WHL Seattle Thunderbirds

Naming Rights Parnter Selected For Kent Events Center

Published on October 8, 2008 under Western Hockey League (WHL)
Seattle Thunderbirds News Release


Kent, WA, October 8, 2008 - The City of Kent today agreed to terms for a facility naming rights partnership with ShoWare by VisionOne. ShoWare will also be the exclusive ticketing service for the new home of the Seattle Thunderbirds and the Puget Sound region's newest, and the nation's first "green" entertainment venue.

"This opportunity allows VisionOne to showcase our innovative ticketing service - ShoWare - in an emerging entertainment environment like Kent," said VisionOne Senior Partner Ralph Fasi. "Our partnership with the City of Kent will provide a firm foothold for ShoWare in the ticketing market for larger venues and sports teams in the region and throughout the United States."

"We are delighted that a company with an international presence has chosen to invest in Kent on a long-term basis," said Kent Mayor Suzette Cooke. The proposed agreement between the City and ShoWare is for 10 years, with a total value of $3.175 million.

ShoWare's user-friendly ticketing service offers an easy and convenient online shopping experience. With a "select-a-seat" feature, buyers can choose their exact seat location rather than being subjected to automated "best available" seating preferences.

ShoWare's simple, web-based system is cost- efficient to operate, which provides the opportunity for lower fees to be passed along to consumers.

Colin Campbell, VP & Assistant GM of the Seattle Thunderbirds added, "We are excited to enter into this partnership with ShoWare and SMG. We know our fans will benefit."

VisionOne provides ticketing services for over 300 customers around the world with the ShoWare comprehensive, custom-branded box office solution. Venues as diverse as the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, Red Bull Air Race Series and Seattle's Teatro ZinZanni have turned to ShoWare for their ticketing needs.

"We are very excited about partnering with a company whose vision is aligned with SMG's in terms of providing an innovative approach to serving our guests," said Tim Higgins of SMG, the Center's General Manager. "This unique partnership will place the Center at the forefront of technological advancements in customer service."

Kent Council Members will review contract terms prior to approval later this month. The facility's name, logo, color scheme and more will be unveiled within the coming weeks.




Western Hockey League Stories from October 8, 2008


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