The National WWII Museum and Centerplate Announce Hospitality Partnership

NEW ORLEANS, June 25, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- The National WWII Museum and Centerplate, the global hospitality company serving premier venues worldwide, today announced a new agreement to enhance the hospitality program for the historic destination.

Since opening in New Orleans in 2000 as The National D-Day Museum, The National WWII Museum has experienced steady growth in the number of visitors to its expanding physical campus. Last year, the Museum hosted more than 500,000 guests, which represents a record-breaking rate of increase as well as longer time spent per visit.

"Nearly 95% of our food and beverage sales are to Museum visitors, and we are fast becoming a multi-day destination," said Rebecca Mackie, Chief Financial Officer for The National WWII Museum. "With approximately 80% of our guests coming from outside the New Orleans area, we've recognized a greater demand for services that help our visitors extend and enhance their time at the Museum."

Through the new agreement, Centerplate will be responsible for food and beverage services at restaurants, public and private events, and the Stage Door Canteen—the Museum's popular entertainment venue—beginning in August.

"We are proud to have the opportunity to serve at The National WWII Museum, in one of the most renowned culinary cities in the world," said Des Hague, President and CEO of Centerplate. "Centerplate is honored to help welcome guests to this important national landmark and to contribute to the Museum's exciting momentum and future growth."

Centerplate has extensive experience with marquee destinations in the region and beyond. In addition to serving the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center and Mercedes-Benz Superdome, the company also recently launched Sophie's, a new fine dining destination at select Saks Fifth Avenue retail stores, the Limelight Cafe and Supper Club in Denver's Performing Arts Complex, the Scottish National Portrait Gallery and Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, and the Royal Air Force Museum.

The National WWII Museum tells the story of the American experience in the war that changed the world – why it was fought, how it was won, and what it means today. Dedicated in 2000 as The National D-Day Museum and now designated by Congress as America's National WWII Museum, it celebrates the American Spirit, the teamwork, optimism, courage and sacrifice of the men and women who served on the battlefront and the Home Front. For more information, call 877-813-3329 or 504-528-1944 or visit nationalww2museum.org. 

Centerplate "Makes It Better To Be There" for more than 115 million guests each year in over 300 prominent entertainment, sports and convention venues across North America and Europe. Centerplate has provided event hospitality to 30 official US Presidential Inaugural Balls, 13 Super Bowls, 21 World Series and the 2010 Winter Olympic Games. Visit the company online at centerplate.com.

SOURCE Centerplate