The Berks County Convention Center Authority has announced a new partnership with Oak View Group (OVG) to manage operations and enhance the guest experience at Santander Arena and Santander Performing Arts Center. The agreement, set to begin on July 1, 2025, aims to strengthen the venues’ role in the regional entertainment landscape as they approach their 25th year of operation.
Under the terms of the partnership, Oak View Group, a global leader in venue development and management, will take over day-to-day operations, booking, marketing, sponsorship sales, and concessions at both venues. OVG will also assume management of the Reading Royals, the ECHL affiliate of the Philadelphia Flyers, who play at Santander Arena.
“Oak View Group has an excellent reputation for providing a high-quality, premium guest experience, and we’re excited to partner with them to enhance the live entertainment experience here in Reading,” said Michael J. Gombar, Jr., Chairman of the Berks County Convention Center Authority. “We are confident that Oak View Group has the resources and experience to grow Reading’s presence in the industry as we approach our 25th year of operation.”
The Authority also highlighted a significant capital investment by OVG for upgrades at both the Arena and Performing Arts Center. Gombar emphasized that the two venues are seen as vital contributors to economic development in the Greater Reading area, calling the partnership “another piece of the puzzle in the revitalization of downtown Reading.”
Oak View Group plans to bring a renewed focus on innovation and community impact. OVG Hospitality will lead concession upgrades, introducing new menu options inspired by local flavors. Additionally, OVG’s Global Partnerships team will develop new sponsorship opportunities to attract strategic partners and enhance the venues’ offerings.
“We are excited to partner with Berks County Convention Center Authority and bring a new level of excitement and activity to both the Santander Arena and Santander Performing Arts Center designed to elevate the guest experience,” said Peter Luukko, Co-Chair, Oak View Group. “Reading is a terrific market for live entertainment, and we look forward to generating a new level of excitement in the industry and across the region for both properties.”
Santander Arena hosts concerts, family shows, and special attractions, while the historic Santander Performing Arts Center is home to the Reading Symphony Orchestra and a variety of live performances. Preparations are already underway to ensure a smooth transition for clients, guests, and employees.
Oak View Group also operates several other venues in Pennsylvania, including the PPL Center in Allentown, PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, and the Liacouras Center in Philadelphia.
