RALEIGH, N.C. – Today, Brian Fork, CEO of Hurricanes Holdings, LLC, announced that the Centennial Authority has given approval for an arena naming rights agreement that will rename the Carolina Hurricanes’ home arena to “Lenovo Center,” effective this September. This agreement is set to last for a decade, continuing through the 2033-34 NHL season.
“We have valued Lenovo as a partner for many years,” stated Fork. “We are excited to enhance that partnership by officially naming the arena Lenovo Center. Lenovo has significant local connections as well as a global presence, and we are proud to align the Hurricanes’ name with a leading figure in the technology sector. As we shift into this new chapter, we want to express our gratitude to PNC, our longtime naming rights partner, who will remain a key contributor to our organization.”
“This is an important day for Raleigh, Wake County, and the entire state of North Carolina,” remarked Philip Isley, Chairman of the Centennial Authority. “This partnership transcends mere naming. Lenovo will be instrumental in integrating technology into our upcoming renovations and upgrades. With deep roots in North Carolina, we are excited that they are reinforcing those ties through this agreement.”
“Lenovo has considered North Carolina our home for almost twenty years. Like the Hurricanes, we take immense pride in being part of the Triangle community, and we’re eager to deepen our partnership with this outstanding sports organization,” said Ryan McCurdy, Senior Vice President and President, Lenovo North America. “The arena is a significant venue in the state, and the newly designated Lenovo Center will remain the ultimate destination for enjoying sporting events, concerts, and more.”
Lenovo is a Fortune Global 500 technology company that has had strong ties to North Carolina since 2005, with one of its two global headquarters situated in Morrisville, NC. The company ranks among the largest employers in the Triangle region, contributing an estimated $1.5 billion to the state’s economy annually. Additionally, Lenovo supports local communities through charitable contributions, employee volunteering, and various engagement initiatives.
Since 2010, Lenovo has partnered with the Carolina Hurricanes and has previously served as the team’s helmet decal sponsor. Under this expanded collaboration, Lenovo will officially become the technology partner of the Hurricanes, integrating its technology throughout the arena and in operations to enhance the overall fan experience.
Originally opened as the Raleigh Entertainment and Sports Arena in 1999, the venue became the RBC Center in 2002 and was renamed PNC Arena following the acquisition of RBC by PNC Bank in 2012. The arena serves as the home for the Carolina Hurricanes and the NC State University men’s basketball program, hosting an average of 1.5 million visitors annually across 150 events, including major concerts, comedy acts, and family shows. The Centennial Authority owns the arena, and it is managed by Gale Force Sports & Entertainment, a subsidiary of Hurricanes Holdings.
A press conference and the public unveiling of the Lenovo Center signage are scheduled for September 19, 2024.
*Economic impact data comes from a study commissioned by
Carolina Hurricanes Set to Rename Arena ‘Lenovo Center’ Following 10-Year Partnership Agreement
Overview of the Agreement
The Carolina Hurricanes have officially announced a significant partnership with Lenovo, leading to the renaming of the team’s home arena to “Lenovo Center.” This change, set to take effect in September 2024, marks a new chapter for both the franchise and the technology giant as they embark on a 10-year collaboration aimed at enhancing the fan experience and promoting technological innovation within the sports industry.
Details of the Renaming Ceremony
The renaming ceremony will coincide with the beginning of the NHL season. The Carolina Hurricanes franchise will host an event to celebrate this milestone, inviting fans and local media to participate in the unveiling of the new arena name and associated branding.
About Lenovo
Lenovo is a global technology leader known for its innovation in personal computers, tablets, smartphones, and cloud technologies. The company aims to leverage this partnership to enhance its visibility and engagement with sports fans across the region.
Lenovo’s Vision for the Partnership
Lenovo’s involvement with the Carolina Hurricanes is part of its strategy to build strong community ties through sports. This partnership not only highlights Lenovo’s commitment to sports but also allows them to showcase their cutting-edge technology during games and events held at Lenovo Center.
Benefits of the Partnership
- Enhanced Fan Experience: Through advanced technology integrations, fans will enjoy improved connectivity and interactive experiences during games.
- Community Engagement: Lenovo plans to initiate programs that involve local schools and organizations, promoting STEM education and career opportunities.
- Brand Visibility: The renaming provides Lenovo with a prominent platform to showcase its brand to a diverse audience.
Impact on the Carolina Hurricanes
The Carolina Hurricanes are expected to benefit significantly from this partnership. The additional revenue generated from the agreement will be instrumental in enhancing team operations, including player development and facilities improvements.
Local Community Opportunities
Local businesses and the broader community stand to gain from the partnership as well. The renaming of the arena to Lenovo Center will attract more events, potentially boosting the local economy through increased foot traffic and tourism.
Upcoming Events at Lenovo Center
| Event | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Season Opener | September 2024 | Celebration of the arena rename and kickoff of the NHL season. |
| Tech Day | October 2024 | Showcase of Lenovo’s latest technology products. |
| Community STEM Fair | February 2025 | Interactive sessions for students and families focusing on technology and innovation. |
First-Hand Experience at Lenovo Center
Fans can expect an enriched experience at the Lenovo Center, with features such as:
- Interactive Screens: Enhanced displays throughout the arena to keep fans engaged with real-time stats and highlights.
- Wi-Fi Accessibility: Improved internet connectivity for attendees to share their experiences live.
- Mobile App Integration: A dedicated app providing fans with access to exclusive content, ticket purchases, and merchandise.
Case Studies: Successful Sports Partnerships
Several sports franchises have successfully partnered with technology companies, leading to innovative enhancements in the fan experience. Notable examples include:
- Golden State Warriors and Oracle: This partnership integrated advanced analytics into the game experience.
- Dallas Cowboys and AT&T: The AT&T Stadium is a leading example of technology integration in sports, enhancing fan engagement.
Conclusion
The Carolina Hurricanes’ decision to rename their arena to Lenovo Center exemplifies the growing trend of strategic partnerships between sports franchises and technology companies. This collaboration promises to deliver exciting developments for fans and the community, setting a new standard for the integration of technology in sports.
