American Eagle Outfitters Announces Sponsorship of Pittsburgh's Newest Entertainment Venue
North Shore Complex to be Named "Stage AE"
American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. (NYSE:AEO) today announced that it has secured the naming rights of Pittsburgh's newest indoor/outdoor entertainment complex. Stage AEsm is the name of the facility, which is located on the North Shore next to Heinz Field.
The venue is owned and operated by a partnership between the Pittsburgh Steelers, Continental Real Estate and PromoWest Productions. The agreement with American Eagle Outfitters includes naming rights, signage, advertising and numerous promotional opportunities that align with the lifestyle brand's marketing strategy.
"Music is an important part of our customers' lives, as well as the AE brand experience," said Fred Grover, executive vice president, American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. "Add in the association with the Pittsburgh Steelers, and this becomes an ideal opportunity for AEO, Inc. as a proud Pittsburgh-based company."
"We are very pleased to link the American Eagle Outfitters brand with our new entertainment complex, as the company reflects the spirit and enthusiasm of Steelers fans and the community at large," said Arthur J. Rooney II, president of the Pittsburgh Steelers. "With its flexibility, versatility and excellent acoustics, Stage AE will be a world-class destination for great entertainment events throughout the year, and a source of pride for our region."
Groundbreaking for the new mid-sized entertainment facility took place early in April, and is expected to be complete by early fall, in time for events related to the Steelers regular season.
"We are very excited to bring our unique indoor/outdoor entertainment concept to the people of Pittsburgh," said Scott Steinecker, president of PromoWest Productions and operator of the new venue. "We'll have a fantastic schedule of events to offer and every show will be up close and personal." PromoWest Productions is one of the largest full-service independent entertainment companies in the Midwest.
"This venue is part of a long term commitment the Steelers, the Pittsburgh Pirates and Continental made to develop the North Shore," said Frank Kass, chairman, Continental Real Estate Companies. "Ten years ago, this area had Three Rivers Stadium, a lot of vacant land, the Kaufmann's warehouse and a few small businesses. Since then, we've created a balanced mix of retail, entertainment, restaurants, hotels, corporate tenants and high quality residential development. Stage AE is an exciting addition that will generate hundreds of jobs including construction, seasonal, part-time and full-time permanent jobs."
Stage AE will be open year round and is actually three facilities in one. The first is an indoor venue that holds up to 2,400 people. The second is the outdoor amphitheater, which can hold up to 5,500. The front of the complex boasts a rock club that can host approximately 350-400 people. The total complex will encompass 22,000 square feet, surrounded by 30,000 square feet of lawn and reserved seating, including 60 corporate boxes. The facility is expected to host approximately 100 events on an annual basis.
About American Eagle Outfitters, Inc.
American Eagle Outfitters, Inc., through its subsidiaries, ("AEO, Inc.") offers high-quality, on-trend clothing, accessories and personal care products at affordable prices. The American Eagle Outfitters® brand targets 15 to 25 year old girls and guys, with 936 stores in the U.S. and Canada and online at www.ae.com. aerie® by american eagle offers Dormwear® and intimates collections for the AE® girl, with 143 standalone stores in the U.S. and Canada and online at www.aerie.com. The latest brand, 77kids by american eagle®, is available online only at www.77kids.com. The 77kids® brand offers "kid cool," durable clothing and accessories for kids ages two to 10. AE.COM®, the online home of the brands of AEO, Inc., ships to more than 60 countries worldwide.
