In a new partnership deal M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool will see its VIP lounge rebranded and offer live music performances from local artists. Tony McDonough reports
Local music artists will get to perform in the VIP lounge at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool in a new commercial deal.
Arena owner and operator, ACC Liverpool, has signed an agreement with global hospitality group Sodexo Live!. This means the venue will now be called the Sodexo Live! Lounge. It will offer a range of entertainment including live acoustic music sets from up and coming local artists.
Up to 110 guests will be able to enjoy a tailored dining menu for each event and a range of drinks in the mezzanine bar which offers views across the Liverpool waterfront. The Sodexo Live! Lounge is open on event nights.
Ben Williams commercial director at ACC Liverpool Group, said: “We are pleased to confirm a partnership deal with Sodexo Live!, a global hospitality company with 500 sites worldwide. These include stadiums and arenas, convention centres, international sporting events and cultural destinations.
“We are particularly excited about providing a platform for up and coming artists from the local area to perform before select shows. Guests can enjoy a whole night of entertainment and relax, drink and dine in style before and after watching a concert, comedy, sporting or family event in our venue.”
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Designed by 442 Design, the lounge features a wave-shaped light installation above the bar that takes inspiration from the River Mersey. Artwork featuring portraits of singers who have performed at the arena such as Katy Perry, Beyonce and Paul McCartney – painted by artist Peter Barber – feature in the venue.
A centrepiece installation of a white neon sign featuring Sgt Pepper lyrics lights up the back wall of the bar.
Rebecca Kane Burton, chief executive for Sodexo Live! UK and Ireland, added: “We just love working with the team at the ACC Liverpool campus and helping them create the best possible experiences for every type of customer.
“The launch of the Sodexo Live! lounge demonstrates our commitment to the partnership by taking things up a level.”
The VIP lounge opened in 2017. It is also available for private hire and functions outside of event nights. ACC Liverpool, which also includes Exhibition Centre Liverpool and the Pullman Hotel, is owned by Liverpool City Council.