To buy or not to buy
That is the question every time the club launches a new range of replica shirts, for many Arsenal fans, although fans of the Gunners still remain the most loyal when it comes to decking themselves out in their second skin.
Of course, the designs can sometimes influence the decision to buy, and former Arsenal favourite Ian Wright didn’t hold back with his very critical reaction to the 2018-19 Puma shirt designs, amidst speculation that this could be the last season they produce the club’s sportswear. Adidas and Nike are apparently vying to take over from the 2019-20 season.
Despite the initial reactions via social media, with the season now started, Arsenal will undoubtedly remain amongst the Premier League best-sellers when it comes to shirt sales. Indeed, a recent study by Betting.net seems to indicate that value for money is a more decisive factor, often tipping the scales whether fans opt to buy or not.
Amongst the sample group of Arsenal fans, only 25% of those polled suggested that price is the main factor dissuading them from buying the 2018-19 shirts, whilst 75% said that price wouldn’t influence their decision. Interestingly, amongst supporters of teams considered to be the traditional top six Premier League contenders, Gunners fans were some of the least concerned about shirt prices.
Often a bone of contention for many fans of Premier League clubs, rising prices for official replica shirts can be quite divisive for fans of many teams. However, the official Arsenal replica shirts priced at £55 are amongst the lowest in the Premier League this season.
By comparison, the new Spurs shirt this season costs £65, with those of Chelsea and Man Utd are around the same price at official online stores. Meanwhile, replica shirts for reigning champions Man City carry a slightly cheaper £62.78 price tag.
Fans of those teams in the survey suggested they were less likely to purchase this season’s shirts, with prices one of the most decisive factors. While Arsenal fans seem to consider the price of their shirt as being good value, at the same price of £55, Liverpool fans polled suggested that they might not buy this season’s offering.
I stopped buying after the 2010-2011 season due to the materials used rather than the price.
Whatever be the case and if the material used in producing the Arsenal replica home or away shirt is of approved standard quality conforming to the Standard Organization Quality Control, my own take on this issue is all Arsenal fans more especially the Arsenal match attendees should buy the shirt to give their own quota to Arsenal revenue generation. But having said this, I think I’ll be better if the proceeds from the sales of the replica shirt is set aside to boost incoming transfers differently into an account different from the club’s main revenue generation account of: match ticket sales, TV money payout income, naming right and sponsorship. Which is mainly used for capital project, signing of new players, personnel salary payments and overhead running cost at the club. Out of which Stan Kroenke will take some out as his profit for his investment in the club.
I am the proud owner of the 1971-72 replica jersey bought at the club store by my son , that I’ve still yet to use .
Maybe I’d use it in celebration when we do another double !
Unfortunately prices have gone up but quality has gone down. Football shirts in the past were unique, today they seem bland compared to the 90’s shirts.
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