Tender for the Operation of the Utilita Arena, Sheffield

The Council is seeking to procure an experienced and qualified operator to manage the Utilita Arena in Sheffield. The Council’s preferred deal structure is a long-term lease arrangement. This is an exciting opportunity for an organisation to partner with the Council to manage a key venue in the UK entertainment landscape, and the home of world class entertainment. Since the c13,600 capacity Arena opened in 1991 it has hosted over 2,700 events that have been watched by over 14.5 million customers averaging 122 event days & 650,000 customers every year. The Council is seeking to secure a long-term operating partner: to run a commercially successful venue for up to 15 - 25 years in order to maximise the commercial return to the Council; on a lease basis if possible, but the Council will consider alternative structures; and to provide a commercially successful programme that will enhance the profile of Sheffield as an events city, attracting the maximum number of events and attendees. The Council has provisionally secured c£5.7m of capital funding to invest into the Arena. This provisionally funding has been earmarked to invest in the facilities to enhance the customer experience, operational profitability, and maximise the Council’s operating objectives. Please note that the estimated contract value is based on the estimated venue turnover (excluding VAT) across the maximum contract term.