Parramatta Stadium seeks naming rights

The Parramatta Stadium is seeking a naming rights sponsor and has recently called for expressions of interest.  Rob Walker, general manager of the Parramatta Stadium Trust, told On Sport that so far they have received some solid approaches and are hopeful of securing a deal well before the start of the 2004 NRL season. 

He said they have provided interested corporates with a comprehensive proposal outlining not only the sponsorship benefits associated with the venue but also details of how the sponsorship funding will be spent. 

The majority of funds are to be used for capital works, with the largest project being the conversion of the north and southern seating areas into enclosed grandstands. 

There are also plans to develop a number of function rooms and other types of corporate hospitality areas.  Walker said after the capital works the venue will have a capacity of 25,000 and a corporate capacity of 14,000. 

He also said the need for revenue generating space off the playing surface is another important part of their business strategy and was the basis for their decision to incorporate a number of function rooms into the development plans.

Walker added that, having identified that the majority of Sydney's venues demand for capacities in the 20-25,000 range, they are planning to create a boutique facility that will create an excellent spectator and corporate atmosphere. 

Coupled with Parramatta's 'second CBD' status and its catchphrase as 'Gateway to Sydney West', Walker said that they are creating a unique opportunity for a corporate wanting to capture a rapidly growing market segment.

At this stage they are still identifying potential corporates, following which they will seek endorsement from the NSW Minister of Tourism, Sport and Recreation. 

Walker said that given that the venue hosts two national competitions, the NRL and NSL, the opportunity is attractive for both national and international companies.