The Malta Football Association has initiated a consultation process with government entities and other internal and external stakeholders on the socio-economic benefits of sports development through complementary commercial projects.
The Malta FA commissioned E-Cubed Consultants to conduct a socio-economic feasibility study based on the commercialisation projects proposed by six football clubs – two in the north, two in the south and two in the central area. The study delves into several aspects of the proposed commercialisation of sports facilities, including capital investment and the economic benefits, the positive contribution to the technical development of players and increased potential for sports tourism events.
The first in a series of meetings on the commercialisation of sports facilities was held today with Dr Aaron Farrugia, the Minister for the Environment, Climate Change and Planning.
In his introduction, Malta FA President Bjorn Vassallo said the development of complementary commercial projects can help sports organisations become financially self-sustainable and move towards a professional set-up while improving their facilities with all the associated benefits.
“The feasibility study gives us a holistic view of the benefits arising from the proposed commercialisation of sports facilities,” Vassallo said.
“The findings show that such projects would yield direct expenditure in the country’s economy, higher social cohesion and healthcare savings from sports participation.”
The footballing industry in Malta has grown significantly in recent years and a separate UEFA study carried out in recent years has shown that the social return on investment (SROI) current tops €70 million annually.
“The model we are proposing is based on best practices in other countries,” the Malta FA President added. “The plan is to transform these sporting footprints into modern facilities, turning them into community and business hubs.”
