Locally-based supermarket chain, Meijer, and Saint Joseph Mercy Health System have been unveiled as the first landmark partners of the new Detroit Events Center – the under development home of NHL ice hockey team the Detroit Red Wings.
The two companies have agreed multi-year deals with sports and entertainment group Olympia Entertainment, which operates the Red Wings. The deals will begin ahead of the 2017-18 NHL season.
As landmark-level partners – the highest tier available – Meijer and Saint Joseph Mercy Health System will receive maximum advertising exposure at the venue, which is scheduled to open in September 2017.
Both companies will have the opportunity to collaborate with the club on gamedays at the Detroit Events Center. Meijer has plans for an interactive childrens’ area, free hockey sessions during the summer and Red Wings player appearances.
Saint Joseph Mercy’s ‘Healthy Hockeytown’ initiative will include various health-related events in the Detroit area and will also expand upon the healthy-eating programme in operation at the Joe Louis Arena, the current home venue of the Red Wings.
“Our sponsorship is an exciting way to bring our message of health and wellness to visitors to the Detroit Events Center, and engage people out in the community where they live, work and play,” Saint Joseph Mercy’s regional president and chief executive Rob Casalou said.
Tom Wilson, president and chief executive of Olympia Entertainment, added: “These companies believe in the city and the district Detroit, and recognise that the Detroit Events Center is going to be the district’s crown jewel. Both companies are focused on bringing unique experiences to fans and visitors, and are names we are very proud to have associated with the new Detroit Events Center.”