FLORENCE, S.C.—The Florence City-County Civic Center Commission has approved a five-year contract extension with Legends Global to continue managing the Florence Center through July 2030. The agreement extends a partnership that began in 2008 and includes an additional five-year renewal option.
Under the new contract, Legends Global has committed to additional capital investment, including new VIP seating, as part of a broader strategy to diversify events and expand programming at the arena and convention facilities.
“We are excited to renew our partnership with Legends Global in managing the Florence Center,” says Florence Mayor Lethonia Barnes. “Their commitment to our community and their role in Florence’s continued growth have been outstanding. Because of this collaboration, we have seen momentum, opportunity, and increased visibility for our city. We look forward with great anticipation to a promising future filled with even greater success.”
The renewal emphasizes strategic growth and event diversification, building on recent efforts to broaden the facility’s offerings.
“This renewal allows us to continue building on a long-standing partnership while sharpening our focus on balanced programming,” says Rex Berman, general manager of the Florence Center for Legends Global. “Our goal is to diversify the event calendar in a way that drives tourism to the region while also delivering high-quality cultural and entertainment experiences for our local fan base.”
Officials pointed to the recent return of professional hockey to Florence after a 20-year absence as an example of that strategy. The Pee Dee Ice Cats debuted at the Florence Center and set a league home attendance record with 7,837 fans.
The team’s arrival followed investments by the team, the city of Florence, and Florence County, including upgrades to the arena’s chiller system, lighting, sound system, and scoreboards, as well as the installation of a center-hung, four-sided video screen.
“The Florence Center is a proven multi-use facility with strong community support,” says Josh Kritzler, president of North American venues and content for Legends Global. “This renewal positions us to invest strategically, expand premium offerings, and continue evolving the event calendar in ways that strengthen both economic impact and the fan experience.”
Located approximately eight minutes from downtown, the Florence Center campus includes a 10,000-seat arena, a convention center with three ballrooms—the largest measuring 14,500 square feet—and 1,800 free onsite parking spaces.
More than 3,000 hotel rooms and more than 20 restaurants are within walking distance, according to officials. Recent upgrades include the installation of customizable digital signage in 2024.
