Manchester and Leeds Among Global Top 20 For Arena Ticket Sales

End-of-year reports published by Pollstar have revealed that both Manchester Arena and the first direct Arena in Leeds were among the top 20 arena venues in the world for ticket sales in 2017.

Showsec staff worked hard throughout the year to provide top-level stewarding, security and more services at both venues, so this impressive news also serves as recognition for their continued efforts.

Pollstar is the only global trade publication covering the live concert industry. Well known for publishing detailed, up-to-date rankings of the top-selling tours, promoters and different types of venues around the world, they provide a unique insight into global trends within the industry.

The annual review also revealed that ticket sales for events at the first direct Arena in Leeds – including Disney on Ice, WWE Live, Bruno Mars and Little Mix – totalled 678,858 last year, the 13^th highest of any arena in the world.

Manchester Arena climbed one place up the rankings for 2017, making it the third-busiest arena in the world with 1,072,079 ticket sales. This incredible feat was achieved despite the venue’s enforced closure for several months.

Sam Hodkin, Area Manager for Leeds, commented: “Ticket sales in 2017 for the first direct Arena were a big step up from recent years. The venue are thrilled with their position and emphasised that it was a team effort, with our staff playing an important part.”

Alan Wallace, Showsec’s Regional Manager for the North West, said: “The collaboration we have with SMG, helping to deliver their vision of entertainment throughout the group, has really taken root with Showsec and now we are beginning to see that pay off with footfall through the all the SMG venues.

“It’s pleasing to see that the hard work we put into excellent customer service and the visitor experience really does make a difference,” he added.

Showsec also provided services for two more of the busiest arenas on Pollstar’s list. The flyDSA Arena in Sheffield and the Metro Radio Arena in Newcastle also ranked in the global top 50, with ticket sales of 465,700 and 401,045 respectively.