, in the league. The thing that upsets me with Heck and his new pricing is from what I've read especially on here, is the pricing now no longer allows families to go to games together, they now have to pick and choose as they've been priced out.
The solution is obviously a bigger stadium where everybody can be accommodated but until that happens, turning Villa from a strong, traditional, locally supported club to one where we only really want those who is willing to pay London/Man U prices/daytrippers for the occasional game is a very sad day.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on December 01, 2024, 07:23:35 PM
Heck is an arse, but it isn't like he's an innovative arse, he's just a continuation of what has happened over several decades now. At a point, we became customers and not supporters when it suited them (stump up the money or fuck off), and supporters not customers when that suited them (overflowing bogs).
It is absolutely nothing new.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on December 01, 2024, 08:48:22 PM
Post by: Risso on December 01, 2024, 08:51:52 PM
Post by: john e on December 01, 2024, 08:58:46 PM
It may not be new but he certainly slammed his foot down on the accelerator, the likes of which we've never seen at Villa Park before. The same goes with supporters to customers; Ellis, Lerner, even Xia were wise enough not to go trampling over the fans. Shit catering, crap bogs, season tickets prices increased above the rate of inflation, paying to go into the Holte Suite, admin fees, not taking full away allocation when it would easily be sold..yeah there's been plenty of examples but none I can think of with such distain for the fans/customers.
And he’s got away with it because we’ve got Champions League football for the first time in 40 years and for the first time in ages there’s a good feel around the footballing side
The whole strategy relies on the fact that when you’re traditional support goes because they can’t afford it or leaves because they feel used and alienated There’s a whole raft of people queueing up to take their place and willing to pay the top prices
In my view we just don’t have that kind of support, it simply won’t be there when we’re not doing as well, it’s a very short term plan based on milking the fans while they can and it just won’t be sustainable
I think the whole thing is badly planned and it will backfire long-term
Post by: Sexual Ealing on December 01, 2024, 09:18:05 PM
Obviously the owners were happy to sign off on the new North Stand and surrounding area under Purslow's tenure. What we don't know is whose idea it was to rip and all that up and cancel the expansion. My strong suspicion is that it was Heck's idea that they went along with.
It feels like a pretty straightforward conversation to me. Purslow, having been in situ for ages, probably didn't have the same targets as Heck. Once they'd recruited the Willy from Philly one of the first things he would have noticed would've been that he couldn't hit his targets on time if the expansion took place. This would have been communicated to NSWE, and they'd have seen he had a point.
Post by: Des Little on December 01, 2024, 09:26:06 PM
Post by: London Villan on December 01, 2024, 09:31:44 PM
Post by: Villan82 on December 01, 2024, 09:47:05 PM
Obviously the owners were happy to sign off on the new North Stand and surrounding area under Purslow's tenure. What we don't know is whose idea it was to rip and all that up and cancel the expansion. My strong suspicion is that it was Heck's idea that they went along with.
Nailed on. He would have known his job in the short term was harder with that going ahead (and it wasn't his plan, which he'd have hated).
If this was happening we'd at least be advancing the club off the field. As it's not happening it now feels like all progress/mometnum has stalled.
Post by: Skerra on December 01, 2024, 10:15:45 PM
It’ll be very interesting to see where this additional 800 seats is going to be shoehorned into VP next summer, and the impact it’ll have on what is already diabolical GA facilities and service levels. That said, if we finish out of the places for Europe and haven’t won the FA Cup, he may not bother.
I would be very surprised if we qualify for Europe for next season and, the FA Cup, forget it. A lot of the supporters were saying we have bigger fish to fry and Emery will not go for it either. Quite what he wants to go for I really don’t know as our most realistic chance of a trophy would have been the League Cup but we chucked that one away.
Heck will need to increase prices for the knock out stage of the CL to about a grand per ordinary ticket if he wants to get his bonus!! Sounds daft as people would moan about it but still scramble for tickets.
Post by: SoccerHQ on December 01, 2024, 11:25:56 PM
Let's hope for Heck's sake this is only a fleeting visit.
Post by: BC Villain on December 02, 2024, 06:43:59 PM
https://x.com/danbardell/status/1863579882862555464?t=UktikGJdq48siAOK7mh-zw&s=19
Post by: tomd2103 on December 02, 2024, 07:06:23 PM
Rinsing loyal fans constantly with ticket hikes isn't going to be so easy if the club makes itself comfortable back in the bottom half.
Let's hope for Heck's sake this is only a fleeting visit.
Just seen the prices for the Brighton game. More expensive than anticipated for that match.
Post by: ChicagoLion on December 02, 2024, 08:21:28 PM
My God, that is truly shocking.
https://x.com/danbardell/status/1863579882862555464?t=UktikGJdq48siAOK7mh-zw&s=19
Post by: Stu82 on December 02, 2024, 08:27:53 PM
My God, that is truly shocking.
https://x.com/danbardell/status/1863579882862555464?t=UktikGJdq48siAOK7mh-zw&s=19
Let’s hope he steps up, to make good this terrible injustice.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on December 02, 2024, 08:34:41 PM
https://x.com/danbardell/status/1863579882862555464?t=UktikGJdq48siAOK7mh-zw&s=19
My God, that is truly shocking.
Let’s hope he steps up, to make good this terrible injustice.
Are we blaming the 5 heart attacks on our insistence on playing out from the back?
Post by: The Left Side on December 02, 2024, 11:27:29 PM
Post by: VillaTim on December 02, 2024, 11:32:08 PM
Post by: cdbearsfan on December 02, 2024, 11:33:43 PM
A little unrelated but does someone know if Lee Preece is still the Supporter Liaison Officer, we tried email Chris Heck in October with a request and no response. We heard that Lee might have moved on but if someone could confirm?
He left on November 28th.
Post by: dave.woodhall on December 02, 2024, 11:43:42 PM
That is a sad and sorry state of affairs , well done Heck .
What makes you think it's Heck's fault?
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on December 02, 2024, 11:44:42 PM
The key words being..My God, that is truly shocking.
https://x.com/danbardell/status/1863579882862555464?t=UktikGJdq48siAOK7mh-zw&s=19
"They wouldnt be able to re sell the ticket"
No words can describe how bad this is..
Post by: The Left Side on December 03, 2024, 01:33:42 AM
A little unrelated but does someone know if Lee Preece is still the Supporter Liaison Officer, we tried email Chris Heck in October with a request and no response. We heard that Lee might have moved on but if someone could confirm?
He left on November 28th.
Thanks CD, if anyone knows his replacement that would be great.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on December 03, 2024, 01:39:22 AM
A little unrelated but does someone know if Lee Preece is still the Supporter Liaison Officer, we tried email Chris Heck in October with a request and no response. We heard that Lee might have moved on but if someone could confirm?
He left on November 28th.
Thanks CD, if anyone knows his replacement that would be great.
No idea. You could try googling ‘world masochism champion’.
Post by: cdbearsfan on December 03, 2024, 01:50:55 AM
Post by: eamonn on December 03, 2024, 02:32:41 AM
Post by: tony scott on December 03, 2024, 03:30:55 AM
Post by: Dave P on December 03, 2024, 06:31:09 AM
Obviously the owners were happy to sign off on the new North Stand and surrounding area under Purslow's tenure. What we don't know is whose idea it was to rip and all that up and cancel the expansion. My strong suspicion is that it was Heck's idea that they went along with.
Whilst I do agree with this, especially with the quick and easy money GA+ provides, I also think the point of not having 3/4 of a stadium for our first Champions League campaign is a valid one.
What does back up your point is the lack of plans to start an expansion any time soon.
Post by: BC Villain on December 03, 2024, 06:54:50 AM
The tweet is still up,if genuine it’s hard to find the right words. Brilliant of DB to highlight this. It also highlights the problems bloggers and Podcasters in getting to close to club management. It could mean compromising their integrity.
This is DB'S tweet
Hi I’ve sent the following to Chris Heck, but doubt he will read it
Hi Chris
I wanted to bring to your attention a situation that occurred during the Juventus game.
An elderly gent who sits next to me (Holte upper, row x seat xxx) has been a Villa fan for a long time, I'm sure you can look at Barry's account and see his history. He was at the 82 final, sat watching Villa in Division 3.... it's not relevant but he is also unwell, 5 heart attacks in the last 12 months and cancer. He lives alone and basically Villa is all he has in life, he also goes to the Villa Women's matches too.
Being elderly he doesn't have a smart phone, so uses a plastic ticket. when it comes to cup games he has to get a ticket printed, he travels to the ground in advance to get this done.
On Wednesday night he turned up to the Juve game and his ticket didn't work. he was given no support and turned away. He called me in tears about this, said no-one was available to help him out, they claimed there was no way of admitting a fan if the ticket doesn't work as I quote "the turnstiles are fully automated and we can't over ride them"
He had to make his way home totally dejected... to add further insult to injury when he called the ticket office they were less than helpful and also refused to refund him on the basis that the match has been played so they wouldn't be able to resell the ticket. I'm not going to go into the morality of £90 tickets... but I do think that morally he should have been refunded.
He is upset and I'm upset on his behalf, a poorly man gets turned away from a club he's followed since before you or I were born... to be treated that way...
I hope you can see fit to do well by Barry, to have him in tears on the phone to me was heart breaking...
Regards
…..
People can come at me all they like for questioning the club off the pitch, but stuff like this is not right and is now common place.
I love this club, I hate seeing stuff like this.
Post by: Demitri_C on December 03, 2024, 06:58:23 AM
The club should be ashamed of themselves
Post by: ChicagoLion on December 03, 2024, 07:45:54 AM
It’s beyond cruel.
Post by: Villan82 on December 03, 2024, 08:22:51 AM
Post by: London Villan on December 03, 2024, 08:24:33 AM
What a shambles.
Post by: Brend'Watkins on December 03, 2024, 08:28:19 AM
Obviously the owners were happy to sign off on the new North Stand and surrounding area under Purslow's tenure. What we don't know is whose idea it was to rip and all that up and cancel the expansion. My strong suspicion is that it was Heck's idea that they went along with.
Whilst I do agree with this, especially with the quick and easy money GA+ provides, I also think the point of not having 3/4 of a stadium for our first Champions League campaign is a valid one.
What does back up your point is the lack of plans to start an expansion any time soon.
Well, they should start now putting these plans in place as there isn’t a cat in hell’s chance we are going to be bothering the Top 4 or 5 anytime soon.
Post by: Villan82 on December 03, 2024, 08:32:35 AM
Obviously the owners were happy to sign off on the new North Stand and surrounding area under Purslow's tenure. What we don't know is whose idea it was to rip and all that up and cancel the expansion. My strong suspicion is that it was Heck's idea that they went along with.
Whilst I do agree with this, especially with the quick and easy money GA+ provides, I also think the point of not having 3/4 of a stadium for our first Champions League campaign is a valid one.
What does back up your point is the lack of plans to start an expansion any time soon.
Capacity wise the current North Stand is much less than 1/4 of our capacity. We aren't going to fulfill the potential of the club until we actually expand.
Post by: London Villan on December 03, 2024, 08:53:43 AM
Post by: The Edge on December 03, 2024, 09:08:54 AM
As has been said before, the new North meant reconfiguring the northern 1/3 of the Trinity, as well as moving all the media, dressing rooms, match-day officials etc... It could have been done, but on that point I see an element of logic in the decision. This coming summer would have been a better time to start it.That's just it though. Heck announced the cancellation of the rebuild but said nothing about any plans in the future and it felt like a fuck you to the 30,000 villa fans on the waiting list. He can now concentrate on squeezing the pips out of those fortunate enough to already have a ST. His hard nosed US style approach has sucked the life out of the club in my view. I know he's been given the task of raising revenues but there's got to be a way of doing that without alienating huge chunks of the fanbase or having lifelong elderly Villa supporters crying down the phone after being treated so appallingly by the club he loves. Meanwhile Man City gets on with extending their ground to 65,000, Arsenal announce expansion plans and Liverpool open a massive new stand. All while competing in the Champions League.
Post by: LeeB on December 03, 2024, 09:16:47 AM
Post by: London Villan on December 03, 2024, 09:18:53 AM
However... It's been a funny 12 months - the day of the Sheff Utd game last season when we could have gone top was the day he announced we'd bottled the expansion - it was the day we blinked as a club and got dizzy at the progress.
Post by: aj2k77 on December 03, 2024, 09:19:23 AM
The man is a prick and needs bringing down a notch.
Post by: Villan82 on December 03, 2024, 09:30:02 AM
However... It's been a funny 12 months - the day of the Sheff Utd game last season when we could have gone top was the day he announced we'd bottled the expansion - it was the day we blinked as a club and got dizzy at the progress.
I have said a variation of this. It just raised a lot of question marks and him waffling on about our home advantage put a lot of pressure on us to sustain the unbeaten home form. And our home from has fallen off a cliff since that day.
I really hope we aren't looking back at that villa tv interview in years to come as a big moment for the club on and off the field.
On the day, it struck me as the kind of intervention you wouldn't see at one of the other top 8 clubs.
Post by: London Villan on December 03, 2024, 09:32:13 AM
We got scared and have been average on the pitch and abysmal off the pitch since then.
Post by: Risso on December 03, 2024, 09:48:12 AM
The only way forward is a new stadium, and if that is their intentions then it's been an absolute masterclass by Heck as the 'match day experience' has become so awful I'm fully behind the idea.
I've said before, but this year is my last with a season ticket. I'm not bothering to go tomorrow or at the weekend, and will just let my mate use my tickets instead. The main reason is that I've just got other things I'd rather do with my life, but also for the money charged the experience is absolutely miserable. If this bad run continues and we finish mid table or lower, I'm fascinated to see what Heck has got up his sleeve, as all his chickens will come home to roost at once.
Post by: Ads on December 03, 2024, 09:52:06 AM
Post by: Drummond on December 03, 2024, 09:57:08 AM
The only way forward is a new stadium, and if that is their intentions then it's been an absolute masterclass by Heck as the 'match day experience' has become so awful I'm fully behind the idea.
I've said before, but this year is my last with a season ticket. I'm not bothering to go tomorrow or at the weekend, and will just let my mate use my tickets instead. The main reason is that I've just got other things I'd rather do with my life, but also for the money charged the experience is absolutely miserable. If this bad run continues and we finish mid table or lower, I'm fascinated to see what Heck has got up his sleeve, as all his chickens will come home to roost at once.
Glory Hunter!
*Kidding, absolutely kidding
Post by: Risso on December 03, 2024, 10:06:52 AM
Post by: jwarry on December 03, 2024, 10:07:59 AM
The only way forward is a new stadium, and if that is their intentions then it's been an absolute masterclass by Heck as the 'match day experience' has become so awful I'm fully behind the idea.
I've said before, but this year is my last with a season ticket. I'm not bothering to go tomorrow or at the weekend, and will just let my mate use my tickets instead. The main reason is that I've just got other things I'd rather do with my life, but also for the money charged the experience is absolutely miserable. If this bad run continues and we finish mid table or lower, I'm fascinated to see what Heck has got up his sleeve, as all his chickens will come home to roost at once.
Glory Hunter!
*Kidding, absolutely kidding
I don’t think Risso could have experienced early 1970s football!
Post by: Drummond on December 03, 2024, 10:15:04 AM
There wasn't much glory on offer when I was getting a 6am ferry to drive over to see us smashed 3-0 by Wigan in the Championship to be honest!
Cold nights in Doncaster, Bradford and games iWigan and Bolton are not part of my favourite memories either. Bolton I did meet Brian Green though. Come to think of it, not seen him on here for a while.
Post by: Ads on December 03, 2024, 10:17:22 AM
Post by: Meanwood Villa on December 03, 2024, 10:35:25 AM
Post by: Risso on December 03, 2024, 10:36:15 AM
There wasn't much glory on offer when I was getting a 6am ferry to drive over to see us smashed 3-0 by Wigan in the Championship to be honest!
Cold nights in Doncaster, Bradford and games iWigan and Bolton are not part of my favourite memories either. Bolton I did meet Brian Green though. Come to think of it, not seen him on here for a while.
I haven't seen Brian for about 4 years. He posts very infrequently on Facebook, the last time being last month, so I assume he's OK. He must be about 129 by now! (only joking if you're reading Brian).
Post by: Des Little on December 03, 2024, 11:01:25 AM
Post by: LeeB on December 03, 2024, 12:04:13 PM
Imagine having a job where pissing your client base off is part of your job description...It's not just us, it seems the way in wider society too. It used to be 'the customer is always right' but that went with Ford Capris and dial up modems, now it's 'pay up or fuck off'.
Post by: BC Villain on December 03, 2024, 12:25:22 PM
Bardell and one or two others who resigned off FAB have really done a great service in using their profiles to highlight the issues at the club.
Heck and the club's biggest problem is that they've been able to use what we've done on the field the last 2 years to sweep this sort of stuff under the carpet.
Post by: BC Villain on December 03, 2024, 12:36:28 PM
Not great is it. We messed up getting in at the Bologna game with the e-tickets - basically because we had to pass the phone back to scan in I think we scanned it twice - anyway a steward used a key and opened the turnstile...
What a shambles.
Particularly as its clear that whoever told Barry they couldn't override the system has told him a bare faced lie.
Post by: The Edge on December 03, 2024, 12:49:42 PM
Spot on. I've no idea who Barry is but i'm fuming on his behalf. We need a voice. We need to know exact what Heck's response is to that email. It's a great opportunity for him to start to build a few bridges with the fanbase. Invite Barry as a special guest for the Southampton game and treat him like a VIP for the day. Also announce a thorough retraining of match day staff and ticket office personnel. I'd be amazed if Heck does any of those things though. My guess is the email off Dan Bardell won't even get a response other than a generic "thank you for your email blah blah blah"Not great is it. We messed up getting in at the Bologna game with the e-tickets - basically because we had to pass the phone back to scan in I think we scanned it twice - anyway a steward used a key and opened the turnstile...
What a shambles.
Particularly as its clear that whoever told Barry they couldn't override the system has told him a bare faced lie.
Post by: LeeB on December 03, 2024, 12:49:42 PM
Not great is it. We messed up getting in at the Bologna game with the e-tickets - basically because we had to pass the phone back to scan in I think we scanned it twice - anyway a steward used a key and opened the turnstile...
What a shambles.
Particularly as its clear that whoever told Barry they couldn't override the system has told him a bare faced lie.
I think it's more indicative of the poorly trained, poorly paid staff not being organised properly or knowing what's what.
Post by: Ads on December 03, 2024, 12:59:04 PM
Post by: Mister E on December 03, 2024, 01:46:16 PM
That Bolton game under Bruce. Yikes. Sure it was March, only one I can ever recall a blizzard taking place.Yep - drove back after the game over the M62 in incessant falling snow.
Post by: Skerra on December 03, 2024, 01:48:30 PM
Post by: Mister E on December 03, 2024, 01:49:48 PM
That's my plan, too. The variable k-o times, the hanging around before the game because of poor parking options, awful catering and other things in my life.The only way forward is a new stadium, and if that is their intentions then it's been an absolute masterclass by Heck as the 'match day experience' has become so awful I'm fully behind the idea.I've said before, but this year is my last with a season ticket. I'm not bothering to go tomorrow or at the weekend, and will just let my mate use my tickets instead. The main reason is that I've just got other things I'd rather do with my life, but also for the money charged the experience is absolutely miserable. If this bad run continues and we finish mid table or lower, I'm fascinated to see what Heck has got up his sleeve, as all his chickens will come home to roost at once.
The club will be happy to see me go after 60-odd years because they'll be able to harvest better returns from someone with more money than I'm prepared to commit.
Post by: luke95 on December 03, 2024, 01:57:43 PM
Charging more because Brighton are currently 4th !?Rinsing loyal fans constantly with ticket hikes isn't going to be so easy if the club makes itself comfortable back in the bottom half.
Let's hope for Heck's sake this is only a fleeting visit.
Just seen the prices for the Brighton game. More expensive than anticipated for that match.
Heck all over .
Post by: Meanwood Villa on December 03, 2024, 02:02:08 PM
Charging more because Brighton are currently 4th !?Rinsing loyal fans constantly with ticket hikes isn't going to be so easy if the club makes itself comfortable back in the bottom half.
Let's hope for Heck's sake this is only a fleeting visit.
Just seen the prices for the Brighton game. More expensive than anticipated for that match.
Heck all over .
I was surprised by this too, since when have Brighton been Category A? Last two seasons they told us up front which games were in which categories. I suspect they didn't this year to shove more into A.
My next match is Leicester. I really hope they don't class it as a derby or some such bollocks and have that Category A too.
Post by: Skerra on December 03, 2024, 02:14:14 PM
Post by: Demitri_C on December 03, 2024, 02:16:21 PM
Bardell and one or two others who resigned off FAB have really done a great service in using their profiles to highlight the issues at the club.
Well said mate
Post by: Lsvilla on December 03, 2024, 02:18:55 PM
Charging more because Brighton are currently 4th !?Rinsing loyal fans constantly with ticket hikes isn't going to be so easy if the club makes itself comfortable back in the bottom half.
Let's hope for Heck's sake this is only a fleeting visit.
Just seen the prices for the Brighton game. More expensive than anticipated for that match.
Heck all over .
I was surprised by this too, since when have Brighton been Category A? Last two seasons they told us up front which games were in which categories. I suspect they didn't this year to shove more into A.
My next match is Leicester. I really hope they don't class it as a derby or some such bollocks and have that Category A too.
Charging more because Brighton are currently 4th !?Rinsing loyal fans constantly with ticket hikes isn't going to be so easy if the club makes itself comfortable back in the bottom half.
Let's hope for Heck's sake this is only a fleeting visit.
Just seen the prices for the Brighton game. More expensive than anticipated for that match.
Heck all over .
I was surprised by this too, since when have Brighton been Category A? Last two seasons they told us up front which games were in which categories. I suspect they didn't this year to shove more into A.
My next match is Leicester. I really hope they don't class it as a derby or some such bollocks and have that Category A too.
I assumed the Brighton pricing was more to do with it being a Christmas holiday fixture than a reflection of the opposition.
Post by: Meanwood Villa on December 03, 2024, 02:23:13 PM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on December 03, 2024, 02:34:15 PM
Holiday pricing...bloody hell whatever next, will pancake day be included...Charging more because Brighton are currently 4th !?Rinsing loyal fans constantly with ticket hikes isn't going to be so easy if the club makes itself comfortable back in the bottom half.
Let's hope for Heck's sake this is only a fleeting visit.
Just seen the prices for the Brighton game. More expensive than anticipated for that match.
Heck all over .
I was surprised by this too, since when have Brighton been Category A? Last two seasons they told us up front which games were in which categories. I suspect they didn't this year to shove more into A.
My next match is Leicester. I really hope they don't class it as a derby or some such bollocks and have that Category A too.Charging more because Brighton are currently 4th !?Rinsing loyal fans constantly with ticket hikes isn't going to be so easy if the club makes itself comfortable back in the bottom half.
Let's hope for Heck's sake this is only a fleeting visit.
Just seen the prices for the Brighton game. More expensive than anticipated for that match.
Heck all over .
I was surprised by this too, since when have Brighton been Category A? Last two seasons they told us up front which games were in which categories. I suspect they didn't this year to shove more into A.
My next match is Leicester. I really hope they don't class it as a derby or some such bollocks and have that Category A too.
I assumed the Brighton pricing was more to do with it being a Christmas holiday fixture than a reflection of the opposition.
Post by: LeeB on December 03, 2024, 02:37:12 PM
Post by: Mister E on December 03, 2024, 02:59:50 PM
.. the world's going mad, I tells ye.
Post by: PeterWithe on December 03, 2024, 03:02:32 PM
Just spent 50 minutes waiting for the ticket office to take my call. I want to assign my Celtic ticket to my son but they say I'm not allowed to until all the other tickets are sold. I paid for the ticket today (7 weeks in advance) but this ticket is not mine to assign to a named, assigned individual ...
.. the world's going mad, I tells ye.
I dont think thats correct application of their own rules. Try contacting them on Twitter, they are usually pretty quick to reply.
Post by: London Villan on December 03, 2024, 04:05:24 PM
Post by: VillaTim on December 03, 2024, 04:07:58 PM
Post by: Max Villan on December 03, 2024, 06:20:54 PM
I rang yesterday to enquire about GA+ availability on Weds and Saturday , they confirmed plenty left , i asked about the Black Fridy offer and they said i was too late , so i didn't bother .
Loads of seats left tomorrow - I can't make it so listed mine for resale, can't see them selling.
They have done very well to kill the demand for fans it seems. Interested to see how it looks next season if we don't get Europe and they don't reduce the ticket prices.
Post by: Villan82 on December 03, 2024, 06:44:43 PM
I rang yesterday to enquire about GA+ availability on Weds and Saturday , they confirmed plenty left , i asked about the Black Fridy offer and they said i was too late , so i didn't bother .
Loads of seats left tomorrow - I can't make it so listed mine for resale, can't see them selling.
. Interested to see how it looks next season if we don't get Europe and they don't reduce the ticket prices.
Heck was the wrong man at the wrong club at the worst possible moment in our history. He will be patting himself on the back now for killing our expansion once empty seats start to become visible.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on December 03, 2024, 07:46:24 PM
I rang yesterday to enquire about GA+ availability on Weds and Saturday , they confirmed plenty left , i asked about the Black Fridy offer and they said i was too late , so i didn't bother .
Loads of seats left tomorrow - I can't make it so listed mine for resale, can't see them selling.
They have done very well to kill the demand for fans it seems. Interested to see how it looks next season if we don't get Europe and they don't reduce the ticket prices.
Doesn't the match have to be sold out before they will list STs?
Post by: AV82EC on December 03, 2024, 07:48:32 PM
I rang yesterday to enquire about GA+ availability on Weds and Saturday , they confirmed plenty left , i asked about the Black Fridy offer and they said i was too late , so i didn't bother .
Loads of seats left tomorrow - I can't make it so listed mine for resale, can't see them selling.
They have done very well to kill the demand for fans it seems. Interested to see how it looks next season if we don't get Europe and they don't reduce the ticket prices.
Doesn't the match have to be sold out before they will list STs?
Yes
Post by: Max Villan on December 03, 2024, 08:48:58 PM
I rang yesterday to enquire about GA+ availability on Weds and Saturday , they confirmed plenty left , i asked about the Black Fridy offer and they said i was too late , so i didn't bother .
Loads of seats left tomorrow - I can't make it so listed mine for resale, can't see them selling.
They have done very well to kill the demand for fans it seems. Interested to see how it looks next season if we don't get Europe and they don't reduce the ticket prices.
Doesn't the match have to be sold out before they will list STs?
It's 'up for resale' as per my account, but I can't see it actually listed in the available tickets. That's what I meant when I said I can't see the ticket selling.
Post by: VillaTim on December 03, 2024, 09:02:07 PM
Post by: Max Villan on December 04, 2024, 05:20:36 PM
Max , they won't even list your tickets until they've sold their own surplus . Not looking good
It's alright, was hoping it would offset some of the Celtic ticket but it is what it is.
I'm actually quite enjoying watching them beg for supporters on twitter for tonight's game - probably covers the ticket price they'd have given me back.
Post by: john e on December 04, 2024, 08:04:59 PM
Post by: amfy on December 04, 2024, 10:57:39 PM
Post by: Meanwood Villa on December 04, 2024, 10:58:55 PM
Masses of empty seats tonight against Brentford and I think we all said from the stat that these were the games where we would se the impact of CL pricing.
Yes it was noticeable in lower Trinity on TV
Post by: Brazilian Villain on December 04, 2024, 10:59:30 PM
Masses of empty seats tonight against Brentford and I think we all said from the stat that these were the games where we would se the impact of CL pricing.
Sorry, we were all at the grand birthday bash at Chez Risso.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on December 04, 2024, 11:07:39 PM
You will sell the tickets at prices you choose once you convince a lot of unconvinced people that we're fucking good at this, the sort of people who will only back a reasonably successful horse. I'm not saying it should be like that, but the fact is, it is.
I used to work with a guy who was an Albion fan but whose kids were both Chelsea fans. They're 14, born and brought up in Sutton Coldfield. He gets roped in to driving down there a few times a year to take them to see matches - largely their equivalents of tonight, the less appealing games - he's basically, with his kids, the sort of person who would have filled those empty seats tonight, and there would be plenty more like him.
We don't have that type of support right now, which is why we're going to suffer when there's a combination of mega CL prices, a game every 3 days, and a product where, when it's against Brentford, makes you double think whether it's money well spent.
We've got the 'top club' prices and attitude, without the accompanying success.
Post by: Villan82 on December 04, 2024, 11:08:42 PM
Masses of empty seats tonight against Brentford and I think we all said from the stat that these were the games where we would se the impact of CL pricing.
Yes it was noticeable in lower Trinity on TV
Sick and tired watching this daft 'policy' break something that was so perfect. It's very frustrating what's gone on and criminal that we have empty seats for such a great villa team when demand is actually there.
Villa, sort this out.
Post by: London Villan on December 04, 2024, 11:09:00 PM
Post by: Max Villan on December 04, 2024, 11:10:46 PM
I find myself moaning a lot more about them when it feels as though the club couldn't give a shit about us, it shouldn't be this way.
Post by: Accent Guy on December 04, 2024, 11:21:34 PM
Just over 30000 in the ground according to a steward.
That can't be right surely? 12,000 empty seats?
What happened to the 30,000 people on the season ticket waiting list?
Something doesn't add up.
Post by: itbrvilla on December 04, 2024, 11:23:51 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on December 04, 2024, 11:27:34 PM
Just over 30000 in the ground according to a steward.
That can't be right surely? 12,000 empty seats?
What happened to the 30,000 people on the season ticket waiting list?
Something doesn't add up.
This is probably the most explained thing ever on this forum.
If you buy a ticket - ie as a ST holder - and do not turn up, you are still counted in the attendance.
So a significant number of those empty seats will be ST holders not turning up.
And on top of that - 'empty seats at one particular game' does not equal 'people don't want to buy STs'
I was a ST holder for years, and rarely attend now I am on single games, but I would be much more likely to buy a ST again, as then I would build that regular match-going attendance into my life as a whole.
Post by: KevinGage on December 04, 2024, 11:30:08 PM
How far ahead are you in real terms if you sting the regular matchgoing fan for £30-40 more than he should be paying and he then has to pick and choose his games, as was clearly the case this evening.
Post by: Rudy65 on December 04, 2024, 11:34:35 PM
Post by: Skerra on December 04, 2024, 11:35:57 PM
Post by: Accent Guy on December 04, 2024, 11:38:52 PM
Just over 30000 in the ground according to a steward.
That can't be right surely? 12,000 empty seats?
What happened to the 30,000 people on the season ticket waiting list?
Something doesn't add up.
This is probably the most explained thing ever on this forum.
If you buy a ticket - ie as a ST holder - and do not turn up, you are still counted in the attendance.
So a significant number of those empty seats will be ST holders not turning up.
And on top of that - 'empty seats at one particular game' does not equal 'people don't want to buy STs'
I was a ST holder for years, and rarely attend now I am on single games, but I would be much more likely to buy a ST again, as then I would build that regular match-going attendance into my life as a whole.
I've only been on the forum for a few months so haven't read every thread but whilst I understand that empty seats doesn't equate to season tickets etc, it's the sheer number of people apparently on the waiting list that doesn't add up. If it was only a few thousand then fair enough, but 30,000 people want a season ticket and yet we have thousands of unsold seats? That's what doesn't add up to me. It's a hell of a lot of people and I've never believed it's 30,000 different people.
Post by: VillaTim on December 04, 2024, 11:39:18 PM
Post by: Risso on December 04, 2024, 11:40:30 PM
Can only think that the 30,000 on the waiting list is more like 300 otherwise why wouldn’t people bust a gut to go to a match that has so many tickets available?
Because, as has been explained hundreds of times, just because you'd really like a season ticket in August, it doesn't mean you're automatically going to want a last minute expensive ticket for a mid week game in December, 3 weeks before Christmas, in shit weather, at 8.15 when the game's on the telly anyway.
Post by: Bent Neilsens Screamer on December 05, 2024, 01:02:54 AM
Can only think that the 30,000 on the waiting list is more like 300 otherwise why wouldn’t people bust a gut to go to a match that has so many tickets available?
Because, as has been explained hundreds of times, just because you'd really like a season ticket in August, it doesn't mean you're automatically going to want a last minute expensive ticket for a mid week game in December, 3 weeks before Christmas, in shit weather, at 8.15 when the game's on the telly anyway.
Exactly this, tickets might have ‘only’ been £50 but when you take the above into consideration, plus opposition, form and the window for getting a Celtic ticket on the horizon a lot of people decided to give tonight a swerve.
Post by: tomd2103 on December 05, 2024, 01:18:01 AM
Just over 30000 in the ground according to a steward.
Was there tonight and think that would be a low estimate to be honest. There were pockets of empty seats here and there around the ground (guessing they were the GA+ areas) and they didn't bring many, so there were a smattering of Villa fans in the top tier of the away end, but 30,000 seems on the low side.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on December 05, 2024, 01:57:36 AM
Can only think that the 30,000 on the waiting list is more like 300 otherwise why wouldn’t people bust a gut to go to a match that has so many tickets available?
Because, as has been explained hundreds of times, just because you'd really like a season ticket in August, it doesn't mean you're automatically going to want a last minute expensive ticket for a mid week game in December, 3 weeks before Christmas, in shit weather, at 8.15 when the game's on the telly anyway.
Jesus Christ. Should one of us have this copied and pasted in our notes? It’s the new ‘why didn’t Barry’ etc.
Post by: Rory on December 05, 2024, 02:13:25 AM
We're not looking for Bayern, Juve or Liverpool tickets. We prefer to see games we're more likely to win.
I'm a claret member and I still find it difficult to get anything, then see rows of empty seats on the highlights.
I have no idea what's going on.
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on December 05, 2024, 02:27:41 AM
Post by: Percy McCarthy on December 05, 2024, 02:42:05 AM
My brother is a claret member and has managed to get 3's together for Bologna (Trinity), Juventus (North), Palace (North) and upcoming Man City (North). Maybe you've been unlucky? He's usually bang on ready for when they become available.
Me too. Three together for all the CL games so far. But you do have to be lucky, maybe apart from Bologna. The three together I bagged for Bayern & Juve were the only ‘three together’ I saw.
Fingers crossed for Celtic on Monday.
Post by: Meanwood Villa on December 05, 2024, 06:43:48 AM
With all the (visible) empty seats, I still can't find three together for me, my Dad and Brother.
We're not looking for Bayern, Juve or Liverpool tickets. We prefer to see games we're more likely to win.
I'm a claret member and I still find it difficult to get anything, then see rows of empty seats on the highlights.
I have no idea what's going on.
Try Trinity Upper
Post by: claret+blue ed on December 05, 2024, 07:27:45 AM
Can only think that the 30,000 on the waiting list is more like 300 otherwise why wouldn’t people bust a gut to go to a match that has so many tickets available?
