Derbyshire recorded a profit for the year to 31 December 2023, their first in 11 years.
The Club has invested record amounts in cricket, completed several significant ground development projects and, despite experiencing a significant increase in operating costs over the 12 month period, was able to announce a pre-tax profit of £105,000.
Record investment in the cricket budget has enabled the strengthening of the playing squad, with extra resources pumped into talent pathways and training facilities at the County Ground.
The Club continues to work closely with England and Wales Cricket as well as key stakeholders across the county to improve spectator facilities, with the latest efforts to add more inclusive facilities at the venue including two new toilets and a multi-faith room.
Chairman Ian Morgan OBE said: “In the midst of the cost of living crisis and in a year of rising prices across the board, to be able to announce this surplus is great testament to the hard work of everyone at the club.”
“The county remains debt free and has been able to increase investment in the cricket budget by developing new revenue opportunities whilst continuing to closely monitor costs. I, along with our supporters and stakeholders, am excited about the season ahead.”
Record total ticket sales for the Vitality Blast and the first-ever sold-out England Women's match in a derby helped drive increased support, while Conferences & Events and Sponsorship continued to perform particularly well despite the challenges posed to the industry post-COVID.
Non-cricket events held at the County Ground have also contributed greatly to the profitability, with The Who becoming the latest major artists to perform in Derby, following Elton John, Little Mix and Michael Bublé in recent years.
Chief executive Ryan Duckett said: “As a club we pride ourselves on our innovation, adaptability and desire to punch above our means with every project we undertake.
“This year we have seen growth in both our meetings & events and commercial revenue streams, while maintaining a strong focus on prudent cost management.
“We hope that the ground development project, particularly the opening of the new multi-faith room and additional family toilet facilities, will improve the service for our supporters and attract more visitors to the venue throughout the year.”
“On behalf of the Supervisory Board and off-field team, I would like to thank our sponsors, members and all visitors to our cricket and non-cricket events for their continued support.”
The club’s Annual Report and Accounts were approved by members at the AGM held at the County Ground on Wednesday 27th March.
