EFL clubs will vote this summer on the future of the match-day programme.
The EFL this week revealed that some clubs have asked for the issue of the mandatory publication of programmes to be addressed in light of falling sales.
They say that digital media including social media has contributed to the decline and some clubs feels they could save money by not having to print programmes.
In a statement the EFL said: “At its summer meeting in June 2018, EFL clubs will vote on a proposal that will determine whether or not it is an absolute requirement to produce a match programme from the start of season 2018-19 onwards.
“A number of clubs have asked the EFL if the mandatory publication of a match programme can be addressed as a result of an overall decline in sales and the proliferation of digital and social media, which has the ability to deliver the same content in a more cost effective manner.
“Irrespective of the outcome at June’s AGM, the EFL will continue to produce a match programme for its five competition finals – the Carabao Cup, Checkatrade Trophy and Sky Bet Play-Offs.”
There has been a mixed reaction online:
Shocking lack of respect for football's traditions. Unsurprising sadly https://t.co/H62asuvCXh
— Achtung! Millwall Podcast (@AchtungMillwall) April 30, 2018
https://twitter.com/millmoor1/status/991047401493483521
Personally, I think regular printed football programmes have had their day. Special occasion souvenir editions, perhaps. https://t.co/p3mQQ3CcGJ
— Born2BMild (@Born2BMild) April 30, 2018
https://twitter.com/NonLgeProgs/status/991018204008013826
@EFL @FA must not let this happen, matchday programmes are part of the fabric of English football whose history and tradition is revered worldwide! #savematchprogrammes https://t.co/cPxiT0U1c1
— Daniel Orme (@TheOrmerod) April 30, 2018
https://twitter.com/seankuk/status/991028573497647105
Image: Millwall FC