Big Sandy Superstore Arena Among Tops in the World

From the Herald-Dispatch:

HUNTINGTON -- Venues Today, an international trade magazine, recently ranked the SMG-managed Big Sandy Superstore Arena among the top venues in the world.

The magazine based its rankings on concert and event profits and determined that, from March 16 to April 15, 2012, the arena was the 11th top entertainment venue worldwide among venues with seating capacities between 5,001 and 10,000.

The ranking reflects the dedication and teamwork of the Big Sandy Superstore Arena staff, as well as the unwavering support that patrons show in supporting entertainment throughout the local community, said general manager Brian Sipe.

"This is truly a reflection of what this building is here to do," Sipe said. "Our goal is to bring people to downtown Huntington to see their favorite artists, sporting events, family shows, etc., and we could not do it without the support of our local community."

The arena ranked ahead of other internationally respected venues such as the Nokia Theater L.A. Live in Los Angeles (which ranked 12th) and the Mohegan Sun Arena in Connecticut (which ranked 13th).

Other well-known venues that ranked ahead of the Big Sandy Superstore Arena in gross profit were Orleans Arena in Las Vegas (second) and State Farm Arena in Hidalgo, Texas (first).

Sipe said that he fully expects the arena's success to continue.