Because, as has been explained hundreds of times, just because you'd really like a season ticket in August, it doesn't mean you're automatically going to want a last minute expensive ticket for a mid week game in December, 3 weeks before Christmas, in shit weather, at 8.15 when the game's on the telly anyway.
Exactly this, tickets might have ‘only’ been £50 but when you take the above into consideration, plus opposition, form and the window for getting a Celtic ticket on the horizon a lot of people decided to give tonight a swerve.
This is why the 30k waiting list comment bores me everytime I see it, if I had an ST, I would probably have swerved this one and other midweek games as I live 130 mile away, I have been making the CL matches, but having to take 2 days off work for the privilege, also, if we add up the prices for the league games so far for a member, it probably isn't far off being the price of an ST already
Post by: algy on December 05, 2024, 07:42:05 AM
The problem is, we are adopting the rapacious pricing policy of Champions League level clubs, having only just qualified for the first time ever for the competition, and in the belief that means we can be as big on the prices as what we see as our peers - Man United, Liverpool, Chelsea etc - without stopping to think that those clubs have won serious silverware for decades now, whilst we haven't won anything for 28 years, and even then, that win plus the one before were both the least important cup competition.Yeah, this is spot on. It’s going to come back to bite the club long term if it’s not accompanied by enough success to fill the empty seats. Once someone gets out of the habit of going every week, it’s really hard to get them back in to that habit (at least that’s what I found when we gave up our season tickets - you very quickly fill that hole with other activities and then there’s less time and thought put in to the Villa)
You will sell the tickets at prices you choose once you convince a lot of unconvinced people that we're fucking good at this, the sort of people who will only back a reasonably successful horse. I'm not saying it should be like that, but the fact is, it is.
I used to work with a guy who was an Albion fan but whose kids were both Chelsea fans. They're 14, born and brought up in Sutton Coldfield. He gets roped in to driving down there a few times a year to take them to see matches - largely their equivalents of tonight, the less appealing games - he's basically, with his kids, the sort of person who would have filled those empty seats tonight, and there would be plenty more like him.
We don't have that type of support right now, which is why we're going to suffer when there's a combination of mega CL prices, a game every 3 days, and a product where, when it's against Brentford, makes you double think whether it's money well spent.
We've got the 'top club' prices and attitude, without the accompanying success.
I think we’re suffering from Heck being very focused on his short term goals and not enough focussed on what will be in clubs interests longer term.
Though to be fair you could easily make the argument that he’s anticipated this and that’s why the north stand has been cancelled - the problem last night would be exacerbated by having a larger stadium.
Post by: Clampy on December 05, 2024, 07:48:30 AM
Post by: Lsvilla on December 05, 2024, 07:55:11 AM
I don't think it was just the prices last night, a few season ticket holders might have give it a miss as well. A dad and his lad who usually sit next to us weren't there and a couple behind us were missing as well.The fella that sits next to me (STH) was absent last night as well. Went to see The Nutcracker at The Hippodrome. Yes obviously I sit in Trinity Upper.
Post by: Towser on December 05, 2024, 08:39:09 AM
Post by: Max Villan on December 05, 2024, 08:39:25 AM
Post by: brontebilly on December 05, 2024, 08:52:39 AM
Just over 30000 in the ground according to a steward.
Was the last time we had those numbers back in the championship?
Post by: London Villan on December 05, 2024, 08:55:11 AM
There were easily 4000-5000 visible empty seats in the Witton and North. Then looking at the highlight there were loads empty in the Trinity.
Post by: Brend'Watkins on December 05, 2024, 09:15:37 AM
Post by: cdbearsfan on December 05, 2024, 09:16:37 AM
Post by: Somniloquism on December 05, 2024, 09:30:27 AM
Post by: PeterWithe on December 05, 2024, 09:48:20 AM
Post by: London Villan on December 05, 2024, 09:52:13 AM
3500 ish missing in the Witton
1000 in the North
3000 ish the Trinity
1000 ish in the Holte
Post by: SaddVillan on December 05, 2024, 09:53:52 AM
Heck needs to realise that with that combination of factors, it's only the diehard local loyalists who are likely to attend; so pissing them off isn't the best move.
Post by: dave.woodhall on December 05, 2024, 10:21:01 AM
I'd go with that too - but I was only going on what the steward told me.
3500 ish missing in the Witton
1000 in the North
3000 ish the Trinity
1000 ish in the Holte
The steward wouldn't have known.
Post by: London Villan on December 05, 2024, 10:21:57 AM
Post by: amfy on December 05, 2024, 10:37:03 AM
Like some others I pick and choose my midweek games travelling from distance, others have work or childcare commitments that keep them away in the week. I pass my ST on so my seat is still occupied.
I have to say that CL pricing has made me feel less inclined to put myself out for any midweek game.
However, to make anyone wanting to sell their seat, wait til it's sold out is short sighted by the club. People will be looking for pairs and groups of tickets, or to be in a particular stand where friends/family already sit & may buy resales where they wouldn't buy singles or GA+.
The club still profit on resold ST seats as they refund the 1/19 t price less an admin fee and can resell at full price, and have more people in the ground buying catering and merchandise.
Overall it's a poor strategy from the club.
Post by: Olneythelonely on December 05, 2024, 10:37:19 AM
Not sure why he would lie to me when he said he'd been told about the expected attendance?
How would he have known which season ticket holders weren’t going to turn up?
Post by: London Villan on December 05, 2024, 10:42:16 AM
Post by: London Villan on December 05, 2024, 10:43:19 AM
I would guess the club know how many tickets are left (easily 8000+) - and have a good idea of no-shows from past seasons midweek matches against un-fashionable teams and then brief the staff pre-match.
Post by: Olneythelonely on December 05, 2024, 10:46:08 AM
Post by: Des Little on December 05, 2024, 10:54:23 AM
Post by: VILLA MOLE on December 05, 2024, 10:54:53 AM
But they were wrong about 30,000. There was easily 35,000 there
Still very sad there still 7000 empty spots going begging
Post by: aj2k77 on December 05, 2024, 10:57:41 AM
But they were wrong about 30,000. There was easily 35,000 there
Still very sad there still 7000 empty spots going begging
I think it's fair to say there isn't anywhere near as many people on the waiting list as has previously been claimed. If there are, then most are just doing what many Brits do as a pastime, and join a queue for the sheer fun of it.
There's a huge difference between buying a season ticket and paying £60 to sit alone against Brentford as a one off. That aside, the whole pricing and ticketing structure at the moment is fucked and doesn't work. It's an accountants wet dream that doesn't work in reality and designed to squeeze every last penny out of people without thinking of the longer term strategy.
In short, I think Chris Heck hasn't a clue and is on some sort of bonus scheme that promotes short termism to pad his own pocket.
Post by: Demitri_C on December 05, 2024, 11:11:40 AM
I think it's fair to say there isn't anywhere near as many people on the waiting list as has previously been claimed. If there are, then most are just doing what many Brits do as a pastime, and join a queue for the sheer fun of it.
Its definitely dropped i think
Post by: Walmley_Villa on December 05, 2024, 11:35:31 AM
Post by: Chris Smith on December 05, 2024, 11:37:50 AM
I don't think it was just the prices last night, a few season ticket holders might have give it a miss as well. A dad and his lad who usually sit next to us weren't there and a couple behind us were missing as well.The fella that sits next to me (STH) was absent last night as well. Went to see The Nutcracker at The Hippodrome. Yes obviously I sit in Trinity Upper.
Yes a few ST holders by me in the LH were missing last night and I reckon we have this conversation every December.
Post by: London Villan on December 05, 2024, 11:40:35 AM
Post by: DB on December 05, 2024, 11:53:20 AM
I think it's fair to say there isn't anywhere near as many people on the waiting list as has previously been claimed. If there are, then most are just doing what many Brits do as a pastime, and join a queue for the sheer fun of it.
Its definitely dropped i think
Wait...what..?
Post by: Olneythelonely on December 05, 2024, 11:58:09 AM
I think it's fair to say there isn't anywhere near as many people on the waiting list as has previously been claimed. If there are, then most are just doing what many Brits do as a pastime, and join a queue for the sheer fun of it.
The attendance last night has nothing to do with people on a season ticket waiting list. Which has been explained. Over and over again.
Post by: London Villan on December 05, 2024, 12:10:44 PM
(https://i.ibb.co/DrmJxB3/AV2.jpg) (https://ibb.co/DrmJxB3)
(https://i.ibb.co/mGH3G0Q/AV1.jpg) (https://ibb.co/mGH3G0Q)
Post by: Des Little on December 05, 2024, 12:12:06 PM
I think it's fair to say there isn't anywhere near as many people on the waiting list as has previously been claimed. If there are, then most are just doing what many Brits do as a pastime, and join a queue for the sheer fun of it.
The attendance last night has nothing to do with people on a season ticket waiting list. Which has been explained. Over and over again.
I wasn't referring to last night was I?
Post by: simon ward 50 on December 05, 2024, 12:36:41 PM
Post by: claret+blue ed on December 05, 2024, 12:42:38 PM
Couple of images (nicked) from Twitter - shows how many empty seats there were in the Trinity and North Stand last night...
(https://i.ibb.co/DrmJxB3/AV2.jpg) (https://ibb.co/DrmJxB3)
(https://i.ibb.co/mGH3G0Q/AV1.jpg) (https://ibb.co/mGH3G0Q)
This was at 85 minutes, 3-1 up on a weeknight, whilst I don't disagree that there was plenty of empty seats, I don't think these are a realistic photos to gauge how many empty seat ther was
Post by: London Villan on December 05, 2024, 12:47:17 PM
Post by: claret+blue ed on December 05, 2024, 12:51:48 PM
Ok Chris.
???
Post by: brontebilly on December 05, 2024, 02:02:53 PM
Ticket giveaway opportunity missed by the club?
Absolutely, local schools and families could have benefitted from them. Lots of local people struggling financially who could have really enjoyed last night and a big PR opportunity missed as a result.
Post by: Ducksworthy on December 05, 2024, 02:12:46 PM
Ticket giveaway opportunity missed by the club?
Absolutely, local schools and families could have benefitted from them. Lots of local people struggling financially who could have really enjoyed last night and a big PR opportunity missed as a result.
I feel like this has been covered before too, though could be wrong. Isn’t there very minimal take up when we try this?
Post by: Hookeysmith on December 05, 2024, 02:37:24 PM
Just over 30000 in the ground according to a steward.
37,000 villa , clearly not full but a piss poor turnout by Brentford and they notified us that late we could not sell those seats above them as we have before
Post by: Hookeysmith on December 05, 2024, 02:40:39 PM
I didnt go last night either, went to see Book of Mormon.
Fantastic isnt it?
Going on 17th for the 4th time i have seen it
Post by: Olneythelonely on December 05, 2024, 02:43:40 PM
I think it's fair to say there isn't anywhere near as many people on the waiting list as has previously been claimed. If there are, then most are just doing what many Brits do as a pastime, and join a queue for the sheer fun of it.
The attendance last night has nothing to do with people on a season ticket waiting list. Which has been explained. Over and over again.
I wasn't referring to last night was I?
What was you referring to?
Post by: eamonn on December 05, 2024, 02:47:09 PM
Post by: exigo on December 05, 2024, 02:51:07 PM
But, because Villa's policy is not to put all the resale tickets back on actual sale until the whole ground is a sell out, there were loads of empty seats (plenty around me in L3) that won't get deducted from the official 'attendance'. Tickets sold would be fairly high still, as people couldn't resell.
Post by: Nelly on December 05, 2024, 02:53:51 PM
Post by: AV82EC on December 05, 2024, 04:01:42 PM
1) probably 1k STHs decided to give it a miss as it was an inconvenient time, crap weather and live on Amazon.
2) the clubs ridiculous no resale unless sold out is continually proving to be a real shoot yourself in the foot decision.
3) there were about 2.5-3k tickets unsold (I checked in the early afternoon)
4) as someone said Brentford returned the away upper tier too late for us to get it on sale in a meaningful way.
In view of that I’d reckon 36-37k were there.
I don’t think last night tells us anything about people on the ST waiting list either for the reasons Risso and others have adequately explained. And the ST waiting list is real, my son is on it and he’s moved about 500 places up it in two seasons.
I’m just really fucked off that knowing all of the above my Guess the Crowd estimate was probably miles away.
Post by: Drummond on December 05, 2024, 04:32:52 PM
I think it's fair to say there isn't anywhere near as many people on the waiting list as has previously been claimed. If there are, then most are just doing what many Brits do as a pastime, and join a queue for the sheer fun of it.
I'm on the list, but I didn't go last night. Time of year, weather, cost, other stuff to do etc all reasons.
Post by: Witton Warrior on December 05, 2024, 05:07:32 PM
Post by: Drummond on December 05, 2024, 05:14:36 PM
Post by: Percy McCarthy on December 05, 2024, 06:00:43 PM
I don't think it was just the prices last night, a few season ticket holders might have give it a miss as well. A dad and his lad who usually sit next to us weren't there and a couple behind us were missing as well.The fella that sits next to me (STH) was absent last night as well. Went to see The Nutcracker at The Hippodrome. Yes obviously I sit in Trinity Upper.
I’m worried that Stewart Lee is on in town the same night as the Celtic game. Yes obviously I’m woke as fuck.
I’d better check actually as my buying day is Monday.
Edit: no conflict - phew!
Post by: dave.woodhall on December 05, 2024, 06:24:49 PM
Ticket giveaway opportunity missed by the club?
Absolutely, local schools and families could have benefitted from them. Lots of local people struggling financially who could have really enjoyed last night and a big PR opportunity missed as a result.
I feel like this has been covered before too, though could be wrong. Isn’t there very minimal take up when we try this?
And a lot of moaning from people who'd bought them.
Post by: walsall villain on December 05, 2024, 06:27:58 PM
I wonder how many of the empty seats were season ticket holders who didn’t go? Do we include those in the official attendance? I know Arsenal used to when they had that dodgy period.Ticket giveaway opportunity missed by the club?
Absolutely, local schools and families could have benefitted from them. Lots of local people struggling financially who could have really enjoyed last night and a big PR opportunity missed as a result.
There was a time when the home game a week or so before Xmas was always poorly attended, with the cost of CL games and life in general maybe those days will return?
Post by: pauliewalnuts on December 05, 2024, 10:59:34 PM
I wonder how many of the empty seats were season ticket holders who didn’t go? Do we include those in the official attendance? I know Arsenal used to when they had that dodgy period.Ticket giveaway opportunity missed by the club?
Absolutely, local schools and families could have benefitted from them. Lots of local people struggling financially who could have really enjoyed last night and a big PR opportunity missed as a result.
There was a time when the home game a week or so before Xmas was always poorly attended, with the cost of CL games and life in general maybe those days will return?
OMG.
Yes, every club includes season ticket holders who don't turn up, all the time. There's no subterfuge involved. If you have sold the ticket, you don't care if the buyer doesn't turn up.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on December 05, 2024, 11:01:04 PM
I think it's fair to say there isn't anywhere near as many people on the waiting list as has previously been claimed. If there are, then most are just doing what many Brits do as a pastime, and join a queue for the sheer fun of it.
I'm on the list, but I didn't go last night. Time of year, weather, cost, other stuff to do etc all reasons.
I wouldn't have gone last night had I been given free tickets. It'd be too much of a ball-ache rearranging work to make the time to get there. Plus it was dark and cold.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on December 06, 2024, 01:59:31 AM
Post by: Nev on December 06, 2024, 07:11:10 AM
Post by: Percy McCarthy on December 06, 2024, 07:36:16 AM
Midweek games are always a trial, more so from a transportation point of view. It never felt like that when I used to get the buz, but then I was young, idealistic and seemed to have all the time in the world.
I didn’t give a toss what time I got in when I was young, and neither did anyone else. But now I have pressure off wifey that “it’s a school night”.
I suppose when I was a nipper it was half-seven kick-offs, ten minutes for half time, little added time.
If we were losing the song to the ops was “Ten past nine, aggro time, wo-oh, wo-oh”. And there were loads more buses. Quick stroll to Saltley Gate, 55, 14 or 94 home. Now I can only get the 14 at that stop.
Sorry, should be in the (happy) Villa memories section.
Post by: The Edge on December 06, 2024, 08:23:06 AM
Quick stroll to Saltley Gate? Jeez you must be a fast walker.Midweek games are always a trial, more so from a transportation point of view. It never felt like that when I used to get the buz, but then I was young, idealistic and seemed to have all the time in the world.
I didn’t give a toss what time I got in when I was young, and neither did anyone else. But now I have pressure off wifey that “it’s a school night”.
I suppose when I was a nipper it was half-seven kick-offs, ten minutes for half time, little added time.
If we were losing the song to the ops was “Ten past nine, aggro time, wo-oh, wo-oh”. And there were loads more buses. Quick stroll to Saltley Gate, 55, 14 or 94 home. Now I can only get the 14 at that stop.
Sorry, should be in the (happy) Villa memories section.
Post by: Nev on December 06, 2024, 08:37:43 AM
Now I drive, get home about 11pm have to get up at 5:30 for work and claim I'm tired for the next fortnight or so....
Post by: amfy on December 06, 2024, 08:47:04 AM
Post by: LeeB on December 06, 2024, 09:01:40 AM
Post by: VILLA MOLE on December 06, 2024, 09:18:51 AM
Getting older is a pain. Even watching from home I was annoyed with the KO time because I usually go to bed at 10pm in the week!
10.30 for me , but I guess I am just rock and roll :D ;)
Post by: Olneythelonely on December 06, 2024, 09:20:08 AM
Post by: Nev on December 06, 2024, 09:39:54 AM
It just sits in the same traffic as everyone else for half an hour or more trying to get to the Lichfield Rd, surely they should have priority to encourage use?
Even after that, instead of dropping off at the North Side of Town by the top of Corporation St (where the CG service did) you practically end up in Digbeth before it swings back to Smallbrook Queensway. I've seen many ask to be dropped off but the driver isn't allowed. It's a good idea terribly executed.
Post by: Somniloquism on December 06, 2024, 09:44:36 AM
We've given up on that shuckle bus.
It just sits in the same traffic as everyone else for half an hour or more trying to get to the Lichfield Rd, surely they should have priority to encourage use?
Even after that, instead of dropping off at the North Side of Town by the top of Corporation St (where the CG service did) you practically end up in Digbeth before it swings back to Smallbrook Queensway. I've seen many ask to be dropped off but the driver isn't allowed. It's a good idea terribly executed.
Not sure how they could prioritise a private hire vehicle?
Post by: Nev on December 06, 2024, 09:52:32 AM
We've given up on that shuckle bus.
It just sits in the same traffic as everyone else for half an hour or more trying to get to the Lichfield Rd, surely they should have priority to encourage use?
Even after that, instead of dropping off at the North Side of Town by the top of Corporation St (where the CG service did) you practically end up in Digbeth before it swings back to Smallbrook Queensway. I've seen many ask to be dropped off but the driver isn't allowed. It's a good idea terribly executed.
Not sure how they could prioritise a private hire vehicle?
No idea, but they use the Bus Lanes on the LR.
It's probably linked to the general shit show around the ground, where they used to make roads one way for a while to get the traffic away, and diddle with the signals to give priority, it's a free for all now.
Post by: amfy on December 06, 2024, 10:04:11 AM
Post by: London Villan on December 06, 2024, 10:14:32 AM
Post by: Pat Mustard on December 06, 2024, 12:25:15 PM
I often just walk into town. Although the trains after the match are generally much better, with the new units.
It would help massively if they actually let people onto the platform at Aston Station after the game. It absolutely boils my piss when you can see the platform is empty, yet there is a massive scrum at the bottom of the stairs, with staff only letting people up when the train has arrived. There are trains that can carry over 1500 people leaving the station half empty because some dickhead somewhere has decided it's safer to have people standing in the road and then stampeding to get up the stairs than allow a reasonable amount of people onto the platforms!
Post by: Percy McCarthy on December 06, 2024, 02:14:53 PM
Quick stroll to Saltley Gate? Jeez you must be a fast walker.Midweek games are always a trial, more so from a transportation point of view. It never felt like that when I used to get the buz, but then I was young, idealistic and seemed to have all the time in the world.
I didn’t give a toss what time I got in when I was young, and neither did anyone else. But now I have pressure off wifey that “it’s a school night”.
I suppose when I was a nipper it was half-seven kick-offs, ten minutes for half time, little added time.
If we were losing the song to the ops was “Ten past nine, aggro time, wo-oh, wo-oh”. And there were loads more buses. Quick stroll to Saltley Gate, 55, 14 or 94 home. Now I can only get the 14 at that stop.
Sorry, should be in the (happy) Villa memories section.
It still only takes me 20 minutes now, with two kids in tow. Sometimes the missus picks us up from the Swan & Mitre and it takes longer than that to drive there due to the traffic.
Post by: jwarry on December 14, 2024, 07:23:44 AM
“The exodus of senior executives from Aston Villa shows little sign of halting — at least seven have moved on since the arrival 18 months ago of the American Chris Heck as president of business operations.
Paul Tyrrell, who had a number of senior roles at Villa, is the latest to depart and has taken over as chief operating officer at Nottingham Forest. Others who have left include the chief executive Christian Purslow, Nicola Ibbetson, the chief commercial officer who has moved to Paris Saint-Germain, and her one-time deputy, Adam Lowe, who is now at Warwickshire County Cricket Club.”
Post by: dave.woodhall on December 14, 2024, 08:31:10 AM
In The Tines today. Haven’t seen anything about this latest departure anywhere?!?
“The exodus of senior executives from Aston Villa shows little sign of halting — at least seven have moved on since the arrival 18 months ago of the American Chris Heck as president of business operations.
Paul Tyrrell, who had a number of senior roles at Villa, is the latest to depart and has taken over as chief operating officer at Nottingham Forest. Others who have left include the chief executive Christian Purslow, Nicola Ibbetson, the chief commercial officer who has moved to Paris Saint-Germain, and her one-time deputy, Adam Lowe, who is now at Warwickshire County Cricket Club.”
Tyrell was part of Purslow's team at Liverpool so it's a wonder he lasted this long. He'd already been moved over to working at Bodymoor and won't be missed.
Post by: adrenachrome on December 14, 2024, 12:15:09 PM
How will be cope?
Post by: Skerra on December 14, 2024, 12:29:38 PM
Post by: Risso on December 14, 2024, 12:49:10 PM
Post by: adrenachrome on December 14, 2024, 12:55:19 PM
Not to mention junior executives.
Post by: jon collett on December 14, 2024, 01:05:04 PM
Post by: London Villan on December 14, 2024, 01:19:57 PM
Post by: dekko on December 14, 2024, 02:03:14 PM
Somebody in the know told me in Leipzig that there is currently a lot of unhelpful infighting at the Club.
Not remotely surprising
Post by: Rico on December 15, 2024, 08:23:58 AM
Post by: Villan82 on December 15, 2024, 09:16:40 AM
If this is true then surely the owners should be looking at binning off Heck asap. The vibe and trajectory of the club seems to have gone off the rails since his arrival. At the end of the day it's results on the pitch that matter most, so any long-term down turn in results will affect revenue. Everything he has touched has gone to shit since his arrival. The sooner this clown is got rid of the better.
Well said. I think he has totally impacted the whole feel good factor. Last season was just outstanding but every intervention of his put a dampener on things. He's gone quiet now but the pricing leaves a sour taste and not a word about how we plan to compete with the likes of Spurs on stadium revenue.
Post by: Dante Lavelli on December 15, 2024, 09:39:08 AM
If this is true then surely the owners should be looking at binning off Heck asap. The vibe and trajectory of the club seems to have gone off the rails since his arrival. At the end of the day it's results on the pitch that matter most, so any long-term down turn in results will affect revenue. Everything he has touched has gone to shit since his arrival. The sooner this clown is got rid of the better.
The poster hasn’t said who the infighting is between. I assume it is Heck but it could easily be NESW and Atairos or Emery and Monchi.
Post by: VillaTim on December 15, 2024, 10:05:37 AM
Post by: jon collett on December 15, 2024, 10:52:23 AM
If this is true then surely the owners should be looking at binning off Heck asap. The vibe and trajectory of the club seems to have gone off the rails since his arrival. At the end of the day it's results on the pitch that matter most, so any long-term down turn in results will affect revenue. Everything he has touched has gone to shit since his arrival. The sooner this clown is got rid of the better.
The poster hasn’t said who the infighting is between. I assume it is Heck but it could easily be NESW and Atairos or Emery and Monchi.
He was saying at senior management level and there are some very unpleasant and arrogant people. It’s all unnecessary. Sounded like a power struggle.
Post by: Paul.S on December 15, 2024, 12:26:00 PM
Post by: dave.woodhall on December 15, 2024, 01:31:00 PM
If this is true then surely the owners should be looking at binning off Heck asap. The vibe and trajectory of the club seems to have gone off the rails since his arrival. At the end of the day it's results on the pitch that matter most, so any long-term down turn in results will affect revenue. Everything he has touched has gone to shit since his arrival. The sooner this clown is got rid of the better.
The poster hasn’t said who the infighting is between. I assume it is Heck but it could easily be NESW and Atairos or Emery and Monchi.
He was saying at senior management level and there are some very unpleasant and arrogant people. It’s all unnecessary. Sounded like a power struggle.
Isn't that just the way at all large companies?
Post by: ChicagoLion on December 15, 2024, 01:45:21 PM
Not necessarily, it can happen in any organisation though.If this is true then surely the owners should be looking at binning off Heck asap. The vibe and trajectory of the club seems to have gone off the rails since his arrival. At the end of the day it's results on the pitch that matter most, so any long-term down turn in results will affect revenue. Everything he has touched has gone to shit since his arrival. The sooner this clown is got rid of the better.
The poster hasn’t said who the infighting is between. I assume it is Heck but it could easily be NESW and Atairos or Emery and Monchi.
He was saying at senior management level and there are some very unpleasant and arrogant people. It’s all unnecessary. Sounded like a power struggle.
Isn't that just the way at all large companies?
A big difference between people having a pop at each other and a power struggle.
Post by: jon collett on December 15, 2024, 01:46:06 PM
If this is true then surely the owners should be looking at binning off Heck asap. The vibe and trajectory of the club seems to have gone off the rails since his arrival. At the end of the day it's results on the pitch that matter most, so any long-term down turn in results will affect revenue. Everything he has touched has gone to shit since his arrival. The sooner this clown is got rid of the better.
The poster hasn’t said who the infighting is between. I assume it is Heck but it could easily be NESW and Atairos or Emery and Monchi.
He was saying at senior management level and there are some very unpleasant and arrogant people. It’s all unnecessary. Sounded like a power struggle.
Isn't that just the way at all large companies?
Actually I think the opposite and thought about posting that then didn’t.
It’s usually a sign of poor leadership if companies descend into factions and office politics.
It sounds like a cultural problem!
Post by: ChicagoLion on December 15, 2024, 02:04:49 PM
Based on everything we know about Heck, it is not surprising.If this is true then surely the owners should be looking at binning off Heck asap. The vibe and trajectory of the club seems to have gone off the rails since his arrival. At the end of the day it's results on the pitch that matter most, so any long-term down turn in results will affect revenue. Everything he has touched has gone to shit since his arrival. The sooner this clown is got rid of the better.
The poster hasn’t said who the infighting is between. I assume it is Heck but it could easily be NESW and Atairos or Emery and Monchi.
He was saying at senior management level and there are some very unpleasant and arrogant people. It’s all unnecessary. Sounded like a power struggle.
Isn't that just the way at all large companies?
Actually I think the opposite and thought about posting that then didn’t.
It’s usually a sign of poor leadership if companies descend into factions and office politics.
It sounds like a cultural problem!
Culture beats strategy every time.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on December 15, 2024, 04:00:24 PM
Pricing for next season will be interesting because it doesn't look sustainable . All these extra corporate and GA+ areas will turn into white elephants without success on the pitch. Clock is ticking down on Heck and his house of cards.
No season tickets will be sold in 2025/26 until all the GA+ tickets are sold?
Post by: VillaTim on December 15, 2024, 04:27:04 PM
They already do that if you're referring to resale of ST seatsPricing for next season will be interesting because it doesn't look sustainable . All these extra corporate and GA+ areas will turn into white elephants without success on the pitch. Clock is ticking down on Heck and his house of cards.
No season tickets will be sold in 2025/26 until all the GA+ tickets are sold?
Post by: Sexual Ealing on December 15, 2024, 05:23:12 PM
If this is true then surely the owners should be looking at binning off Heck asap. The vibe and trajectory of the club seems to have gone off the rails since his arrival. At the end of the day it's results on the pitch that matter most, so any long-term down turn in results will affect revenue. Everything he has touched has gone to shit since his arrival. The sooner this clown is got rid of the better.
The poster hasn’t said who the infighting is between. I assume it is Heck but it could easily be NESW and Atairos or Emery and Monchi.
He was saying at senior management level and there are some very unpleasant and arrogant people. It’s all unnecessary. Sounded like a power struggle.
Isn't that just the way at all large companies?
Villa isn't a large company though.
Post by: Drummond on December 15, 2024, 05:36:51 PM
I think that's quite big too.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on December 15, 2024, 06:20:48 PM
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on December 15, 2024, 06:49:49 PM
The generally used definition of a large company is one with over 250 employees. We fit that criteria. We also turnover hundreds of millions of pounds.
I think that's quite big too.
Is that UK definition? By US standards we'd be a mid-sized company if you ignored the small amount of people employed by the club.
Post by: Drummond on December 15, 2024, 06:54:32 PM
Post by: VillaTim on December 15, 2024, 07:13:17 PM
Mid size company , above SME , but below Large .If this is true then surely the owners should be looking at binning off Heck asap. The vibe and trajectory of the club seems to have gone off the rails since his arrival. At the end of the day it's results on the pitch that matter most, so any long-term down turn in results will affect revenue. Everything he has touched has gone to shit since his arrival. The sooner this clown is got rid of the better.
The poster hasn’t said who the infighting is between. I assume it is Heck but it could easily be NESW and Atairos or Emery and Monchi.
He was saying at senior management level and there are some very unpleasant and arrogant people. It’s all unnecessary. Sounded like a power struggle.
Isn't that just the way at all large companies?
Villa isn't a large company though.
Post by: dave.woodhall on December 15, 2024, 07:14:49 PM
Post by: jon collett on December 15, 2024, 07:21:26 PM
Culture eats strategy for breakfast!
Post by: Sexual Ealing on December 15, 2024, 07:24:14 PM
Shall we settle for high-profile?
Yes.
Post by: Des Little on December 15, 2024, 10:37:18 PM
Post by: Villan82 on December 15, 2024, 10:49:04 PM
Whatever we consider ourselves, I’m sure we’d be a happier ship if the likes of Heck and his fellow wanker Ben Hatton cleared off.
Unfortunately, looks like we are stuck with him
Post by: Stinkin_Thinkin on December 16, 2024, 02:58:03 PM
Whatever we consider ourselves, I’m sure we’d be a happier ship if the likes of Heck and his fellow wanker Ben Hatton cleared off.
the owners would hire new wankers to replace them. The job description is juice the fan's wallets with impunity.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on December 16, 2024, 04:10:01 PM
Whatever we consider ourselves, I’m sure we’d be a happier ship if the likes of Heck and his fellow wanker Ben Hatton cleared off.
the owners would hire new wankers to replace them. The job description is juice the fan's wallets with impunity.
Really? I would have thought it was to create and develop new commercial deals. I can think of at least one stand that could be renamed and would bring in a tonne of positive publicity for the sponsor. Bodymoor Heath? Selling the naming rights are not uncommon for training camps. Training kits? Advertising hoardings? Like Heck, if I could be arsed I'm sure I too could up with a few nice little earners to drive up the revenue.
Maybe his focus is more on the future of Villa Park or our next home. Obviously not everything is his direct responsibility, I'm sure he hired a sponsorship manager to share his heavy workload.
Post by: algy on December 16, 2024, 04:37:13 PM
I do think there's a sliding scale of wankers, though. Like, Purslow is/was a bit of a wanker, but probably up the nicer end of the wanker spectrum. Your standard smarmy wanker, I suppose. Whereas Chris Heck feels naturally like he's much more of a wanker, to me anyway. He certainly seems to be much better at upsetting people.Whatever we consider ourselves, I’m sure we’d be a happier ship if the likes of Heck and his fellow wanker Ben Hatton cleared off.
the owners would hire new wankers to replace them. The job description is juice the fan's wallets with impunity.
Post by: Dave on December 16, 2024, 04:44:13 PM
Like, Purslow is/was a bit of a wanker, but probably up the nicer end of the wanker spectrum.
Dunno, he gave £50,000 to the Tories when they were at their god-awful worst. So I reckon that puts him somewhere right at the other end.
Post by: VillaTim on December 16, 2024, 07:37:22 PM
Post by: dave.woodhall on December 16, 2024, 08:03:09 PM
Post by: Sexual Ealing on December 16, 2024, 08:08:55 PM
Post by: Dante Lavelli on December 16, 2024, 10:31:33 PM
Post by: VillaTim on December 16, 2024, 10:38:26 PM
Have we ever had a good version of Heck? Who was the best?Steve Stride .
Post by: dave.woodhall on December 16, 2024, 10:50:27 PM
Have we ever had a good version of Heck? Who was the best?Steve Stride .
He was secretary and had nothing like the remit Heck's got.
Post by: Des Little on December 17, 2024, 07:19:36 AM
Post by: john e on December 17, 2024, 06:38:40 PM
Post by: olaftab on December 17, 2024, 06:44:18 PM
Purslow seems to have stopped turning up in the away end . The novelty must have worn offIt's winter, so wet and cold terraces are not his preferred habitat, just leave it to the peasants.
Post by: Des Little on December 26, 2024, 12:42:10 PM
Post by: Villan82 on December 26, 2024, 03:08:29 PM
I was in the 1874 seats against Citeh, and there were loads of empty seats all around the block. Same with the strip of GA+ seats where the boxes used to be in the Doug Ellis, barely any of them occupied.
But we'd probably have 6-7,000 takers for extra GA seats and they might spend a few quid in the club shop on their way in but what do I know.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on December 26, 2024, 04:16:31 PM
I was in the 1874 seats against Citeh, and there were loads of empty seats all around the block. Same with the strip of GA+ seats where the boxes used to be in the Doug Ellis, barely any of them occupied.
"Fantastic success!"
Post by: VillaTim on December 26, 2024, 11:57:10 PM
I was in the 1874 seats against Citeh, and there were loads of empty seats all around the block. Same with the strip of GA+ seats where the boxes used to be in the Doug Ellis, barely any of them occupied.It needs a major rethink next season on price point, certainly if we don't win anything or qualify for Europe . Demand already seems to be dwindling off .
