Bolton Wanderers Report £13.91m Loss for 24/25
Bolton Wanderers have reported operating losses of £13.91m for the 2024–25 financial year, reflecting the financial impact of missing out on promotion and continued investment in the squad.
The figures, published under Football Ventures (Whites) Limited, show an increase from the £9.78m loss recorded the previous year, underlining the club’s reliance on shareholder backing from Football Ventures and BMLL Limited.
The club said the losses: “Reflect the Group’s deliberate strategy of continued investment in the playing squad, stadium infrastructure and operational capability, and are managed within the context of shareholder funding commitments.”
Turnover fell by 3.75% from £21.3m to £20.5m, largely due to an eighth-place finish and failure to reach the play-offs. However, football income rose slightly from £6.62m to £6.86m.
Wage costs increased significantly, with 447 staff across the group costing £17.112m, equivalent to 98.8% of total turnover.
The club added: “The increase reflects both the investment in the playing squad and the decrease in turnover, and the Directors recognise this ratio must improve as part of the progression towards financial sustainability.”
Bolton invested heavily in new players, spending close to £3.75m on signings including John McAtee, Szabi Schon, Joel Randall, Jordi Osei-Tutu and Klaidi Lolos. They recouped £1.35m in player sales, with the majority coming from Huddersfield Town for striker Dion Charles.
Chief executive David Ray said: "The 2024/25 season on the pitch didn't go the way any of us wanted, but I look at these accounts and I see a club that has been consistently invested in, year after year, by shareholders who are fully committed to Bolton Wanderers.
“It is also important to recognise the contribution of our supporters. Home and away, through a challenging season, you showed up - in growing numbers and with the same passion that has characterised this fanbase. It means a great deal to everyone at this club and it is recognised at the highest level. You deserve the success we are working hard to bring.”