The Arizona Sports and Tourism Authority (AZSTA) Board of Directors selected SMG to operate the University of Phoenix Stadium. Beginning July 1, 2016, SMG will provide full management and operational services for the stadium for five years. AZSTA will receive a $1.5 million up-front capital investment, too.“SMG is honored that AZSTA has chosen our firm to manage the venue, and we are excited to have an opportunity to
“SMG is honored that AZSTA has chosen our firm to manage the venue, and we are excited to have an opportunity to work with the board, the Arizona Cardinals, and Fiesta Bowl in the years to come,” said Wes Westley, SMG’s president and CEO, in a statement.
The University of Phoenix Stadium is the sixth NFL stadium under SMG’s management. Other stadiums include Mercedes-Benz Superdome, New Orleans, Louisiana; EverBank Field, Jacksonville, Florida; Soldier Field, Chicago, Illinois; NRG Stadium, Houston, Texas; and the new U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
“The AZSTA Board of Directors conducted a thorough RFP process, which resulted in the selection of SMG as our stadium management firm,” said AZSTA President and CEO Tom Sadler in a statement. “We are pleased to welcome SMG and feel that they aligned best with AZSTA’s vision and mission. They represent a tremendous opportunity for growth and look forward to continuing a tradition of excellent execution at all of our major events.”
The management transition will begin immediately and will be completed before the NFL season starts.
“We welcome University of Phoenix Stadium to our SMG network of facilities, and will use all of our resources to present the best in sports and live entertainment to the citizens of Maricopa County,” said Doug Thornton, SMG’s Executive Vice President, in a statement. “University of Phoenix Stadium is among the finest facilities in the country. We recognize the significant role that it plays in the region and the standard of service that is needed to ensure its continued success. We look forward to working with all of the stakeholders in making that happen.”
(Image: Gage Skidmore/Creative Commons)