Post by: tomd2103 on December 27, 2024, 12:10:07 AM
I was in the 1874 seats against Citeh, and there were loads of empty seats all around the block. Same with the strip of GA+ seats where the boxes used to be in the Doug Ellis, barely any of them occupied.
It's difficult to judge whether a demand for GA+ seats isn't really there, or whether it might be but just not at those kinds of prices.
Post by: VillaTim on December 27, 2024, 12:29:26 AM
Post by: rob_bridge on December 27, 2024, 08:28:48 AM
I pay a total of £65 for me and my lad to go in the Trinity for league games, although getting a ticket for Leicester is proving difficult. I am not paying £200+ so I can have a beer and a few snacks and small queue for a piss
Post by: Bent Neilsens Screamer on December 27, 2024, 10:10:04 AM
Tio use the marketing jargon - the mark up simply isn't worth the value on offer.
I pay a total of £65 for me and my lad to go in the Trinity for league games, although getting a ticket for Leicester is proving difficult. I am not paying £200+ so I can have a beer and a few snacks and small queue for a piss
Is that price of £65 correct?
Post by: Holte End Stylist on December 27, 2024, 10:18:38 AM
Post by: Brend'Watkins on December 27, 2024, 10:35:30 AM
Tio use the marketing jargon - the mark up simply isn't worth the value on offer.
I ask myself who really wants it? I go to watch football and have no interest in any level of + Heck is peddling. If he believes that fans want at best, bog standard fast food at an additional £50 per seat he’s off his head.
Post by: LeeB on December 27, 2024, 10:37:49 AM
Tio use the marketing jargon - the mark up simply isn't worth the value on offer.
I ask myself who really wants it? I go to watch football and have no interest in any level of + Heck is peddling. If he believes that fans want at best, bog standard fast food at an additional £50 per seat he’s off his head.
It's just obviously bad value for money.
Post by: Villan82 on December 27, 2024, 10:46:57 AM
I still think people are more likely to go the extra mile and pay for something that is premium if it is a genuinely new experience in a purpose built facility.
They have got this arseways.
Post by: rob_bridge on December 27, 2024, 10:49:59 AM
Tio use the marketing jargon - the mark up simply isn't worth the value on offer.
I pay a total of £65 for me and my lad to go in the Trinity for league games, although getting a ticket for Leicester is proving difficult. I am not paying £200+ so I can have a beer and a few snacks and small queue for a piss
Is that price of £65 correct?
50 for me and 15 for my lad. That's what I paid for Everton and Soton games
We had to pay membership too so not sure whether that changes price.
I paid more for single ticket for Arsenal game but with better view - maybe 75
Post by: Bent Neilsens Screamer on December 27, 2024, 10:52:32 AM
I’m being a lot more picky with my games this season.
Post by: Marlon From Bearwood on December 27, 2024, 10:58:47 AM
Post by: rob_bridge on December 27, 2024, 10:59:08 AM
It frustrates me that the club was developing and growing quite fast before all this nonsense started.
I still think people are more likely to go the extra mile and pay for something that is premium if it is a genuinely new experience in a purpose built facility.
They have got this arseways.
Spurs and Liverpool and no doubt Everton can all cash in that way.
Simply isn't worth the mark up. I don't want to get to the ground 2 or 3 hours early because I rarely could. I don't want to stay for 1.5 hours after either with or without my 5 year old.
If they did something like 2-3 drinks + snacks in spacious lounge area for an extra £25 I may do it once or twice a season at most.
I'm sure if we sign a Korean or Japanese or Chinese player we'd rake the tourists in to take advantage of the experience.
Post by: VillaTim on December 27, 2024, 11:04:27 AM
Post by: London Villan on December 27, 2024, 11:23:05 AM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on December 27, 2024, 11:26:37 AM
All of which is fine, but in all the coverage I have seen of the options, in terms of what you actually get for the cash, the pricing looks way over the top.
I saw the VoT youtube of one of the cheaper offerings and thought, yeah, looks nice, but for several hundred quid for some really average looking food, two drinks and a gift of a mug in a box, it just looked more than a bit shit.
it doesn't look 'special' to start with, which is just the first problem.
Post by: DB on December 27, 2024, 12:21:08 PM
The next few games in the league and fa cup are going to seriously test Heck's pricing strategy . Attendance figures will be brushed under the carpet as usual .
Blimey, how many times?
Post by: Des Little on December 27, 2024, 04:59:11 PM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on December 27, 2024, 05:36:32 PM
The next few games in the league and fa cup are going to seriously test Heck's pricing strategy . Attendance figures will be brushed under the carpet as usual .
And you won't hear a peep from Mat Kendrick. :(
Post by: dave.woodhall on December 27, 2024, 06:27:59 PM
The next few games in the league and fa cup are going to seriously test Heck's pricing strategy . Attendance figures will be brushed under the carpet as usual .
And you won't hear a peep from Mat Kendrick. :(
He doesn't write anymore.
Post by: Skerra on December 27, 2024, 06:53:40 PM
Post by: VillaTim on December 27, 2024, 08:11:00 PM
He's on one of the podcasts sites from time to time . Talks a lot of sense in my humble opinion.The next few games in the league and fa cup are going to seriously test Heck's pricing strategy . Attendance figures will be brushed under the carpet as usual .
And you won't hear a peep from Mat Kendrick. :(
Post by: Brazilian Villain on December 27, 2024, 11:28:45 PM
The next few games in the league and fa cup are going to seriously test Heck's pricing strategy . Attendance figures will be brushed under the carpet as usual .
And you won't hear a peep from Mat Kendrick. :(
He's on one of the podcasts sites from time to time . Talks a lot of sense in my humble opinion.
I'm sure he can spin a good yarn.
Post by: algy on December 29, 2024, 08:51:08 AM
That’s all well and good, but I think Tim was talking about feeling that the rug had been pulled out from under him over the attendances.The next few games in the league and fa cup are going to seriously test Heck's pricing strategy . Attendance figures will be brushed under the carpet as usual .
And you won't hear a peep from Mat Kendrick. :(
He's on one of the podcasts sites from time to time . Talks a lot of sense in my humble opinion.
I'm sure he can spin a good yarn.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on January 03, 2025, 11:28:58 PM
Thought, might go to the West Ham game with my brother. I'm a member, he is not.
Find two seats together, select them, try to buy them, it tells me I can't, as I need to 'assign' one of the tickets to someone else, by clicking 'assign', when there is no 'assign' button to click.
So I wonder, is it under the 'edit' button. Which I click, then it gives me the choice of other people I've bought tickets for, none of which are my brother. So now what?
This is supposed to be on general sale. Why is it this difficult?
Post by: Percy McCarthy on January 04, 2025, 12:11:51 AM
Here's what I don't get - and I know it's probably not Heck's fault, but fuck him, it's a problem.
Thought, might go to the West Ham game with my brother. I'm a member, he is not.
Find two seats together, select them, try to buy them, it tells me I can't, as I need to 'assign' one of the tickets to someone else, by clicking 'assign', when there is no 'assign' button to click.
So I wonder, is it under the 'edit' button. Which I click, then it gives me the choice of other people I've bought tickets for, none of which are my brother. So now what?
This is supposed to be on general sale. Why is it this difficult?
It’s a shambles. I decided the other day that I wanted to take the kids to the Leicester game if it wasn’t too late to get three together. We’re all members and have been to a few games this season and last.. I found three in the North Stand, not quite together but close enough. Clicked on them to buy, tried to assign mine and the kids’ names, and the prices wouldn’t change from the £50 for adults. It’s bad enough paying £145 for us to go to all the CL games, I’m not paying £150 for us to watch us play Leicester, especially when it’s only because the website doesn’t work properly.
Post by: Villan82 on January 04, 2025, 12:26:19 AM
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on January 04, 2025, 01:03:49 AM
Post by: john e on January 04, 2025, 01:04:00 AM
seeing us play Bayern & Juve were great nights to remember
The worst thing about 2024 was also the champions league
Knowing and also reading on here how some people after a lifetime of supporting Villa either couldn’t afford to go or refused to go because of the way the whole thing was handled pricewise etc
heartbreaking after waiting so long some people didn’t get to enjoy it in the end
Post by: Gareth on January 04, 2025, 08:35:28 AM
The best thing about 2024 was getting into the champions league for the first time in decades
seeing us play Bayern & Juve were great nights to remember
The worst thing about 2024 was also the champions league
Knowing and also reading on here how some people after a lifetime of supporting Villa either couldn’t afford to go or refused to go because of the way the whole thing was handled pricewise etc
heartbreaking after waiting so long some people didn’t get to enjoy it in the end
Only going to get worse John, can imagine another eye watering season ticket price increase for next season to test the boundaries further, would imagine they’ll close the gap betw adult and senior concession prices to try and push out some of the seniors also.
Post by: Exeter 77 on January 04, 2025, 10:34:30 AM
Post by: eamonn on January 04, 2025, 11:35:47 AM
Post by: sid1964 on January 04, 2025, 11:45:16 AM
The owners are not going to keep pumping in millions every year forever - we have to increase our commercial revenue etc.. and that is what Heck has been brought into do, whether we like the way he is doing it or not!
Or do you want the club run as it was under Mr. Ellis??
It is make your mind up time.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on January 04, 2025, 12:27:39 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on January 04, 2025, 01:22:30 PM
It would seem that most want the club to buy a couple of players this transfer window- so where does the money come from to do this?
The owners are not going to keep pumping in millions every year forever - we have to increase our commercial revenue etc.. and that is what Heck has been brought into do, whether we like the way he is doing it or not!
Or do you want the club run as it was under Mr. Ellis??
It is make your mind up time.
Obviously because the choice is entirely binary: love everything the club does, unquestioningly, or you love Doug and wish he was still here.
Post by: stevo_st on January 04, 2025, 01:47:23 PM
Here's what I don't get - and I know it's probably not Heck's fault, but fuck him, it's a problem.
Thought, might go to the West Ham game with my brother. I'm a member, he is not.
Find two seats together, select them, try to buy them, it tells me I can't, as I need to 'assign' one of the tickets to someone else, by clicking 'assign', when there is no 'assign' button to click.
So I wonder, is it under the 'edit' button. Which I click, then it gives me the choice of other people I've bought tickets for, none of which are my brother. So now what?
This is supposed to be on general sale. Why is it this difficult?
It’s a shambles. I decided the other day that I wanted to take the kids to the Leicester game if it wasn’t too late to get three together. We’re all members and have been to a few games this season and last.. I found three in the North Stand, not quite together but close enough. Clicked on them to buy, tried to assign mine and the kids’ names, and the prices wouldn’t change from the £50 for adults. It’s bad enough paying £145 for us to go to all the CL games, I’m not paying £150 for us to watch us play Leicester, especially when it’s only because the website doesn’t work properly.
This frustrates me as well, quite a few times we’ve looked to get last minute tickets when his footy match is called off, like today, but he ends up missing out as I refuse to pay the adult uplift
Post by: Skerra on January 04, 2025, 02:35:19 PM
Selfish I know but, I won’t be bothered about increases for season ticket prices for next season. I am one of those, season ticket holder for years but priced out of CL matches whereas people who don’t normally buy tickets have attended just the CL matches. So, I’m one of those that sadly will be saying goodbye next season as far as my renewing my season ticket goes. Once gone, I will not be returning to Villa Park so, Heck will have got his wish of getting rid of another long term supporter who, it seems, the club no longer want. Good luck to the next person to take my seat.The best thing about 2024 was getting into the champions league for the first time in decades
seeing us play Bayern & Juve were great nights to remember
The worst thing about 2024 was also the champions league
Knowing and also reading on here how some people after a lifetime of supporting Villa either couldn’t afford to go or refused to go because of the way the whole thing was handled pricewise etc
heartbreaking after waiting so long some people didn’t get to enjoy it in the end
Only going to get worse John, can imagine another eye watering season ticket price increase for next season to test the boundaries further, would imagine they’ll close the gap betw adult and senior concession prices to try and push out some of the seniors also.
Post by: Villan82 on January 04, 2025, 03:37:18 PM
Which is why they should not have shelved the north stand expansion. Madness.
We were going a certain direction, growing every year and they did some sort of u-turn and decided to go a different direction squeezing out the long-termers and keeping the existing 'bowl'. They fucked it.
Only Villa could finally crack things on the pitch only to go so far out of their way to make everything else so crap you struggle to enjoy it.
Post by: VillaTim on January 04, 2025, 05:33:26 PM
Post by: algy on January 04, 2025, 05:36:45 PM
Which is why they should not have shelved the north stand expansion. Madness.I think they can be forgiven for pausing it when Atairos came in, just to make sure that what we’re building will get maximum usage (e.g. the warehouse plans seem to me to be more likely to be used 7 days a week than Villa Live was).
But yeah, I’d hoped they’d announce something by now, or by the end of the season at least. I don’t think we need something on the scale of the London stadia as there simply isn’t the same tourist demand, but a stadium in line with other big non-London clubs (ie 50-60k) doesn’t seem ridiculous or far-fetched to me.
Post by: saunders_heroes on January 04, 2025, 07:37:09 PM
Lots of empty seats today , maybe the weather didn't help mind .
More than 40k there today yet again.
Post by: London Villan on January 04, 2025, 07:40:01 PM
Post by: Des Little on January 04, 2025, 07:55:27 PM
Post by: DB on January 04, 2025, 07:57:18 PM
Lots of empty seats today , maybe the weather didn't help mind .
More than 40k there today yet again.
Don’t worry, he’s obsessed with our attendances / ticket sales.
Post by: Somniloquism on January 04, 2025, 08:05:30 PM
Lots of empty seats today , maybe the weather didn't help mind .
More than 40k there today yet again.
Don’t worry, he’s obsessed with our attendances / ticket sales.
I thought VT was a season ticket holder. Although he does seem to be on the match thread more then most. Maybe he always has a good 5g signal.
Post by: john e on January 04, 2025, 08:09:04 PM
I thought they weren’t selling any new ST’s
Post by: Des Little on January 04, 2025, 08:10:00 PM
Why are they advertising half season season tickets on the flash up screens around the ground
I thought they weren’t selling any new ST’s
I think that’s for the Villa women’s team.
Post by: jon collett on January 04, 2025, 08:15:47 PM
Post by: john e on January 04, 2025, 08:15:55 PM
Why are they advertising half season season tickets on the flash up screens around the ground
I thought they weren’t selling any new ST’s
I think that’s for the Villa women’s team.
Ok fair enough
I thought there’d be a reasonable explanation that I’d overlooked
Post by: DB on January 04, 2025, 08:38:14 PM
Lots of empty seats today , maybe the weather didn't help mind .
More than 40k there today yet again.
Don’t worry, he’s obsessed with our attendances / ticket sales.
I thought VT was a season ticket holder. Although he does seem to be on the match thread more than most. Maybe he always has a good 5g signal.
…or maybe it’s ’cos of all those empty seats, he can get a signal.
Post by: rob_bridge on January 04, 2025, 08:49:50 PM
42386 tickets sold… apparently.
Busiest I have seen it this season in my 5 visits. Includes Juve and Arse.
Post by: VillaTim on January 04, 2025, 08:54:16 PM
I am a ST holder who for various reasons cannot get there most weeks so I sell back to the club when possible .Lots of empty seats today , maybe the weather didn't help mind .
More than 40k there today yet again.
Don’t worry, he’s obsessed with our attendances / ticket sales.
I thought VT was a season ticket holder. Although he does seem to be on the match thread more then most. Maybe he always has a good 5g signal.
There were lots of empties in the trinity lower today which is unusual. Maybe it was people just not turning up due to the weather warnings .
Post by: Exeter 77 on January 04, 2025, 09:18:47 PM
I think Bardell met that man that night and flagged it on Twitter. Don't know if the club acted on it though.I'm not sure if it's the same bloke but it could be. He definitely told me he hadn't had anything back from the club.
Post by: Dante Lavelli on January 05, 2025, 12:01:35 AM
Post by: Villan82 on January 05, 2025, 12:07:26 AM
They don’t want season ticket holders. Well that’s not true, maybe they want season ticket holders who’ll buy a shirt, programme, burger and five pints every single home game. Our Chris will just keep turning up the heat until we manage to meet this target, by which time many of us will have long since failed the affluence test.
Hence my comment about the change in direction. We went from planning to spend a shit ton of money making the ground bigger to cater to demand that has been there since 2018 to actually spending a shit ton of money just gentrifying the existing ground there since 2001 and pissing off a lot of people with price hikes.
Plain as day what the change has been. They are after a different clientele rather than a bigger arena for the existing match-going crowd.It leaves a sour taste
Post by: VillaTim on January 05, 2025, 12:14:18 AM
Pretty full today. Lots to moan about but I don’t think its fair to say there were loads of empty seats on this occasion.Certainly was lower trinity , the TV don't lie .
Post by: pauliewalnuts on January 05, 2025, 12:25:50 AM
Pretty full today. Lots to moan about but I don’t think its fair to say there were loads of empty seats on this occasion.Certainly was lower trinity , the TV don't lie .
I saw your comment during the match on that and didn't really know what you were talking about - a few in the sector closest to the North Stand, but that's about it.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on January 05, 2025, 12:26:29 AM
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on January 05, 2025, 12:36:13 AM
Post by: Percy McCarthy on January 05, 2025, 01:26:12 AM
Post by: Brend'Watkins on January 05, 2025, 01:29:08 AM
Post by: Louzie0 on January 05, 2025, 02:00:17 AM
42,682 is the highest attendance this season, v Manc Utd.
The lowest is 34,851 v Palace in the Carabao Cup.
There are a couple of others sub 40,000 but all the rest are 41K+ or 42k+.
All the attendance figures are in the Guess The Crowd Divisions thread, at the top of every update.
Post by: Brend'Watkins on January 05, 2025, 02:11:52 AM
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on January 05, 2025, 02:20:03 AM
Post by: Dave on January 05, 2025, 09:10:21 AM
I’m not suggesting there is any shenanigans on your part Lou’. There clearly wasn’t that many at VP today but the club must give those figures.
Aren't these things always tickets sold rather than bodies through the gates?
So any season ticket holder who can't be arsed with the cold is still included in the attendance.
Post by: Chris Smith on January 05, 2025, 09:11:23 AM
I’m with Tim I could definitely see empty seats in the lower trinity on motd towards the end of the first half mind. The ones by the tunnel.
Probably not the best time to judge the crowd as people start heading down to get their Bovril from around 35th minute.
Post by: Des Little on January 05, 2025, 09:34:55 AM
Edit - in fact they’d probably publish the till takings before the match result
Post by: dave.woodhall on January 05, 2025, 09:57:52 AM
I’m not suggesting there is any shenanigans on your part Lou’. There clearly wasn’t that many at VP today but the club must give those figures.
Aren't these things always tickets sold rather than bodies through the gates?
So any season ticket holder who can't be arsed with the cold is still included in the attendance.
It's been a Premier League rule since about 1996 but it's still used to hint that something iffy's going on.
Post by: saunders_heroes on January 05, 2025, 10:13:47 AM
Post by: stubbsyandy on January 05, 2025, 10:15:13 AM
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 05, 2025, 10:15:38 AM
Empty seats in the lower Trinity were just before half time when a lot of fans leave their seats early. A lot of nitpicking from some fans desperate to put a negative slant on all things Heck.FTFY.
Post by: DeKuip on January 05, 2025, 10:40:45 AM
Or any game where everyone with a ticket is even in the ground. This time of year especially with a lot of illness around and it being so much hassle to even pass on re-sell your season ticket now.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on January 05, 2025, 11:02:46 AM
I also can’t believe we still have to have the “attendance quoted includes people who buy a ticket but don’t come” discussion.
It must be right there as one of the most clarified things on here.
Post by: VillaTim on January 05, 2025, 11:07:17 AM
I bet there’s not a single moment within a game when everyone is at their seat.I know it's pretty much all season tickets only in that middle section of the lower trinity but there were empty seats dotted about it so my take was people had been put off by the arctic conditions or were on holiday / doing other stuff etc .
Or any game where everyone with a ticket is even in the ground. This time of year especially with a lot of illness around and it being so much hassle to even pass on re-sell your season ticket now.
Post by: DB on January 05, 2025, 11:39:57 AM
Empty seats in the lower Trinity were just before half time when a lot of fans leave their seats early. A lot of nitpicking from some fans desperate to put a negative slant on all things Villa. I’ve been going to the Villa since the late ‘70s and this is the biggest consistent support we’ve had in all that time.
Exactly. I was in the lower Trinity. The odd 1 around me but certainly not loads. Some people just want to kick the club.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on January 05, 2025, 11:49:28 AM
Post by: john e on January 05, 2025, 11:57:35 AM
Because it was my daughters who couldn’t go yesterday, tried to get rid of the ticket but no takers
The ground look pretty full to me yesterday to be honest
But that’s fuck all to do with Chris heck he’s an absolute twat who will have done more harm than good by the time he leaves
all you guys and gals wearing the ‘he’s just doing his job’ T-shirt can fuck right off he’s a dangerous man destroying parts of the fan base
Post by: VillaTim on January 05, 2025, 12:04:20 PM
For clarity I don’t. I’m just telling you what I saw. I cannot put any more context on it than that. It looked like a pocket by the tunnel. Maybe they all are fans of bovril and no one else around that area is. Maybe they all needed to empty their bowels at exactly the same time. I simply don’t know.Just watched the 3 min official premier league highlights reel . On 5 seconds in there's a good view of the lower trinity the block right of the dugout and there's a smattering of empty seats . Then either side of the tunnel there are large pockets of empties , perhaps these are Hecks GA + seats
Post by: AV82EC on January 05, 2025, 12:11:14 PM
There was an empty seat next to me
Because it was my daughters who couldn’t go yesterday, tried to get rid of the ticket but no takers
The ground look pretty full to me yesterday to be honest
But that’s fuck all to do with Chris heck he’s an absolute twat who will have done more harm than good by the time he leaves
all you guys and gals wearing the ‘he’s just doing his job’ T-shirt can fuck right off he’s a dangerous man destroying parts of the fan base
I don’t think anyone is denying he’s a twat John and what he’s doing to the fan base it’s just that it gets very tiring explaining to people that NOT every empty seat is down to a decision he’s made. I’ve left my seat empty once this season as I forgot to put it back on sale and my son couldn’t go but that’s hardly Heck’s fault.
Post by: Clampy on January 05, 2025, 12:12:00 PM
There was an empty seat next to me
Because it was my daughters who couldn’t go yesterday, tried to get rid of the ticket but no takers
The ground look pretty full to me yesterday to be honest
But that’s fuck all to do with Chris heck he’s an absolute twat who will have done more harm than good by the time he leaves
all you guys and gals wearing the ‘he’s just doing his job’ T-shirt can fuck right off he’s a dangerous man destroying parts of the fan base
How many Champions League games have you been to John out of interest?
Post by: rob_bridge on January 05, 2025, 12:18:11 PM
Empty seats in the lower Trinity were just before half time when a lot of fans leave their seats early. A lot of nitpicking from some fans desperate to put a negative slant on all things Villa. I’ve been going to the Villa since the late ‘70s and this is the biggest consistent support we’ve had in all that time.
Correct - what did we top out at under O'Neil about 38-39k.
Even at the inception of Prem League when we were a bigger draw than most high 20k was norm.
Post by: john e on January 05, 2025, 12:33:53 PM
There was an empty seat next to me
Because it was my daughters who couldn’t go yesterday, tried to get rid of the ticket but no takers
The ground look pretty full to me yesterday to be honest
But that’s fuck all to do with Chris heck he’s an absolute twat who will have done more harm than good by the time he leaves
all you guys and gals wearing the ‘he’s just doing his job’ T-shirt can fuck right off he’s a dangerous man destroying parts of the fan base
How many Champions League games have you been to John out of interest?
All the home ones so far
Post by: Louzie0 on January 05, 2025, 12:37:21 PM
I’m not suggesting there is any shenanigans on your part Lou’. There clearly wasn’t that many at VP today but the club must give those figures.
Not a problem, Brend’W; there’ve been some surprising figures provided by VP now and then, as I know!
Post by: Clampy on January 05, 2025, 12:43:21 PM
There was an empty seat next to me
Because it was my daughters who couldn’t go yesterday, tried to get rid of the ticket but no takers
The ground look pretty full to me yesterday to be honest
But that’s fuck all to do with Chris heck he’s an absolute twat who will have done more harm than good by the time he leaves
all you guys and gals wearing the ‘he’s just doing his job’ T-shirt can fuck right off he’s a dangerous man destroying parts of the fan base
How many Champions League games have you been to John out of interest?
All the home ones so far
You see, telling people they can 'fuck right off' with their alternative view of what Heck is doing then handing over £80 for a match smacks of hypocrisy.
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 05, 2025, 12:46:11 PM
I think it’s a case of him supporting the Villa and not supporting Heck, I don’t see the hypocracy.There was an empty seat next to me
Because it was my daughters who couldn’t go yesterday, tried to get rid of the ticket but no takers
The ground look pretty full to me yesterday to be honest
But that’s fuck all to do with Chris heck he’s an absolute twat who will have done more harm than good by the time he leaves
all you guys and gals wearing the ‘he’s just doing his job’ T-shirt can fuck right off he’s a dangerous man destroying parts of the fan base
How many Champions League games have you been to John out of interest?
All the home ones so far
You see, telling people they can 'fuck right off' with their alternative view of what Heck is doing then handing over £80 for a match smacks of hypocrisy.
Post by: Clampy on January 05, 2025, 12:47:56 PM
I think it’s a case of him supporting the Villa and not supporting Heck, I don’t see the hypocracy.There was an empty seat next to me
Because it was my daughters who couldn’t go yesterday, tried to get rid of the ticket but no takers
The ground look pretty full to me yesterday to be honest
But that’s fuck all to do with Chris heck he’s an absolute twat who will have done more harm than good by the time he leaves
all you guys and gals wearing the ‘he’s just doing his job’ T-shirt can fuck right off he’s a dangerous man destroying parts of the fan base
How many Champions League games have you been to John out of interest?
All the home ones so far
You see, telling people they can 'fuck right off' with their alternative view of what Heck is doing then handing over £80 for a match smacks of hypocrisy.
That's absolutely fine but don't get uppity with fans who don't agree with you because at the end of the day, he is just doing his job.
Post by: john e on January 05, 2025, 01:03:12 PM
There was an empty seat next to me
Because it was my daughters who couldn’t go yesterday, tried to get rid of the ticket but no takers
The ground look pretty full to me yesterday to be honest
But that’s fuck all to do with Chris heck he’s an absolute twat who will have done more harm than good by the time he leaves
all you guys and gals wearing the ‘he’s just doing his job’ T-shirt can fuck right off he’s a dangerous man destroying parts of the fan base
How many Champions League games have you been to John out of interest?
All the home ones so far
You see, telling people they can 'fuck right off' with their alternative view of what Heck is doing then handing over £80 for a match smacks of hypocrisy.
That’s me being told
Post by: HolteL4 on January 05, 2025, 01:23:50 PM
There was an empty seat next to me
Because it was my daughters who couldn’t go yesterday, tried to get rid of the ticket but no takers
The ground look pretty full to me yesterday to be honest
But that’s fuck all to do with Chris heck he’s an absolute twat who will have done more harm than good by the time he leaves
all you guys and gals wearing the ‘he’s just doing his job’ T-shirt can fuck right off he’s a dangerous man destroying parts of the fan base
How many Champions League games have you been to John out of interest?
All the home ones so far
You see, telling people they can 'fuck right off' with their alternative view of what Heck is doing then handing over £80 for a match smacks of hypocrisy.
Not really, Heck doesn't want season ticket holders at the champions league games he's set that price to try and deter us from buying them. If we don't go in protest then he's done what he set out to do because then the ticket gets sold for £97 instead of £80. So it's a strange protest but the actual protest is to buy your ticket that way you are doing what Heck doesn't want you to do.
The £17 increase from season ticket to non season ticket prices isn't a lot but but if every season ticket holder buys their champions league ticket then that's the best part of £500k that Heck misses out on. So as I've said it's a strange one but the actual protest isn't not buying your ticket it's to buy your ticket because then you're doing what Heck doesn't want.
On a side note is there a reason that attendances have to be announced? Because why does the actual attendance figure matter to us fans. Empty seats don't look good but the figure doesn't really matter to us fans tbh
Post by: Skerra on January 05, 2025, 02:06:50 PM
The attendance on MOTD was stated as 42,450 or thereabouts. Someone is telling porkies.From all the empty seats around me, I’d take at least 1,000 off of that figure. These “false” figures are really not helping me with the “Guess the crowd” competition, God damn it!!
Post by: aj2k77 on January 05, 2025, 02:11:15 PM
Post by: saunders_heroes on January 05, 2025, 02:18:43 PM
There will have been plenty of season ticket holders who didn't go. Anecdotal evidence here but 4 mates didn't bother leaving the pre match pub...
It’s always been like that. God knows why some fans are pointing it out now as if it’s breaking news.
Post by: VillaTim on January 05, 2025, 03:36:28 PM
There will have been plenty of season ticket holders who didn't go. Anecdotal evidence here but 4 mates didn't bother leaving the pre match pub...Which kind of underlines the point I was making, on TV you could see plenty of empty seats in the lower trinity .
Post by: dave.woodhall on January 05, 2025, 03:57:14 PM
Post by: Percy McCarthy on January 05, 2025, 04:05:47 PM
There was an empty seat next to me
Because it was my daughters who couldn’t go yesterday, tried to get rid of the ticket but no takers
The ground look pretty full to me yesterday to be honest
But that’s fuck all to do with Chris heck he’s an absolute twat who will have done more harm than good by the time he leaves
all you guys and gals wearing the ‘he’s just doing his job’ T-shirt can fuck right off he’s a dangerous man destroying parts of the fan base
How many Champions League games have you been to John out of interest?
All the home ones so far
You see, telling people they can 'fuck right off' with their alternative view of what Heck is doing then handing over £80 for a match smacks of hypocrisy.
Not really, Heck doesn't want season ticket holders at the champions league games he's set that price to try and deter us from buying them. If we don't go in protest then he's done what he set out to do because then the ticket gets sold for £97 instead of £80. So it's a strange protest but the actual protest is to buy your ticket that way you are doing what Heck doesn't want you to do.
The £17 increase from season ticket to non season ticket prices isn't a lot but but if every season ticket holder buys their champions league ticket then that's the best part of £500k that Heck misses out on. So as I've said it's a strange one but the actual protest isn't not buying your ticket it's to buy your ticket because then you're doing what Heck doesn't want.
On a side note is there a reason that attendances have to be announced? Because why does the actual attendance figure matter to us fans. Empty seats don't look good but the figure doesn't really matter to us fans tbh
Heck’s not missing out on that £500k mate.
Post by: HolteL4 on January 05, 2025, 08:30:00 PM
There was an empty seat next to me
Because it was my daughters who couldn’t go yesterday, tried to get rid of the ticket but no takers
The ground look pretty full to me yesterday to be honest
But that’s fuck all to do with Chris heck he’s an absolute twat who will have done more harm than good by the time he leaves
all you guys and gals wearing the ‘he’s just doing his job’ T-shirt can fuck right off he’s a dangerous man destroying parts of the fan base
How many Champions League games have you been to John out of interest?
All the home ones so far
You see, telling people they can 'fuck right off' with their alternative view of what Heck is doing then handing over £80 for a match smacks of hypocrisy.
Not really, Heck doesn't want season ticket holders at the champions league games he's set that price to try and deter us from buying them. If we don't go in protest then he's done what he set out to do because then the ticket gets sold for £97 instead of £80. So it's a strange protest but the actual protest is to buy your ticket that way you are doing what Heck doesn't want you to do.
The £17 increase from season ticket to non season ticket prices isn't a lot but but if every season ticket holder buys their champions league ticket then that's the best part of £500k that Heck misses out on. So as I've said it's a strange one but the actual protest isn't not buying your ticket it's to buy your ticket because then you're doing what Heck doesn't want.
On a side note is there a reason that attendances have to be announced? Because why does the actual attendance figure matter to us fans. Empty seats don't look good but the figure doesn't really matter to us fans tbh
Heck’s not missing out on that £500k mate.
He is if every season ticket holder claim their seat for the Champions league game.
He'll get £500k more if none of us season ticket holders claim their seat for the Champions league games.
Not difficult to work out but I'll put it in simple terms for you, season ticket price £80 non season ticket price £97 so that's a difference of £17 so if you times that £17 by the amount of season ticket holders we have that's just under £500k so yes if every season ticket holder claims their champions league ticket Heck does miss out on just under £500k.
Post by: VillaTim on January 05, 2025, 08:33:21 PM
Post by: Meanwood Villa on January 05, 2025, 09:29:34 PM
Post by: HolteL4 on January 05, 2025, 09:50:35 PM
I think the point being made is it's not Heck who personally does or doesn't get the money
Ultimately he will because that extra £500k per game helps him to his £400 million turnover ASAP fuck the long term consequences goal.
Post by: VillaTim on January 05, 2025, 09:53:26 PM
I think the point being made is it's not Heck who personally does or doesn't get the moneyI'd imagine he's on an incentivised rewards package , basic salary plus bonus for achieving certain targets . All speculation but that would be my guess , hence the very aggressive strategy .
Post by: Villatillidie25 on January 05, 2025, 09:53:49 PM
There was an empty seat next to me
Because it was my daughters who couldn’t go yesterday, tried to get rid of the ticket but no takers
The ground look pretty full to me yesterday to be honest
But that’s fuck all to do with Chris heck he’s an absolute twat who will have done more harm than good by the time he leaves
all you guys and gals wearing the ‘he’s just doing his job’ T-shirt can fuck right off he’s a dangerous man destroying parts of the fan base
How many Champions League games have you been to John out of interest?
All the home ones so far
You see, telling people they can 'fuck right off' with their alternative view of what Heck is doing then handing over £80 for a match smacks of hypocrisy.
Not really, Heck doesn't want season ticket holders at the champions league games he's set that price to try and deter us from buying them. If we don't go in protest then he's done what he set out to do because then the ticket gets sold for £97 instead of £80. So it's a strange protest but the actual protest is to buy your ticket that way you are doing what Heck doesn't want you to do.
The £17 increase from season ticket to non season ticket prices isn't a lot but but if every season ticket holder buys their champions league ticket then that's the best part of £500k that Heck misses out on. So as I've said it's a strange one but the actual protest isn't not buying your ticket it's to buy your ticket because then you're doing what Heck doesn't want.
On a side note is there a reason that attendances have to be announced? Because why does the actual attendance figure matter to us fans. Empty seats don't look good but the figure doesn't really matter to us fans tbh
Heck’s not missing out on that £500k mate.
He is if every season ticket holder claim their seat for the Champions league game.
He'll get £500k more if none of us season ticket holders claim their seat for the Champions league games.
Not difficult to work out but I'll put it in simple terms for you, season ticket price £80 non season ticket price £97 so that's a difference of £17 so if you times that £17 by the amount of season ticket holders we have that's just under £500k so yes if every season ticket holder claims their champions league ticket Heck does miss out on just under £500k.
