Birmingham City report increase in profits

May 20 2008

Birmingham City have been boosted by a big leap in turnover for the first half of last season.

The increase followed their promotion to the Barclays Premier League in 2007. Over the six months up to February 2008, turnover was £32.6m, up from £14.3m for the corresponding period 12 months previously when Blues were in the Coca-Cola Championship.

Operating profit was up from £3m to £7.8m, although those figures are likely to decline again following Blues' relegation back to the second tier this season.

In a statement released to the Stock Exchange, managing director Karren Brady said: "The club's relegation will have a very negative effect on the business but we believe we have the right management team in place to regain membership of the Premier League at the first attempt."