OVG To Manage Under-Construction Sudbury Event Centre In Ontario

Following a competitive procurement process, the Greater Sudbury in Ontario, Canada, has selected Oak View Group to manage and operate the new 5,800-capacity Event Centre that began construction in 2025 and is set to open in 2028.

OVG will oversee all aspects of Event Centre operations, including event bookings and promotions, ticketing, premium seating and box office services, food and beverage operations, sponsorships and facility operations and maintenance, according to the release.

The agreement is for an initial term of 10 years, with the option to renew for an additional 10-year period. The announcement also notes OVG will make a significant capital contribution to the facility. OVG is parent company to Pollstar.

“Selecting an experienced venue operator is one of the most important decisions we can make before opening our doors,” said Shari Lichterman, Greater Sudbury CAO. “OVG brings the industry relationships, operational expertise and experience needed to position Greater Sudbury for success. Their team will help attract concerts, sporting events and other live entertainment, maximize opportunities for sponsorships and premium experiences, and support the successful opening and long-term operation of the Event Centre.”

Added Tom Pistore, President of Oak View Group, Canada, “We look forward to partnering with SWSE and the City of Sudbury on creating a world-class, state-of-the-art Event Centre here in Sudbury designed to attract top-notch entertainment, attract more visitors from across Ontario into Sudbury, and ultimately, generate a boost to the economic impact on the region. Sudbury is ready for a new arena and we’re excited to be part of this project.”

Greater Sudbury is about 248 miles north of Toronto and a major regional hub known for mining, with over 300 lakes.

Along with the announcement of the venue’s management, Sudbury Wolves Sports & Entertainment has signed long-term agreements to make the new Event Centre home to the Sudbury Wolves OHL hockey team and Sudbury Five of the Basketball Super League.

The venue is on track to open in fall of 2028.

OVG’s portfolio in Canada includes TD Coliseum in Hamilton, Canada Life Place in London and more, including OVG Hospitality accounts at venues including Rogers Stadium.