This feels a very strange wagon to hitch yourself too. It’s pretty common for loyalty to be rewarded with discounted prices vs the open market.
Would he rather the extra £17 per ticket? probably but he’d rather £80 than £0. He will have done the maths estimating how many will purchase at £80 and how much demand there will be at £90+ in an attempt to maximise total revenue, which will include the vast majority being sold at £80.
Post by: VillaTim on January 05, 2025, 10:12:52 PM
Loyalty being rewarded !? Are you having a laugh ! Talk to ST holders for decades booted out of seats to make way for new fans . Etc etc etc .There was an empty seat next to me
Because it was my daughters who couldn’t go yesterday, tried to get rid of the ticket but no takers
The ground look pretty full to me yesterday to be honest
But that’s fuck all to do with Chris heck he’s an absolute twat who will have done more harm than good by the time he leaves
all you guys and gals wearing the ‘he’s just doing his job’ T-shirt can fuck right off he’s a dangerous man destroying parts of the fan base
How many Champions League games have you been to John out of interest?
All the home ones so far
You see, telling people they can 'fuck right off' with their alternative view of what Heck is doing then handing over £80 for a match smacks of hypocrisy.
Not really, Heck doesn't want season ticket holders at the champions league games he's set that price to try and deter us from buying them. If we don't go in protest then he's done what he set out to do because then the ticket gets sold for £97 instead of £80. So it's a strange protest but the actual protest is to buy your ticket that way you are doing what Heck doesn't want you to do.
The £17 increase from season ticket to non season ticket prices isn't a lot but but if every season ticket holder buys their champions league ticket then that's the best part of £500k that Heck misses out on. So as I've said it's a strange one but the actual protest isn't not buying your ticket it's to buy your ticket because then you're doing what Heck doesn't want.
On a side note is there a reason that attendances have to be announced? Because why does the actual attendance figure matter to us fans. Empty seats don't look good but the figure doesn't really matter to us fans tbh
Heck’s not missing out on that £500k mate.
He is if every season ticket holder claim their seat for the Champions league game.
He'll get £500k more if none of us season ticket holders claim their seat for the Champions league games.
Not difficult to work out but I'll put it in simple terms for you, season ticket price £80 non season ticket price £97 so that's a difference of £17 so if you times that £17 by the amount of season ticket holders we have that's just under £500k so yes if every season ticket holder claims their champions league ticket Heck does miss out on just under £500k.
This feels a very strange wagon to hitch yourself too. It’s pretty common for loyalty to be rewarded with discounted prices vs the open market.
Would he rather the extra £17 per ticket? probably but he’d rather £80 than £0. He will have done the maths estimating how many will purchase at £80 and how much demand there will be at £90+ in an attempt to maximise total revenue, which will include the vast majority being sold at £80.
Post by: HolteL4 on January 05, 2025, 11:40:59 PM
There was an empty seat next to me
Because it was my daughters who couldn’t go yesterday, tried to get rid of the ticket but no takers
The ground look pretty full to me yesterday to be honest
But that’s fuck all to do with Chris heck he’s an absolute twat who will have done more harm than good by the time he leaves
all you guys and gals wearing the ‘he’s just doing his job’ T-shirt can fuck right off he’s a dangerous man destroying parts of the fan base
How many Champions League games have you been to John out of interest?
All the home ones so far
You see, telling people they can 'fuck right off' with their alternative view of what Heck is doing then handing over £80 for a match smacks of hypocrisy.
Not really, Heck doesn't want season ticket holders at the champions league games he's set that price to try and deter us from buying them. If we don't go in protest then he's done what he set out to do because then the ticket gets sold for £97 instead of £80. So it's a strange protest but the actual protest is to buy your ticket that way you are doing what Heck doesn't want you to do.
The £17 increase from season ticket to non season ticket prices isn't a lot but but if every season ticket holder buys their champions league ticket then that's the best part of £500k that Heck misses out on. So as I've said it's a strange one but the actual protest isn't not buying your ticket it's to buy your ticket because then you're doing what Heck doesn't want.
On a side note is there a reason that attendances have to be announced? Because why does the actual attendance figure matter to us fans. Empty seats don't look good but the figure doesn't really matter to us fans tbh
Heck’s not missing out on that £500k mate.
He is if every season ticket holder claim their seat for the Champions league game.
He'll get £500k more if none of us season ticket holders claim their seat for the Champions league games.
Not difficult to work out but I'll put it in simple terms for you, season ticket price £80 non season ticket price £97 so that's a difference of £17 so if you times that £17 by the amount of season ticket holders we have that's just under £500k so yes if every season ticket holder claims their champions league ticket Heck does miss out on just under £500k.
This feels a very strange wagon to hitch yourself too. It’s pretty common for loyalty to be rewarded with discounted prices vs the open market.
Would he rather the extra £17 per ticket? probably but he’d rather £80 than £0. He will have done the maths estimating how many will purchase at £80 and how much demand there will be at £90+ in an attempt to maximise total revenue, which will include the vast majority being sold at £80.
Where have you been? Heck doesn't give a shit about loyalty his actions prove that, you can bet your last £10 that he'd rather get the extra £17 per game.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on January 06, 2025, 01:50:43 AM
There was an empty seat next to me
Because it was my daughters who couldn’t go yesterday, tried to get rid of the ticket but no takers
The ground look pretty full to me yesterday to be honest
But that’s fuck all to do with Chris heck he’s an absolute twat who will have done more harm than good by the time he leaves
all you guys and gals wearing the ‘he’s just doing his job’ T-shirt can fuck right off he’s a dangerous man destroying parts of the fan base
How many Champions League games have you been to John out of interest?
All the home ones so far
You see, telling people they can 'fuck right off' with their alternative view of what Heck is doing then handing over £80 for a match smacks of hypocrisy.
Not really, Heck doesn't want season ticket holders at the champions league games he's set that price to try and deter us from buying them. If we don't go in protest then he's done what he set out to do because then the ticket gets sold for £97 instead of £80. So it's a strange protest but the actual protest is to buy your ticket that way you are doing what Heck doesn't want you to do.
The £17 increase from season ticket to non season ticket prices isn't a lot but but if every season ticket holder buys their champions league ticket then that's the best part of £500k that Heck misses out on. So as I've said it's a strange one but the actual protest isn't not buying your ticket it's to buy your ticket because then you're doing what Heck doesn't want.
On a side note is there a reason that attendances have to be announced? Because why does the actual attendance figure matter to us fans. Empty seats don't look good but the figure doesn't really matter to us fans tbh
Heck’s not missing out on that £500k mate.
He is if every season ticket holder claim their seat for the Champions league game.
He'll get £500k more if none of us season ticket holders claim their seat for the Champions league games.
Not difficult to work out but I'll put it in simple terms for you, season ticket price £80 non season ticket price £97 so that's a difference of £17 so if you times that £17 by the amount of season ticket holders we have that's just under £500k so yes if every season ticket holder claims their champions league ticket Heck does miss out on just under £500k.
No need for the remedial arithmetic. I’m just pointing out that he doesn’t get it paid into his bank account.
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 06, 2025, 06:49:06 AM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on January 06, 2025, 11:56:50 AM
Liverpool have no category A/B games, cheapest ticket for an adult £9. Top of the League.
Forest..crap revenue, reasonably priced tickets ..2nd in League.
Spurs..eye watering tickets, huge revenue ...crap
Man Utd..revenue to rival the world's best ...crap
Chelsea..spent £1B on players...behind Forest..
Atalanta...top of Serie A..
Post by: pauliewalnuts on January 06, 2025, 12:32:58 PM
Just playing Devil's Advocate here, but do expensive tickets and high revenue = success?
Liverpool have no category A/B games, cheapest ticket for an adult £9. Top of the League.
Forest..crap revenue, reasonably priced tickets ..2nd in League.
Spurs..eye watering tickets, huge revenue ...crap
Man Utd..revenue to rival the world's best ...crap
Chelsea..spent £1B on players...behind Forest..
Atalanta...top of Serie A..
I get your general point and agree, it's no absolute guarantee of success.
However, I would say that, playing devil's advocate, how often are Forest ahead of Chelsea, how often are Man United in the bottom half of the table and this shit, and how often are Atlanta top of Serie A?
If you were looking at the Premier League, for example, you'd really need to look over an extended period of time, and then you'd find that revenue, expenditure and league positions reflect the financials. Esp with things like wage bill.
Post by: HolteL4 on January 06, 2025, 12:41:22 PM
There was an empty seat next to me
Because it was my daughters who couldn’t go yesterday, tried to get rid of the ticket but no takers
The ground look pretty full to me yesterday to be honest
But that’s fuck all to do with Chris heck he’s an absolute twat who will have done more harm than good by the time he leaves
all you guys and gals wearing the ‘he’s just doing his job’ T-shirt can fuck right off he’s a dangerous man destroying parts of the fan base
How many Champions League games have you been to John out of interest?
All the home ones so far
You see, telling people they can 'fuck right off' with their alternative view of what Heck is doing then handing over £80 for a match smacks of hypocrisy.
Not really, Heck doesn't want season ticket holders at the champions league games he's set that price to try and deter us from buying them. If we don't go in protest then he's done what he set out to do because then the ticket gets sold for £97 instead of £80. So it's a strange protest but the actual protest is to buy your ticket that way you are doing what Heck doesn't want you to do.
The £17 increase from season ticket to non season ticket prices isn't a lot but but if every season ticket holder buys their champions league ticket then that's the best part of £500k that Heck misses out on. So as I've said it's a strange one but the actual protest isn't not buying your ticket it's to buy your ticket because then you're doing what Heck doesn't want.
On a side note is there a reason that attendances have to be announced? Because why does the actual attendance figure matter to us fans. Empty seats don't look good but the figure doesn't really matter to us fans tbh
Heck’s not missing out on that £500k mate.
He is if every season ticket holder claim their seat for the Champions league game.
He'll get £500k more if none of us season ticket holders claim their seat for the Champions league games.
Not difficult to work out but I'll put it in simple terms for you, season ticket price £80 non season ticket price £97 so that's a difference of £17 so if you times that £17 by the amount of season ticket holders we have that's just under £500k so yes if every season ticket holder claims their champions league ticket Heck does miss out on just under £500k.
No need for the remedial arithmetic. I’m just pointing out that he doesn’t get it paid into his bank account.
It's all about getting to the magic £400 million turnover so that Heck can get his bonus and run away. £500k extra per champions league game will help that. The £500k obviously doesn't go into his account but the bonus it helps him get does.
End of the day he doesn't care about the damage he's doing between the club and it's fans because he won't be here to long enough for it to bother him. Remember he has form his last job in charge off a Football (soccer) club saw him sacked because he made the relationship between the club and it's fans toxic, sound familiar?
Post by: eamonn on January 06, 2025, 02:40:29 PM
Remedial arithmetic 🤣
Yeah, 11 Plus level at least...
Post by: sid1964 on January 06, 2025, 02:58:02 PM
Post by: Nii Lamptey on January 06, 2025, 03:15:40 PM
The fans on here that are moaning about Heck, how would they get our turnover to the magic £400 million?
I wouldn't call it 'magical', if alienating your fanbase by pricing loyal long term fans out of seeing something they've waited 40 years to witness, is the only way to achieve it. Thinking about it, I've paid nearly half the cost of my season ticket to watch 4 Champions League matches?! Two of which, Bologna and Celtic - An absolute joke at that price, and had it not been something I've waited desperately to see at Villa Park, I would not have parted with a penny.
With the ridiculous amounts of money in football now through TV deals, player transfer fees (*and their salaries), and then expecting fans to be able to pay inflated ticket prices to match (*despite OUR income not rising proportionately), something has to give. The TV deals/prize money is being used for the wrong purpose - It's primary goal should be subsidising fans costs, as without fans, there is no football.
Football is getting greedier, and it feels like authorities outside of football need to get involved now (*ie. The Government), before it eats itself.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on January 06, 2025, 03:20:41 PM
The fans on here that are moaning about Heck, how would they get our turnover to the magic £400 million?
I would simply monetise gratitude, obsequiousness and the knowing of one's place. I would also harness the energy produced by the collective grovelling of working class Tories and sell it to the national grid.
Post by: VillaTim on January 06, 2025, 03:23:44 PM
The fans on here that are moaning about Heck, how would they get our turnover to the magic £400 million?Better sponsorship deals like the big boys do . This is an area Heck and his team should focus on And sweat harder, rather than bleeding the average fan into poverty
Post by: Brend'Watkins on January 06, 2025, 03:36:19 PM
The fans on here that are moaning about Heck, how would they get our turnover to the magic £400 million?
Padded seats and crap food isn't going to achieve it either. Improved capacity 50K to 60K and better sponsorship rates will go someway though. Even so, from where we were to where we are now and expecting that sort of turnover isn't realistic. The main thing that needs to be done is achieving sustained success and a few trophies to keep the demand high. As has been said by many on here, what happens on the pitch reflects nearly everything off it. Heck's poor value range of packages could do more harm than good long term but then, Heck isn't thinking long term.
Post by: DB on January 06, 2025, 03:40:11 PM
The fans on here that are moaning about Heck, how would they get our turnover to the magic £400 million?Better sponsorship deals like the big boys do . This is an area Heck and his team should focus on And sweat harder, rather than bleeding the average fan into poverty
He has to be fair. We are not gonna get deals like the 'big boys' as not a global brand i.e. likes of Liverpool, Citeh, ManaUre etc... we are not there, yet.
Post by: PeterWithe on January 06, 2025, 03:43:21 PM
Post by: HolteL4 on January 06, 2025, 03:47:41 PM
The fans on here that are moaning about Heck, how would they get our turnover to the magic £400 million?
knock the north stand down, have it purpose built to have GA+ in it and because it's in a purpose stand they could charge more than what they are charging because it wouldn't be in a stand that's nearly 50 years old and well passed its best. But then I'd be looking to regularly get £400 million turnover unlike Hecks do it once then run away.
Oh yeah and better sponsorship, for example we haven't got any sponsorship on our pre match warm up tops.
Post by: LeeB on January 06, 2025, 03:58:09 PM
The fans on here that are moaning about Heck, how would they get our turnover to the magic £400 million?
I'd make your season ticket alone cost £200m.
Post by: Brend'Watkins on January 06, 2025, 04:16:12 PM
The fans on here that are moaning about Heck, how would they get our turnover to the magic £400 million?
I'd make your season ticket alone cost £200m.
The quote fail apart, that gave me the first good laugh of the day.
Post by: Villan82 on January 06, 2025, 04:27:55 PM
The fans on here that are moaning about Heck, how would they get our turnover to the magic £400 million?
knock the north stand down, have it purpose built to have GA+ in it and because it's in a purpose stand they could charge more than what they are charging because it wouldn't be in a stand that's nearly 50 years old and well passed its best. But then I'd be looking to regularly get £400 million turnover unlike Hecks do it once then run away.
Oh yeah and better sponsorship, for example we haven't got any sponsorship on our pre match warm up tops.
This.
Post by: john e on January 06, 2025, 05:05:23 PM
The fans on here that are moaning about Heck, how would they get our turnover to the magic £400 million?
Hope the moaners don’t go to the games hypocrites if they do apparently
Post by: Gareth on January 06, 2025, 05:47:17 PM
I hate Heck and most of what he is implementing at the club, I go to all home games, I hate the choice of game for the anniversary celebration, I’m going to the gameThe fans on here that are moaning about Heck, how would they get our turnover to the magic £400 million?
Hope the moaners don’t go to the games hypocrites if they do apparently
I’ll join you on the hypocrite step John
Post by: john e on January 06, 2025, 05:58:44 PM
I hate Heck and most of what he is implementing at the club, I go to all home games, I hate the choice of game for the anniversary celebration, I’m going to the gameThe fans on here that are moaning about Heck, how would they get our turnover to the magic £400 million?
Hope the moaners don’t go to the games hypocrites if they do apparently
I’ll join you on the hypocrite step John
Your welcome mate
It’s a big step
Post by: pauliewalnuts on January 06, 2025, 06:58:04 PM
The fans on here that are moaning about Heck, how would they get our turnover to the magic £400 million?
I'd make your season ticket alone cost £200m.
Agree
Instant multi million pound price tag for anyone born in 1964.
Post by: amfy on January 06, 2025, 07:15:31 PM
The fans on here that are moaning about Heck, how would they get our turnover to the magic £400 million?
I wouldn't call it 'magical', if alienating your fanbase by pricing loyal long term fans out of seeing something they've waited 40 years to witness, is the only way to achieve it. Thinking about it, I've paid nearly half the cost of my season ticket to watch 4 Champions League matches?! Two of which, Bologna and Celtic - An absolute joke at that price, and had it not been something I've waited desperately to see at Villa Park, I would not have parted with a penny.
With the ridiculous amounts of money in football now through TV deals, player transfer fees (*and their salaries), and then expecting fans to be able to pay inflated ticket prices to match (*despite OUR income not rising proportionately), something has to give. The TV deals/prize money is being used for the wrong purpose - It's primary goal should be subsidising fans costs, as without fans, there is no football.
Football is getting greedier, and it feels like authorities outside of football need to get involved now (*ie. The Government), before it eats itself.
See this is the thing. When anyone says that female footballers shouldn’t be paid the same as male footballers because their game doesn’t generate the income the male game does, they are absolutely right.
The bit they are missing is that male footballers are being paid wages that their game doesn’t generate either, & so they keep squeezing us to try and find that money.
Whilst they allow some clubs to continue with money they haven’t generated from their support, but not others, we will continue to price out people who would support the club through thick & thin, & try to stagger onwards with people who will cough up now out of loyalty but won't be able to afford it indefinitely, combined with people who can afford it but eventually won’t want to because they weren’t that committed in the first place.
The problem is with the game overall, I honestly believe that until and example has been made of Man City, the entire game is on self destruct. In fact, we’re almost certainly already past the tipping point.
Post by: jon collett on January 06, 2025, 07:20:52 PM
Bit of a contrast with our prices.
I do wonder if one of the reasons we are doing so well in Champions League is because we pay our players so much more than the likes of Bologna, Leipzig, Young Boys and even Juventus. I assume Bayern do pay more than us?
Sky seems to have created a different ecosystem here which is why the continentals were keen to form a super league!
Post by: Sexual Ealing on January 06, 2025, 07:23:53 PM
Post by: john e on January 06, 2025, 08:10:22 PM
The fans on here that are moaning about Heck, how would they get our turnover to the magic £400 million?
I wouldn't call it 'magical', if alienating your fanbase by pricing loyal long term fans out of seeing something they've waited 40 years to witness, is the only way to achieve it. Thinking about it, I've paid nearly half the cost of my season ticket to watch 4 Champions League matches?! Two of which, Bologna and Celtic - An absolute joke at that price, and had it not been something I've waited desperately to see at Villa Park, I would not have parted with a penny.
With the ridiculous amounts of money in football now through TV deals, player transfer fees (*and their salaries), and then expecting fans to be able to pay inflated ticket prices to match (*despite OUR income not rising proportionately), something has to give. The TV deals/prize money is being used for the wrong purpose - It's primary goal should be subsidising fans costs, as without fans, there is no football.
Football is getting greedier, and it feels like authorities outside of football need to get involved now (*ie. The Government), before it eats itself.
See this is the thing. When anyone says that female footballers shouldn’t be paid the same as male footballers because their game doesn’t generate the income the make game does, they are absolutely right.
The bit they are missing is that male footballers are being paid wages that their game doesn’t generate either, & so they keep squeezing us to try and find that money.
Whilst they allow some clubs to continue with money they haven’t generated from their support, but not others, we will continue to price out people who would support the club through thick & thin, & try to stagger onwards with people who will cough up now out of loyalty but won't be able to afford it indefinitely, combined with people who can afford it but eventually won’t want to because they weren’t that committed in the first place.
The problem is with the game overall, I honestly believe that until and example has been made of Man City, the entire game is on self destruct. In fact, we’re almost certainly already past the tipping point.
Agree, Great post
Post by: Dante Lavelli on January 08, 2025, 07:10:07 AM
Just playing Devil's Advocate here, but do expensive tickets and high revenue = success?
Liverpool have no category A/B games, cheapest ticket for an adult £9. Top of the League.
Forest..crap revenue, reasonably priced tickets ..2nd in League.
Spurs..eye watering tickets, huge revenue ...crap
Man Utd..revenue to rival the world's best ...crap
Chelsea..spent £1B on players...behind Forest..
Atalanta...top of Serie A..
Boffins have previously stated the strongest correlation between success/failure is wages. You might fluke it for a while but eventually the improving players will demand a rise or leave to get one.
Post by: Ian. on January 08, 2025, 07:13:12 AM
The fans on here that are moaning about Heck, how would they get our turnover to the magic £400 million?
I wouldn't call it 'magical', if alienating your fanbase by pricing loyal long term fans out of seeing something they've waited 40 years to witness, is the only way to achieve it. Thinking about it, I've paid nearly half the cost of my season ticket to watch 4 Champions League matches?! Two of which, Bologna and Celtic - An absolute joke at that price, and had it not been something I've waited desperately to see at Villa Park, I would not have parted with a penny.
With the ridiculous amounts of money in football now through TV deals, player transfer fees (*and their salaries), and then expecting fans to be able to pay inflated ticket prices to match (*despite OUR income not rising proportionately), something has to give. The TV deals/prize money is being used for the wrong purpose - It's primary goal should be subsidising fans costs, as without fans, there is no football.
Football is getting greedier, and it feels like authorities outside of football need to get involved now (*ie. The Government), before it eats itself.
See this is the thing. When anyone says that female footballers shouldn’t be paid the same as male footballers because their game doesn’t generate the income the male game does, they are absolutely right.
The bit they are missing is that male footballers are being paid wages that their game doesn’t generate either, & so they keep squeezing us to try and find that money.
Whilst they allow some clubs to continue with money they haven’t generated from their support, but not others, we will continue to price out people who would support the club through thick & thin, & try to stagger onwards with people who will cough up now out of loyalty but won't be able to afford it indefinitely, combined with people who can afford it but eventually won’t want to because they weren’t that committed in the first place.
The problem is with the game overall, I honestly believe that until and example has been made of Man City, the entire game is on self destruct. In fact, we’re almost certainly already past the tipping point.
Excellent post Amfy
Post by: Towser on January 08, 2025, 07:44:06 AM
Quote from: amfy
Brilliant post amfy, the bold bit is where I am, currently paying almost £1k each for me and my Wife, I am 65 this year, retirement is next year, I am sure I wont be able to afford it once we retire, even if we still want to go, been going since 1972, used to go home, away everywhere, stopped the away games a few years ago and fear our home attendances will also be stopping in the next couple of years, goodness knows how much a ticket will be next year but I am guessing it will be over £1k each
See this is the thing. When anyone says that female footballers shouldn’t be paid the same as male footballers because their game doesn’t generate the income the male game does, they are absolutely right.
The bit they are missing is that male footballers are being paid wages that their game doesn’t generate either, & so they keep squeezing us to try and find that money.
Whilst they allow some clubs to continue with money they haven’t generated from their support, but not others, we will continue to price out people who would support the club through thick & thin, & try to stagger onwards with people who will cough up now out of loyalty but won't be able to afford it indefinitely, combined with people who can afford it but eventually won’t want to because they weren’t that committed in the first place.
The problem is with the game overall, I honestly believe that until and example has been made of Man City, the entire game is on self destruct. In fact, we’re almost certainly already past the tipping point.
Edited to add, please can we win the FA Cup before I stop going?
Post by: The Edge on January 08, 2025, 08:27:58 AM
Applause 👏🏻The fans on here that are moaning about Heck, how would they get our turnover to the magic £400 million?
I would simply monetise gratitude, obsequiousness and the knowing of one's place. I would also harness the energy produced by the collective grovelling of working class Tories and sell it to the national grid.
Post by: Brend'Watkins on January 08, 2025, 11:31:47 AM
The fans on here that are moaning about Heck, how would they get our turnover to the magic £400 million?
I wouldn't call it 'magical', if alienating your fanbase by pricing loyal long term fans out of seeing something they've waited 40 years to witness, is the only way to achieve it. Thinking about it, I've paid nearly half the cost of my season ticket to watch 4 Champions League matches?! Two of which, Bologna and Celtic - An absolute joke at that price, and had it not been something I've waited desperately to see at Villa Park, I would not have parted with a penny.
With the ridiculous amounts of money in football now through TV deals, player transfer fees (*and their salaries), and then expecting fans to be able to pay inflated ticket prices to match (*despite OUR income not rising proportionately), something has to give. The TV deals/prize money is being used for the wrong purpose - It's primary goal should be subsidising fans costs, as without fans, there is no football.
Football is getting greedier, and it feels like authorities outside of football need to get involved now (*ie. The Government), before it eats itself.
See this is the thing. When anyone says that female footballers shouldn’t be paid the same as male footballers because their game doesn’t generate the income the male game does, they are absolutely right.
The bit they are missing is that male footballers are being paid wages that their game doesn’t generate either, & so they keep squeezing us to try and find that money.
Whilst they allow some clubs to continue with money they haven’t generated from their support, but not others, we will continue to price out people who would support the club through thick & thin, & try to stagger onwards with people who will cough up now out of loyalty but won't be able to afford it indefinitely, combined with people who can afford it but eventually won’t want to because they weren’t that committed in the first place.
The problem is with the game overall, I honestly believe that until and example has been made of Man City, the entire game is on self destruct. In fact, we’re almost certainly already past the tipping point.
Your post is good Amfy. I agree with a lot of it. I also agree to an extent with the paragraph highlighted.
For many years, 20+ at least we've been predicting the self destruction of the game. It hasn't happened, in fact, our support has got stronger. We even discussed the lack of younger fans at games and the average age being 40 something when we (some of us) were 40 something. It's probably 40 something these days too but there are plenty of younger fans....almost as though they suddenly appeared and they seem just as, or more committed than we did 30 or 40 years ago despite their need to participate in computer games. Talk of 'tipping points' 'football eating itself' and the like is all based around the self belief that our time is the important time, the datum line that we should plan the future progress of the club on. It isn't.
Post by: algy on January 08, 2025, 11:55:34 AM
(applause)The fans on here that are moaning about Heck, how would they get our turnover to the magic £400 million?
I wouldn't call it 'magical', if alienating your fanbase by pricing loyal long term fans out of seeing something they've waited 40 years to witness, is the only way to achieve it. Thinking about it, I've paid nearly half the cost of my season ticket to watch 4 Champions League matches?! Two of which, Bologna and Celtic - An absolute joke at that price, and had it not been something I've waited desperately to see at Villa Park, I would not have parted with a penny.
With the ridiculous amounts of money in football now through TV deals, player transfer fees (*and their salaries), and then expecting fans to be able to pay inflated ticket prices to match (*despite OUR income not rising proportionately), something has to give. The TV deals/prize money is being used for the wrong purpose - It's primary goal should be subsidising fans costs, as without fans, there is no football.
Football is getting greedier, and it feels like authorities outside of football need to get involved now (*ie. The Government), before it eats itself.
See this is the thing. When anyone says that female footballers shouldn’t be paid the same as male footballers because their game doesn’t generate the income the male game does, they are absolutely right.
The bit they are missing is that male footballers are being paid wages that their game doesn’t generate either, & so they keep squeezing us to try and find that money.
Whilst they allow some clubs to continue with money they haven’t generated from their support, but not others, we will continue to price out people who would support the club through thick & thin, & try to stagger onwards with people who will cough up now out of loyalty but won't be able to afford it indefinitely, combined with people who can afford it but eventually won’t want to because they weren’t that committed in the first place.
The problem is with the game overall, I honestly believe that until and example has been made of Man City, the entire game is on self destruct. In fact, we’re almost certainly already past the tipping point.
Post by: paul_e on January 08, 2025, 01:15:07 PM
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on January 11, 2025, 11:42:10 PM
Post by: andyh on January 11, 2025, 11:52:39 PM
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on January 12, 2025, 12:14:20 AM
Post by: Gareth on January 12, 2025, 11:12:15 AM
The fuckers were in my seat so bollocks to ‘em.Correct :-)
Post by: Drummond on January 12, 2025, 04:53:55 PM
I didn’t know where else to put this but I’ve just watched a West Ham blog from the game. Loads of them didn’t get in until 15 minutes after kick off due to problems with malfunctioning turnstiles. Now I’ve no particular sympathy with those twats but yet another example of issues off the pitch.
They probably just couldn't scan their tickets properly.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on January 12, 2025, 04:59:49 PM
I didn’t know where else to put this but I’ve just watched a West Ham blog from the game. Loads of them didn’t get in until 15 minutes after kick off due to problems with malfunctioning turnstiles. Now I’ve no particular sympathy with those twats but yet another example of issues off the pitch.
They probably just couldn't scan their tickets properly.
Probably though having just one turnstile open for the whole of the upper away section possibly didn't help. Plus they should have turned up at least an hour earlier.
Post by: eamonn on January 12, 2025, 07:01:25 PM
The fuckers were in my seat so bollocks to ‘em.
My old man said be a Hammers fan?
Post by: Max Villan on March 12, 2025, 06:46:03 PM
The recent Trump nonsense shows how far removed we are from these people.
We need to get them out of our sport if not our country.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on March 12, 2025, 06:53:08 PM
Serious question, how do we get this American fuck out of our club?
The recent Trump nonsense shows how far removed we are from these people.
We need to get them out of our sport if not our country.
Do you want Wes to go before or after him?
Post by: Max Villan on March 12, 2025, 06:56:24 PM
Serious question, how do we get this American fuck out of our club?
The recent Trump nonsense shows how far removed we are from these people.
We need to get them out of our sport if not our country.
Do you want Wes to go before or after him?
I'm fine with him going at the same time.
Post by: charlatan on March 12, 2025, 06:57:53 PM
Post by: Max Villan on March 12, 2025, 06:59:32 PM
Post by: rob_bridge on March 12, 2025, 07:03:40 PM
Serious question, how do we get this American fuck out of our club?
The recent Trump nonsense shows how far removed we are from these people.
We need to get them out of our sport if not our country.
Sigh.
He will leave when his contract expires. Probably move to a similar job elsewhere in sportosphere
Post by: Max Villan on March 12, 2025, 07:05:12 PM
Thanks for a complete non entity of a reply.
Post by: rob_bridge on March 12, 2025, 07:19:59 PM
Sigh.A serious question it wasn't.
Thanks for a complete non entity of a reply.
He'll leave when his contract is up probably with a huge bonus if turnover breaks the $500m annual.
Do you have any ideas how to remove him? He's appointed not elected. You can write to the owners I suppose.
Enjoy the match.
Post by: Max Villan on March 12, 2025, 07:33:39 PM
Post by: Olneythelonely on March 13, 2025, 09:25:47 AM
Im comfortable with not selling our soul to those ultra capitalistic fucks. Chris heck is what he is but he has permission from our owners. So I'm cool with the American influence being fucked off.
What about the Egyptian influence?
Post by: rob_bridge on March 13, 2025, 09:54:53 AM
Im comfortable with not selling our soul to those ultra capitalistic fucks. Chris heck is what he is but he has permission from our owners. So I'm cool with the American influence being fucked off.
What about the Egyptian influence?
And the Basque. And French. And .......
Post by: LeeB on March 13, 2025, 10:10:26 AM
Im comfortable with not selling our soul to those ultra capitalistic fucks. Chris heck is what he is but he has permission from our owners. So I'm cool with the American influence being fucked off.
What about the Egyptian influence?
The Egyptians are a great bunch of lads.
Post by: Olneythelonely on March 13, 2025, 10:20:30 AM
Im comfortable with not selling our soul to those ultra capitalistic fucks. Chris heck is what he is but he has permission from our owners. So I'm cool with the American influence being fucked off.
What about the Egyptian influence?
The Egyptians are a great bunch of lads.
Pharaoh-nough
Post by: Brazilian Villain on March 13, 2025, 10:56:59 AM
Surprising call from Max. Time for a VAR CHeck.
Qualifying for the CL quarter-finals and potentially the FA Cup semi-finals isn't for everyone. Some people would simply prefer to be in the EFL Trophy final, as long as they haven't *checks notes* 'sold their soul'.
Post by: Max Villan on March 13, 2025, 11:02:22 AM
Post by: Witton Warrior on March 13, 2025, 11:57:08 AM
I guess if you're a TV supporter, all is good currently, so I won't begrudge you that.
No need for that is there. We try not to do "I'm a better fan than yo"
Post by: Brazilian Villain on March 13, 2025, 12:04:13 PM
I guess if you're a TV supporter, all is good currently, so I won't begrudge you that.
No need for that is there. We try not to do "I'm a better fan than yo"
I wasn't sure if he was referring to Toronto Villa or TelfordVilla.
Post by: Max Villan on March 13, 2025, 12:06:05 PM
I guess if you're a TV supporter, all is good currently, so I won't begrudge you that.
No need for that is there. We try not to do "I'm a better fan than yo"
You could just as easily interpret his post as conveying the same message.
The location has nothing to do with it either, it's generally easier to identify people who don't go to matches as they're typically neutral at the very least about Chris Heck. Going to matches doesn't make you a better fan, but it does highlight just how little Heck cares about the fan base more than if you don't attend.
Brushing off people's concerns because we have a great manager does nothing to address this. Where do we go once Unai leaves?
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on March 13, 2025, 12:33:02 PM
Post by: Lucky Eddie on March 13, 2025, 12:44:10 PM
I guess if you're a TV supporter, all is good currently, so I won't begrudge you that.
No need for that is there. We try not to do "I'm a better fan than yo"
He's right though
Post by: AV82EC on March 13, 2025, 01:42:53 PM
I guess if you're a TV supporter, all is good currently, so I won't begrudge you that.
No need for that is there. We try not to do "I'm a better fan than yo"
You could just as easily interpret his post as conveying the same message.
The location has nothing to do with it either, it's generally easier to identify people who don't go to matches as they're typically neutral at the very least about Chris Heck. Going to matches doesn't make you a better fan, but it does highlight just how little Heck cares about the fan base more than if you don't attend.
Brushing off people's concerns because we have a great manager does nothing to address this. Where do we go once Unai leaves?
I go to plenty of matches thanks and I’m neutral on Chris Heck so stop making vague generalisations about the fanbase.
Post by: Billy Walker on March 13, 2025, 01:43:37 PM
Serious question, how do we get this American fuck out of our club?
The recent Trump nonsense shows how far removed we are from these people.
We need to get them out of our sport if not our country.
Where would you rank Chris Heck, in terms of communication/revenue generation/ambition/vision etc. out of the following:
Doug Ellis/Steve Stride/Tony Stephens/Abdul Rashid/,
Tom Fox,
Christian Purslow,
Keith Wyness/Luke Organ,
Paul Faulkner
(I can't think of any others...)
