
This tremendous accomplishment is hot on the heels of the record-breaking, highest grossing year (2014) ever at the Saint Charles Convention Center.
“We just hosted the largest convention in our history earlier this month," said Global Spectrum’s Shura Garnett, General Manager and Regional Vice President. "We expect another outstanding year here in St. Charles, as we're on pace to exceed last year's record-setter."
The Saint Charles Convention Center’s 2014 Annual Report noted 2014 as the facility’s highest grossing revenue year, highest food and beverage revenue year, and highest year of Convention revenue. In an economy where many convention centers are struggling, the Saint Charles Convention Center posted a net income of $201,313 in 2014 and had a direct spending impact of over $8.3 million for the City of St. Charles.
“Per the usual, the Global Spectrum leadership under the auspices of Shura Garnett was absolutely outstanding in 2014,” said Mayor Sally Faith. “I was pleased that in December of last year, the St. Charles County Convention and Sports Facilities Authority and the City of St. Charles extended its management contract with Global Spectrum to continue operating the Convention Center for an additional three years. For Global Spectrum has time and again demonstrated its ability to develop and maintain strong partnerships with the Greater Saint Charles Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Greater St. Charles County Chamber of Commerce and the Embassy Suites Hotel,” she added. “We are incredibly proud to have Global Spectrum as our partner in ensuring this local facility remains a leader in the convention and meeting industry.”
“As the Saint Charles Convention Center enters its 10th year of operations, the Saint Charles County Convention and Sports Facilities Authority is extremely pleased with the most recent audit findings for fiscal year 2014,” said Tom Wapelhorst, Chairman of the Saint Charles County Convention and Sports Facilities Authority. “Under Global Spectrum’s management, and the leadership of Shura Garnett, General Manager; the center set record highs for gross revenue and net performance for 2014 and once again validated the economic value of this facility to the City, County, and State. Within the convention center industry, this facility’s architectural footprint and business model generated a positive operational cash flow while other convention centers throughout the Nation struggle with budget deficits. We thank Global Spectrum, Ms. Garnett, and all those who have given countless hours to bring this dream to reality.”