We’re proud to share an exciting new chapter in our partnership with Scottish football: the unveiling of the KDM Evolution Trophy, launched on 17th July 2025, alongside the official fixture list for the competition’s brand-new league phase format.
At KDM Group, our commitment to grassroots and elite football alike is a cornerstone of our community values. So, it’s with great pride that we support this innovative competition, which promises to bring fresh energy and development opportunity to the Scottish game, especially for emerging young talent.
A Trophy for the Future
Designed by renowned silversmiths Thomas Lyte, creators of iconic trophies such as the Emirates FA Cup, Guinness Six Nations, and Ryder Cup, the KDM Evolution Trophy is more than silverware, it’s a symbol of progress. This trophy marks the beginning of a bold new era in Scottish football, one that prioritises player development, competition, and opportunity.
We were honoured to work with the SPFL in crafting a trophy that reflects the ambition and evolution of this reimagined tournament. You can see the new trophy in all it’s glory here.
Supporting Growth at Every Level
The KDM Evolution Trophy will feature 30 teams, comprising clubs from William Hill League 1, League 2, and B-teams from the William Hill Premiership, competing across six matchdays in a dynamic league phase. The top 22 clubs will then join the 10 William Hill Championship clubs in the knockout rounds, culminating in a showpiece final next spring.
With a £1.25 million prize pot, increased by over 50% from the previous year, this competition is not just about silverware, it’s about creating real, tangible support for clubs at all levels of the Scottish football pyramid. Teams who progress past the league phase are guaranteed at least £30,000, with £150,000 awaiting the champions.
Driving Youth Development
Crucially, the inclusion of Premiership B-teams aligns closely with the Scottish FA’s new Cooperation System, which aims to bridge the gap for players aged 16–21. This initiative resonates deeply as part of our long-standing commitment to youth football with our KDM Group Soccer Centres, which provide grassroots training for primary school-aged girls.
We believe in supporting young athletes during their most critical development years, and the KDM Evolution Trophy provides a vital platform for their transition from academy to senior football.
Looking Ahead
Our Group Chief Executive, Iain Jones, said: “It is an exciting moment to unveil the new KDM Evolution Trophy alongside the fixtures for the new league phase. The competition is embarking on a bold and innovative future, and we were delighted to collaborate with the SPFL on a new trophy design that represents this.
Our partnership with the KDM Evolution Trophy is an example of our support for Scottish football across all levels of the game. We cannot wait for the league phase matches to start and wish all the participating clubs every success as they strive to be the first to lift this new trophy come the final next Spring.”
Key Dates to Watch
We’re counting down the days until the first whistle blows. To all clubs and supporters, good luck, and let’s make this season one to remember.
You can watch the fixtures announcement here.
KDM Group offers a variety of construction services to blue-chip clients across the UK and Europe. These include general contractor, interior fit-out, mechanical and electrical, manufacturing, and design. The company is based in Dalgety Bay, Fife, with regional offices and operations throughout the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and the Republic of Ireland.
KDM Group – [email protected]
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