Whilst Heck isn't brilliant at the warm and cuddly communication, I think he is on a completely different level in regards to the rest. I don't want him out, so in regards to the "How do WE get him out the club?" question, I have to politey say you don't speak for me, Max.
Post by: PeterWithe on March 13, 2025, 01:47:44 PM
Post by: Max Villan on March 13, 2025, 01:50:04 PM
I guess if you're a TV supporter, all is good currently, so I won't begrudge you that.
No need for that is there. We try not to do "I'm a better fan than yo"
You could just as easily interpret his post as conveying the same message.
The location has nothing to do with it either, it's generally easier to identify people who don't go to matches as they're typically neutral at the very least about Chris Heck. Going to matches doesn't make you a better fan, but it does highlight just how little Heck cares about the fan base more than if you don't attend.
Brushing off people's concerns because we have a great manager does nothing to address this. Where do we go once Unai leaves?
I go to plenty of matches thanks and I’m neutral on Chris Heck so stop making vague generalisations about the fanbase.
I said attending matches highlights the issues.
If they don't cause you issues then good for you, I'm glad you're alright Jack.
Post by: Max Villan on March 13, 2025, 01:52:20 PM
Serious question, how do we get this American fuck out of our club?
The recent Trump nonsense shows how far removed we are from these people.
We need to get them out of our sport if not our country.
Where would you rank Chris Heck, in terms of communication/revenue generation/ambition/vision etc. out of the following:
Doug Ellis/Steve Stride/Tony Stephens/Abdul Rashid/,
Tom Fox,
Christian Purslow,
Keith Wyness/Luke Organ,
Paul Faulkner
(I can't think of any others...)
Whilst Heck isn't brilliant at the warm and cuddly communication, I think he is on a completely different level in regards to the rest. I don't want him out, so in regards to the "How do WE get him out the club?" question, I have to politey say you don't speak for me, Max.
So your answer is you do nothing as you're happy. See, it wasn't hard was it.
Post by: Max Villan on March 13, 2025, 02:02:50 PM
Interesting question, none of the others were selling a 'product' that was in the most high profile club competition in the World. If you are judging Heck on just his ability to generate revenue, as I reckon the owners are, then he's done brilliantly, but that cant be looked at in isolation apart from what UE has given him to sell.
It's exactly this.
I don't think it's a hard sell with Villa right now, and that's because we have a great manager.
The sentiment here seems to be everything off the field at the club is great, fantastic right now, so I'll respect your opinions and leave you to it.
Let's see how it holds up.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on March 13, 2025, 02:19:55 PM
The sentiment here seems to be everything off the field at the club is great, fantastic right now
I have no idea what makes you think that. Read this thread back further than the recent interactions you had, there has been absolutely tons of criticism of off field stuff. This thread almost entirely consists of people who do not think everything is great off the field.
Post by: villadelph on March 13, 2025, 02:34:34 PM
Serious question, how do we get this American fuck out of our club?
The recent Trump nonsense shows how far removed we are from these people.
We need to get them out of our sport if not our country.
Where would you rank Chris Heck, in terms of communication/revenue generation/ambition/vision etc. out of the following:
Doug Ellis/Steve Stride/Tony Stephens/Abdul Rashid/,
Tom Fox,
Christian Purslow,
Keith Wyness/Luke Organ,
Paul Faulkner
(I can't think of any others...)
Whilst Heck isn't brilliant at the warm and cuddly communication, I think he is on a completely different level in regards to the rest. I don't want him out, so in regards to the "How do WE get him out the club?" question, I have to politey say you don't speak for me, Max.
So your answer is you do nothing as you're happy. See, it wasn't hard was it.
I'm curious.. what's your answer to his question?
Post by: UK Redsox on March 13, 2025, 02:37:23 PM
Serious question, how do we get this American fuck out of our club?
The recent Trump nonsense shows how far removed we are from these people.
We need to get them out of our sport if not our country.
Where would you rank Chris Heck, in terms of communication/revenue generation/ambition/vision etc. out of the following:
Doug Ellis/Steve Stride/Tony Stephens/Abdul Rashid/,
Tom Fox,
Christian Purslow,
Keith Wyness/Luke Organ,
Paul Faulkner
(I can't think of any others...)
Whilst Heck isn't brilliant at the warm and cuddly communication, I think he is on a completely different level in regards to the rest. I don't want him out, so in regards to the "How do WE get him out the club?" question, I have to politey say you don't speak for me, Max.
So your answer is you do nothing as you're happy. See, it wasn't hard was it.
I'm curious.. what's your answer to his question?
42
Post by: paul_e on March 13, 2025, 02:40:15 PM
The sentiment here seems to be everything off the field at the club is great, fantastic right now
I have no idea what makes you think that. Read this thread back further than the recent interactions you had, there has been absolutely tons of criticism of off field stuff. This thread almost entirely consists of people who do not think everything is great off the field.
However most are understanding that He isn't doing it entirely on his own and doing what is requested of him by the board. Edens and Sawiris then have more than enough credit in the bank wth most supporters to be considered as good owners, even by those of us who think Billionaires shouldn't exist.
Post by: Max Villan on March 13, 2025, 02:53:32 PM
Serious question, how do we get this American fuck out of our club?
The recent Trump nonsense shows how far removed we are from these people.
We need to get them out of our sport if not our country.
Where would you rank Chris Heck, in terms of communication/revenue generation/ambition/vision etc. out of the following:
Doug Ellis/Steve Stride/Tony Stephens/Abdul Rashid/,
Tom Fox,
Christian Purslow,
Keith Wyness/Luke Organ,
Paul Faulkner
(I can't think of any others...)
Whilst Heck isn't brilliant at the warm and cuddly communication, I think he is on a completely different level in regards to the rest. I don't want him out, so in regards to the "How do WE get him out the club?" question, I have to politey say you don't speak for me, Max.
So your answer is you do nothing as you're happy. See, it wasn't hard was it.
I'm curious.. what's your answer to his question?
I'd rank him below Christian Purslow, that's my preference.
The others were pretty terrible, I'm happy enough to accept that. It doesn't change my personal opinion on Chris Heck and the contempt he holds supporters in. Most of the others, for all their faults, at least pretended not to.
It is possible to have a middle ground between the two you know (as I thought Purslow was).
Post by: algy on March 13, 2025, 03:15:43 PM
I mean, everything's a piece of piss when it's not you doing the work for it. I think running the country is a piece of piss, and to be frank even Steven Gerrard could get us to at least the Quarter Finals of the European Cup, cos that's what we always do when we're allowed to play in it. Just like we always beat Bayern Munich when they play them, so they must be really shit.Interesting question, none of the others were selling a 'product' that was in the most high profile club competition in the World. If you are judging Heck on just his ability to generate revenue, as I reckon the owners are, then he's done brilliantly, but that cant be looked at in isolation apart from what UE has given him to sell.
It's exactly this.
I don't think it's a hard sell with Villa right now, and that's because we have a great manager.
The sentiment here seems to be everything off the field at the club is great, fantastic right now, so I'll respect your opinions and leave you to it.
Let's see how it holds up.
You see what I mean? I'm not saying Heck is good or bad or whatever, but I think you can't really write off stuff as being easy just on the basis that the team is doing well on the pitch.
Personally, I've no strong feelings on the guy, just as I've no strong feelings on the CEO of Tesco or whatever.
Post by: Billy Walker on March 13, 2025, 03:20:00 PM
I guess if you're a TV supporter, all is good currently, so I won't begrudge you that.
No need for that is there. We try not to do "I'm a better fan than yo"
You could just as easily interpret his post as conveying the same message.
The location has nothing to do with it either, it's generally easier to identify people who don't go to matches as they're typically neutral at the very least about Chris Heck. Going to matches doesn't make you a better fan, but it does highlight just how little Heck cares about the fan base more than if you don't attend.
Brushing off people's concerns because we have a great manager does nothing to address this. Where do we go once Unai leaves?
I go to plenty of matches thanks and I’m neutral on Chris Heck so stop making vague generalisations about the fanbase.
I said attending matches highlights the issues.
If they don't cause you issues then good for you, I'm glad you're alright Jack.
Interesting question, none of the others were selling a 'product' that was in the most high profile club competition in the World. If you are judging Heck on just his ability to generate revenue, as I reckon the owners are, then he's done brilliantly, but that cant be looked at in isolation apart from what UE has given him to sell.
True, but this is the point, I think. The owners have ambition on and off the pitch and really want to grow the Club, hence someone like Heck has been appointed at a time when someone like Unai is our boss. You're right to say Unai is the driver of it all but top business people are required to harness it, I think. Both appointments show genuine ambition from the owners.
Post by: Billy Walker on March 13, 2025, 03:25:32 PM
Serious question, how do we get this American fuck out of our club?
The recent Trump nonsense shows how far removed we are from these people.
We need to get them out of our sport if not our country.
Where would you rank Chris Heck, in terms of communication/revenue generation/ambition/vision etc. out of the following:
Doug Ellis/Steve Stride/Tony Stephens/Abdul Rashid/,
Tom Fox,
Christian Purslow,
Keith Wyness/Luke Organ,
Paul Faulkner
(I can't think of any others...)
Whilst Heck isn't brilliant at the warm and cuddly communication, I think he is on a completely different level in regards to the rest. I don't want him out, so in regards to the "How do WE get him out the club?" question, I have to politey say you don't speak for me, Max.
So your answer is you do nothing as you're happy. See, it wasn't hard was it.
I'm curious.. what's your answer to his question?
I'd rank him below Christian Purslow, that's my preference.
The others were pretty terrible, I'm happy enough to accept that. It doesn't change my personal opinion on Chris Heck and the contempt he holds supporters in. Most of the others, for all their faults, at least pretended not to.
It is possible to have a middle ground between the two you know (as I thought Purslow was).
Yeah, I was big fan of Purslow, too - mind you, some of the stick he got was shocking, as well. It's the kind of job where you are there to be shot at.
Post by: Max Villan on March 13, 2025, 03:37:37 PM
Serious question, how do we get this American fuck out of our club?
The recent Trump nonsense shows how far removed we are from these people.
We need to get them out of our sport if not our country.
Where would you rank Chris Heck, in terms of communication/revenue generation/ambition/vision etc. out of the following:
Doug Ellis/Steve Stride/Tony Stephens/Abdul Rashid/,
Tom Fox,
Christian Purslow,
Keith Wyness/Luke Organ,
Paul Faulkner
(I can't think of any others...)
Whilst Heck isn't brilliant at the warm and cuddly communication, I think he is on a completely different level in regards to the rest. I don't want him out, so in regards to the "How do WE get him out the club?" question, I have to politey say you don't speak for me, Max.
So your answer is you do nothing as you're happy. See, it wasn't hard was it.
I'm curious.. what's your answer to his question?
I'd rank him below Christian Purslow, that's my preference.
The others were pretty terrible, I'm happy enough to accept that. It doesn't change my personal opinion on Chris Heck and the contempt he holds supporters in. Most of the others, for all their faults, at least pretended not to.
It is possible to have a middle ground between the two you know (as I thought Purslow was).
Yeah, I was big fan of Purslow, too - mind you, some of the stick he got was shocking, as well. It's the kind of job where you are there to be shot at.
I think a lot of people would point to the Gerrard appointment as a big red flag for him, which is possibly fair - but if Emery was to leave tomorrow, it wouldn't be Heck replacing him, so it's not really a fair comparison.
Purslow laid down the foundations for where we are now and I think a lot of the people who criticised him then maybe have different opinions now. Or maybe they dont.
Post by: eamonn on March 13, 2025, 03:38:35 PM
Post by: Footy-Vill on March 13, 2025, 03:38:44 PM
By the way that’s likely to be Christian Purslow.
He’ll be having a say and making the rules for what can and cannot go on.
I don’t know if that means taking back control by the English people and investors and maybe have to see at least a minority share holder who is British or resides in UK as part of every Prem Club?
Post by: Sexual Ealing on March 13, 2025, 03:40:09 PM
Post by: Sexual Ealing on March 13, 2025, 03:41:47 PM
*snip*
I'd rank him below Christian Purslow, that's my preference.
The others were pretty terrible, I'm happy enough to accept that. It doesn't change my personal opinion on Chris Heck and the contempt he holds supporters in. Most of the others, for all their faults, at least pretended not to.
It is possible to have a middle ground between the two you know (as I thought Purslow was).
[/quote]
Yeah, I was big fan of Purslow, too - mind you, some of the stick he got was shocking, as well. It's the kind of job where you are there to be shot at.
[/quote]
I think a lot of people would point to the Gerrard appointment as a big red flag for him, which is possibly fair - but if Emery was to leave tomorrow, it wouldn't be Heck replacing him, so it's not really a fair comparison.
Purslow laid down the foundations for where we are now and I think a lot of the people who criticised him then maybe have different opinions now. Or maybe they dont.
[/quote]
I don't.
I'm no fan of the current prick either.
Post by: LeeB on March 13, 2025, 03:41:49 PM
.
Somebody else made this point earlier but it bears repeating.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on March 13, 2025, 03:42:17 PM
Post by: Des Little on March 13, 2025, 10:05:14 PM
Post by: rob_bridge on March 13, 2025, 10:56:43 PM
Max, you're usually a lot less pissed off on your successful Villa On Tour vlog.
Have you got a link to the vlog please?
I'd like to see Max's stuff. I may have seen it already
Post by: LeeB on March 14, 2025, 09:27:03 AM
Heck is a smug little shit, and I can’t bear the sight of him. I fully get why he’s here, and his modus operandi. To me he’s the face of this new money-above-all approach to football and that’s probably my problem as much as anything.
He doesn't really stir up any emotions for me, mostly because of the last sentence. If it wasn't him it would be someone else.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on March 14, 2025, 04:07:33 PM
'Fake it 'til you make it' seems to be his motto and deep down he knows he's out of his depth, his thin skin shows when he either ignores (fans groups) or files any questioning of his methods and decisions as "very anti-American". He's a man child.
I still think he's a twat but it has nothing to do with his nationality. Quite the opposite in fact.
Post by: Max Villan on March 14, 2025, 04:25:54 PM
Well done, Max. I'm sure Heck has filed your post away in the empty box titled 'Very anti-American'. He must be delighted.'Fake it 'til you make it' seems to be his motto and deep down he knows he's out of his depth, his thin skin shows when he either ignores (fans groups) or files any questioning of his methods and decisions as "very anti-American". He's a man child.
I still think he's a twat but it has nothing to do with his nationality. Quite the opposite in fact.
I wonder why there are anti american sentiments right now....
I'm also sure Heck wouldn't give a shit either way.
Post by: algy on March 14, 2025, 04:29:38 PM
Assume it's this one: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsmMoJWRUvORmLnhOcOZpvw/videosMax, you're usually a lot less pissed off on your successful Villa On Tour vlog.
Have you got a link to the vlog please?
I'd like to see Max's stuff. I may have seen it already
I stumble across those videos from time to time - they're pretty good IMO
Post by: Max Villan on March 14, 2025, 04:30:38 PM
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on March 14, 2025, 05:18:37 PM
Well done, Max. I'm sure Heck has filed your post away in the empty box titled 'Very anti-American'. He must be delighted.'Fake it 'til you make it' seems to be his motto and deep down he knows he's out of his depth, his thin skin shows when he either ignores (fans groups) or files any questioning of his methods and decisions as "very anti-American". He's a man child.
I still think he's a twat but it has nothing to do with his nationality. Quite the opposite in fact.
I wonder why there are anti american sentiments right now....
I'm also sure Heck wouldn't give a shit either way.
Are there anti American sentiments right now? Not that I've seen unless you are confusing anti-Trump with anti-American. Certainly the Canadians aren't blaming the Americans for Trump and his tariffs. Ukraine? Trump again, not Americans. My guess is you either don't know or have never met any Americans or you're PFE. Either way it's a bit embarrassing.
Post by: Max Villan on March 14, 2025, 06:39:18 PM
Well done, Max. I'm sure Heck has filed your post away in the empty box titled 'Very anti-American'. He must be delighted.'Fake it 'til you make it' seems to be his motto and deep down he knows he's out of his depth, his thin skin shows when he either ignores (fans groups) or files any questioning of his methods and decisions as "very anti-American". He's a man child.
I still think he's a twat but it has nothing to do with his nationality. Quite the opposite in fact.
I wonder why there are anti american sentiments right now....
I'm also sure Heck wouldn't give a shit either way.
Are there anti American sentiments right now? Not that I've seen unless you are confusing anti-Trump with anti-American. Certainly the Canadians aren't blaming the Americans for Trump and his tariffs. Ukraine? Trump again, not Americans. My guess is you either don't know or have never met any Americans or you're PFE. Either way it's a bit embarrassing.
Right, and the reason he's in power was a pure coincidence ;D
Have a good weekend pal, I don't have to justify anything to you.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on March 14, 2025, 07:17:31 PM
Have a good weekend pal, I don't have to justify anything to you.
Ever thought message boards might not be 'for you'?
Post by: Max Villan on March 14, 2025, 07:22:25 PM
Have a good weekend pal, I don't have to justify anything to you.
Ever thought message boards might not be 'for you'?
This one certainly seems that way! Look, I'm not really on here for arguments with Villa fans, a lot don't agree with what I said so I've already said I'm happy to respect their opinions, except for when I get snippy responses like the one I've responded to.
I've got mine and I'm happy it's justifiable. Up the Villa.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on March 14, 2025, 07:23:45 PM
Have a good weekend pal, I don't have to justify anything to you.
Ever thought message boards might not be 'for you'?
This one certainly seems that way! Look, I'm not really on here for arguments with Villa fans, a lot don't agree with what I said so I've already said I'm happy to respect their opinions.
I've got mine and I'm happy it's justifiable. Up the Villa.
Of course, it is, it was just the justify comment. Of course you don't.
I've been here 20 years and don't give a shit what any of these cnuts think.
Post by: Max Villan on March 14, 2025, 07:25:08 PM
Have a good weekend pal, I don't have to justify anything to you.
Ever thought message boards might not be 'for you'?
This one certainly seems that way! Look, I'm not really on here for arguments with Villa fans, a lot don't agree with what I said so I've already said I'm happy to respect their opinions.
I've got mine and I'm happy it's justifiable. Up the Villa.
Of course, it is, it was just the justify comment. Of course you don't.
I've been here 20 years and don't give a shit what any of these cnuts think.
Fair enough - I'll stick to posting about Villa from now on, it was a spur of the moment thing about Heck, I don't like him, but he's certainly not worth arguing with fellow Villa fans over.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on March 14, 2025, 07:26:28 PM
There's basically only TorontoVilla who likes him.
Post by: usav on March 14, 2025, 07:31:35 PM
Right, and the reason he's in power was a pure coincidence ;D
It's actually because less than a third of eligible voters voted for him, and just over two thirds did not.
Post by: Max Villan on March 14, 2025, 07:33:29 PM
Right, and the reason he's in power was a pure coincidence ;D
It's actually because less than a third of eligible voters voted for him, and just over two thirds did not.
Hmmm, do you have the figures on how many actually voted for somebody other than Trump, rather than didn't vote at all.
I just don't think you can categorically say people were anti trump just because they didn't vote at all.
Edit: and just a further clarification on my american comments, it was based specifically on the ultra capitalistic types of americans, you know the types who voted Trump. I dont know who Heck voted for, but it's hard to say he's not a part of that group.
Of course there's many decent americans, but they're not typically ultra wealthy and involved in premier league football.
Post by: usav on March 14, 2025, 07:51:41 PM
Post by: Small Rodent on March 14, 2025, 07:58:01 PM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on March 14, 2025, 08:04:13 PM
Of course there's many decent americans, but they're not typically ultra wealthy and involved in premier league football.
The owner of Blues is a decent bloke, but he isn't involved in Premier League football.
Post by: Max Villan on March 14, 2025, 08:10:47 PM
Football has always been about money. That’s why Villa created the League.
Ok it's a fair point. Where do you draw the line though? Or is anything fair game then?
We can easily just accept anything thrown at us in life with such justifications. Football fans are the reason the product it is what is, and english culture is also a big part of that. Destroy too much ans you'll have a soulless husk of a sport.
Post by: Toronto Villa on March 16, 2025, 06:27:49 AM
Not liking Heck is, ironically, probably the most commonly agreed-with thing on here tbh.
There's basically only TorontoVilla who likes him.
I don’t have a like or dislike for him. I just find it funny and have pointed out how many will criticize him, yet never the owners for his decisions as if he is working in some sort of magical vacuum. All the good things he’s done are exclusively NSWE and all the bad decisions are all him.
Post by: ChicagoLion on March 16, 2025, 07:04:01 AM
Decent bloke? Primary Blazer wearing Mouthy Yank promising the earth to a gullible and desperate section of society.Of course there's many decent americans, but they're not typically ultra wealthy and involved in premier league football.
The owner of Blues is a decent bloke, but he isn't involved in Premier League football.
Post by: Mister E on March 16, 2025, 09:55:45 AM
Football has always been about money. That’s why Villa created the League.is it?
Post by: LeeB on March 16, 2025, 09:58:47 AM
Primarily yeah, they couldn't budget on a cup run and friendlies against teams that would fail to turn up.Football has always been about money. That’s why Villa created the League.is it?
Post by: colin69 on March 16, 2025, 12:11:18 PM
Post by: algy on March 16, 2025, 01:36:03 PM
I doubt he was brought into the club to win friends. The fact he is American is irrelevant.This. Whoever does that job, their main goal is to bring $$$ in … and that’s mostly going to come through fans’ pockets, which is rarely likely to be popular.
Post by: dave.woodhall on March 16, 2025, 02:36:22 PM
Post by: jon collett on March 16, 2025, 02:38:46 PM
Which brings me onto something I've thought before. Would the board of the 1890s have done the same as Heck, given the opportunity?
He’s certainly of his time.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on March 16, 2025, 02:44:06 PM
Post by: Hookeysmith on March 16, 2025, 03:55:14 PM
They brought in turnstiles to make more money, as said the league was to make more money, we moved ground to make more money, we made illegal payments to players. Football has always been about money.
As is every business surely? Its not just football is it?
Post by: Toronto Villa on March 16, 2025, 04:17:56 PM
They brought in turnstiles to make more money, as said the league was to make more money, we moved ground to make more money, we made illegal payments to players. Football has always been about money.
As is every business surely? Its not just football is it?
Exactly. There is an obvious shitness to what he’s doing or how he’s doing it. But until our commercial revenues from non supporter related spending is at a high enough level it’s inevitable things like match day prices/season tickets will go up. And this argument of the regular fan being priced out has been going on for decades. Heck isn’t the kind of bloke I would want to work for, but he’s doing a job, sometimes as unpopular as it is to get us to the point of not having to sell our best players all the time. I want us to keep Rashford and Asensio so we enjoy great football and compete at the business end of everything. It’s just not easy to get there without some fans feeling a bit betrayed or left behind.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on March 16, 2025, 04:55:27 PM
They brought in turnstiles to make more money, as said the league was to make more money, we moved ground to make more money, we made illegal payments to players. Football has always been about money.
As is every business surely? Its not just football is it?
Yes. No.
Which is why I haven't said otherwise.
Post by: rooboy316 on March 17, 2025, 10:03:19 AM
They brought in turnstiles to make more money, as said the league was to make more money, we moved ground to make more money, we made illegal payments to players. Football has always been about money.
As is every business surely? Its not just football is it?
The difference is that other businesses* don’t tug at the heartstrings, embed themselves as part of the fabric of society, evoke a deep, visceral sense of passion and loyalty, and then exploit that position to maximise revenue (at a significant social cost).
*Other than the business of selling drugs, I spose.
Post by: ChicagoLion on March 17, 2025, 10:07:18 AM
They brought in turnstiles to make more money, as said the league was to make more money, we moved ground to make more money, we made illegal payments to players. Football has always been about money.
As is every business surely? Its not just football is it?
The difference is that other businesses* don’t tug at the heartstrings, embed themselves as part of the fabric of society, evoke a deep, visceral sense of passion and loyalty, and then exploit that position to maximise revenue (at a significant social cost).
You have never met an Avon Lady?
Post by: Des Little on March 17, 2025, 10:42:32 AM
Post by: sid1964 on March 17, 2025, 12:24:29 PM
Post by: ChicagoLion on March 17, 2025, 05:41:02 PM
How does the next person in the role after Heck leaves keep increasing turnover without increasing admission prices?I would expect that if the success on the field trajectory continues then more lucrative and longer sponsorship deals is one area.
Regarding ticket pricing there will come a point where price and quantity become intrinsically linked.
In economics there is a term called equilibrium pricing.
Post by: SaddVillan on March 17, 2025, 06:02:54 PM
Doesn't leave much room for Heck's big earning hospitality seats - assuming season ticket holders in the North Stand "rehomed" in the Holte, Trinity and Witton Lane.
That will surely have a significant impact on revenue?
Post by: FrankyH on March 17, 2025, 06:39:04 PM
They brought in turnstiles to make more money, as said the league was to make more money, we moved ground to make more money, we made illegal payments to players. Football has always been about money.
As is every business surely? Its not just football is it?
The difference is that other businesses* don’t tug at the heartstrings, embed themselves as part of the fabric of society, evoke a deep, visceral sense of passion and loyalty, and then exploit that position to maximise revenue (at a significant social cost).
You have never met an Avon Lady?
Pat Roach was the Avon Lady in Handsworth .................................................. An old Don McLean joke from the 80's.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on March 17, 2025, 07:22:38 PM
If and when we decide to rebuild the North Stand that will reduce the capacity by c 7,000 to roughly 36,000.
Doesn't leave much room for Heck's big earning hospitality seats - assuming season ticket holders in the North Stand "rehomed" in the Holte, Trinity and Witton Lane.
That will surely have a significant impact on revenue?
Depends if he's actually any good at his job. Anybody could have come in and gone for ticket pricing, it was the lowest hanging fruit.
Post by: lovejoy on March 17, 2025, 07:26:52 PM
Post by: andyh on March 17, 2025, 07:38:45 PM
Ultimately, it’s about success on the pitch and the way to go about doing that.
And it really is about that.
We don’t have shareholders who demand a dividend.
We don’t have owners who take a salary or percentage of earnings.
I suspect that every single penny the club makes goes back into the club by way of operating costs and salaries, both paying staff and none playing staff.
We know that our player salaries are at a ridiculously high ratio vs turnover. 90% + ?.
Yet, we demand better players. We demand the better players are given contract extensions.
Being brutally honest about it, players earning £100k+ per week are the reason we need to keep increasing revenue.
The only people making serious money are players and agents.
And someone has to pay for them.
Yes, Heck appears to be out of step with the grass roots supporters. He has made some horrendous decisions and I am sure there are more to come.
But is seems to me that drive to increase revenue, increase available funds, is to buy and retain the best players to try and give US the success we crave.
Is not to pay dividends and salaries to people who don’t really care as long as they get paid.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on March 17, 2025, 07:45:18 PM
Do we sometimes lose sight of the reason behind everything that goes on at the club ?
Ultimately, it’s about success on the pitch and the way to go about doing that.
And it really is about that.
We don’t have shareholders who demand a dividend.
We don’t have owners who take a salary or percentage of earnings.
I suspect that every single penny the club makes goes back into the club by way of operating costs and salaries, both paying staff and none playing staff.
We know that our player salaries are at a ridiculously high ratio vs turnover. 90% + ?.
Yet, we demand better players. We demand the better players are given contract extensions.
Being brutally honest about it, players earning £100k+ per week are the reason we need to keep increasing revenue.
The only people making serious money are players and agents.
And someone has to pay for them.
Yes, Heck appears to be out of step with the grass roots supporters. He has made some horrendous decisions and I am sure there are more to come.
But is seems to me that drive to increase revenue, increase available funds, is to buy and retain the best players to try and give US the success we crave.
Is not to pay dividends and salaries to people who don’t really care as long as they get paid.
You make a good point, andyh. On the other hand, he's got a face like a beagle's arse and there are some things you just don't get past.
Post by: andyh on March 17, 2025, 08:02:04 PM
To be fair, I think he’s uglier than that
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on March 17, 2025, 09:54:59 PM
Surely this is a case of supply and demand. If he overcharges for tickets then the ground becomes emptier. As it is currently full increasing prices makes (business) sense.
No offence Lovejoy but there's so much I hate and wrong about this statement. It relies on dismissing the loyal, often generational support who up until now have made our club and Villa Park so special being replaced by anybody willing to pay the price to watch a/any PL/CL game. Oscar Wilde's “(Heck) knows the price of everything and the value of nothing” or at least that's how he appears until now, just following the trend of exploiting loyal fans. When that bubble bursts, and it will one day, what's going to be left?
Looking to the future, the way I see it is we need a 60,000 capacity stadium that would see two thirds of tickets (40,000) being allocated for season ticket holders. Sensible pricing, a family ticket option and concessions for kids (u16) and senior citizens. The remaining 20,000 tickets can go to away fans (3.500) and the rest (16.500) for Villa club members (concessions apply) and day trippers.
As the old proverb goes, 'a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush'. Build on your existing support, the solid foundation. Plus there are numerous alternatives to increasing our revenue not to mention reducing our costs.
Post by: eamonn on March 18, 2025, 12:02:11 AM
Right now, our approach is akin to an Avon lady with a boot full of heroin.
My Marilyn, come to my slum for an hour.
Post by: Somniloquism on March 18, 2025, 09:37:07 AM
If and when we decide to rebuild the North Stand that will reduce the capacity by c 7,000 to roughly 36,000.
Doesn't leave much room for Heck's big earning hospitality seats - assuming season ticket holders in the North Stand "rehomed" in the Holte, Trinity and Witton Lane.
That will surely have a significant impact on revenue?
We are allowed to knock off the losses of a stadium rebuild based on the average revenue the stand brings in over the last few years. So the work to drop extra GA+ and seats in the NS last season was to improve the money coming in, which we can then use in PSR calculations. Yes it will have an impact on Revenue, but the revenue gains are there to help improve the team going forward so far.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on March 22, 2025, 03:57:07 PM
Quote
Around 400 people have attended a community Iftar meal held at Aston's Villa's football stadium during Ramadan.
The Open Iftar, external saw members of the local community gather to break their fast together at Villa Park's Holte End on Friday evening.
The free event, organised by charity Ramadan Tent Project, is one of dozens taking place throughout the Islamic holy month, where Muslims fast everyday from dawn to sunset.
Sam Ghataora, EDI lead at Aston Villa, said the club wanted to create a space for all cultures by "celebrating the spirit of Ramadan through shared meals".
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c1d411geee5o
Post by: LeeB on March 22, 2025, 04:44:00 PM
Do we sometimes lose sight of the reason behind everything that goes on at the club ?
Ultimately, it’s about success on the pitch and the way to go about doing that.
And it really is about that.
We don’t have shareholders who demand a dividend.
We don’t have owners who take a salary or percentage of earnings.
I suspect that every single penny the club makes goes back into the club by way of operating costs and salaries, both paying staff and none playing staff.
We know that our player salaries are at a ridiculously high ratio vs turnover. 90% + ?.
Yet, we demand better players. We demand the better players are given contract extensions.
Being brutally honest about it, players earning £100k+ per week are the reason we need to keep increasing revenue.
The only people making serious money are players and agents.
And someone has to pay for them.
Yes, Heck appears to be out of step with the grass roots supporters. He has made some horrendous decisions and I am sure there are more to come.
But is seems to me that drive to increase revenue, increase available funds, is to buy and retain the best players to try and give US the success we crave.
Is not to pay dividends and salaries to people who don’t really care as long as they get paid.
You make a good point, andyh. On the other hand, he's got a face like a beagle's arse and there are some things you just don't get past.
As a proud owner of a beagle I'd like to take issue with this as his arse is stately is comparison to most other breeds.
Post by: paul_e on March 22, 2025, 05:08:23 PM
Wasn't sure where else to put thisQuoteAround 400 people have attended a community Iftar meal held at Aston's Villa's football stadium during Ramadan.
The Open Iftar, external saw members of the local community gather to break their fast together at Villa Park's Holte End on Friday evening.
The free event, organised by charity Ramadan Tent Project, is one of dozens taking place throughout the Islamic holy month, where Muslims fast everyday from dawn to sunset.
Sam Ghataora, EDI lead at Aston Villa, said the club wanted to create a space for all cultures by "celebrating the spirit of Ramadan through shared meals".
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c1d411geee5o
I think this is exactly the sort of things we should do more of once the warehouse is up and running, these sort of community and cultural events are a great way of making people in the area see the benefits of having the club where it is and the cost for us is tiny.
Post by: IFWaters on March 22, 2025, 05:23:35 PM
Post by: Villan82 on March 22, 2025, 05:37:08 PM
I just hated the way the previous decision was communicated and was hard to swallow on top of the pricing etc.
I still think a new stand would be a neater solution than an expanded North but it at least would get us to 50k which is where we have needed to be for some time
Post by: algy on March 22, 2025, 06:43:21 PM
Agree totally.Wasn't sure where else to put thisQuoteAround 400 people have attended a community Iftar meal held at Aston's Villa's football stadium during Ramadan.
The Open Iftar, external saw members of the local community gather to break their fast together at Villa Park's Holte End on Friday evening.
The free event, organised by charity Ramadan Tent Project, is one of dozens taking place throughout the Islamic holy month, where Muslims fast everyday from dawn to sunset.
Sam Ghataora, EDI lead at Aston Villa, said the club wanted to create a space for all cultures by "celebrating the spirit of Ramadan through shared meals".
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c1d411geee5o
I think this is exactly the sort of things we should do more of once the warehouse is up and running, these sort of community and cultural events are a great way of making people in the area see the benefits of having the club where it is and the cost for us is tiny.
Post by: Des Little on March 22, 2025, 10:07:17 PM
Post by: Des Little on March 22, 2025, 10:09:21 PM
If, and it is a big if, the rumours of a belated north stand expansion prove to be genuine, I will wipe the slate clean on Heck.
I just hated the way the previous decision was communicated and was hard to swallow on top of the pricing etc.
I still think a new stand would be a neater solution than an expanded North but it at least would get us to 50k which is where we have needed to be for some time
You do understand that very few (if any) additional seats will be made available to the great unwashed don’t you?
Post by: DB on March 23, 2025, 09:34:40 AM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on March 23, 2025, 02:15:39 PM
Liverpool's new stand, the upper tier is basically all posh seats.And if you've noticed the atmosphere there is the worse for it. Hospitality is fine and has been around for decades, but if we are not careful filling the ground with the vol au vent brigade and tourists will turn stadiums into a Baseball match, where people turn up and graze on junk food and soft drinks for hours, while in the background some sport is being played unnoticed.
Post by: DB on March 23, 2025, 03:06:57 PM
Liverpool's new stand, the upper tier is basically all posh seats.And if you've noticed the atmosphere there is the worse for it. Hospitality is fine and has been around for decades, but if we are not careful filling the ground with the vol au vent brigade and tourists will turn stadiums into a Baseball match, where people turn up and graze on junk food and soft drinks for hours, while in the background some sport is being played unnoticed.
