running American team Tampa Bay Rowdies. He also mentioned Ashish Patel’s role, and how his background in digital media could open opportunities while working alongside strong departments in that area of the club. This included maximising commercial revenues, increasing audiences both here and abroad, and capitalising on upcoming important milestones.

SP concluded he felt good about the work done on and off the pitch this summer, praised the club staff for their hard work and togetherness, and affirmed he is excited to tackle the challenge ahead. He acknowledged they cannot control the bounce of the ball, but promised everything they can control will be pushed in a positive direction – and they will be as transparent as possible during that process.

After asking follow-up questions, members showed their appreciation for SP’s attendance, and he departed the meeting.

over a rolling three-year period. He said that these were not straight forward losses as there a number of items that were not taken into consideration as part of the calculations. Such items included the academy, community, and women’s football.

He said Albion are working with the EFL to meet those requirements, while looking ahead at the same time – admitting it was a challenge, but one they were embracing under the new ownership group.

Members once again had the chance to follow-up with questions, and MM and the group discussed the usage of the MSD loan, how a deal between the EFL and Premier League had not yet been agreed, as well as the development of a potential government regulator in football.

Finally, it was asked if lessons had been learned from the difficulties faced under the previous ownership. MM said yes, and from a wider point of view, he confirmed the EFL and Premier League had strengthened their due diligence and OADT (Owners & Directors Tests) thresholds, which makes them much more difficult to pass than they were.

next season, and that last campaign’s season ticket stilecards are in the second year of a two-year cycle – hence why supporters could still choose that option for 2024/25.

MM stressed the app was simple to use and cited many clubs were now completely digital – as are lots of non-football large events.

During lengthy discussions, MM made the following points to try and ease concerns from members:

Multiple tickets can be on one phone at the same time, so children’s tickets can be on a parent’s device. Likewise, those who do not own a smart phone can store their tickets with a family member or friend who does.

IS suggested setting up a working group to help with the transition over the next year. Several AA attendees agreed to take part.

The meeting then continued to the new Ticket Exchange. MM emphasised this was completely separate to the app – and was instead done via the ticket website. For example, it did not matter if your season ticket was accessed through the app or a stilecard, you could still list it for re-sale on the exchange. Details on the ticket exchange can be found here.

RL added there was another option for supporters who could not attend a match, which was to donate their ticket to The Albion Foundation.

IS said season ticket sales had surpassed 20,000 for the 2024/25 campaign. Members asked what the maximum number of season ticket holders could be, and MM confirmed Albion must retain 5% of the stadium capacity for matchday sales, excluding an away allocation

thanked supporters for their input on what music should be played pre-match, saying they had positive feedback from the end of 2023/24. She added that ‘The Liquidator’ would normally be played, though said the timing may vary if the usual slot was not appropriate.

It was also confirmed someone would sign the line-ups again for the big screens, however this would not be created until the transfer window was closed.

Regarding the shop, RR spoke about a summer rebrand and the hard work that went into it. Members asked if the letters and numbers for the new kits had been delivered, and MM stated they were now in following an initial EFL-wide delay.

When the room was opened for questions, merchandise issues were raised and suggestions were also made by members concerning sizing, designs and different fits. Discussions took place around half-time entertainment as well, with RR saying they had ideas for competitions, linking up with sponsors, special guests, and more cap presentations.

AOB

MM reminded members that lesser issues should be brought up to the club separately and as soon as possible, rather than waiting to mention them in an AA meeting.

Pre-season was discussed towards the end, as people questioned why no foreign tour or home friendlies had taken place, as well as the reason for behind-closed-doors matches.

MM said ‘BCD’ games were more common across football now and explained Carlos Corberán preferred to stay in England during the summer. He added that the opportunity for a Hawthorns friendly did not arise, and they would not rule out hosting one again in the future.

Date of next meeting: Thursday, November 21 (7pm).