Chicago (May 26, 2009) – Bismarck Enterprises President Peter R. Wirtz announced today that Bismarck Enterprises at the United Center has elected to sell its operations to Chicago-based Levy Restaurants. Bismarck and Levy have come to an agreement in principle and will close on this transaction at the conclusion of the NHL playoffs. Through this transaction Levy will acquire the United Center contract and will operate premium and concession dining at one of the premier sports and entertainment venues in the country.
"I have thought profoundly about this decision and realize that it is the best path to take," said Peter Wirtz. "I am confident that Levy Restaurants will conduct a first class operation and carry on the solid foundation that Bismarck has established at the United Center. The United Center opened over 15 years ago and I am very proud of all our Bismarck Team Members who have been a part of this journey. Bismarck has been an integral part of enhancing the United Center customer experience and I will always savor the fond memories."
"Going forward, I will continue to operate Bismarck Enterprises and explore new opportunities as they present themselves. Initially Bismarck will be venturing back into the consulting field which was established in 1995. We will utilize our knowledge, experience and professional contacts as we explore new opportunities in the future."
"I have known the Levy organization for many years and their commitment to quality and service closely aligns with Bismarck’s," Wirtz continued. "Levy’s home office is in Chicago and Andy Lansing, their President and CEO, has assured both the United Center Joint Venture and me that they will continue to operate with the same commitment and dedication to servicing our customers and upholding the highest quality standards that we have established. I am grateful to have had the distinct honor of being a part of the United Center and I am proud of what we have accomplished at the finest sports and entertainment stadium in the industry."
"Our Levy Restaurants family is thrilled to be a part of the United Center experience," said Andy Lansing, President and CEO of Levy Restaurants. "We thank Peter and the entire organization for putting their trust in us to continue their great tradition of outstanding food and service. We look forward to providing memorable dining experiences at this iconic venue in our hometown."
"We are grateful to Peter for the integral role that he and Bismarck have played in the success of the United Center," said Howard Pizer, United Center Executive Vice President. "We are excited to welcome the Levy family to our team and look forward to the wonderful guest experience they will provide to our fans."
Levy Restaurants, founded in Chicago in 1978, is recognized as one of America’s fastest growing and most critically acclaimed restaurant companies, and is the leader in premium sports and entertainment dining concessions. Levy was recently named one of the 10 most innovative companies in sports in the world by Fast Company magazine.
A member of Compass Group, the leading food management company, Levy has a diverse portfolio that includes award-winning restaurants such as James Beard-recognized Spiaggia and Bistro 110 in Chicago, Fulton’s Crab House, Portobello and Wolfgang Puck Grand Café at Walt Disney World Resort, renowned sports and entertainment venues like Wrigley Field and U.S. Cellular in Chicago, Lambeau Field in Green Bay, STAPLES Center in Los Angeles, and American Airlines Arena in Miami, and events including the Super Bowl, World Series, Kentucky Derby, All-Star Games and the Grammy Awards.