Falkirk FC: Key points from Bairns' Christmas board update including loyalty system
Falkirk’s board of directors have stressed that “constant work” is required to continue the Bairns’ upward trajectory as they hailed a memorable 2025 in their festive update to supporters.
Under the stewardship of first-team manager John McGlynn, the club has returned to the Scottish Premiership after a 15-year absence, completing a remarkable back-to-back SPFL title-winning run. They’ve impressed so far in the top flight too, and have also hit some key milestones including the return of the famed Falkirk academy set-up.
And here, the Falkirk Herald highlights some of the key takeaways from the update issued on behalf of Stuart Adam, Keith Gourlay, Mark Whittet, Nigel Serafini, Bob Leishman and Tom Angus.
SURVIVAL IS THE GOAL
The board are judging the season based on achieving Premiership survival, although results so far give cause for optimism that they can “hope” for more. On the pitch, the Scotland appearances for Falkirk players old and young show the club is moving in the right direction.
STADIUM SUCCESS
The Falkirk fanbases immense backing hasn’t gone unnoticed. The Gate 20 ultras have contributed to a brilliant home and away atmosphere, and the behaviour and backing from supporters has been praised by SPFL match delegates. The club’s new fanzone and hospitality arrangements have proved successful.
IMPROVEMENTS MADE
The Bairns Survey informed the club of key areas to focus on, and improvements have been made. Falkirk TV coverage has been improve through QTV's World Feed usage (SPFL's production partner who film matches). The club has responded to fans’ concerns around the stadium, inside and out, and has made a number of changes. Maintenance costs increase year on year due to the stadium's age.
NO LOYALTY SYSTEM
Many fans have asked for it - but the club have confirmed there are no plans at the moment to bring in a loyalty system for ticketing. The club are reviewing away match arrangements however, highlighting the unexpectedly high number of tickets unclaimed after initial ballots.
FINANCES FRAGILE
The club's 2025 AGM showed clear progress. The club improved turnover and posted a £606k net profit. Four years of fan ownership via the Falkirk Supporters Society and the support of the likes of the Patrons Group has helped bring back the academy and recover from the club from near-death in 2022. But the club still has rising costs. The SPFL's move to ensure the Premiership has grass pitches will cost the club a healthy sum.
BREAKEVEN BUDGETS
The club will continue to set breakeven budgets - unlike many other Premiership clubs who choose to run on massive losses or have single benefactors. The club hope more people join the FSS and back the Manager's Fund.
THE RIGHT INVESTOR
The club would welcome outside investment, if it was right for Falkirk. They'd need to bring finance, expertise and innovation.
FOURTH STAND GOAL
The club is still working towards delivering a fourth stand. The stand must be commercially viable and not just house fans only.