OVG picked for AMALIE Arena hospitality

Article posted by Coliseum, April 24^th, 2025

Image: Amalie Arena, Miosotis Jade, CC BY-SA 4.0

Vinik Sports Group (VSG) has chosen Oak View Group (OVG) to enhance the fan experience at AMALIE Arena, home of the NHL’s Tampa Bay Lightning.

Tampa Bay Lightning said that following a tender, VSG selected OVG for its innovative approach to concessions, leadership in premium hospitality experiences, and vision for long-term growth.

The 19,092-seat downtown Tampa home in which the team plays its games opened in 1996 and became AMALIE Arena in September 2014 when the family-owned, Tampa Bay-based AMALIE Oil Company partnered with Vinik and the Lightning.

Steve Griggs, CEO of VSG, said, “We are committed to excellence and always looking for ways to raise the bar when it comes to our fan experience.

“Our long-standing relationship with OVG gives us confidence in this partnership’s ability to further elevate our food and beverage offerings, and we are excited to work together to bring a diverse mix of fresh, innovative culinary experiences to hockey games, concerts and events.”

AMALIE Arena is the first NHL venue to join the OVG Hospitality family.

The partnership was driven by OVG’s fast-growing reputation for best-in-class food and beverage services and a shared commitment to innovation, entrepreneurial leadership and community impact.

Known for excellence in concessions, premium hospitality and customer service, OVG aligns with VSG’s mission to deliver world-class fan experiences.

OVG’s trusted and proven leadership, strong relationships and forward-thinking approach will help introduce new strategic partnerships to further enhance the arena’s offerings.

Chris Granger, President of OVG360, said, “We are honored that VSG and the Tampa Bay Lightning have chosen to partner with OVG. VSG is a championship organization and we will bring all of our resources and entrepreneurial spirit to the partnership.

“Our shared commitment to culinary excellence and meaningful community impact will be showcased through elevated food and beverage offerings, authentic local partnerships, and immersive premium experiences. We are honored to be a part of the VSG and Lightning family, and eager to begin this work together.”

OVG partners with like-minded venue owners, teams, and municipalities in creating transformative experiences for fans globally.

With a diverse client list that features the likes of the Phoenix Suns, Las Vegas Raiders, Penn State University Athletics, Royal Albert Hall, and Mexico City’s Estadio GNP Seguros, ranked Highest Attended Stadium in North America in 2024 by Pollstar, OVG’s commitment to culinary excellence spans some of the most interesting and iconic brands in entertainment.

The transition to OVG Hospitality will begin immediately, with both parties working closely to ensure a seamless handover.

OVG’s contract, which will also include strategic, design, and operational support from OVG’s luxury, London-based catering subsidiary, Rhubarb Hospitality Collection, officially begins on July 1, 2025, marking the start of an exciting new chapter for food and beverage at AMALIE Arena.

Griggs added, “I want to acknowledge and thank Delaware North for their partnership. Their dedicated staff has served our fans for many years and we sincerely appreciate their contributions in elevating our organization. We are pleased that many of those full-time and part-time employees will have the opportunity to transition to work with OVG Hospitality.”

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