Ricoh Arena becomes patron of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce

Wasps Rugby Club and Ricoh Arena have become patrons of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC).

The Ricoh Arena, owned by the Premiership club, has been transformed into one of the UK’s leading events venues. It welcomes more than 1.6 million people annually across hundreds of events ranging from sport and music to conferences and exhibitions.

Wasps are also making a name for themselves in the netball world after launching Wasps Netball three years ago and already have two top-flight Superleague titles to their name.

Wasps also have a charity arm – called the Wasps Community Foundation – which plays a central role in supporting local community groups reaching more than 65,000 people in the region each year.

The venue has also developed a reputation for hosting world-class live music shows from world-class performers. It recently played host to Spice Girls and Bon Jovi concerts – contributing around £1.5 million of economic benefit to the region.

Ricoh Arena is also a host venue for netball at the 2022 Commonwealth Games and is also gearing up to host a 2021 Rugby League World Cup match.

They are also embarking on an exciting digital journey with new partner Vodafone over the next two years, which includes the switch-on of 5G technology that will push the boundaries of spectator experience at live events.

Stuart Cain, managing director at Ricoh Arena, said: “Wasps and Ricoh Arena have recently developed some fantastic relationships with the Birmingham business community that are suppliers to us as well as hospitality clients, and becoming a Patron of the Greater Birmingham Chamber of Commerce is an ideal way of building upon this.

“We have hosted and attended various networking events in and around the city and have seen first-hand the variety and vibrancy of the city’s business community, which we were keen to be a part of.

“We’re fortunate to have such a versatile venue, so whether you’re looking for event space for a conference or concert, aiming to enjoy Premiership Rugby, or wanting hospitality to entertain clients, we can offer it all.”

Paul Faulkner, chief executive of the GBCC, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Wasps and the Ricoh on board as patrons. It means we can forge a valuable partnership between the Birmingham business community and what is now a major sporting and entertainment destination.

“Greater Birmingham’s business community is a natural partner for a club representing the very top of Rugby Union across the UK and Europe.”