Levy appointed strategic partner at YTL Arena Bristol

Sports and entertainment food and beverage experience provider, Levy, has been appointed strategic partner at the YTL Arena Bristol to deliver world-class fan experiences at the new 20,000 capacity arena complex being built in the Brabazon Hangars, the original home of Concorde.

This collaboration, which has seen Levy supporting YTL for the past eighteen months, extends beyond a traditional food and beverage partnership to encompass comprehensive strategic design and consumer experience planning.

Levy’s involvement as a strategic design partner has been instrumental in shaping the facility, ensuring a considered customer journey throughout all areas. Its expertise has been integral to the detailed planning and design stages of bars, kiosks, premium lounges, kitchens, and back-of-house areas, supporting innovation and concept development from the ground up, guaranteeing a seamless operation.

Andrew Billingham, Chief Executive Officer at YTL Arena said: “Our mission is to put Bristol on the world stage for live music and entertainment, but that goes beyond hosting performances by A-list acts – the hospitality experience of our customers and championing local food and drink is an integral part of our offering.

“The team at Levy have been hugely supportive of our goals for the arena complex and have helped us to design best in class food and drink facilities that will deliver unforgettable experiences while maximising operational efficiency.”

An important commitment for the team at YTL Arena is to use food and drink suppliers local to the South West of England as much as possible throughout the venue to support producers, growers and artisan businesses in the region.

Another key focus of the partnership is a shared commitment to sustainability and social value. The YTL Arena has a bold goal to create the most responsible and sustainable arena in Europe, aiming to be operationally carbon neutral from day one. This commitment extends to the social fabric of Bristol, with plans for the development of local people and the creation of a Centre of Excellence that will use the arena’s facilities to engage with the local community.

The YTL Arena Bristol, due to open in 2028, is set to become the South West’s premier live destination, attracting top-tier talent and providing a dynamic hub for the region’s cultural and entertainment scene. It is set to host some of the top artists and sporting events in the world, while also driving business growth, trade and innovation to the region with a brand-new conference and exhibition centre.

Jon Davies, Chief Executive Officer at Levy commented: “We are absolutely delighted to extend our reach into Bristol and partner with YTL Arena to bring a new level of hospitality when this incredible venue opens in 2028. The partnership is more than just a collaboration; it’s a shared vision for the future of entertainment and hospitality with people and planet top of mind.

“By working together to champion local suppliers, innovate with technology, and push the boundaries of sustainability, we’re not only making the YTL Arena a global destination, but we’re also making a lasting, positive impact on the city of Bristol and the wider community.”