Meijer, Saint Joseph Mercy Sign on as First Partners of New Detroit Red Wings Arena

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Olympia Entertainment today announced Grand Rapids-based Meijer Inc. and Saint Joseph Mercy Health System in Canton Township are the first two Landmark-level partners for the new Detroit Events Center, which will be home to the Detroit Red Wings in fall 2017.

Both partnerships will include community initiatives such as an interactive kids area and healthy food options. “Both companies are focused on bringing unique experiences to fans and visitors, and are names we are very proud to have associated with the new Detroit Events Center,” says Tom Wilson, president and CEO of Detroit-based Olympia Entertainment.

Wilson says as Landmark partners, Meijer and Saint Joseph Mercy will have maximum visibility throughout the Detroit Events Center, currently under construction. Each company has signed multi-year deals that begin with the 2017-2018 event season. 

Cathy Cooper, senior director of community partnerships and giving for Meijer, says the company is working on concepts for an interactive kids’ area and free hockey clinics throughout the summer with Red Wings player appearances.

“After opening two Meijer stores in the city recently, we see this as another excellent way to support Detroit," Cooper says.

Rob Casalou, regional president and CEO of Saint Joseph Mercy Health System, says its "Healthy Hockeytown" platform will include health-oriented events within the community such as 5K runs and yoga classes. It will also include the expansion of the Healthy Choice program currently at the Red Wings current home at The Joe, offering fans more healthy food options at events.

“We want to help our community stay well by encouraging fitness and eating great, fresh food no matter where they are,” Casalou says.

In addition to being the new home for the Red Wings, the Detroit Events Center will offer an array of sports and entertainment activities including concerts, family shows, and community functions. 

In November, Olympia Entertainment announced $95 million in enhancements to the center, including the addition of an outdoor plaza with a video wall and an on-site practice ice for amateur hockey. 

To learn more about the Detroit Events Center, read DBusiness’ article on the district by clicking here