Tired Singapore Indoor Stadium set for face lift

After 22 years, its time for some new toilets.

According to a statement, the Singapore Indoor Stadium (SIS) unveiled a series of ongoing plans to enhance Singapore’s iconic waterfront performance arena. This is part of an overarching long-term plan to develop the area in line with the construction of the Singapore SportsHub, with initiatives rolled out to continue attracting visitors till the Sports Hub’s completion in March 2014.

A brand-new service programme, ‘Hi, How R U?’ was also introduced, aimed at improving customer relations through its service ambassadors.

Presenting to the media and stakeholders was Mark Collins, Managing Director of the Singapore Indoor Stadium, who said, “The Singapore Indoor Stadium is an integral part of the future Singapore SportsHub’s overall conceptualization, and will remain a stalwart to create buzz and excitement, during the area’s construction works and beyond its completion in 2014.

Following the change in hands to SportsHub Pte Ltd and in partnership with the Singapore Sports Council (SSC), we also want to let visitors know that we are invested in creating and developing a holistic lifestyle experience, as well as continuing to set standards as the destination of choice for both organizers and patrons.”

The premier multi-purpose sports and entertainment venue has also surpassed time with its architecture and makeup in the past 22 years, holding more than 3,000 events since it opened in 1989.

The SIS also has one of the highest utilisation rates in the world, featuring a year-round programme of international performances and sporting events. Comparing the number of events in the first quarter of 2011 with the similar period in 2010, the number has grown three-fold.

The SIS will undergo a series of renovations to improve the aesthetics and experience for visitors.

Renovations for the VIP lounge have also been completed, allowing sponsors and event organisers a platform in which to exclusively host their guests. LED Panels have been installed around the perimeter of arena providing both advertising and branding opportunities for promoters and sponsors as well as instant SMS messages to be shown for greater audience interaction.

New TV screens have also been set up providing increased visibility of the artists and acts. Renovations are slated to be completed by the end of 2012.

In addition to the physical changes, SIS also rolled out a first of a series of initiatives called the ‘Hi, How R U?’ programme. A programme focused on customer service, ‘Hi, How R U?’ aims to create a memorable experience for its visitors with a personal touch to service. Besides new uniforms designed through an in-house competition, the team will be encouraged and train to engage in conversations with the visitors, to put customers at ease in asking for assistance. This is an initiative developed and applied in all of Global Spectrum’s venues worldwide, and to great success.

Recent visitors to the Singapore Indoor Stadium would have also experienced the newly created Block Party, an activity that takes place prior to every major concert or sports events and is designed to create a fun and entertaining environment, a preview of what is to come and highlight future initiatives.

The first Block Party was held on April 19, 2011 just prior to the Justin Bieber concert and visitors got to experience merchandise, music, a life size standee of the artist as well as learn more about the upcoming World Netball Championships being staged in July 2011.

Renovations to the Singapore Indoor Stadium will be done in phases, to ensure a smooth rollout and to minimise potential disruptions. Renovations will be completed by end 2012.