By Blair Cardinal
In an effort to generate new business at the Greenville (SC) Convention Center and reinvigorate Greenville as a meeting destination, the City of Greenville revealed that on October 1 it entered into a new partnership with Oak View Group, the global venue development, advisory, and investment company for both the hospitality and live entertainment industries.
OVG360, which is the third-party, venue management, venue services, and hospitality division of OVG, is 
overseeing and managing the day-to-day operations for the facility which encompass 280,000-square-feet of exhibit and event space, including a 30,000 square-foot ballroom. OVG360 will also work closely with the Convention & Visitors Bureau and focus on generating new business opportunities for the convention center as well as marketing the venue to event planners, show organizers, and exhibitors. OVG Hospitality, the food and beverage service division within OVG360, will enhance the customer experience with exciting new menu options and catering opportunities.
TD Synnex, which has hosted its annual international conference at the convention center for the last 25 years, began loading in the large event on October 2, one day after OVG’s management contract began.
“The City is eager to work with Oak View Group to position Greenville as a premier destination for conventions,” said Greenville City Manager John McDonough. “We hired them because we saw what the OVG team accomplished at other properties and are excited about the experience they bring to the Upstate. OVG is a worldwide leader in the meeting and convention industry and will make a significant economic impact in the region.”
“We see tremendous potential for Greenville and the Greenville Convention Center,” Greg O’Dell, President, OVG360’s venue management division, said. “As part of our network of properties we will be able to help generate significant new business for the venue and the region. We look forward to working closely with the Greenville CVB in bringing new life to Greenville, especially one that will bring visitors to the region.”
Blair Cardinal is VP, Communications at Oak View Group / OVG360.