Absolutely, you don’t hear many Scouse accents.
Post by: Ads on March 23, 2025, 03:17:30 PM
Post by: Rory on March 23, 2025, 03:18:10 PM
I've never known a good atmosphere at Anfield.
Look who's back!
Post by: VILLA MOLE on March 23, 2025, 03:54:07 PM
I've never known a good atmosphere at Anfield.
Look who's back!
Back again !
Post by: saunders_heroes on March 23, 2025, 04:22:54 PM
I've never known a good atmosphere at Anfield.
Yep. Ridiculously overrated.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on March 23, 2025, 04:26:05 PM
Post by: Tayls_7 on March 23, 2025, 04:35:44 PM
What's that wonderful song they murmur repeatedly? Something like "Liv-er-pool, liv-er-pool, liv-er-pool, liv-er-pool".
Marvellous stuff.
Post by: eamonn on March 23, 2025, 04:39:43 PM
I've never known a good atmosphere at Anfield.
Look who's back!
Back again !
Now we're just missing Risso, Dogtanian, BE and we can restore the forum to some semblance of former grandeur (Mazrim, his Bruv, Fletcher, SeattleVillain, Saranyu, Dave Cooper, Can I Play Daddy? and Peter W all still required for a full restoration of hegemony).
Post by: algy on March 23, 2025, 06:34:54 PM
Post by: VillaTim on March 23, 2025, 07:51:39 PM
Post by: rob_bridge on March 24, 2025, 02:19:44 PM
It's based on 'big European nights'. Because they are the only club that has a good atmosphere for such games. Well apart from every other club in Europe.
Even Old Trafford can stir occasionally on a big European night.
Most grounds are pretty flat most of the time.
Fair enough Palace in the past, Luton last season and Forest now when they first get promoted or have a modicum of success. It usually fades over time.
Post by: Villan82 on March 24, 2025, 02:42:52 PM
If, and it is a big if, the rumours of a belated north stand expansion prove to be genuine, I will wipe the slate clean on Heck.
I just hated the way the previous decision was communicated and was hard to swallow on top of the pricing etc.
I still think a new stand would be a neater solution than an expanded North but it at least would get us to 50k which is where we have needed to be for some time
You do understand that very few (if any) additional seats will be made available to the great unwashed don’t you?
Well, that remains to be seen. if legitimate, the new proposal looks a lot more basic and a lot less corporate. Besides, that is beside the point. If we want to keep growing as a club we have to grow revenues and we have to keep up with clubs around us.
The worst option of all is standing still with the stadium as that will limit what we can do and/or make them squeeze everybody even more in the medium-term.
Post by: Hookeysmith on March 24, 2025, 03:50:59 PM
After seeing the writhing masses in the Kop on TV i was so disappointed how small it was to see it in the flesh - they must of used a very good camera angle to make it look different to what it actually was.
The Stretford end was the same and only in the League cup replay did i realise that there was seating in the top part of it.
Horrible places to go to as back then the "locals" were not a very nice bunch at all - grown men asking to mind your car knowing full well if you told them to sod off there would be not a lot of your car left when you came out.
The famous scouse "Got the time la" to establish if you were an away fan before the mob descended on you.
Not the cheeky chappy scallywags as portrayed in the media - quite the opposite.
Unlike now if the closed the M62 / Airport there would be no one in there.
Post by: jon collett on March 24, 2025, 03:55:06 PM
Post by: eamonn on March 24, 2025, 03:56:50 PM
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on March 24, 2025, 04:01:13 PM
It's based on 'big European nights'. Because they are the only club that has a good atmosphere for such games. Well apart from every other club in Europe.
Most grounds are pretty flat most of the time.
This is it for me, particularly in the top flight, most grounds atmosphere is very 'meh', including our own. If you're not winning or playing poorly, it's pretty much the same wherever you are. Being an away fan will always be better in terms of atmosphere, and I really miss those days.
Post by: jon collett on March 24, 2025, 04:03:40 PM
Anfield was the legacy of Liverpool not being historically a big club. Not even the biggest in Liverpool.
Smallish main stand. Kemlyn Road hemmed in by housing. The Kop was fairly compressed.
They certainly knew how to hype themselves under Shankley. And then later genuinely started winning things consistently.
Anfield is so tightly hemmed in it can’t be used for major championships because the pitch is too narrow.
Post by: Three Spires Villa on March 24, 2025, 04:47:02 PM
Do the old bill in the away end still have the big wooden sticks at Anfield . What fun that used to be .
Definitely at Everton and both Sheffield grounds
Post by: London Villan on March 24, 2025, 04:50:51 PM
Post by: Clampy on March 24, 2025, 05:05:47 PM
"Night sticks"
Didn't The Commodores sing that?
Post by: London Villan on March 24, 2025, 05:30:17 PM
Post by: Rico on March 24, 2025, 06:07:45 PM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on March 24, 2025, 11:46:30 PM
Post by: dcdavecollett on March 25, 2025, 02:01:04 AM
Your kids are into health foods even though your name is the equivalent of three chip butties?
Post by: ChicagoLion on March 25, 2025, 06:20:40 AM
The warehouse will start off being free to STs, then once they have people using it they will introduce GA+
Post by: Des Little on March 25, 2025, 09:36:24 AM
Post by: Clampy on March 25, 2025, 09:42:54 AM
Post by: sid1964 on March 25, 2025, 10:51:30 AM
Post by: AV82EC on March 25, 2025, 10:52:25 AM
Post by: Des Little on March 25, 2025, 11:13:05 AM
Post by: ChicagoLion on March 25, 2025, 11:18:48 AM
But the GA offering is just crap.
Post by: LeeB on March 25, 2025, 11:46:08 AM
I wouldn't mind paying a reasonable amount for somewhere if you can get out of the weather, a seat, drink and something to eat without queuing for ever like the Holte Suites interminable line to get food.
But the GA offering is just crap.
It's a good half an hour brisk walk, but I can go to the Hockley Social and enjoy significantly better food and drink in much more pleasant surrounds and for a fraction of the price.
Post by: Brend'Watkins on March 25, 2025, 12:04:45 PM
I'm an old misery, but paying to go into a pub blows my mind. No thanks.
I've never been to the Witton Arms since it's become home fans only, I believe they are incredibly strict about this too. Charging to get in is a bit of a cheek but it does seem to be very popular so I guess it must be worth it as I've heard it's good fun in there. There is a paucity of decent and even non decent pubs around the ground which must be music to Heck's ears. The Bartons is great apart from the first hour after the game when the service there is the worst it's ever been.
Post by: dave.woodhall on March 25, 2025, 12:16:00 PM
Post by: VillaTim on March 25, 2025, 12:40:28 PM
Drinking / Eating in town is probably the best bet then share a cab to B6.
Post by: Chris Smith on March 25, 2025, 12:53:28 PM
The reason people pay is because they're told they have you. Society in general has become accustomed to paying for everything.
They charge at the Aston Tavern but the entrance fee covers you for food, usually a choice of curry, Chinese or chilli.
Post by: AV82EC on March 25, 2025, 01:21:42 PM
I don’t go there every time but other than the queues for beer and toilets it’s a good atmosphere.
Post by: dave.woodhall on March 25, 2025, 03:45:29 PM
I’ve no objection in the Witton as the entry fee probably covers the security and all the Live Sport channels they have to subscribe to!! That Big screen in there is absolutely effing massive as well and must have cost a fortune.
I don’t go there every time but other than the queues for beer and toilets it’s a good atmosphere.
The bar takings pay for all that.
Post by: Hookeysmith on March 25, 2025, 04:52:32 PM
We only go in there early but still think the food and drink offerings are pretty good. The DJ can be a bit loud (as i am old and not used to it) but the old fella plays a good selection.
Post by: Ducksworthy on March 27, 2025, 02:08:42 PM
https://x.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1905258589393997930
Post by: LeeB on March 27, 2025, 02:18:52 PM
Another concert - Chris Brown coming to Villa Park. We seem to be on the circuit now which is good - enter stage left people saying “never heard of him!”
https://x.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1905258589393997930
That's a shame, he's a scumbag.
Post by: SaddVillan on March 27, 2025, 02:20:36 PM
Post by: Hookeysmith on March 27, 2025, 02:29:58 PM
Could not name you a song mind - but that is as i am an old fucker - same with Kendrick Lamar (although i did see his HT show at the Superbowl) but had never heard a song before. My kids love his stuff :)
When is Perry Como touring?
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on March 27, 2025, 02:36:34 PM
Another concert - Chris Brown coming to Villa Park. We seem to be on the circuit now which is good - enter stage left people saying “never heard of him!”
https://x.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1905258589393997930
That's a shame, he's a scumbag.
A scumbag, who I didn't realise was still a "thing."
Post by: LeeB on March 27, 2025, 02:36:42 PM
I know the name as was he not the guy who slapped his girlfriend Rhianna?
Could not name you a song mind - but that is as i am an old fucker - same with Kendrick Lamar (although i did see his HT show at the Superbowl) but had never heard a song before. My kids love his stuff :)
When is Perry Como touring?
Yeah, and not just once, and there's loads more than that.
We shouldn't be hosting pieces of shit like him.
Post by: SaddVillan on March 27, 2025, 03:21:57 PM
Definitely not the kind of bloke who should be appearing at Villa Park.
Post by: Rotterdam on April 25, 2025, 09:36:32 AM
Post by: London Villan on April 25, 2025, 09:38:54 AM
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on April 25, 2025, 10:05:33 AM
I have it from a reliable source, LIV Golf sniffing around Chris Heck.
His former boss from the Philadelphia 76ers is the new CEO of LIV Golf. Don't let the door hit ya where the good lord spilt ya.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on April 25, 2025, 10:07:44 AM
Post by: Des Little on April 25, 2025, 10:33:01 AM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on April 25, 2025, 10:36:14 AM
I have it from a reliable source, LIV Golf sniffing around Chris Heck.
A little birdie told you?
Post by: Villan82 on April 25, 2025, 10:42:31 AM
Post by: AV82EC on April 25, 2025, 10:58:30 AM
Just as he is on his redemption arc?
Is he? I’ve not been as critical as some on here but he’s still a bit of a wrong’un imv.
Post by: algy on April 25, 2025, 11:04:26 AM
You’re Eagle-eyed on spotting puns today :)I have it from a reliable source, LIV Golf sniffing around Chris Heck.
A little birdie told you?
Post by: dalians umbrella on April 25, 2025, 11:50:32 AM
I have it from a reliable source, LIV Golf sniffing around Chris Heck.
A little birdie told you?
He can LIV right now and golf uck off as far as I'm concerned.
Post by: Chris Smith on April 25, 2025, 11:57:08 AM
Just as he is on his redemption arc?
He still had a fairway to go.
Post by: Gareth on April 25, 2025, 12:00:43 PM
It’ll be bye bye to the bogeymanYou’re Eagle-eyed on spotting puns today :)I have it from a reliable source, LIV Golf sniffing around Chris Heck.
A little birdie told you?
Hope he gets his fore hundred million revenues before he goes
Post by: Brazilian Villain on April 25, 2025, 12:04:22 PM
Post by: PeterWithesShin on April 25, 2025, 12:10:55 PM
Post by: Clampy on April 25, 2025, 12:15:59 PM
Post by: algy on April 25, 2025, 12:22:27 PM
I bet SE and CDBF are loving this golf punathon. I'm surprised they haven't chipped in with one of their own.It’s like an albatross around their neck
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on April 25, 2025, 12:30:01 PM
I have it from a reliable source, LIV Golf sniffing around Chris Heck.I'll DRIVE him there myself
Post by: Border villan on April 25, 2025, 01:05:04 PM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on April 25, 2025, 01:10:21 PM
Post by: Somniloquism on April 25, 2025, 01:56:58 PM
I bet SE and CDBF are loving this golf punathon. I'm surprised they haven't chipped in with one of their own.
I wood think they not happy.
Post by: Drummond on April 25, 2025, 02:22:55 PM
I bet SE and CDBF are loving this golf punathon. I'm surprised they haven't chipped in with one of their own.
I wood think they not happy.
They can join the club. In fact, I'll drive them there myself.
Post by: cdbearsfan on April 25, 2025, 02:28:51 PM
Post by: Monty on April 25, 2025, 02:45:38 PM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on April 25, 2025, 03:33:05 PM
Post by: Somniloquism on April 25, 2025, 04:17:20 PM
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on April 25, 2025, 05:26:48 PM
*Grampa Simpson entering establishment and leaving immediately gif
I think there should be one month bans for people who reuse the same pun. If you're going to do this shit then at least make some sort of effort.
Post by: rob_bridge on April 25, 2025, 05:30:19 PM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on April 25, 2025, 05:30:23 PM
I think there should be one month bans for people who reuse the same pun. If you're going to do this shit then at least make some sort of effort.
I wouldn't even let them take a mulligan.
Post by: SaddVillan on April 25, 2025, 05:36:50 PM
Which he's done - despite our misgivings, the accounts show considerable progress on this front and given that we want to play in the big leagues - that's a fundamental requirement.
He cancelled Purslow's North Stand demolition/rebuild scheme which would have seen us playing in a 36,000 capacity ground for a couple of seasons - with all the related drop in income/atmosphere etc.
He's now announced a new North Stand project - 50k capacity as per Purslow, BUT with the benefit of no reduction in seats/income etc. during the rebuild.
So, on those three points he has, in my view done what he was hired to do.
Now, he may be an objectionable American oik, but you can't knock him for his professional work.
Post by: Somniloquism on April 25, 2025, 05:43:50 PM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on April 25, 2025, 05:47:50 PM
I must not know enough about golf as I can't work out the puns in the above post.
I think 'objectionable American oik' might be a Patrick Reed reference.
Post by: algy on April 25, 2025, 05:49:48 PM
I must not know enough about golf as I can't work out the puns in the above post.You mean you can’t make the links?
Post by: Somniloquism on April 25, 2025, 06:05:25 PM
I must not know enough about golf as I can't work out the puns in the above post.You mean you can’t make the links?
(https://media.tenor.com/skdvdcnrhX8AAAAM/nose-tap-taps-nose-nose-tap.gif)
Post by: frankmosswasmyuncle on April 25, 2025, 06:28:50 PM
That's putting it mildly!I must not know enough about golf as I can't work out the puns in the above post.You mean you can’t make the links?
(https://media.tenor.com/skdvdcnrhX8AAAAM/nose-tap-taps-nose-nose-tap.gif)
Post by: PaulWinch again on April 26, 2025, 09:41:32 PM
Post by: curiousorange on April 30, 2025, 12:51:51 PM
Post by: Tuscans on April 30, 2025, 12:54:37 PM
By Jacob Tanswell
Aston Villa’s president of business operations, Chris Heck, will leave the club at the end of the season.
Heck, who joined in May 2023, has led Villa’s off-field operations and has overseen record revenue, coinciding with Villa’s qualification for the Champions League.
He has led Villa’s concerted efforts to improve revenue and commerical income, leading several different departments. Heck previously worked at NBA side Philadelphia 76ers for nine years as president before holding posts at New York Red Bulls, where he worked president of business operations.
Heck has come under intense scrutiny since joining Villa, owing to expensive ticketing pricing and other stadium issues, including selling season tickets to supporters that did not exist.
The American is set to leave at the end of the season with a replacement to follow.
Post by: Duncan Shaw on April 30, 2025, 12:54:42 PM
Post by: LeeB on April 30, 2025, 12:54:56 PM
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on April 30, 2025, 12:56:50 PM
Post by: Clampy on April 30, 2025, 01:03:15 PM
His replacement will have a tough job on their hands to oversee the sorts of revenue increases he has done. Not that I'm condoning him, but as said earlier, he's done what he was hired to do.
Yes. Some don't like hearing that and take it the wrong way but it's true.
Post by: dave.woodhall on April 30, 2025, 01:03:48 PM
Someone high up at the club apparently put the kybosh on some bullshit 'ultra group' request before the semi final, and if it was Chris then I suggest a staute of him be put up or renaming the Witton Lane in his honour.
Seconded.
Post by: TheToffnar on April 30, 2025, 01:08:05 PM
Edit: Can't help but feel this is a bad omen for the summer...
Post by: ChicagoLion on April 30, 2025, 01:08:44 PM
His replacement will have a tough job on their hands to oversee the sorts of revenue increases he has done.
Particularly with European Conference Football.
Good luck with that.
Post by: PeterWithe on April 30, 2025, 01:09:46 PM
Someone high up at the club apparently put the kybosh on some bullshit 'ultra group' request before the semi final, and if it was Chris then I suggest a staute of him be put up or renaming the Witton Lane in his honour.
There was a lad on the train back talking about this, something to do with flags, I wasn't interested enough to do any serious eavesdropping but his main gripe seemed to be that we'd employed a SHA fan as supporter liason.
Post by: avfcdale on April 30, 2025, 01:13:11 PM
Post by: rob_bridge on April 30, 2025, 01:14:41 PM
His replacement will have a tough job on their hands to oversee the sorts of revenue increases he has done. Not that I'm condoning him, but as said earlier, he's done what he was hired to do.
Yes. Some don't like hearing that and take it the wrong way but it's true.
I understand frustrations of long standing fans at ticket price hikes and dislocation of seats with imprints but our revenue streams compared to others have been dire for decades.
He has changed that mindset with some big wins.
The next one is likely to be even more cut-throat.
Take aside the ECL TV and Prize money, does anyone have an estimate the like for like comparison in revenue 2022/3 to 2024/5.
Post by: john e on April 30, 2025, 01:15:30 PM
His replacement will have a tough job on their hands to oversee the sorts of revenue increases he has done. Not that I'm condoning him, but as said earlier, he's done what he was hired to do.
Yes. Some don't like hearing that and take it the wrong way but it's true.
It’s not true, it’s absolute bollocks
The reason revenues are going to be record levels is not because of Chris heck it’s because of Unai Emery
Champions League alone must’ve brought in 100 million quid
Anyone can charge high prices for Champions League games, but you’ve got to be in the Champions League in the first place and that had fuck all to do with Chris heck
All he did was oversee a ground which was never sold out because he had too many hospitality seats that didn’t sell
He surfed an easy wave of Villa success on the pitch which had nothing to do with him and people on here think he’s Richard Branson
He did nothing but upset the traditional fan base, rinse our pockets because he could, and at the first opportunity piss off
He’s no hero who was just doing his job, he got the fan base wrong, and he got hospitality wrong
He won’t be missed by me
Post by: ChicagoLion on April 30, 2025, 01:17:26 PM
Agree, he just exploited an opportunity by price gouging, nothing clever about that.His replacement will have a tough job on their hands to oversee the sorts of revenue increases he has done. Not that I'm condoning him, but as said earlier, he's done what he was hired to do.
Yes. Some don't like hearing that and take it the wrong way but it's true.
It’s not true, it’s absolute bollocks
The reason revenues are going to be record levels is not because of Chris heck it’s because of Unai Emery
Champions League alone must’ve brought in 100 million quid
Anyone can charge high prices for Champions League games, but you’ve got to be in the Champions League in the first place and that had fuck all to do with Chris heck
All he did was oversee a ground which was never sold out because he had too many hospitality seats that didn’t sell
He surfed an easy wave of Villa success on the pitch which had nothing to do with him and people on here think he’s Richard Branson
He did nothing but upset the traditional fan base, rinse our pockets because he could, and at the first opportunity piss off
He’s no hero who was just doing his job, he got the fan base wrong, and he got hospitality wrong
He won’t be missed by me
Post by: Villa in Denmark on April 30, 2025, 01:18:06 PM
His replacement will have a tough job on their hands to oversee the sorts of revenue increases he has done. Not that I'm condoning him, but as said earlier, he's done what he was hired to do.
Yes. Some don't like hearing that and take it the wrong way but it's true.
It’s not true, it’s absolute bollocks
The reason revenues are going to be record levels is not because of Chris heck it’s because of Unai Emery
Champions League alone must’ve brought in 100 million quid
Anyone can charge high prices for Champions League games, but you’ve got to be in the Champions League in the first place and that had fuck all to do with Chris heck
All he did was oversee a ground which was never sold out because he had too many hospitality seats that didn’t sell
He surfed an easy wave of Villa success on the pitch which had nothing to do with him and people on here think he’s Richard Branson
He did nothing but upset the traditional fan base, rinse our pockets because he could, and at the first opportunity piss off
He’s no hero who was just doing his job, he got the fan base wrong, and he got hospitality wrong
He won’t be missed by me
A self aggrandising twat with a flair for misreading the room?
Post by: Sexual Ealing on April 30, 2025, 01:18:20 PM
Post by: DB on April 30, 2025, 01:18:45 PM
Post by: Sexual Ealing on April 30, 2025, 01:19:43 PM
You don't think the next one won't have same remit?
Obviously they will. And they'll be a twat as well.
Post by: Abbeyfealeavfc on April 30, 2025, 01:19:46 PM
His replacement will have a tough job on their hands to oversee the sorts of revenue increases he has done. Not that I'm condoning him, but as said earlier, he's done what he was hired to do.
Yes. Some don't like hearing that and take it the wrong way but it's true.
It’s not true, it’s absolute bollocks
The reason revenues are going to be record levels is not because of Chris heck it’s because of Unai Emery
Champions League alone must’ve brought in 100 million quid
Anyone can charge high prices for Champions League games, but you’ve got to be in the Champions League in the first place and that had fuck all to do with Chris heck
All he did was oversee a ground which was never sold out because he had too many hospitality seats that didn’t sell
He surfed an easy wave of Villa success on the pitch which had nothing to do with him and people on here think he’s Richard Branson
He did nothing but upset the traditional fan base, rinse our pockets because he could, and at the first opportunity piss off
He’s no hero who was just doing his job, he got the fan base wrong, and he got hospitality wrong
He won’t be missed by me
Applause.
Good riddance!
Post by: AV82EC on April 30, 2025, 01:20:11 PM
Post by: Vegas on April 30, 2025, 01:23:28 PM
But I suspect it’s more likely to be bad news, stemming from a realisation that our signings / squad and trophy aspirations are not consistent with our realistic income targets.
Post by: London Villan on April 30, 2025, 01:25:00 PM
Post by: DB on April 30, 2025, 01:26:10 PM
Of course he will but it doesn’t mean there aren’t other ways of making omelettes.
You still need to break eggs.
I doubt much will change whoever comes in from a fans perspective anyway.
Post by: Clampy on April 30, 2025, 01:27:40 PM
Post by: Nev on April 30, 2025, 01:29:51 PM
Post by: SaddVillan on April 30, 2025, 01:30:43 PM
His replacement will have a tough job on their hands to oversee the sorts of revenue increases he has done. Not that I'm condoning him, but as said earlier, he's done what he was hired to do.
Yes. Some don't like hearing that and take it the wrong way but it's true.
It’s not true, it’s absolute bollocks
The reason revenues are going to be record levels is not because of Chris heck it’s because of Unai Emery
Champions League alone must’ve brought in 100 million quid
Anyone can charge high prices for Champions League games, but you’ve got to be in the Champions League in the first place and that had fuck all to do with Chris heck
All he did was oversee a ground which was never sold out because he had too many hospitality seats that didn’t sell
He surfed an easy wave of Villa success on the pitch which had nothing to do with him and people on here think he’s Richard Branson
He did nothing but upset the traditional fan base, rinse our pockets because he could, and at the first opportunity piss off
He’s no hero who was just doing his job, he got the fan base wrong, and he got hospitality wrong
He won’t be missed by me
Champions League income
RUNNING TOTAL
Participation €18.6m 18.6
Young Boys (W) €2.1m 20.7
Bayern (W) €2.1m 22.8
Bologna (W) €2.1m 24.9
Club Brugge (L) €0.0m 24.9
Juventus (D €0.7m 25.6
RB Leipzig ( €2.1m 27.7
Monaco (L) €0.0m 27.7
Celtic (W) €2.1m 29.8
Top 8 bonus €2.0m 31.8
League position €7.975m 39.775
Last 16 €11.0 50.775
Quarter finals €12.5 € 63.275 = £54.25m
6 Home games @£3.75m £22.5m
TOTAL £76.75m
We'd need to on additional merchandise and commercial income and also sponsorship bonuses. Do we get anything from the broadcasters?
Post by: PeterWithe on April 30, 2025, 01:38:11 PM
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on April 30, 2025, 01:42:44 PM
Post by: Tuscans on April 30, 2025, 01:43:24 PM
Is there any more to this than a rumour?Hardly a rumour.
Post by: Border villan on April 30, 2025, 01:46:14 PM
Post by: Toronto Villa on April 30, 2025, 02:02:28 PM
Heck gone at the end of the season
Post by: DB on April 30, 2025, 02:02:40 PM
Is there any more to this than a rumour?Hardly a rumour.
It's now on the OS.
Post by: Olneythelonely on April 30, 2025, 02:03:13 PM
Is there any more to this than a rumour?
It’s official
Post by: Drummond on April 30, 2025, 02:07:08 PM
We're making more money, on the back of the team's improved performance, but more nonetheless. He's done what he's been paid to do whether we like it or not.
Post by: Tuscans on April 30, 2025, 02:09:36 PM
Heck joined Aston Villa in May 2023, bringing 30 years of sports industry experience to the Club, including 9 years as President of the Philadelphia 76ers, a National Basketball Association franchise. Heck has played an important role in driving the growth of Aston Villa’s business and commercial operations.
Nassef Sawiris, Chairman of AVFC said: “We would like to thank Chris for his vision and leadership over the last two years.
"Through strategic partnerships, sponsorships, refurbished hospitality spaces and much more, he has helped establish AVFC as a world-class operation and commercial success. We wish him all the best in all his future endeavours.”
Chris Heck said: “Aston Villa is one of the best clubs in the world, and I am grateful to have had an opportunity to contribute to their success over the past two years.
"From the beginning, we laid out a clear strategic road map, and I am so happy with the unrivalled progress we have made on that plan. In doing so, we have built a world-class team off the pitch to match the one that Unai Emery has built on it. I am an Aston Villa fan for life and look forward to seeing the Club continue to make history.”
Heck will remain in his position as President of Business Operations until the end of the season. The Club has started the search for Heck’s successor with a new appointment expected ahead of the commencement of the 2025/26 season.
Post by: DB on April 30, 2025, 02:12:03 PM
The whole commercial operation has improved massively. The shop is a prime example, the kit/training gear etc offer is vastly improved. The ground including seats, layout, LEDs etc are all improved. The kits are way better, the sponsors are still shit but pay loads more.
We're making more money, on the back of the team's improved performance, but more nonetheless. He's done what he's been paid to do whether we like it or not.
Agreed.
Post by: AV82EC on April 30, 2025, 02:12:48 PM
Does anyone know what this selling STs to mythical supporters is about? I’ve missed that completely if it’s been news before.
Post by: Drummond on April 30, 2025, 02:14:28 PM
The question for me Drummond is could all that have been achieved without massively pissing off the supporter base through abysmal communication and an I know best attitude. I think most supporters understood the need to improve commercially but the very screw you approach to it wasn’t winning hearts and minds.
Does anyone know what this selling STs to mythical supporters is about? I’ve missed that completely if it’s been news before.
It doesn't matter, it's just how it is.
That was seats that didn't exist, not supporters.
Post by: ChicagoLion on April 30, 2025, 02:18:14 PM
Post by: Pat Mustard on April 30, 2025, 02:18:36 PM
More likely he's going to hit the £400m revenue target and he can leave with a bonus and a massive tick on his CV.
Is the correct answer.
Post by: AV82EC on April 30, 2025, 02:19:07 PM
Ah that was early season on that ST issue wasn’t it? People turning up to find their seats didn’t exist.
Post by: Dave P on April 30, 2025, 02:19:07 PM
Post by: Dave on April 30, 2025, 02:21:11 PM
Post by: LeeB on April 30, 2025, 02:21:14 PM
I know I’m being generalistic, but his last act was to block fan led tifos at Wembley and drive a bigger wedge between the supporters and the hierarchy. All I ask is that is successor keeps the business work as good as Heck but appreciate the fans a bit more. Is this unreasonable?
Whoa there, the tifo news has turned me into his biggest fan, I'm fucking gutted he's leaving now.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on April 30, 2025, 02:23:29 PM
I know I’m being generalistic, but his last act was to block fan led tifos at Wembley and drive a bigger wedge between the supporters and the hierarchy. All I ask is that is successor keeps the business work as good as Heck but appreciate the fans a bit more. Is this unreasonable?
Whoa there, the tifo news has turned me into his biggest fan, I'm fucking gutted he's leaving now.
Missing him already. :(
Post by: Sexual Ealing on April 30, 2025, 02:39:49 PM
Apparently he's leaving to do the same role for that shit Saudi golf thing, if people want even more reason to dislike him.
That makes perfect sense. Must remember to send both parties a celebratory wasps' nest.
Post by: Brend'Watkins on April 30, 2025, 02:40:23 PM
Post by: chrisw1 on April 30, 2025, 02:47:22 PM
The proposed refurbed North looks fine, but it's a bodge job which doesn't make best use of the only side of the ground where we aren't limited by space. It was an opportunity to create a huge stand with world class facilities and with built in contingency to wrap to the current Trinity and a potential future Witton in due course. It feels like an expensive sticking plaster which we will come to regret IF we have continued success on the field.
But as for creating more GA+ and hospitality space, the truth is it had to be done. A year or so ago someone on here posted a link to all of Man City's hospitality options and the gulf between us was remarkable. I think it's understandable that in the absence of a new stadium when it's built in from day 1, shifting some long-tern supporters was a necessary evil. The communication could have been better, but lets face it when you're being moved you're going to be pissed off however much sugar coating there is. Until someone cancels PSR, if we want to compete at the top then this is the world we live in.
So I won't miss him, but deep down think we are probably losing someone who would have continued to take us forward.
Post by: john e on April 30, 2025, 02:54:30 PM
Post by: Somniloquism on April 30, 2025, 03:00:09 PM
He was at best disingenuous, business can be done without telling lies and treating people like shit.
Says the person who bemoaned people who work at home instead of the office.
Post by: ChicagoLion on April 30, 2025, 03:00:40 PM
Closing one end would have been horrible.
Post by: Somniloquism on April 30, 2025, 03:01:56 PM
Thanks for everything Chris. I always said we needed ( checks notes) a Vodka partner.
We don't. But all the teams who make more revenue then us have craploads of these "partnerships" and we need to compete with them.
Post by: ChicagoLion on April 30, 2025, 03:04:48 PM
So how do you equate the two? Genuinely fascinated how your logic connects an opinion about homeworking and telling lies.He was at best disingenuous, business can be done without telling lies and treating people like shit.
Says the person who bemoaned people who work at home instead of the office.
Because asking people to come to work is not treating people like shit.
Weird!
Post by: chrisw1 on April 30, 2025, 03:17:22 PM
I think the North stand decision is right, if they can increase capacity without reducing match day capacity then it seems the obvious thing to do.So would moving stadiums. Sometimes you have to bite the bullet for the long term good and a fit-for-purpose stand (both match day capacity, back up space and future proofing) would have been worth the short-term pain in my opinion.
Closing one end would have been horrible.
Post by: simon ward 50 on April 30, 2025, 03:19:19 PM
Post by: chrisw1 on April 30, 2025, 03:21:04 PM
Tifo’s at VP we’re great I thoughtSame. I'm all for a bit of bah humbug and would start swinging if a drum was brought into the Holte, but this anti-tifo stuff seems a bit odd to me. As much as I like to take the piss out of black clad, bouncy drum & megaphone led 'ultras,' the truth is their fans embarrassed us at Wembley.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on April 30, 2025, 03:21:24 PM
His replacement will have a tough job on their hands to oversee the sorts of revenue increases he has done. Not that I'm condoning him, but as said earlier, he's done what he was hired to do.
Yes. Some don't like hearing that and take it the wrong way but it's true.
It’s not true, it’s absolute bollocks
The reason revenues are going to be record levels is not because of Chris heck it’s because of Unai Emery
Champions League alone must’ve brought in 100 million quid
Anyone can charge high prices for Champions League games, but you’ve got to be in the Champions League in the first place and that had fuck all to do with Chris heck
All he did was oversee a ground which was never sold out because he had too many hospitality seats that didn’t sell
He surfed an easy wave of Villa success on the pitch which had nothing to do with him and people on here think he’s Richard Branson
He did nothing but upset the traditional fan base, rinse our pockets because he could, and at the first opportunity piss off
He’s no hero who was just doing his job, he got the fan base wrong, and he got hospitality wrong
He won’t be missed by me
Champions League income
RUNNING TOTAL
Participation €18.6m 18.6
Young Boys (W) €2.1m 20.7
Bayern (W) €2.1m 22.8
Bologna (W) €2.1m 24.9
Club Brugge (L) €0.0m 24.9
Juventus (D €0.7m 25.6
RB Leipzig ( €2.1m 27.7
Monaco (L) €0.0m 27.7
Celtic (W) €2.1m 29.8
Top 8 bonus €2.0m 31.8
League position €7.975m 39.775
Last 16 €11.0 50.775
Quarter finals €12.5 € 63.275 = £54.25m
6 Home games @£3.75m £22.5m
TOTAL £76.75m
We'd need to on additional merchandise and commercial income and also sponsorship bonuses. Do we get anything from the broadcasters?
That’s where most of the money you have listed comes from, and a bit from the CL sponsors.
Post by: ChicagoLion on April 30, 2025, 03:21:31 PM
This gives them the flexibility to make that decision without investing 10s of Millions in VP.I think the North stand decision is right, if they can increase capacity without reducing match day capacity then it seems the obvious thing to do.So would moving stadiums. Sometimes you have to bite the bullet for the long term good and a fit-for-purpose stand (both match day capacity, back up space and future proofing) would have been worth the short-term pain in my opinion.
Closing one end would have been horrible.
On the basis that a new stadium is 7 + years away from being completed. I think if the club continue on its trajectory a new stadium is inevitable.
Post by: cdbearsfan on April 30, 2025, 03:23:06 PM
Tifo’s at VP we’re great I thoughtSame. I'm all for a bit of bah humbug and would start swinging if a drum was brought into the Holte, but this anti-tifo stuff seems a bit odd to me. As much as I like to take the piss out of black clad, bouncy drum & megaphone led 'ultras,' the truth is their fans embarrassed us at Wembley.
They had a drum. They embarrassed themselves.
Post by: Drummond on April 30, 2025, 03:25:00 PM
Tifo’s at VP we’re great I thoughtSame. I'm all for a bit of bah humbug and would start swinging if a drum was brought into the Holte, but this anti-tifo stuff seems a bit odd to me. As much as I like to take the piss out of black clad, bouncy drum & megaphone led 'ultras,' the truth is their fans embarrassed us at Wembley.
Bollocks. They just killed the atmosphere and ruined it with their fucking drum. They broke the law with the pyrotechnic flare shite at the beginning and the bin bag flags they had were shit too.
