Each big city has at least one iconic sports stadiums.
Over decades it would have become a much-loved beacon of hope for sports fans of all descriptions. But what was once simply a venue for cricket, footy, soccer or athletics is now so much more. Features like bars, entertainment hubs, dining, memorabilia, museums, and corporate hospitality are fast becoming permanent fixtures of sports stadiums across Australia and the world. Our MD Rob Clifford explores the trends that modern sports stadiums are now adopting to attract fans and retain more share of their entertainment dollar.
Trend 1. Range of accessible experiences for members
In order for members to engage with the stadium on a regular base, there needs to be a range of hospitality experiences on offer. Members’ facilities must range from formal to casual, reserved to ad hoc, and ensure that all products are perceived to be a value proposition.
Traditional members’ hospitality delivered value via a discount for members. This is no longer the key value. Exclusive areas and dining privileges are now key drivers in members’ areas.
Trend 2. High-end privileged experiences
Airlines have first class, hotels have penthouses and now stadiums are offering extra privileges for the high end of the market. Premium offerings within a stadium environment can be in the form of a dining room, private box, or members’ lounge. Traditional sit-down meals are still relevant for these experiences and are enhanced by elevated design and fit-out, culinary selections, service style, and promotional features such as sponsors or celebrity chefs. It is not uncommon for the premium hospitality offer to become oversubscribed, which can positively affect the surrounding member hospitality options as long as good customer service manages member disappointment well. Access can be controlled by introducing a ballot system, with the limited supply adding to the exclusivity of the offer.
Trend 3. Pre and post-game entertainment
Attractions that increase dwell time before and after the game can be hugely beneficial for the stadium. Pre-game family entertainment is appealing, whilst post-game beverages and dining often leads members to enjoy their stay long after the final whistle. A variety of options appealing to families, younger patrons, and seniors is essential for any stadium wanting to secure increased pre and post-game patronage.
Trend 4. Dress standards
Dress standards can help define the culture of membership areas and set the standards. There is ample evidence to suggest it also plays a part in differentiating user markets in members’ areas. Hospitality areas with more casual dress standards will attract younger members and the offering on hand should reflect this audience. Likewise, rooms with a more formal dress code will attract an older demographic. There is an increasing trend for casual hospitality offerings to appeal to a wider segment. However, it is important for a premium formal offering for members to stay in the mix as the demand still strongly exists.
Trend 5. Something extra for the ladies
More and more spaces and hospitality offerings are being designed with female members in mind. Many sports-based clubs have limited engagement options for female members, even though this membership base may contain significant representation. It’s not to say that women don’t enjoy the traditional hospitality offerings, but bar design and hospitality concepts such as champagne lounges and tea houses are also finding a home in stadium design.
