A Colorado-based company is set to take over management of the Reading Royals minor league hockey team, as well as the Santander Arena and Santander Performing Arts Center.
The Berks County Convention Center Authority, which currently operates the team and venues, announced today a new partnership with Oak View Group that will see the Denver company take over operation of the team and venues starting July 1.
As part of the deal, Oak View Group will assume control over daily operations, booking, scheduling, marketing, advertising and sponsorship sales for the two venues. It will also manage the Reading Royals, which calls the Santander Arena home.
“Oak View Group has an excellent reputation for providing a high-quality, premium guest experience, and we’re excited to partner with them to enhance the live entertainment experience here in Reading,” Michael J. Gombar Jr., chairman of the Berks County Convention Center Authority, said in a statement announcing the partnership. “The live entertainment industry is very competitive and ever-changing. We are confident that Oak View Group has the resources and experience to grow Reading’s presence in the industry as we approach our 25th year of operation.”
Gombar also said the authority is ecstatic about significant capital investments that Oak View Group has committed for upgrades of the two venues.
“The authority considers both venues as major anchors for economic development in the greater Reading are,” he said. “So, the authority board is excited to make this announcement and provide another piece of the puzzle in the revitalization of downtown Reading.”
Monday’s announcement states that Oak View Group plans major concession upgrades at both venues and will introduce new menu options inspired by local flavors. It also says the company is dedicated to providing “world-class fan experiences” and enhancing the venues’ offerings.
“We are excited to partner with Berks County Convention Center Authority and bring a new level of excitement and activity to both the Santander Arena and Santander Performing Arts Center designed to elevate the guest experience,” Peter Luukko, co-chair of Oak View Group, said in the announcement. “Reading is a terrific market for live entertainment, and we look forward to generating a new level of excitement in the industry and across the region for both properties.”
Oak View Group officials said Monday that as the company prepares for its transition company officials will meet with employees of the Reading Royals, Santander Arena and Santander Performing Arts Center to ensure ensure a smooth transition. Officials said they plan to retain the majority of employees.
Along with hosting the Reading Royals, the 8,000-seat Santander Arena hosts concerts, family shows and special attractions. The 1,700-seat Santander Performing Arts Center hosts a variety of concerts and family shows, as well as serving as the home of the Reading Symphony Orchestra.
Oak View Group was founded in 2015. It manages several sports venues, including Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle.
In Pennsylvania the company operates PPL Center in Allentown; PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh; Liacouras Center at Temple University in Philadelphia; Kovalchick Convention Center and Athletic Complex in Indiana; and UPMC Events Center in Moon Township.
Originally Published: April 28, 2025 at 8:00 AM EDT