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January 29, 2008 - VenuWorks Assists GL events USA in Rio
For Immediate Release: January 29, 2008
Contact: Tammy Koolbeck 319-929-5755
VenuWorks has been retained by GL events USA to develop a comprehensive plan for Rioarena in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, VenuWorks President/CEO Steve Peters announced. It is the first foray into South America for VenuWorks, which is based in Ames, Iowa.
The Rioarena was completed in time for the 2007 Pan American Games. It has a total capacity of 15,000 people and was built to host major sporting events and large concerts. It is part of the infrastructure being built in Rio de Janeiro to bolster its bid for the 2016 Olympic Games.
GL events is regarded as one of the top event organizers in the world. The company originated 28 years ago in France. It operates venues in Europe, South America and Asia. The venues range from exhibition centers, convention centers, stadiums and sports halls, theaters and concert halls, and reception venues. The company reported total revenues of $1 billion (U.S.) in 2007, a 27 percent increase over 2006.
"To be able to assist a dynamic organization such as GL events is a tremendous opportunity for VenuWorks," Peters said. "We are glad to be able to continue our relationship."
VenuWorks' consulting arrangement with GL events began in October 2007. It includes the development of annual budgets, staffing and recruitment, marketing and advertising, event programming, and tenant negotiations for the Rioarena.
Senior consultant Glenn Mon has been VenuWorks' point man in the project. Mon has vast experience in venue management and security. He has been General Manager of the Louisiana SuperDome, Vice-President/Stadium Manager at Joe Robbie Stadium in Miami and served in several capacities for the Los Angeles Coliseum Commission. In addition, Mon served as Stadium Director for the NFL for four Super Bowls between 1992-1997.
"Glenn has extensive experience at venues that have hosted Super Bowls, NCAA Final Fours and college football bowl games," Peters said. "He is the best person to help us develop a comprehensive plan that incorporates achieving maximum revenue with an eye toward ensuring the security necessary for an event such as the Olympic Games."
BACKGROUND
VenuWorks (formerly Compass Facility Management) is well known for its success in providing full management services for arenas, theaters, and convention centers, which are primarily under the governance of municipalities, counties, colleges, and universities. VenuWorks, headquartered in Ames, Iowa, is the third largest facilities management company in the United States, serving 26 facilities in 15 communities throughout the US. It also manages food and beverage operations and provides event booking and promotion services. VenuWorks also performs feasibility studies and consulting work for clients with existing and prospective public assembly facilities.
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