Arena to be Renamed "Lenovo Center" in September

RALEIGH, N.C. – The Carolina Hurricanes’ home arena will soon sport a new name. Brian Fork, the Chief Executive Officer of Hurricanes Holdings, LLC, has announced that the Centennial Authority has approved a naming rights agreement with Lenovo. Starting this September, the arena will be known as the "Lenovo Center." This agreement is set to last for a decade, extending through the 2033-34 National Hockey League season.

“Lenovo has been a valued partner of ours for many years,” said Fork. “We’re thrilled to elevate that partnership now by renaming the arena Lenovo Center. Lenovo has both strong local ties and a worldwide footprint, and we’re proud to have the Hurricanes’ name associated with a true leader in global technology. As we transition to this new era, we are grateful for our longtime naming rights collaborator, PNC, who will continue to be a major partner of our organization.”

The Chairman of the Centennial Authority, Philip Isley, echoed these sentiments. “This is an exciting day for Raleigh, Wake County, and the whole state of North Carolina,” said Isley. “This partnership is about more than just renaming the arena. Lenovo will play a vital role in integrating technology into our upcoming arena renovations and enhancements. Lenovo has deep roots in North Carolina, and we’re thrilled that they are strengthening those roots with this naming rights agreement.”

Ryan McCurdy, Senior Vice President and President of Lenovo North America, also expressed enthusiasm for the partnership. “Lenovo has called North Carolina our home for nearly two decades. Like the Hurricanes, we take great pride in being a part of the Triangle community and we’re excited to expand our partnership with a world-class sports organization,” said McCurdy. “The arena is one of the most recognizable venues in the state and the newly named Lenovo Center will continue to be the premier destination for people to enjoy sporting events, concerts, and more.”

Lenovo, a Fortune Global 500 technology company, has had a significant presence in North Carolina since 2005. One of the company’s two global headquarters is located in Morrisville, North Carolina. Lenovo is one of the largest employers in the Triangle region, contributing an estimated $1.5 billion in economic and fiscal impact to North Carolina each year. The company also engages in philanthropic activities, employee volunteering, and community engagement initiatives to support the local community.

Lenovo has been a partner of the Carolina Hurricanes since 2010 and has previously been the team’s helmet decal sponsor. With the expanded partnership, Lenovo will now be the official technology partner of the Hurricanes. The organization plans to implement Lenovo technology throughout the arena and its operations to enhance the fan experience.

The arena, originally opened as the Raleigh Entertainment and Sports Arena in 1999, has undergone several name changes over the years. It became the RBC Center in 2002 and was renamed PNC Arena after PNC Bank acquired RBC in 2012. The venue is home to the Carolina Hurricanes and the NC State University men’s basketball program. It hosts an average of 1.5 million guests and 150 events each year, including major concerts, comedy tours, and family shows. The arena is owned by the Centennial Authority and managed by Gale Force Sports & Entertainment, a subsidiary of Hurricanes Holdings.

A press conference and public unveiling of the new Lenovo Center signage is scheduled for September 19, 2024. This event will mark the official transition to the new name and celebrate the strengthened partnership between Lenovo and the Carolina Hurricanes.

For those interested, a rendering of the Lenovo Center is available here and a brief animation video can be downloaded here.

Economic Impact and Community Engagement

Lenovo’s impact on North Carolina goes beyond just business operations. The company’s economic and fiscal contributions have been significant, with an annual impact of approximately $1.5 billion. This figure is derived from an economic impact study commissioned by Lenovo and conducted by Sanford Holshouser Economic Development Consulting, LLC and Research and Consulting Services, LLC in August 2021. These contributions include job creation, local business support, and various community initiatives, making Lenovo a pillar in the Triangle region.

Lenovo’s community engagement initiatives are also noteworthy. The company has been involved in various philanthropic activities, supporting local schools, non-profits, and other community organizations. Employee volunteering is encouraged and facilitated, allowing Lenovo staff to contribute their time and skills to various community projects. This community-oriented approach aligns well with the values of the Carolina Hurricanes, making the partnership a natural fit.

Enhancing Fan Experience with Technology

As the official technology partner, Lenovo will bring state-of-the-art technology to the Lenovo Center. This integration aims to enhance the overall fan experience, making visits to the arena more enjoyable and convenient. From advanced ticketing systems to enhanced in-arena connectivity and digital displays, Lenovo’s technology will play a crucial role in modernizing the venue.

One of the key areas of focus will be the implementation of advanced data analytics to improve crowd management and security. By leveraging Lenovo’s expertise in big data, the arena can optimize entry and exit points, reduce wait times, and enhance security measures. Additionally, Lenovo plans to introduce interactive kiosks and mobile applications to provide real-time information about events, concessions, and other amenities.

Historical Context and Future Prospects

The arena has a rich history, having hosted numerous memorable events since its opening in 1999. From thrilling hockey games and basketball matches to high-profile concerts and family shows, the venue has been a cornerstone of entertainment in North Carolina. The renaming to Lenovo Center marks a new chapter in its storied history, promising to bring even more exciting events and technological advancements to the community.

Looking ahead, the partnership between Lenovo and the Carolina Hurricanes is expected to bring numerous benefits to both parties. For Lenovo, this partnership offers increased brand visibility and a stronger connection to the local community. For the Hurricanes, the integration of cutting-edge technology will enhance the fan experience and streamline operations, making the Lenovo Center a premier destination for sports and entertainment in North Carolina.

Conclusion

The renaming of the Carolina Hurricanes’ home arena to Lenovo Center signifies more than just a change in signage. It represents a deepened partnership between two organizations that are integral to the North Carolina community. With Lenovo’s technological prowess and commitment to community engagement, the Lenovo Center is poised to become a beacon of innovation and entertainment. As we look forward to the official unveiling in September 2024, the excitement and anticipation continue to build for what promises to be a transformative era for the arena and its patrons.

For further updates and information, stay tuned to official announcements from the Carolina Hurricanes and Lenovo. The future looks bright for the Lenovo Center, and we can’t wait to see what’s in store.

This article is intended to provide a comprehensive overview of the upcoming changes and the benefits they bring. For more detailed information, you can visit the official websites of the Carolina Hurricanes and Lenovo.

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