Category All Art Classes Classical Music Concerts DANCE Etc Exhibits Families Farmers Markets Film Happenings Holiday Holiday Lectures Music (non-classical) Theater

Submit events

IMAGE COURTESY OF TACOMA DOME

DOME SWEET DOME. This rendering shows what an existing space in Tacoma Dome might look like after being remodeled for use as a VIP lounge area.

Upgrades for Tacoma Dome

Concession stands, vip areas to be improved

By John Larson

Tacoma Dome will undergo remodeling to concession stands and some underutilized areas that will serve as luxury suites as part of a partnership between the arena management and Centerplate, its long-time food service contractor.

Dome Director Mike Combs and Assistant Director Rob Henson discussed the project last month at two meetings with Tacoma City Council members.

Henson discussed a multi-phase plan to upgrade Tacoma Dome’s appearance and make it more competitive with other arenas in the region. The council’s recent approval for management to self-promote concerts was the third phase. Upgrades to foodservice and VIP areas is fourth, he said.

Concession stands will receive digital menu boards and snazzy exterior designs similar to what is found in other arenas and stadiums around the country.

Richard Welfringer, general manager for Centerplate’s operations at Tacoma Dome, said his company’s commitment to provide quality food to customers has been offset by its lackluster environment. “Basically we are a 25-year-old hot dog stand,” he said.

The price tag of the project is around $1,950,000, with $600,000 of that coming from the Dome’s budget.

This is part of a renewal of Centerplate’s contract for another 10 years, which the council recently approved. Henson said the commission the Dome receives from food sales will increase from 12 percent to 25 percent. The improved concession areas will boost the average amount of money a patron spends, he added.

Many large businesses like to entertain important clients in VIP areas during concerts or sporting events. Henson said that some of Tacoma Dome’s big sponsors and advertisers have no interest in doing so in the venue because it lacks a space that would impress such people. Part of this project will renovate an area under the press box into a luxury suite.

“We must invest in things that are going to return our investments,” he said. “Centerplate sees a future in Tacoma Dome. They want to be part of our success.”

Welfringer said Centerplate wants to purchase more food items locally. It is working on a deal with Charlie’s Produce to bring more locally grown fruits and vegetables to the kitchens in the Dome.

Councilmember Rick Talbert noted that Combs and his staff are working hard and being creative as they keep an aging facility competitive in a region with newer sports arenas and concert amphitheaters.

“It is a very difficult thing we have asked you to do,” Talbert said. “We have asked you to do with less resources. I commend you for putting together what is a good contract.”

Story Tools