Five years ago, St Mirren executed their long wait into becoming a fan-owned club.
The St Mirren Independent Supporter’s Association (SMiSA) purchased the leftover shares to turn the club into an official fan-owned system, gaining 51% stake.
Partners Kibble own 27.5% and then the rest has been shared amongst various shareholders at the club.
And ever since the purchase, the club has progressed monumentally. With a Scottish League cup to their name, European football and achieved three consecutive top-flight finishes.
Their three consecutive top-flight finishes were accomplished with the second lowest budget in the league, which is a remarkable accomplishment.
When SMiSA became the majority shareholder of the club, they had a total of 1200 members. Now their aim is to expand that number to 3,000 members by October 2027, which is also the 150th anniversary of St Mirren.
St Mirren’s SMiSA also holds a minimum of four seats on the board, which contributes massively to allowing fans opinions and ideas to be heard. And most importantly, give help towards both the team and club itself.
Also launched in June 2022, was the “Help a Buddie campaign”, which is a chance for people to give to those who are less fortunate, in aid to bring more support to the team.
Ultimately St Mirren’s fan-owned structure has made a significant impact to the club’s progress over the last few years.
Their structure may be an idea which other clubs take into consideration over the coming seasons.