It was like watching a bunch of kids doing a paramilitary parade to the benefit of nobody but themselves, the wankers. They made it about themselves.
Post by: chrisw1 on April 30, 2025, 03:26:50 PM
There is no new stadium. People have been talking about one for the last 20 years and it just isn't going to happen.This gives them the flexibility to make that decision without investing 10s of Millions in VP.I think the North stand decision is right, if they can increase capacity without reducing match day capacity then it seems the obvious thing to do.So would moving stadiums. Sometimes you have to bite the bullet for the long term good and a fit-for-purpose stand (both match day capacity, back up space and future proofing) would have been worth the short-term pain in my opinion.
Closing one end would have been horrible.
On the basis that a new stadium is 7 + years away from being completed. I think if the club continue on its trajectory a new stadium is inevitable.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on April 30, 2025, 03:29:04 PM
They had a drum. They embarrassed themselves.
They were lucky LeeB was in the Upper Holte that day.
Post by: ChicagoLion on April 30, 2025, 03:32:01 PM
We will see I guess, (as someone who has been opposed) my thoughts have always been that the real problem is the Witton Lane as there appears nothing can be done about the lack of space.There is no new stadium. People have been talking about one for the last 20 years and it just isn't going to happen.This gives them the flexibility to make that decision without investing 10s of Millions in VP.I think the North stand decision is right, if they can increase capacity without reducing match day capacity then it seems the obvious thing to do.So would moving stadiums. Sometimes you have to bite the bullet for the long term good and a fit-for-purpose stand (both match day capacity, back up space and future proofing) would have been worth the short-term pain in my opinion.
Closing one end would have been horrible.
On the basis that a new stadium is 7 + years away from being completed. I think if the club continue on its trajectory a new stadium is inevitable.
Post by: chrisw1 on April 30, 2025, 03:38:09 PM
I suspect this has been addressed a lot in other threads that I haven't read, so I won't go over it in too much detail. Suffice it it say I was in our safe standing area behind the goal. Our noise levels and lack of singing was shockingly poor, even where you would have expected us to be at our loudest. The difference in the noise levels between the two sets of fans was genuinely embarrassing, even before they scored - not that that should have made any difference at such a big game. I've been to Wembley 8 times with Villa and it was the most one-sided crowd atmosphere I've ever seen. I hate drums as much as the next man, but there's no doubt their bouncy black-clad twats made a big difference.Tifo’s at VP we’re great I thoughtSame. I'm all for a bit of bah humbug and would start swinging if a drum was brought into the Holte, but this anti-tifo stuff seems a bit odd to me. As much as I like to take the piss out of black clad, bouncy drum & megaphone led 'ultras,' the truth is their fans embarrassed us at Wembley.
Bollocks. They just killed the atmosphere and ruined it with their fucking drum. They broke the law with the pyrotechnic flare shite at the beginning and the bin bag flags they had were shit too.
It was like watching a bunch of kids doing a paramilitary parade to the benefit of nobody but themselves, the wankers. They made it about themselves.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on April 30, 2025, 03:39:26 PM
Tifo’s at VP we’re great I thoughtSame. I'm all for a bit of bah humbug and would start swinging if a drum was brought into the Holte, but this anti-tifo stuff seems a bit odd to me. As much as I like to take the piss out of black clad, bouncy drum & megaphone led 'ultras,' the truth is their fans embarrassed us at Wembley.
Bollocks. They just killed the atmosphere and ruined it with their fucking drum. They broke the law with the pyrotechnic flare shite at the beginning and the bin bag flags they had were shit too.
It was like watching a bunch of kids doing a paramilitary parade to the benefit of nobody but themselves, the wankers. They made it about themselves.
Who should they have made it about, Villa?
Post by: PeterWithe on April 30, 2025, 03:54:13 PM
Tifo’s at VP we’re great I thoughtSame. I'm all for a bit of bah humbug and would start swinging if a drum was brought into the Holte, but this anti-tifo stuff seems a bit odd to me. As much as I like to take the piss out of black clad, bouncy drum & megaphone led 'ultras,' the truth is their fans embarrassed us at Wembley.
Bollocks. They just killed the atmosphere and ruined it with their fucking drum. They broke the law with the pyrotechnic flare shite at the beginning and the bin bag flags they had were shit too.
It was like watching a bunch of kids doing a paramilitary parade to the benefit of nobody but themselves, the wankers. They made it about themselves.
It wont surprise anyone that I agree.
We are English for pitys sake, we should be tutting at these over excited foreign johnnies doing over-excited things, half naked, or pretending not to notice. Not copying them.
All seems very vulgar.
Post by: PeterWithe on April 30, 2025, 03:55:19 PM
Post by: Ads on April 30, 2025, 03:56:19 PM
Post by: DB on April 30, 2025, 03:57:48 PM
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on April 30, 2025, 03:58:40 PM
Post by: Sexual Ealing on April 30, 2025, 04:01:42 PM
Post by: PeterWithe on April 30, 2025, 04:01:52 PM
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on April 30, 2025, 04:04:08 PM
Post by: Somniloquism on April 30, 2025, 04:15:01 PM
Wonder if this will impact on the North Stand plans, him coming in did?
Can't see why it would. Last time the plans were not as far advanced and Emery also had a say in not losing the North Stand during the season we were running for Europe. We also have more building experience on the board so I suspect the incoming person will be more looking at continuing the rest of operation with someone else in charge of the stadium build.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on April 30, 2025, 04:18:43 PM
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on April 30, 2025, 04:19:14 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on April 30, 2025, 04:20:49 PM
Apparently he's leaving to do the same role for that shit Saudi golf thing
It’s interesting how the Saudis have latched on to one of the few things even worse than the Saudis.
Golf, I mean, not Heck.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on April 30, 2025, 04:20:56 PM
Anyone who thinks Heck leaving is good because he’s going to be replaced by some sort of patrician, authentic voice of the fans style person who ‘gets’ us is absolutely kidding themselves.
Tom Fox is looking for a gig.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on April 30, 2025, 04:21:33 PM
Aren't our new shareholders stadium construction experts? I'd imagine they developed the solution of maintaining existing facilities whilst expanding the number of seats.
I think it is probably more that the club just went back to the architects and told them to rethink.
Post by: Somniloquism on April 30, 2025, 04:24:14 PM
Aren't our new shareholders stadium construction experts? I'd imagine they developed the solution of maintaining existing facilities whilst expanding the number of seats.
I think it is probably more that the club just went back to the architects and told them to rethink.
Especially with the rumours that Emery wasn't happy losing the fans at one end during a pivotal European season.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on April 30, 2025, 04:25:38 PM
Post by: chrisw1 on April 30, 2025, 04:27:56 PM
I strongly suspect that was more an excuse than the genuine reason we shelved a potentially transformational development for the club.Aren't our new shareholders stadium construction experts? I'd imagine they developed the solution of maintaining existing facilities whilst expanding the number of seats.
I think it is probably more that the club just went back to the architects and told them to rethink.
Especially with the rumours that Emery wasn't happy losing the fans at one end during a pivotal European season.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on April 30, 2025, 04:32:00 PM
Aren't our new shareholders stadium construction experts? I'd imagine they developed the solution of maintaining existing facilities whilst expanding the number of seats.
I think it is probably more that the club just went back to the architects and told them to rethink.
Maybe but then you have to wonder why we bothered inviting them to invest in the club.
Regardless, we have Heck to thank for increasing our corporate offer. Nobody can take that away from him. "A fantastic success!"
Post by: Somniloquism on April 30, 2025, 04:40:27 PM
I strongly suspect that was more an excuse than the genuine reason we shelved a potentially transformational development for the club.Aren't our new shareholders stadium construction experts? I'd imagine they developed the solution of maintaining existing facilities whilst expanding the number of seats.
I think it is probably more that the club just went back to the architects and told them to rethink.
Especially with the rumours that Emery wasn't happy losing the fans at one end during a pivotal European season.
I suspect it was one of many reasons to shelve the initial idea but was probably hand-in-hand with the sudden need to ensure we had enough revenue growth in the stand to stop it impacting PSR if we did have to rebuild and lose capacity for a season or two. But I suspect the success of Pl
Post by: London Villan on April 30, 2025, 04:41:43 PM
Post by: cdbearsfan on April 30, 2025, 04:42:47 PM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on April 30, 2025, 04:51:55 PM
Anyway, Chris Heck. Wonder if they will have a whip round for a carriage clock?
Maybe some Cuban heel boots instead.
Post by: DB on April 30, 2025, 05:15:21 PM
Wonder if this will impact on the North Stand plans, him coming in did?
I think it was is last hurrah. They announced that, let the dust settle and let everyone know he's off.
Post by: VillaTim on April 30, 2025, 05:18:24 PM
Post by: Chris Harte on April 30, 2025, 05:33:51 PM
Champions League incomeYou need to add the "Value Pillar" payment to that estimate. I believe it was based on each club's UEFA Coefficient and Villa received £16.6M.
RUNNING TOTAL
Participation €18.6m 18.6
Young Boys (W) €2.1m 20.7
Bayern (W) €2.1m 22.8
Bologna (W) €2.1m 24.9
Club Brugge (L) €0.0m 24.9
Juventus (D €0.7m 25.6
RB Leipzig ( €2.1m 27.7
Monaco (L) €0.0m 27.7
Celtic (W) €2.1m 29.8
Top 8 bonus €2.0m 31.8
League position €7.975m 39.775
Last 16 €11.0 50.775
Quarter finals €12.5 € 63.275 = £54.25m
6 Home games @£3.75m £22.5m
TOTAL £76.75m
We'd need to on additional merchandise and commercial income and also sponsorship bonuses. Do we get anything from the broadcasters?
By comparison, I think Liverpool received £40M+.
Edit - I crunched the numbers myself a while back, but based home game receipts on £3M per game (just an estimate, no idea if that's right). Bottom line, I got an earnings total of €104.5M or approx. £87.8M. And it is Unai who made this possible.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on April 30, 2025, 06:17:19 PM
Commission the statue .
It wouldn't require much bronze.
Post by: AV82EC on April 30, 2025, 06:27:17 PM
Commission the statue .
It wouldn't require much bronze.
Just buy one of those fake Oscars, it’s about the right size.
Post by: Mister E on April 30, 2025, 06:54:41 PM
I hate the drums but I thought last Saturday that the CP dominated the atmosphere; regardless of drums or paramilitary appearance. Villa fans struggled to assert themselves all match and it was pretty annoying that we couldn't.Tifo’s at VP we’re great I thoughtSame. I'm all for a bit of bah humbug and would start swinging if a drum was brought into the Holte, but this anti-tifo stuff seems a bit odd to me. As much as I like to take the piss out of black clad, bouncy drum & megaphone led 'ultras,' the truth is their fans embarrassed us at Wembley.
Bollocks. They just killed the atmosphere and ruined it with their fucking drum. They broke the law with the pyrotechnic flare shite at the beginning and the bin bag flags they had were shit too.
It was like watching a bunch of kids doing a paramilitary parade to the benefit of nobody but themselves, the wankers. They made it about themselves.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on April 30, 2025, 07:08:27 PM
Post by: Brend'Watkins on April 30, 2025, 07:21:26 PM
Thanks for everything Chris. I always said we needed ( checks notes) a Vodka partner.
We don't. But all the teams who make more revenue then us have craploads of these "partnerships" and we need to compete with them.
Did it not occur to you I might have been taking the piss?
Post by: VillaTim on April 30, 2025, 07:38:22 PM
put it on the mantlepiece next to the framed Gerrard portrait .Commission the statue .
It wouldn't require much bronze.
Just buy one of those fake Oscars, it’s about the right size.
Post by: Beard82 on April 30, 2025, 08:58:46 PM
Not sure - seems likely they will get someone even more commerical minded?
Post by: PeterWithe on April 30, 2025, 09:43:06 PM
I hate the drums but I thought last Saturday that the CP dominated the atmosphere; regardless of drums or paramilitary appearance. Villa fans struggled to assert themselves all match and it was pretty annoying that we couldn't.Tifo’s at VP we’re great I thoughtSame. I'm all for a bit of bah humbug and would start swinging if a drum was brought into the Holte, but this anti-tifo stuff seems a bit odd to me. As much as I like to take the piss out of black clad, bouncy drum & megaphone led 'ultras,' the truth is their fans embarrassed us at Wembley.
Bollocks. They just killed the atmosphere and ruined it with their fucking drum. They broke the law with the pyrotechnic flare shite at the beginning and the bin bag flags they had were shit too.
It was like watching a bunch of kids doing a paramilitary parade to the benefit of nobody but themselves, the wankers. They made it about themselves.
The team were dire first half and the initial atmosphere disappeared, came back early second, was great after the penalty miss, then dead for good after the second. But from the side, I dont think the Palace fans were anything special until after they'd scored the first, then on the second, they realised the game was won and we wern't coming back. But I do declare a bias as I've never liked Palace and cant abide this attention seeking 'ultra' shite.
Post by: Hookeysmith on April 30, 2025, 09:53:07 PM
He was quoted that moving VP would not happen during his (assumed professional) lifetime. Well that pledge is soon to be over?
Agree with other comments that if we are thinking it will be a fluffy Man / Woman of the people then we will be very disappointed. This is an upwardly mobile huge potential laden money making business. I would imagine the next person will be even more aggressively driven to achieve NSWE's targets.
Post by: VillaTim on April 30, 2025, 10:12:51 PM
Post by: dave.woodhall on April 30, 2025, 10:18:57 PM
Post by: Chris Harte on April 30, 2025, 10:20:37 PM
His job was made easy by the incredible work of UE , a graduate could have possibly achieved the same or more, any qualified person would have done as much .Yep, this.
I won't subscribe to the belief that everything he's done has been negative, although the price rises and taking existing facilities of fans and charging a premium for them has irked many people. Unfortunately PSR has made the monetisation of all facilities essential for us to compete. Heck's estimate that the club will hit £360M in revenue for this season would not have happened without Unai and his support staff. And if we were to regress I suspect that many of the corporate/GA+ facilities would be more empty than full at current prices.
And speaking of prices, there's no way season ticket prices and matchday tickets are suddenly going to become cheaper now Heck has gone. I just wonder what beast will take the role next.
Post by: VillaTim on April 30, 2025, 10:22:07 PM
The ginger Heckster had a low base to start from .
Post by: Chris Harte on April 30, 2025, 10:24:59 PM
Post by: Ducksworthy on April 30, 2025, 10:32:24 PM
I've said it before - Villa Hotel - Mop up all the tourists in the GA+/Corporate seats. Extended stay in Brum, new club shop and beer hall next door.
Yes, who hasn’t dreamed of a lovely long weekend in Aston..
Post by: VillaTim on April 30, 2025, 10:32:50 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on April 30, 2025, 10:34:51 PM
I've said it before - Villa Hotel - Mop up all the tourists in the GA+/Corporate seats. Extended stay in Brum, new club shop and beer hall next door.
Why are they going to want to stay in a hotel in Aston? Rather than in the vibrant city centre down the road, with anll the hotels, bars and top quality restaurants?
And how many GA+ customers want to do a stopover anywhere?
Post by: dave.woodhall on April 30, 2025, 10:56:44 PM
I've said it before - Villa Hotel - Mop up all the tourists in the GA+/Corporate seats. Extended stay in Brum, new club shop and beer hall next door.
Why are they going to want to stay in a hotel in Aston? Rather than in the vibrant city centre down the road, with anll the hotels, bars and top quality restaurants?
And how many GA+ customers want to do a stopover anywhere?
There's plenty of scope for the sort of hotel you get in Oldbury, Castle Bromwich, Great Barr, Walsall... And never underestimate the attraction of spending even more time and money at a Premier League ground for Scandinavian/Irish/Far Eastern twoday-trippers.
Post by: Drummond on April 30, 2025, 10:56:57 PM
Post by: VillaTim on April 30, 2025, 11:31:33 PM
Post by: Percy McCarthy on May 01, 2025, 12:01:56 AM
I've said it before - Villa Hotel - Mop up all the tourists in the GA+/Corporate seats. Extended stay in Brum, new club shop and beer hall next door.
Why are they going to want to stay in a hotel in Aston? Rather than in the vibrant city centre down the road, with anll the hotels, bars and top quality restaurants?
And how many GA+ customers want to do a stopover anywhere?
There's plenty of scope for the sort of hotel you get in Oldbury, Castle Bromwich, Great Barr, Walsall... And never underestimate the attraction of spending even more time and money at a Premier League ground for Scandinavian/Irish/Far Eastern twoday-trippers.
Exactly. Business travellers in the week who want little more than a clean, comfortable space not far from Spaghetti Junction to get their head down. Football travellers at the weekend - check in on Friday, mill around the ground and go to the match on Saturday, stadium tour on Sunday. And there’s already a couple of beautiful buildings that used to be hotels at either end of the ground with ample, secure parking on non-match days.
Remember the thinking behind the Bull Ring shop - it’s not about profit, it’s about revenue.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on May 01, 2025, 12:26:00 AM
And even if they did, how much revenue is a hotel going to add?
And yes, there are buildings that used to be hotels there already - and they can't even survive as pubs, let alone hotels.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on May 01, 2025, 12:31:50 AM
Business travellers aren't going to want to stay in Aston. Why would they when the city centre is down the road with all the appeal that has?
And even if they did, how much revenue is a hotel going to add?
And yes, there are buildings that used to be hotels there already - and they can't even survive as pubs, let alone hotels.
The ones in Small Heath and Nechells survive, and they’re not nextdoor to a famous 50,000 capacity stadium or a 3,500 capacity gig venue.
Pubs rely on local people using them, hotels don’t.
Post by: dave.woodhall on May 01, 2025, 12:40:14 AM
Business travellers aren't going to want to stay in Aston. Why would they when the city centre is down the road with all the appeal that has?
And even if they did, how much revenue is a hotel going to add?
And yes, there are buildings that used to be hotels there already - and they can't even survive as pubs, let alone hotels.
Most business travellers aren't that bothered about city centres - they want dinner, a room and breakfast. And most of all they want easy access to motorway junctions, airports and the places where they have their early meetings. And as Percy says, there's a lot of overseas supporters who would love, for some reason, to stay overnight at Villa Park.
Post by: Crown Hill on May 01, 2025, 12:47:52 AM
Business travellers aren't going to want to stay in Aston. Why would they when the city centre is down the road with all the appeal that has?
And even if they did, how much revenue is a hotel going to add?
And yes, there are buildings that used to be hotels there already - and they can't even survive as pubs, let alone hotels.
Most business travellers aren't that bothered about city centres - they want dinner, a room and breakfast. And most of all they want easy access to motorway junctions, airports and the places where they have their early meetings. And as Percy says, there's a lot of overseas supporters who would love, for some reason, to stay overnight at Villa Park.
I presume the Aston Tavern is operating very successfully as a hotel.
It’s 4 star and the rooms are certainly not basic.
Even what’s now known as the Aston Inn is offering rooms.
Post by: eamonn on May 01, 2025, 12:48:58 AM
Post by: cdbearsfan on May 01, 2025, 12:49:30 AM
Post by: Crown Hill on May 01, 2025, 12:50:27 AM
Post by: Percy McCarthy on May 01, 2025, 01:42:51 AM
Business travellers aren't going to want to stay in Aston. Why would they when the city centre is down the road with all the appeal that has?
And even if they did, how much revenue is a hotel going to add?
And yes, there are buildings that used to be hotels there already - and they can't even survive as pubs, let alone hotels.
Most business travellers aren't that bothered about city centres - they want dinner, a room and breakfast. And most of all they want easy access to motorway junctions, airports and the places where they have their early meetings. And as Percy says, there's a lot of overseas supporters who would love, for some reason, to stay overnight at Villa Park.
I presume the Aston Tavern is operating very successfully as a hotel.
It’s 4 star and the rooms are certainly not basic.
Even what’s now known as the Aston Inn is offering rooms.
Well, I didn’t know that. Fair play to them both.
Looks as if big money has been spent on the Aston Tavern since the last time I went in about 30/40 years ago.
Of course, one of the best things about Villa investing in, for example, The Warehouse (or wherever else) is that the cost is an allowable loss against PSR, while whatever it generates counts as a positive as well. Win-win.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on May 01, 2025, 03:24:11 AM
Check in Friday.
Evening meal.
Tour of Aston Parish Church and Aston Hall by candlelight.
Witton Arms Disco
Bunk-up or fight in the car park
Kebab from along Aston Lane or the Villa Chippie
Saturday:
7-9 am: Breakfast
10am-12 noon. Visit the graves of George Ramsay, William MacGregor, James Watt and Matthew Boulton at St Mary’s in Handsworth. Visit the first lamppost in Heathfield Road where Villa were founded, the site of the Wesleyan Chapel, and the site of Aston Villa, the house we were named after. Visit Wellington Road, the site of our Perry Barr ground.
12-2.30pm: back to the Tavern to get tanked up.
3pm: Enjoy the game!
6pm: Aston Inn disco and singalong until everyone staggers home throughout the evening.
Sunday:
7-9am Breakfast.
10am - 12noon: Stadium tour, ending in the club shop.
Sunday lunch in the Barton’s, followed by a walk down Summer Lane (where Billy Kimber was from) singing the Summer Lane song.
Songs in your headphones (like on those city- break sightseeing tours):
Streets of Aston
Have you seen the Holte End
On a Satdee afternoon
As they celebrate another Villa win?
Do you remember Ian Taylor scoring diving headers,
Or Tony Tony Daley,
Running down the wing?
So how can you follow the Aaalbion,
Or Birmingham when they’re fucking shite?
Pete the Greek and Danny Brown will chase you through the streets of Aston,
They’ll show you something
To make you change your mind.
Summer Lane:
You can see the palm trees swaying,
Way down Summer Lane
Ev’ry Satdee night there is a celebration
See ‘em chucking bottles down at Witton Station
There ain’t no snow in Snow Hill
No need to catch a train
To your southern home
Where it’s nice and warm
It’s always summer in Summer Lane!
£1,000 per person, all inclusive.
(Not very busy at work).
Post by: Chap on May 01, 2025, 07:27:03 AM
Have a look at where some Travelodge locations are!I've said it before - Villa Hotel - Mop up all the tourists in the GA+/Corporate seats. Extended stay in Brum, new club shop and beer hall next door.
Yes, who hasn’t dreamed of a lovely long weekend in Aston..
Post by: Chap on May 01, 2025, 07:29:37 AM
Streets of Aston Weekend inc. 2 nights at the Aston Tavern & AVFC Heritage TourExcellent work.
Check in Friday.
Evening meal.
Tour of Aston Parish Church and Aston Hall by candlelight.
Witton Arms Disco
Bunk-up or fight in the car park
Kebab from along Aston Lane or the Villa Chippie
Saturday:
7-9 am: Breakfast
10am-12 noon. Visit the graves of George Ramsay, William MacGregor, James Watt and Matthew Boulton at St Mary’s in Handsworth. Visit the first lamppost in Heathfield Road where Villa were founded, the site of the Wesleyan Chapel, and the site of Aston Villa, the house we were named after. Visit Wellington Road, the site of our Perry Barr ground.
12-2.30pm: back to the Tavern to get tanked up.
3pm: Enjoy the game!
6pm: Aston Inn disco and singalong until everyone staggers home throughout the evening.
Sunday:
7-9am Breakfast.
10am - 12noon: Stadium tour, ending in the club shop.
Sunday lunch in the Barton’s, followed by a walk down Summer Lane (where Billy Kimber was from) singing the Summer Lane song.
Songs in your headphones (like on those city- break sightseeing tours):
Streets of Aston
Have you seen the Holte End
On a Satdee afternoon
As they celebrate another Villa win?
Do you remember Ian Taylor scoring diving headers,
Or Tony Tony Daley,
Running down the wing?
So how can you follow the Aaalbion,
Or Birmingham when they’re fucking shite?
Pete the Greek and Danny Brown will chase you through the streets of Aston,
They’ll show you something
To make you change your mind.
Summer Lane:
You can see the palm trees swaying,
Way down Summer Lane
Ev’ry Satdee night there is a celebration
See ‘em chucking bottles down at Witton Station
There ain’t no snow in Snow Hill
No need to catch a train
To your southern home
Where it’s nice and warm
It’s always summer in Summer Lane!
£1,000 per person, all inclusive.
(Not very busy at work).
Post by: VILLA MOLE on May 01, 2025, 07:36:36 AM
Hotel was HDE vision 30 years ago .
I wish i could find that article again
Post by: PeterWithe on May 01, 2025, 07:55:43 AM
Post by: Chris Smith on May 01, 2025, 07:57:55 AM
I've said it before - Villa Hotel - Mop up all the tourists in the GA+/Corporate seats. Extended stay in Brum, new club shop and beer hall next door.
Why are they going to want to stay in a hotel in Aston? Rather than in the vibrant city centre down the road, with anll the hotels, bars and top quality restaurants?
And how many GA+ customers want to do a stopover anywhere?
The Aston Tavern seems to do ok
I've said it before - Villa Hotel - Mop up all the tourists in the GA+/Corporate seats. Extended stay in Brum, new club shop and beer hall next door.
Why are they going to want to stay in a hotel in Aston? Rather than in the vibrant city centre down the road, with anll the hotels, bars and top quality restaurants?
And how many GA+ customers want to do a stopover anywhere?
There's plenty of scope for the sort of hotel you get in Oldbury, Castle Bromwich, Great Barr, Walsall... And never underestimate the attraction of spending even more time and money at a Premier League ground for Scandinavian/Irish/Far Eastern twoday-trippers.
Exactly. Business travellers in the week who want little more than a clean, comfortable space not far from Spaghetti Junction to get their head down. Football travellers at the weekend - check in on Friday, mill around the ground and go to the match on Saturday, stadium tour on Sunday. And there’s already a couple of beautiful buildings that used to be hotels at either end of the ground with ample, secure parking on non-match days.
Remember the thinking behind the Bull Ring shop - it’s not about profit, it’s about revenue.
The Aston Tavern seems to do ok for match day guests. It’s a wedding venue so I assume the rooms are a decent standard and if the match day food is anything to go by then the catering is also pretty good.
Post by: Chris Harte on May 01, 2025, 08:16:56 AM
In my head it was around 1986 and it was going to be built into the back of the North Stand. Don't know why the old boy didn't go ahead with it.Hotel was HDE vision 30 years ago .
I wish i could find that article again
Post by: Somniloquism on May 01, 2025, 08:44:12 AM
In my head it was around 1986 and it was going to be built into the back of the North Stand. Don't know why the old boy didn't go ahead with it.Hotel was HDE vision 30 years ago .
I wish i could find that article again
My recollection was mid 90's and stemmed from Ken Bates announcing he was building one in one of the new stands. But maybe Doug was first.
Post by: Chris Harte on May 01, 2025, 09:29:15 AM
I suppose its possible he considered it in the eighties, dismissed it, then reconsidered later. I don't recall it being reconsidered again but that doesn't mean it didn't happen.In my head it was around 1986 and it was going to be built into the back of the North Stand. Don't know why the old boy didn't go ahead with it.Hotel was HDE vision 30 years ago .
I wish i could find that article again
My recollection was mid 90's and stemmed from Ken Bates announcing he was building one in one of the new stands. But maybe Doug was first.
Post by: Crown Hill on May 01, 2025, 09:53:26 AM
In my head it was around 1986 and it was going to be built into the back of the North Stand. Don't know why the old boy didn't go ahead with it.Hotel was HDE vision 30 years ago .
I wish i could find that article again
It was going where the corner flag restaurant ended up. Seen as innovative at the time. I don’t think it would have been very big.
Post by: Somniloquism on May 01, 2025, 09:58:37 AM
I suppose its possible he considered it in the eighties, dismissed it, then reconsidered later. I don't recall it being reconsidered again but that doesn't mean it didn't happen.
I would bow to your memories more then mine Chris.
Post by: Walmley_Villa on May 01, 2025, 10:02:12 AM
Post by: VillaTim on May 01, 2025, 10:15:25 AM
Wonder if this has anything to do with Season Ticket pricing? It’s May and nothing announced?Suspect they will wait to see where we finish in the table before deciding on pricing strategy .
Post by: Walmley_Villa on May 01, 2025, 10:25:12 AM
In my head it was around 1986 and it was going to be built into the back of the North Stand. Don't know why the old boy didn't go ahead with it.Hotel was HDE vision 30 years ago .
I wish i could find that article again
It was going where the corner flag restaurant ended up. Seen as innovative at the time. I don’t think it would have been very big.
There was also talk of the Holte car park on stilts….
Post by: FrankyH on May 01, 2025, 10:41:34 AM
In my head it was around 1986 and it was going to be built into the back of the North Stand. Don't know why the old boy didn't go ahead with it.Hotel was HDE vision 30 years ago .
I wish i could find that article again
My recollection was mid 90's and stemmed from Ken Bates announcing he was building one in one of the new stands. But maybe Doug was first.
I think it was late 80's . I remember the Evening mail had a graphic mock up ( it looked quite small if I remember correctly-Dougonomics! )
Post by: London Villan on May 01, 2025, 11:34:17 AM
Post by: Chris Harte on May 01, 2025, 11:56:52 AM
Oh, I wouldn't hehe.I suppose its possible he considered it in the eighties, dismissed it, then reconsidered later. I don't recall it being reconsidered again but that doesn't mean it didn't happen.
I would bow to your memories more then mine Chris.
Post by: Keeno on May 01, 2025, 12:32:20 PM
Post by: sid1964 on May 01, 2025, 12:43:56 PM
If I remember correctly the owners wanted to increase prices far more in recent seasons but were advised against this.
Post by: Dante Lavelli on May 01, 2025, 01:16:42 PM
Any candidate for the role is likely to be on 12-months notice so we could see a season of drifting along rather than having a clear mission. I’m no fan of Heck’s, but this appears to have caught the owners off guard.I hope I’m wrong.
Post by: London Villan on May 01, 2025, 02:07:02 PM
Post by: PeterWithesShin on May 01, 2025, 02:14:55 PM
Post by: Pat Mustard on May 01, 2025, 02:30:44 PM
Who knows, maybe there will also be some sense seen on the amount of GA+ tickets we can actually sell to tourists, so we don't have hundreds of empty seats at big matches next season.
Post by: ez on May 01, 2025, 03:02:56 PM
I've said it before - Villa Hotel - Mop up all the tourists in the GA+/Corporate seats. Extended stay in Brum, new club shop and beer hall next door.
Aren't hotel rooms overlooking the pitch the new thing. I think Blackpool have them and one or two others.
Post by: Nev on May 01, 2025, 03:11:26 PM
I'm not naive enough to think any replacement is going to come in and drop prices, give back the Holte Suite etc., but surely the new person is going to be a bit better at communicating and hopefully treating us all with a bit less contempt? Of all of Chris Heck's faults, the biggest one for me was his attitude towards anything amounting to consultation with fans. Some people may say he was just there to make tough decisions that would be going ahead anyway, but the tretament of the fan advisory board, the badge debacle, the original cancellation of the North Stand development without any explanation all just seemed quite cowardly to me.
Who knows, maybe there will also be some sense seen on the amount of GA+ tickets we can actually sell to tourists, so we don't have hundreds of empty seats at big matches next season.
I recall the fuss about the The Holte Suite. It wasn't the fact that it was being closed to ST holders, it's their ground they can do what they like, it's just that they didn't come right out and say so rather than a wall of silence. That started the ball rolling where trust was concerned and it never got any better.
Post by: Border villan on May 01, 2025, 03:35:46 PM
I've said it before - Villa Hotel - Mop up all the tourists in the GA+/Corporate seats. Extended stay in Brum, new club shop and beer hall next door.
Aren't hotel rooms overlooking the pitch the new thing. I think Blackpool have them and one or two others.
Norwich have hotel rooms overlooking ground. Also a Premier Inn overlooks New Road for Worcestershire CCC.
Post by: DB on May 01, 2025, 04:10:50 PM
I've said it before - Villa Hotel - Mop up all the tourists in the GA+/Corporate seats. Extended stay in Brum, new club shop and beer hall next door.
Aren't hotel rooms overlooking the pitch the new thing. I think Blackpool have them and one or two others.
Norwich have hotel rooms overlooking ground. Also a Premier Inn overlooks New Road for Worcestershire CCC.
Hampshire too, Edgbaston will have also in 18 months or so.
Post by: VillaTim on May 01, 2025, 04:13:04 PM
hardly new, Bolton did it 20 years agoI've said it before - Villa Hotel - Mop up all the tourists in the GA+/Corporate seats. Extended stay in Brum, new club shop and beer hall next door.
Aren't hotel rooms overlooking the pitch the new thing. I think Blackpool have them and one or two others.
Post by: eamonn on May 01, 2025, 04:18:45 PM
Post by: Max Villan on May 01, 2025, 07:40:58 PM
Would be a perfect fall guy if you wanted to cut concessions etc...
Post by: London Villan on May 01, 2025, 09:00:06 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on May 01, 2025, 09:21:50 PM
Individuals at that level are likely to have 3 months notice to work - unless they are out of a job, then you'd ask why are they out of a job if they are any good?
I think they're going to have notice periods much longer than 3 months.
Post by: Dante Lavelli on May 01, 2025, 09:28:11 PM
Individuals at that level are likely to have 3 months notice to work - unless they are out of a job, then you'd ask why are they out of a job if they are any good?
I think they're going to have notice periods much longer than 3 months.
Me too, six as a minimum.
Heck may have told the club ages ago and a plan should be in place, or they want him out the door swiftly.
Post by: SaddVillan on May 01, 2025, 11:23:01 PM
So, if it was a 2 year deal, it'll expire say between the end of May and June?
Hope we've got a list of possible replacements - and you'd have to think that it's a pretty attractive opportunity.
Fortunately with Monchi and Damian looking after the recruitment side of things it shouldn't affect any transfer window activity, although that may not be the case as far as commercial contracts are concerned.
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on May 01, 2025, 11:26:53 PM
Post by: tomd2103 on May 01, 2025, 11:41:28 PM
I've said it before - Villa Hotel - Mop up all the tourists in the GA+/Corporate seats. Extended stay in Brum, new club shop and beer hall next door.
Aren't hotel rooms overlooking the pitch the new thing. I think Blackpool have them and one or two others.
Norwich have hotel rooms overlooking ground. Also a Premier Inn overlooks New Road for Worcestershire CCC.
Hampshire too, Edgbaston will have also in 18 months or so.
Old Trafford (cricket one) also.
Post by: eamonn on May 02, 2025, 12:59:36 AM
Hopefully the new person changes the badge. If we change the badge every 3 years then the hippo will happen at some point.
Hula-hooping hippo, huh? German James - you're up.
Post by: Rory on May 02, 2025, 01:33:15 AM
I've said it before - Villa Hotel - Mop up all the tourists in the GA+/Corporate seats. Extended stay in Brum, new club shop and beer hall next door.
