A new logo for the building formerly known as the Sarnia Sports and Entertainment Centre and the RBC Centre has been unveiled.
Members of Sarnia City Council, the Sarnia Sting, Progressive Auto Sales and the City of Sarnia gathered at the arena's Legends Restaurant Monday morning to reveal the design for the new Progressive Auto Sales Arena.
Dealership President Dan Whitton says they decided to stick with the original name proposed.
"With so many companies out there being called 'Progressive', including 'Progressive Auto Insurance , we just didn't want to do this and have it confused with a completely different company," says Whitton. "So, that's why we had to use our full company name."
Whitton says he's very appreciative for the opportunity.
"We've always been Sting fans and we feel good about the Sting's future and also we would like to see this place be used as more of a community hub. We have families as well and we are looking for a place for our families to be entertained both now and in the future. We just want to be associated with something good in the city and give back to the city that's been so good to us."
Sarnia Sting Owner and Head Coach Derian Hatcher thinks it's a good deal for everyone.
"It's been a process. This has been going on for quite a bit of time and at the end of the day all three parties were able to get together and do something that should be good for all of us," he says.
As part of the agreement, reached between Progressive, the city and the Sarnia Sting, Progressive Auto Sales gets exclusive naming rights for the SSEC for an annual fee of $42,500, split between the city and the Sting, plus a minimum $40,000 signage commitment.
The city says the 10-year agreement, with interest, is valued at just over $430,000.
Arena Manager Rob Harwood says the sign is in the process of being ordered.
"We expect the vinyl decals to be on the doors soon and will determine some time this week when the actual signage on the outside of the building can be put up. We are hoping certainly by the beginning of the season," says Harwood.
He says the money the city makes from the agreement will go back into operations of the building and plans are already in the works to replace the HVAC system.
"Much of that requires engineering studies. We're working on energy initiatives as well with Bluewater Power, with the Save On Energy program and looking at grant opportunities. We're doing everything we can to enhance the game day experience."
Harwood says he's reached out to several promoters and they are hoping to land some entertainment by early next year.
Advertising by competing automotive dealerships will still be allowed within the facility with specific limitations, but not on the exterior of the building.
The Sting’s current advertising agreements with direct competitors will be honoured until expiry and there is some provision for special events involving other auto dealerships.
