New Naming Rights Deal For Tampa Arena

Tampa’s arena will now be known as Benchmark International Arena under the terms of a naming-rights deal announced Aug. 13 between the firm and the arena’s leaseholder, Vinik Sports Group, the owner of the NHL tenant Tampa Bay Lightning.

“We’re proud to welcome Benchmark International as the new naming rights partner of our venue,” said Vinik Sports Group CEO Steve Griggs. “Benchmark International is a well-respected brand with global reach and strong ties to the Tampa Bay community. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to excellence, service, and community impact. As we transition to this new era, we are grateful for our long-time naming rights partner, AMALIE Oil, who will continue to be a corporate partner of our organization.”

The 19,092-capacity arena has been known as Amalie Arena since 2014. Prior to that it was known as the Tampa Bay Times Forum from 2012 to 2014 and the St. Petes Times Forum from 2002 to 2012. The building opened in 1996 as the Ice Palace.

Under the terms of the deal, which was developed in collaboration with Oak View Group’s Global Partnerships division (Oak View Group is Pollstar‘s parent company),  the arena will undergo a complete rebranding with new exterior and interior signage, digital integrations and the renaming of its premium club level to the Benchmark International Club Level, featuring The Mark as its signature all-inclusive experience. In addition, $3 million will be donated to Tampa Bay area non-profits.

“This partnership is a celebration of the people who make Benchmark International what it is, from our dedicated team members across the globe, to the clients who trust us with the most important decisions of their lives,” added Tyrus O’Neill, CEO of Benchmark International Americas. “We’ve built our reputation on delivering extraordinary results, and this opportunity allows us to bring that same energy into this exciting new chapter. Benchmark International Arena represents our continued investment in Tampa Bay, our passion for new ventures, and our belief in building something that lasts. We are proud to have our name on such a prestigious venue.” 

Benchmark is an international mergers and acquisitions firm.