The City of Worcester in Massachusetts has renewed ASM Global’s management services contract at the DCU Center Arena and Convention Center which has welcomed more than 27 million visitors since opening. four decades ago.
ASM Global has served as the operating agent at the center since 1982, overseeing numerous capital improvement projects by the city beginning with the first expansion of the arena in 1987, the addition of an attached 50,000-square-foot convention center in 1997, the additional expansion of the arena in 1987 and 2019, and most recently the completion of a US $7 million project to replace 15,000 seats in the arena during the summer of 2023. Additional improvements have focused on updating infrastructure, improving fan amenities, enhancing connectivity to the urban surroundings, revenue enhancements and improved systems to reduce expenses and provide for energy conservation.
The Civic Center Commission, a five-member board, which oversees ASM Global’s management contract on behalf of the City of Worcester, voted unanimously to recommend the contract extension.
“ASM Global has continued to demonstrate its exceptional level of professional management at the DCU Center Arena and Convention Center as well as the Worcester Common Oval Ice Skating Rink, and we are glad to extend its contract,” says City Manager Eric D. Batista. “Residents and visitors alike will continue to experience the high-quality product the DCU Center is known for.”
“We are honored by the City of Worcester’s continued confidence in our team at DCU,” says Doug Thornton, ASM Global’s executive vice president stadiums, arenas and theaters. “This extension allows us to build on our successes and ensure Worcester continues to grow its market share of events and win over audiences with its unique blend of innovation.”
Together we have experienced tremendous growth, and we look forward to continuing to build on that momentum by driving economic development for the city, providing a first-class experience for our guests and showcasing all that the DCU Center has to offer.
In addition to overseeing the daily operations of both the arena and the convention center, ASM Global will continue to operate the facility’s food and beverage services through SAVOR catering. ASM Global will also continue to manage the Worcester Common Oval Ice Skating Rink, a public ice skating rink located behind City Hall. And, as part of the 10-year contract extension, ASM Global has committed to a US $3.5 million investment in the DCU Center, focusing on enhancing food and beverage operations, creating digital advertising opportunities to drive new revenue, and implementing additional technology upgrades.
Sandy Dunn, the general manager of the DCU Center, says: “ASM Global is grateful for the support and trust that the City of Worcester and the Civic Center Commission have shown us over the past 42 years.
“Together we have experienced tremendous growth, and we look forward to continuing to build on that momentum by driving economic development for the city, providing a first-class experience for our guests and showcasing all that the DCU Center has to offer.”
Author
