The SSE Arena, Wembley Reports 2018 As Busiest Year On Record

SSE Arena, Wembley – Arcade Fire
The Canadian band played three sold out shows in the round at SSE Arena, Wembley, April 11-13

The SSE Arena, Wembley, the 12,500 capacity arena right next to Wembley Stadium in London, reported that it welcomed one million visitors in 2018, making it the busiest year in the building’s history, which began in 2006.

157 performances took place at London’s most intimate arena in 2018, including the world premiere of the Golden Globe winning film Bohemian Rhapsody, three sold out ‘in the round’ nights for Arcade Fire, the televised final of The X Factor, the biggest independent pro wrestling event in England for 30 years in the form of PROGRESS’ ‘Hello Wembley’, the first ever all-nighter from drum’n’bass legend Andy C, the biggest ever Bollywood event held at the arena from Arijit Singh, an exclusive Smashing Pumpkins show, George Ezra’s biggest headline concert to date and a sold out show for Slayer as part of their historic final world tour.

The one million figure is based on estimated footfall figures and not reflective of final ticket sales. Ticket sales figures weren’t disclosed.

Venue developments in 2018 included the opening of the brand new 200 capacity Empire Bar & Grill and accompanying 50 capacity VIP Empire Lounge. According to a press release by the SSE Arena, Wembley, “a new venue app was launched with 12,000 downloads to date, allowing customers to beat the queues with dedicated app collection lanes at food and drink outlets.”

SSE continues to be the venue’s naming partner. Its investments include free in-auditorium WiFi, free mobile phone charging points and social activations. SSE Reward program customers are also offered exclusive access to ticket presales, a dedicated VIP entrance and customer lounge as well as money-can’t-buy experiences.

SSE Arena, Wembley – The SSE Arena, Wembley
Welcomed one million visitors in 2018

John Drury, VP and General Manager of The SSE Arena, Wembley, said: “Our reputation as one of the UK’s most iconic concert and events venues rang true in 2018. With a stunning array of events across music, comedy, sport and entertainment, we helped to create memories that will last a lifetime. Any venue is defined by the people who run it and I’m proud that our dedicated team delivered such a strong and varied year. Thanks as well to all the artists, agents, managers, promoters and our partners who have of course been a key part of our success. Our building is 85 years old this year, but constant reinvention and innovation ensure we are ready to hit more heights through 2019 and beyond.” 

Check out Pollstar’s video interview with John Drury here.