The economic situation is also affecting Schalke. Beer and bratwurst may soon become more expensive. Matthias Tillmann explains the situation.

Even before Matthias Tillmann officially began his work as CEO of FC Schalke 04 on January 1, the 40-year-old was already thinking about what he could change at the second-division soccer club.

In addition to sport and cooperation at the office, his work also focuses on improving the club’s revenue structure and profitability – in simple terms: how can Schalke earn more money?

In the medium term, the sale of catering and marketing rights is an option for the club from Gelsenkirchen to raise money. A sum in the millions could be raised in this way. However, levers could also be pulled in the short term when it comes to catering. “We have had cost increases in catering in the past, which we have not passed on in full,” said Matthias Tillmann and announced that he would take a close look at this area.

Schalke forced to raise prices For the fans, this means that there is a threat of price increases for tickets, beer and bratwurst. “That could be the case,” said the CEO honestly.

The former CFO of trivago referred to the current economic situation with a high inflation rate. “Other clubs have had to do something and we are not exempt either,” said the 40-year-old. Tillmann promised to “act as fan-friendly as possible”, but stadium visitors will not be able to avoid rising prices. “We have to pass on at least part of the price increase, otherwise it will be at the expense of our revenue. That’s not sustainable for Schalke 04,” said Matthias Tillmann.

A pilsner beer in a 0.5-liter cup currently costs €4.60 in the Schalke Arena – so it’s quite possible that the Gelsenkirchen club will soon be breaking the €5 barrier for a half-liter of beer. Stadium visitors pay 3.10 euros for a bratwurst