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Bergischer HC rebounds from pandemic losses with balanced budget plan

From an 87% drop in ticket sales to a €3.7M comeback—how one handball club fought back. Youth programs and smart cuts pave the way forward.

,   and  Administrator
2 min read
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The image shows the Olympic Stadium in London, England. It is surrounded by lush green grass, trees, and plants with colorful flowers. There is a road leading up to the stadium, and a body of water in the foreground. In the background, there are buildings, poles, and other objects, as well as a sky with clouds.

Bergischer HC rebounds from pandemic losses with balanced budget plan

Bergischer HC has faced financial challenges in recent years due to the pandemic but is now working towards stability. The club, known for its strong youth development and community programs, has taken steps to cut costs and improve operations. A balanced budget is expected for the 2022/23 season after several difficult years. The club's finances took a hit between 2019 and 2022 as SARS-Covid-19 disrupted matches and revenue streams. Ticket sales dropped by 87%, while sponsorship income rose by just 8%. Overall revenue fell by 15% compared to 2018/19 levels.

To ease liquidity issues, BHC Marketing GmbH secured loans from public and private sources. Government emergency funds also helped stabilise finances and keep the club's structure intact. Restructuring efforts followed, reducing debt and shifting focus to long-term sustainability.

For the current season, Bergischer HC has set a budget of €3.7 million for its top-tier team. Digital season tickets have replaced traditional match programs, cutting costs and modernising services. The club has also centralised living and training facilities in Solingen to reduce travel and lower its environmental impact.

Despite financial struggles, the club's community and youth work remains strong. Since 2014, its school outreach program has introduced around 18,000 young people to sports through classroom visits. In 2022, the youth development program earned the LIQUI MOLY Handball Bundesliga's Youth Certificate for the 11th time.

Since 2012, Bergischer HC has followed three financial principles: careful fund management, maintaining positive equity, and transparent reporting. These guidelines have helped guide recovery efforts after the pandemic's financial blow. The club now expects a balanced operating result by the end of the 2022/23 season. Cost-cutting measures, digital upgrades, and centralised facilities have improved efficiency. While challenges remain, the focus on sustainability and youth development continues to shape Bergischer HC's future.

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