Aren't hotel rooms overlooking the pitch the new thing. I think Blackpool have them and one or two others.
Norwich have hotel rooms overlooking ground. Also a Premier Inn overlooks New Road for Worcestershire CCC.
Hampshire too, Edgbaston will have also in 18 months or so.
Old Trafford (cricket one) also.
I'm a Bears fan, but New Rd members' area has one of the best views in the country, imo.
Riverside & cathedral on the left side, cricket pitch in the middle, Malvern Hills to the right.
Sublimely Wodehousian.
Post by: Des Little on May 02, 2025, 10:08:32 AM
Post by: VILLA MOLE on May 02, 2025, 10:32:30 AM
Perhaps we could make an approach to lure Tom Wagner for the role?
he has bigger fish to fry
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on May 02, 2025, 11:10:16 AM
Perhaps we could make an approach to lure Tom Wagner for the role?
he has bigger fish to fry
High season at Pontins.
Post by: tomd2103 on May 02, 2025, 12:12:01 PM
I've said it before - Villa Hotel - Mop up all the tourists in the GA+/Corporate seats. Extended stay in Brum, new club shop and beer hall next door.
Aren't hotel rooms overlooking the pitch the new thing. I think Blackpool have them and one or two others.
Norwich have hotel rooms overlooking ground. Also a Premier Inn overlooks New Road for Worcestershire CCC.
Hampshire too, Edgbaston will have also in 18 months or so.
Old Trafford (cricket one) also.
I'm a Bears fan, but New Rd members' area has one of the best views in the country, imo.
Riverside & cathedral on the left side, cricket pitch in the middle, Malvern Hills to the right.
Sublimely Wodehousian.
Big boating lake where the pitch should be at certain times of the year as well!!
Post by: Rory on May 02, 2025, 04:43:15 PM
I've said it before - Villa Hotel - Mop up all the tourists in the GA+/Corporate seats. Extended stay in Brum, new club shop and beer hall next door.
Aren't hotel rooms overlooking the pitch the new thing. I think Blackpool have them and one or two others.
Norwich have hotel rooms overlooking ground. Also a Premier Inn overlooks New Road for Worcestershire CCC.
Hampshire too, Edgbaston will have also in 18 months or so.
Old Trafford (cricket one) also.
I'm a Bears fan, but New Rd members' area has one of the best views in the country, imo.
Riverside & cathedral on the left side, cricket pitch in the middle, Malvern Hills to the right.
Sublimely Wodehousian.
Big boating lake where the pitch should be at certain times of the year as well!!
True enough!
Post by: Chris Harte on May 02, 2025, 05:18:04 PM
I like to go to Worcester on occasion and often stay in that hotel at the cricket ground. It's really handy for the town centre (pubs). Time before last I stayed the whole playing surface was under water.I've said it before - Villa Hotel - Mop up all the tourists in the GA+/Corporate seats. Extended stay in Brum, new club shop and beer hall next door.
Aren't hotel rooms overlooking the pitch the new thing. I think Blackpool have them and one or two others.
Norwich have hotel rooms overlooking ground. Also a Premier Inn overlooks New Road for Worcestershire CCC.
Hampshire too, Edgbaston will have also in 18 months or so.
Old Trafford (cricket one) also.
I'm a Bears fan, but New Rd members' area has one of the best views in the country, imo.
Riverside & cathedral on the left side, cricket pitch in the middle, Malvern Hills to the right.
Sublimely Wodehousian.
Big boating lake where the pitch should be at certain times of the year as well!!
True enough!
Post by: N'ZMAV on May 02, 2025, 05:31:23 PM
Individuals at that level are likely to have 3 months notice to work - unless they are out of a job, then you'd ask why are they out of a job if they are any good?Yeah at least - I'd have to give at least 3 months for my job which isn't anywhere near as high profile as Hecks.
Post by: jwarry on May 03, 2025, 04:03:53 AM
🗣️ Ruud Gullit: “I met the Chelsea owner, Todd Boehly, and introduced myself: ‘Hi, I’m Ruud Gullit.’ Todd looked at me and asked, ‘What do you do?’ I told him, ‘Well, I played football — I also played and coached for Chelsea.’”
To Gullit’s surprise, Boehly responded, “Oh yeah? When did you play for Chelsea? What did you do for the club?”
“He didn’t know who I was. Can I blame him? Not really. But this is what it is now — they don’t know what the club is all about. The DNA is gone.” 😳
Post by: Hookeysmith on May 03, 2025, 09:36:06 AM
But I agree with the sentiment that this is high prolie business and it attracts high profile professionals rather than philanthropic nice guys. We had one in Randy but he as shit at business and choosing key personnel to run it for him.
Post by: Mellin on May 03, 2025, 09:48:36 AM
Should've sold up in 2010/2011.
Post by: HolteL4 on May 03, 2025, 07:52:21 PM
Post by: FatSam on May 03, 2025, 08:35:51 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on May 03, 2025, 10:25:14 PM
The Lerner years are a bit of a sorry tale really. Always thought his heart was in the right place. He just failed. Compare that to Ellis who actively held us back. At least Lerner tried for the first half of his term, but as you say, made the wrong appointments across all levels repeatedly.
Should've sold up in 2010/2011.
His heart was in the right place for a bit, but he absolutely could not give a shit when he walked away and sold us to someone whose 'chancer' status was visible from space.
Post by: IFWaters on May 03, 2025, 10:27:57 PM
Or from his footwearThe Lerner years are a bit of a sorry tale really. Always thought his heart was in the right place. He just failed. Compare that to Ellis who actively held us back. At least Lerner tried for the first half of his term, but as you say, made the wrong appointments across all levels repeatedly.
Should've sold up in 2010/2011.
His heart was in the right place for a bit, but he absolutely could not give a shit when he walked away and sold us to someone whose 'chancer' status was visible from space.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on May 03, 2025, 10:28:31 PM
Or from his footwearThe Lerner years are a bit of a sorry tale really. Always thought his heart was in the right place. He just failed. Compare that to Ellis who actively held us back. At least Lerner tried for the first half of his term, but as you say, made the wrong appointments across all levels repeatedly.
Should've sold up in 2010/2011.
His heart was in the right place for a bit, but he absolutely could not give a shit when he walked away and sold us to someone whose 'chancer' status was visible from space.
And his Uber history.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on May 07, 2025, 12:16:52 AM
https://www.avfc.co.uk/news/2025/may/06/2024-25-end-of-season-awards-dinner/
Post by: PeterWithe on May 07, 2025, 08:16:17 AM
Post by: dave.woodhall on May 07, 2025, 08:42:24 AM
I'd put that pricing well down the list of things to criticize Heck and the Club about, that type of event is always going to be out of reach of almost all.
It hadn't used to be.
Post by: Clampy on May 07, 2025, 08:48:04 AM
Post by: tomd2103 on May 07, 2025, 09:04:55 AM
Post by: amfy on May 07, 2025, 09:13:42 AM
Post by: LeeB on May 07, 2025, 09:14:12 AM
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on May 07, 2025, 09:21:22 AM
I remember paying a fiver to a couple of POTY evenings during the Gregory years in the Holte Suite. Ok, there was no three course meal included but nearly £500 a ticket does sound a tad much.
We went to a player of the year bash when Big Ron was the manager. For a couple of quid we got a comedian, the Miss Aston Villa beauty contest and Nigel Kennedy performing Vivaldi’s Four Seasons. Talk about the full cultural spectrum. Then we got to meet all of the players.
Post by: Clampy on May 07, 2025, 09:24:24 AM
I remember paying a fiver to a couple of POTY evenings during the Gregory years in the Holte Suite. Ok, there was no three course meal included but nearly £500 a ticket does sound a tad much.
We went to a player of the year bash when Big Ron was the manager. For a couple of quid we got a comedian, the Miss Aston Villa beauty contest and Nigel Kennedy performing Vivaldi’s Four Seasons. Talk about the full cultural spectrum. Then we got to meet all of the players.
One of the years I went, we had a mingle with the players, Miss Aston Villa and Glen Tilbrook. Which was nice.
Post by: Nev on May 07, 2025, 09:26:41 AM
I'd put that pricing well down the list of things to criticize Heck and the Club about, that type of event is always going to be out of reach of almost all.
It hadn't used to be.
Nor should it now. I think I made the point last year, have a number of tickets available at a reasonable price for ST and then have a draw.
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on May 07, 2025, 09:27:24 AM
I remember paying a fiver to a couple of POTY evenings during the Gregory years in the Holte Suite. Ok, there was no three course meal included but nearly £500 a ticket does sound a tad much.
We went to a player of the year bash when Big Ron was the manager. For a couple of quid we got a comedian, the Miss Aston Villa beauty contest and Nigel Kennedy performing Vivaldi’s Four Seasons. Talk about the full cultural spectrum. Then we got to meet all of the players.
One of the years I went, we had a mingle with the players, Miss Aston Villa and Glen Tilbrook. Which was nice.
Brixie Smith was going out with Kennedy at the time and she was there, complete with claret and blue hair do.
Post by: astonvilla82 on May 07, 2025, 10:08:07 AM
Post by: PeterWithe on May 07, 2025, 10:25:38 AM
Post by: Clampy on May 07, 2025, 10:30:23 AM
Post by: curiousorange on May 07, 2025, 11:17:43 AM
Why was Glenn Tilbook there?
It's my assumption he got off at Spaghetti Junction.
Post by: john e on May 07, 2025, 04:34:09 PM
He was with some girl from Clapham.
ha ha very good
Post by: pauliewalnuts on May 07, 2025, 08:23:00 PM
He was with some girl from Clapham.
I never thought that would happen.
Post by: dave.woodhall on May 07, 2025, 08:26:08 PM
Why was Glenn Tilbook there?
He's big buddies with Steve Stride.
Post by: Mister E on May 07, 2025, 08:42:33 PM
Why was Glenn Tilbook there?They managed to squeeze him in. He was cool at the time.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on May 07, 2025, 08:43:52 PM
Why was Glenn Tilbook there?They managed to squeeze him in. He was cool at the time.
Miss Aston Villa was there, he probably just fancied a little slap and tickle.
Post by: eamonn on May 07, 2025, 09:51:06 PM
Or from his footwearThe Lerner years are a bit of a sorry tale really. Always thought his heart was in the right place. He just failed. Compare that to Ellis who actively held us back. At least Lerner tried for the first half of his term, but as you say, made the wrong appointments across all levels repeatedly.
Should've sold up in 2010/2011.
His heart was in the right place for a bit, but he absolutely could not give a shit when he walked away and sold us to someone whose 'chancer' status was visible from space.
Ubers to Bodymoor.
Post by: eamonn on May 07, 2025, 09:52:29 PM
I went to a rags end of season with work about 10 years ago and they'd paid about £200 a head for the table, so it's not that mad.
Kept that quiet ;)
Post by: eamonn on May 07, 2025, 09:53:48 PM
Why was Glenn Tilbook there?
It's my assumption he got off at Spaghetti Junction.
Outstanding.
Post by: Chip Butty 111 on May 07, 2025, 10:34:39 PM
..all he got was bitter and a nasty little rash...Why was Glenn Tilbook there?They managed to squeeze him in. He was cool at the time.
Miss Aston Villa was there, he probably just fancied a little slap and tickle.
Post by: Tuscans on May 12, 2025, 11:39:36 PM
@cmdotcom
Post by: Somniloquism on May 12, 2025, 11:42:13 PM
Post by: Tuscans on May 12, 2025, 11:43:03 PM
Will we just rename the thread or start a new one?Ask FootyVil
Post by: pauliewalnuts on May 12, 2025, 11:47:14 PM
🚨 Francesco Calvo has resigned from his position as Managing Director of Revenue & Football Development at Juventus — he’s set to join Aston Villa.
@cmdotcom
The king is dead! Viva il re!
Post by: pauliewalnuts on May 12, 2025, 11:48:35 PM
Quote
Francesco Calvo studied Business Administration at Università Commerciale Luigi Bocconi and obtained a Master in Strategic Marketing in 2002 at the Profingest Management School.
He began his professional career in 2004 at Philip Morris International, holding roles of increasing responsibility until 2011 when he was promoted to the position of Director Event Marketing.
In October 2011 he entered the world of football as Commercial Director of Juventus FC S.p.A., where in 2014 he was promoted to Chief Revenue Officer.
From 2015 to 2018 he held the position as Chief Revenue Officer at FC Barcelona, until he joined AS Roma first as Chief Revenue Officer and then Chief Operating Officer.
He returned to Juventus on April 1, 2022 as Chief of Staff, a role he held until 22 January 2023 when he was appointed Chief Football Officer, reporting to the Chief Executive Officer. Currently, he holds the position of Managing Director Revenue & Football Development.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on May 13, 2025, 04:36:48 PM
Post by: PeterWithesShin on May 13, 2025, 04:39:54 PM
I’ve just read that a six part Netflix series on Villa is being released on 25th June.
Where did you read it?
Post by: Somniloquism on May 13, 2025, 04:48:24 PM
https://allbankscode.com/2025/04/13/the-unyielding-spirit-of-aston-villa-netflix-unveils-a-shocking-documentary-a-must-watch-for-all-football-fans-a-story-of-triumph-and-tragedy/
If that is true, it is not just the recent parts but going back to 2016.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on May 13, 2025, 05:33:09 PM
Lots of historical messages about it but the one "news" site mentioning it just looks badly AI generated.
https://allbankscode.com/2025/04/13/the-unyielding-spirit-of-aston-villa-netflix-unveils-a-shocking-documentary-a-must-watch-for-all-football-fans-a-story-of-triumph-and-tragedy/
If that is true, it is not just the recent parts but going back to 2016.
Seems genuine to me, and I look forward to seeing Scarlett Johansson in it.
Post by: Ducksworthy on May 13, 2025, 05:44:11 PM
Lots of historical messages about it but the one "news" site mentioning it just looks badly AI generated.
https://allbankscode.com/2025/04/13/the-unyielding-spirit-of-aston-villa-netflix-unveils-a-shocking-documentary-a-must-watch-for-all-football-fans-a-story-of-triumph-and-tragedy/
If that is true, it is not just the recent parts but going back to 2016.
Seems genuine to me, and I look forward to seeing Scarlett Johansson in it.
I hope Bailey’s missus isn’t in it. We might as well write off next year entirely if so.
Post by: SaddVillan on May 15, 2025, 07:37:36 PM
Brown was arrested at a hotel in Manchester in the early hours of Thursday, and held on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm to music producer Abe Diaw at the Tape nightclub in Mayfair.
Refunds all round?
A lot of us questioned whether agreeing to host this bloke was something we should be doing.
Heck appears to have been blinded by the cheque.
Wonder if we negotiated a non- appearance penalty clause?
Given Brown's reputation - then if not, why not?
Post by: dave.woodhall on May 15, 2025, 07:41:04 PM
US singer Chris Brown has been arrested in the UK in connection with a bottle attack at a London nightclub in 2023.
Brown was arrested at a hotel in Manchester in the early hours of Thursday, and held on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm to music producer Abe Diaw at the Tape nightclub in Mayfair.
Refunds all round?
A lot of us questioned whether agreeing to host this bloke was something we should be doing.
Heck appears to have been blinded by the cheque.
Wonder if we negotiated a non- appearance penalty clause?
Given Brown's reputation - then if not, why not?
We're not the promoters. Nothing to do with us if it doesn't happen.
Post by: Hookeysmith on May 15, 2025, 08:53:20 PM
Post by: VillaTim on May 15, 2025, 09:17:59 PM
Post by: SaddVillan on May 15, 2025, 10:46:18 PM
US singer Chris Brown has been arrested in the UK in connection with a bottle attack at a London nightclub in 2023.
Brown was arrested at a hotel in Manchester in the early hours of Thursday, and held on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm to music producer Abe Diaw at the Tape nightclub in Mayfair.
Refunds all round?
A lot of us questioned whether agreeing to host this bloke was something we should be doing.
Heck appears to have been blinded by the cheque.
Wonder if we negotiated a non- appearance penalty clause?
Given Brown's reputation - then if not, why not?
We're not the promoters. Nothing to do with us if it doesn't happen.
We'll have expected a hiring fee?
And if we run things like Spuds do, we'd be taking the profits on catering.
If the gig doesn't proceed then that's lost income.
Post by: Somniloquism on May 15, 2025, 11:35:11 PM
Post by: dave.woodhall on May 15, 2025, 11:43:52 PM
US singer Chris Brown has been arrested in the UK in connection with a bottle attack at a London nightclub in 2023.
Brown was arrested at a hotel in Manchester in the early hours of Thursday, and held on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm to music producer Abe Diaw at the Tape nightclub in Mayfair.
Refunds all round?
A lot of us questioned whether agreeing to host this bloke was something we should be doing.
Heck appears to have been blinded by the cheque.
Wonder if we negotiated a non- appearance penalty clause?
Given Brown's reputation - then if not, why not?
We're not the promoters. Nothing to do with us if it doesn't happen.
We'll have expected a hiring fee?
And if we run things like Spuds do, we'd be taking the profits on catering.
If the gig doesn't proceed then that's lost income.
I think I might take a wild guess here that the Villa hierarchy, in conjunction with the promoters, will have taken all eventualities into consideration.
Post by: claret+blue ed on May 16, 2025, 07:11:05 AM
LIV is probably the perfect match for Heck . Good riddance .I actually quite like LIV, hopefully he doesn't spoil it
Post by: aldridgeboy on May 16, 2025, 01:43:04 PM
That might now seriously put the concert in doubt
Post by: Dogtanian on May 16, 2025, 02:25:46 PM
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on May 16, 2025, 02:51:37 PM
Post by: Tuscans on May 22, 2025, 11:57:10 AM
Heck, "No, I wasn't involved in that but I will say one thing, be kind to him, it's a fucking tough job"
Post by: Brazilian Villain on May 22, 2025, 12:06:50 PM
"Do you know who is taking over from you"
Heck, "No, I wasn't involved in that but I will say one thing, be kind to him, it's a fucking tough job"
He must have met Villan82 at the awards dinner. *winky thing*
Post by: Hookeysmith on May 22, 2025, 01:05:13 PM
"Do you know who is taking over from you"
Heck, "No, I wasn't involved in that but I will say one thing, be kind to him, it's a fucking tough job"
Fair play to him - he is not wrong
Post by: Louzie0 on May 22, 2025, 03:53:37 PM
The Club needs to guarantee income on a much bigger scale than before he came and he was given the task to make that happen. I’d say overall he has succeeded and that the success of Unai and the team has helped!
I know the ticketing system remains an issue for good reasons, so perhaps that’s an area for the new person to tackle and refine.
Post by: jwarry on May 22, 2025, 04:43:09 PM
Post by: ChicagoLion on May 22, 2025, 08:07:00 PM
https://www.facebook.com/reel/570142212407140?fs=e&fs=etired and emotional.
Post by: FrankyH on May 22, 2025, 08:25:59 PM
Post by: Des Little on May 22, 2025, 10:28:14 PM
His Mom needs to let his trousers down an inch or two.
His Mom let us all down in some way or another.
Post by: Somniloquism on May 23, 2025, 08:41:09 AM
I suppose the LIV contract pays far more then we ever could though so maybe it was that job coming up sooner then expected and / or decided to jump ship elsewhere when it looked like not being in Europe would derail his revenue gains.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on May 23, 2025, 08:43:17 AM
Interesting the comments on "I expected to be here longer". Does that mean he did a job they wanted, but pissed off the owners in some way so they let him go?
I suppose the LIV contract pays far more then we ever could though so maybe it was that job coming up sooner then expected and / or decided to jump ship elsewhere when it looked like not being in Europe would derail his revenue gains.
He’d have given his notice long before being able to judge being in Europe or not.
Maybe he just misses his family? There doesn’t have to be some nefarious reason for him wanting to go.
Post by: PeterWithe on May 23, 2025, 09:09:26 AM
Post by: paul_e on May 23, 2025, 11:10:49 AM
He's right that it's a tough job though, there's a really difficult mindset around the fans of a lot of football clubs of wanting success but not liking a lot of the financial and commercial decisions that have to happen to get there. I don't blame the fans for that but I do think Heck in particular has been demonised by some people to an insane degree.
Post by: Stu82 on May 23, 2025, 12:10:41 PM
And I reckon he was on a massive bonus for getting to his target of £400m turnover, we got there earlier because of CL qualification and he was always going to go after achieving that.
Not sure he hit his target, heard that turnover will be about £370m.
Still impressive growth due to Unai and the team.
Post by: paul_e on May 23, 2025, 12:56:43 PM
And I reckon he was on a massive bonus for getting to his target of £400m turnover, we got there earlier because of CL qualification and he was always going to go after achieving that.
Not sure he hit his target, heard that turnover will be about £370m.
Still impressive growth due to Unai and the team.
On here we've talked a lot about £400m but €400m seems to be mentioned a lot elsewhere and makes more sense if the aim of all the revenue growth is to meet the UEFA requirements.
Post by: Stu82 on May 23, 2025, 02:14:06 PM
And I reckon he was on a massive bonus for getting to his target of £400m turnover, we got there earlier because of CL qualification and he was always going to go after achieving that.
Not sure he hit his target, heard that turnover will be about £370m.
Still impressive growth due to Unai and the team.
On here we've talked a lot about £400m but €400m seems to be mentioned a lot elsewhere and makes more sense if the aim of all the revenue growth is to meet the UEFA requirements.
Not sure target would be in Euros when we are an English PL team.
Currency fluctuations would make it illogical.
Post by: AV82EC on May 23, 2025, 02:23:24 PM
And I reckon he was on a massive bonus for getting to his target of £400m turnover, we got there earlier because of CL qualification and he was always going to go after achieving that.
Not sure he hit his target, heard that turnover will be about £370m.
Still impressive growth due to Unai and the team.
On here we've talked a lot about £400m but €400m seems to be mentioned a lot elsewhere and makes more sense if the aim of all the revenue growth is to meet the UEFA requirements.
Not sure target would be in Euros when we are an English PL team.
Currency fluctuations would make it illogical.
He definitely set the target as £400m turnover to make a sustainable top 6 club who didn’t necessarily need to be in the Champs League every year. The reason the €400m keeps getting quoted is that is what a lot of European Level Financial reporting is in for clubs in UEFA comps and also the Deloitte Football report is in that as well so maybe people keep getting confused between the two?
Post by: Stu82 on May 23, 2025, 02:26:21 PM
And I reckon he was on a massive bonus for getting to his target of £400m turnover, we got there earlier because of CL qualification and he was always going to go after achieving that.
Not sure he hit his target, heard that turnover will be about £370m.
Still impressive growth due to Unai and the team.
On here we've talked a lot about £400m but €400m seems to be mentioned a lot elsewhere and makes more sense if the aim of all the revenue growth is to meet the UEFA requirements.
Not sure target would be in Euros when we are an English PL team.
Currency fluctuations would make it illogical.
He definitely set the target as £400m turnover to make a sustainable top 6 club who didn’t necessarily need to be in the Champs League every year. The reason the €400m keeps getting quoted is that is what a lot of European Level Financial reporting is in for clubs in UEFA comps and also the Deloitte Football report is in that as well so maybe people keep getting confused between the two?
Well remembered, thanks.
Post by: Dante Lavelli on May 23, 2025, 03:17:40 PM
And I reckon he was on a massive bonus for getting to his target of £400m turnover, we got there earlier because of CL qualification and he was always going to go after achieving that.
Not sure he hit his target, heard that turnover will be about £370m.
Still impressive growth due to Unai and the team.
On here we've talked a lot about £400m but €400m seems to be mentioned a lot elsewhere and makes more sense if the aim of all the revenue growth is to meet the UEFA requirements.
I’m sure the 400m came from Heck himself, cannot remember what currency he said though.
…Appears to be £££ as clarified above.
Post by: Dogtanian on May 23, 2025, 03:25:53 PM
Post by: Dante Lavelli on May 23, 2025, 04:04:03 PM
...but as a leaving speech it is odd that he is the one reading it out, rather than someone thanking him for his hard graft and clear success. He's very David Brent.
Post by: usav on May 23, 2025, 04:20:47 PM
That list in the youtube clip is very impressive.
...but as a leaving speech it is odd that he is the one reading it out, rather than someone thanking him for his hard graft and clear success. He's very David Brent.
It was literally him thanking the team that worked on everything in the list, he said that at the beginning.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on May 23, 2025, 05:40:42 PM
That list in the youtube clip is very impressive.
...but as a leaving speech it is odd that he is the one reading it out, rather than someone thanking him for his hard graft and clear success. He's very David Brent.
It was literally him thanking the team that worked on everything in the list, he said that at the beginning.
Yeah, I think that’s fair. And it is an impressive list. Football 2025… I’m looking forward to those new deals being announced.
Post by: andyh on May 23, 2025, 05:43:31 PM
The speed at which this club is transforming is spectacular.
Post by: Dogtanian on May 23, 2025, 05:48:17 PM
To put that £400m in context, it would only be about £63m behind Chelsea’s turnover last season. Admittedly, they had no european competition. But, still impressive.
It would have put us 12th in the Football Money League for income last season.
Post by: Mister E on May 23, 2025, 08:51:00 PM
Absolutely.... and that's why Sunday's bloody game is so massive ... as we all know.
To put that £400m in context, it would only be about £63m behind Chelsea’s turnover last season. Admittedly, they had no european competition. But, still impressive.
It would have put us 12th in the Football Money League for income last season.
Post by: ChicagoLion on May 23, 2025, 09:34:32 PM
Whatever way you cut it, and whatever you think of him, that list of completed activities/ projects is incredibly impressive.And totally reliant on the performance on the pitch which he has absolutely nothing to do with.
The speed at which this club is transforming is spectacular.
Post by: dave.woodhall on May 23, 2025, 09:37:57 PM
Whatever way you cut it, and whatever you think of him, that list of completed activities/ projects is incredibly impressive.And totally reliant on the performance on the pitch which he has absolutely nothing to do with.
The speed at which this club is transforming is spectacular.
It isn't totally reliant. Unai's done the groundwork but Heck still has to finish the deals. We've had more successful teams when we couldn't get arrested commercially.
Post by: Hookeysmith on May 24, 2025, 08:57:19 AM
When my old man died I had a paving slab in front of the Trinity stand laid in his memory. Anyone that had one was offered a new wall position free of charge. I made my purchase and ordered my Dad's one also. I wrote to the club on the off chance that could we have ours side by side. They responded that they could not guarantee it but they would try.
I had a mail yesterday from them with the map location of my new plaque. I went to VP and there next to mine is my Dad's.
I stood there and was completely overcome. To think I can be next to my old man at the place that was central to our lives is one of the best things to ever happen to me.
A small thing for the club but a huge gesture for my family. The club gets a lot of stick at times but in this instance they have been brilliant
Thank you
Post by: Pete3206 on May 24, 2025, 09:36:56 AM
Post by: Clampy on May 24, 2025, 09:47:16 AM
No, that's absolutely brilliant and well done the club
Post by: Louzie0 on May 24, 2025, 10:18:32 AM
Post by: Stu82 on May 24, 2025, 12:13:11 PM
Pleased for you Hookey
Post by: olaftab on May 24, 2025, 12:27:47 PM
Post by: Hookeysmith on May 24, 2025, 03:22:02 PM
I wondered who's the 'I feckin hate Man Utd' paver was. :)
No, that's absolutely brilliant and well done the club
Genuine lol
Wished I had thought of having that now :)
Post by: ChicagoLion on May 24, 2025, 03:38:45 PM
Lovely to hear and well done the Club.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on July 30, 2025, 10:57:37 PM
They obviously didn't know he was going to pass away quite so quickly, but it feels like the club, with the concert and even the funeral today, has all of a sudden found a deep source of cultural relevance.
And the city, even more so.
Post by: cdbearsfan on July 30, 2025, 11:02:28 PM
Post by: London Villan on July 31, 2025, 12:09:08 AM
Post by: cdbearsfan on July 31, 2025, 12:16:06 AM
Post by: Billy Walker on July 31, 2025, 12:22:57 AM
Post by: London Villan on July 31, 2025, 12:35:56 AM
Post by: Percy McCarthy on July 31, 2025, 12:45:23 AM
The Council are pathetic at capitalising on popular culture. Another example would be Digbeth. One of the UK’s most vibrant and diverse areas, but BCC haven’t supported it or promoted it in any way.
The Crown and Station Street as a whole is our biggest missed sitter as a city.
A beautiful hotel, the UK’s first repertory theatre, the UK’s oldest working cinema (in the city that invented celluloid) and the de facto birthplace of heavy metal all on a small street twenty yards from one of the busiest railway stations in the country, and they haven’t got a clue how to exploit it.
Post by: Des Little on July 31, 2025, 08:02:24 AM
Post by: TheTimVilla on July 31, 2025, 08:05:28 AM
Post by: dave.woodhall on July 31, 2025, 08:35:49 AM
I know it's probs a bit tasteless to say this, and I do not know if it was entirely Heck's doing, but by having the Sabberf farewell gig happen at Villa Park, with the gigantic worldwide coverage, and prior to that, hitching Ozzy to the Villa bandwagon (the shirt launch last year), plus stuff like the tifo - even though we all know he didn't care too much about football - someone at the club has absolutely pulled a blinder.
They obviously didn't know he was going to pass away quite so quickly, but it feels like the club, with the concert and even the funeral today, has all of a sudden found a deep source of cultural relevance.
And the city, even more so.
Said it then, I'll say it now. Well done.
Post by: eamonn on July 31, 2025, 09:15:30 AM
Post by: DB on July 31, 2025, 09:24:46 AM
Post by: London Villan on July 31, 2025, 10:48:27 AM
Post by: DB on July 31, 2025, 12:25:51 PM
Manchester had a civic leadership that helped. As well as an established media community to help spread its ‘story’. It also thinks big, where Brum thinks small.
They had all of G Man aligned e.g. on the tram network, BBC and Media city really was a big win and hate to say it but their Fottball teams being dominant for 30 years and having all that exposure for the city too.
Post by: Toronto Villa on July 31, 2025, 02:06:10 PM
Post by: London Villan on July 31, 2025, 02:25:47 PM
Post by: Drummond on July 31, 2025, 02:31:20 PM
Some kind of monument/plaque to mark Black Sabbath's final gig would be fitting. If The Warehouse is aiming to be a top music venue, it would be brilliant to site such a monument nearby.
They could rename it The Ozzy. The Ozzydome, something like that, set up a load of gigs and that would get it going and established.
Post by: cdbearsfan on July 31, 2025, 03:09:45 PM
It always felt that Birmingham was comfortable being called or being known as the “second city” which bred complacency by years of city leaders. Manchester has tried to force their to being recognized as the second city through their community and cultural efforts in growing their image and brand. It helped that they had a vibrant music scene, two successful football clubs and a major sporting event in 2002.
Let's not fall out, now.
Post by: Dave on July 31, 2025, 03:15:12 PM
Over in Hong Kong, Spurs beat Arsenal 1-0 in the first North London derby played outside the UK. I wonder when and where the first Second City derby outside the UK will take place.
Post by: cdbearsfan on July 31, 2025, 03:16:04 PM
Post by: algy on July 31, 2025, 04:12:30 PM
Surely a black and purple away kit next season is the logical move. Keeps those tills ringing…We should just permanently claim purple & black as 'our' away colours on the basis of this away shirt:
(https://www.classicfootballshirts.co.uk/cdn-cgi/image/fit=pad,q=70,w=1028,f=webp/pub/media/catalog/product/e/2/e2c287616a7c0aa29f85428f94747057b84fb1a47985af6998c684145268b958.jpeg)
(along with green/black/red and white/claret)
Post by: LeeB on July 31, 2025, 04:27:08 PM
Post by: Nev on July 31, 2025, 05:12:32 PM
Post by: ChicagoLion on July 31, 2025, 05:16:22 PM
From memory, Man City (a) Sunday on the tele, Platt Lane Stand, Tony Daley goal.Is that the one where he dribbled the length of the pitch past every Citeh player , some twice.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on July 31, 2025, 05:28:25 PM
From memory, Man City (a) Sunday on the tele, Platt Lane Stand, Tony Daley goal.Is that the one where he dribbled the length of the pitch past every Citeh player , some twice.
No that was Man City at home. Same season I think. We lost 2-1. Peter fcuking Reid scored their winner. Yet another title choke. Edit I’m thinking it was two seasons later. The fabulous away shirt was in the 2nd division.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on July 31, 2025, 05:36:18 PM
Post by: Exeter 77 on July 31, 2025, 05:40:00 PM
Post by: Nev on July 31, 2025, 05:43:05 PM
Post by: VILLA MOLE on July 31, 2025, 05:43:49 PM
From memory, Man City (a) Sunday on the tele, Platt Lane Stand, Tony Daley goal.Is that the one where he dribbled the length of the pitch past every Citeh player , some twice.
No that was Man City at home. Same season I think. We lost 2-1. Peter fcuking Reid scored their winner. Yet another title choke. Edit I’m thinking it was two seasons later. The fabulous away shirt was in the 2nd division.
i think i cried after Reid scored that
Post by: Exeter 77 on July 31, 2025, 05:45:59 PM
I'm sure that was a Sunday live game but only in the Granada and Central regions. We went and stayed with a mate in the Uni Halls at Rusholme the night before, walked to Maine Rd and tried a pub that was chock full of casuals (glance at watch, leave). I remember all that more than the game tbh.It was and so was the reverse fixture when I think SGT tried to play Olney (wearing number 2 for some reason) and Cascarino together.
Post by: ChicagoLion on July 31, 2025, 05:48:02 PM
I was at Maine Road when he scored one of the best goals I have seen a Villa player score.From memory, Man City (a) Sunday on the tele, Platt Lane Stand, Tony Daley goal.Is that the one where he dribbled the length of the pitch past every Citeh player , some twice.
No that was Man City at home. Same season I think. We lost 2-1. Peter fcuking Reid scored their winner. Yet another title choke. Edit I’m thinking it was two seasons later. The fabulous away shirt was in the 2nd division.
We lost 2-1 though.
Post by: eamonn on July 31, 2025, 11:16:33 PM
I'm sure that was a Sunday live game but only in the Granada and Central regions. We went and stayed with a mate in the Uni Halls at Rusholme the night before, walked to Maine Rd and tried a pub that was chock full of casuals (glance at watch, leave). I remember all that more than the game tbh.
Ruffians rush home.
Post by: jwarry on August 01, 2025, 09:11:20 AM
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-14958613/Man-United-braced-fan-protests-amid-fury-controversial-new-scheme-charging-supporters-4-000-season-ticket-licence-doesnt-guarantee-seat.html
Post by: Gareth on August 02, 2025, 09:02:01 AM
Heck was a saint compared to these guys…..
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-14958613/Man-United-braced-fan-protests-amid-fury-controversial-new-scheme-charging-supporters-4-000-season-ticket-licence-doesnt-guarantee-seat.html
And you can 100% guarantee that all other clubs will be watching and jumping on this if it works