New stadium suite sales already top $138 million

Optimism abounds as City and 49ers work toward beginning construction in 2013
Mayor: “We have liftoff!”

(Santa Clara, Calif. June 30, 2011) – The San Francisco 49ers and Legends Premium Sales, the company hired to market suites for the team at the new stadium in Santa Clara, today revealed that the franchise has already reached $138 million in new stadium suite sales even though the building won’t open until the 2015 NFL season. Santa Clara voters approved measures last year that gave the City the ability to create a new home for the 49ers.

Earlier this week, the team briefed City staff on the confirmed suite transactions, and they gave reports about the marketing and sales campaign’s success. Santa Clara Mayor Jamie L. Matthews said the sales results are an important milestone.

"These remarkable sales results should answer anyone who asks if the stadium in Santa Clara will be a reality. In the words of the space program, clearly, we have liftoff."

Assistant City Manager Carol McCarthy said City staff reviewed the information and confirmed that the 49ers have brought in executed suite contracts committing $138 million in revenue for the new stadium.

“We can definitely validate those numbers,” said McCarthy.

The City staff has recommended approval of a new contract for Legends to market Stadium Builders Licenses for the Stadium Authority, in addition to handling the suite sales for the 49ers. The Stadium Authority Board will consider this matter at its meeting Tuesday evening.

According to the 49ers, Legends’ success with the suite sales was a “huge factor” when a review was conducted on companies who specialize in premium seat sales.

“Legends demonstrated its commitment to customer service, and our customers praised their professional approach,” said Paraag Marathe, Chief Operating Officer for the 49ers.

The sales results were also applauded by others in the luxury seat industry.

“This economy continues to present challenges to those of us in the business of selling premium seating in sports venues,” said Bill Dorsey, the chairman of the Association of Suite Directors, the nation’s leader in providing information and resources to those involved in the premium seating industry. “These results reflect the strength of the Legends team and the passion of the 49ers fans for their team and the new venue.”

“When the Club and reserve seats are launched early next year,” said Al Guido, Vice President New Stadium Sales and Service, “our sales team will be meeting one-on-one with everyone interested in the stadium, starting with 49ers season ticket holders, to explain all of the options that will be available. Experience has taught us that the process needs to start early, especially when fans will be learning about a much different seat product than they have seen before.”

-SF-

Media Contacts:
Steve Weakland
Director of Corporate Communications
San Francisco 49ers
408.562.4932
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Carey Marin
408.915-8049
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