Can Co-op Live Turn Its Troubles into Triumph by Hosting the Brits?

The Co-op Live arena in Manchester, now thriving as a key venue for major concerts, faced significant challenges during its early days, including numerous cancellations and delays. However, it has since established itself as a must-visit location for top artists and concert-goers seeking live music outside London, showcasing its resilience and potential to reshape the UK's entertainment landscape.

Last updated: 27 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

As Co-op Live prepares to host the Brit Awards, its reputation has significantly improved following a tumultuous opening. Originally scheduled for April 2024, the arena's launch was marked by a series of setbacks, including postponed concerts and operational difficulties. Today, it stands as Europe's largest indoor arena, attracting a growing number of artists and fans. The venue's successful recovery is evidenced by high-profile performances and a renewed commitment to providing an exceptional concert experience.

Key takeaways

Co-op Live in Manchester is now a leading venue for major concerts outside London.
The arena faced significant operational challenges during its opening phase, including multiple event cancellations.
High-profile artists, including Stevie Wonder, have praised the venue's acoustics and environment.
Local businesses have benefited from increased tourism and spending due to events at Co-op Live.
The arena has engaged with the community through donations and support for local charities.

Timeline: how we got here

The journey of Co-op Live has been marked by a series of significant milestones since its inception:

2019: Planning and approval for Co-op Live begins.
April 2024: Initial opening date postponed due to construction delays.
May 2024: Official opening night featuring the band Elbow.
2024-2025: The arena hosts 162 headline events and creates 12,360 jobs in Manchester.
October 2023: Preparation for the Brit Awards, highlighting the venue's redemption arc.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Recent discussions around Co-op Live focus on its upcoming hosting of the Brit Awards, which marks the first time the event will take place outside London. This change signifies a shift in the UK entertainment landscape and demonstrates the arena's growing influence.

What was already established

Since its opening, Co-op Live has faced scrutiny due to its initial struggles. Concert cancellations and operational issues have hindered its reputation. However, efforts to improve the venue, including management changes and community engagement, have begun to restore confidence among concert-goers.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The establishment of Co-op Live offers a new destination for concert-goers in the North. With ticket prices generally lower than those for London venues, it allows more fans access to live music. Additionally, the arena's presence has led to increased local tourism, benefitting hospitality businesses in Manchester.

Businesses and jobs

Co-op Live has created significant job opportunities in the region, with over 12,000 positions filled since its opening. Local businesses, particularly in the hospitality sector, report increased patronage on event days, contributing to economic growth in Manchester.

Policy and regulation

The success of Co-op Live may influence future planning and investment in entertainment infrastructure across the UK. As venues in the North gain recognition, it could lead to policy shifts aimed at balancing cultural offerings between London and other cities.

Numbers that matter

23,500: Capacity of Co-op Live, making it Europe's largest indoor arena.
162: Number of headline events hosted in the arena's first year of operation.
12,360: Jobs created in Manchester due to the arena's activities.
£200,000: Donation to local charities by Co-op Live.
670,000: Ticket requests for Harry Styles' exclusive show, highlighting demand.

Definitions and jargon buster

Co-op Live: A large indoor venue in Manchester designed for concerts and entertainment.
Brit Awards: A prestigious annual music awards ceremony in the UK, celebrating achievements in the music industry.
Acoustics: The properties or qualities of a venue that determine how sound is transmitted and perceived.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

As Co-op Live prepares for the Brit Awards, concert-goers should expect heightened interest in events and potential ticket sell-outs. Monitoring ticket availability and venue announcements will be crucial.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Following the Brit Awards, Co-op Live is likely to attract a variety of high-profile artists. Fans should keep an eye on upcoming announcements and be prepared for potential ticket releases for exclusive shows.

Signals to watch

Artist announcements for future performances at Co-op Live.
Community engagement initiatives and partnerships with local businesses.
Feedback from concert-goers regarding operational improvements.

Practical guidance

Do

Arrive early for events to avoid long queues.
Utilise public transport options to reach the venue.
Check social media for real-time updates on events and ticket availability.

Don’t

Don’t assume parking will be readily available; plan ahead.
Don’t overlook the importance of community feedback in shaping the venue’s future.
Don’t miss out on local businesses that benefit from events at Co-op Live.

Checklist

Check the event schedule for Co-op Live.
Follow the venue on social media for updates.
Plan your travel route in advance.
Consider dining at local restaurants before or after the show.
Review artist and concert information to ensure a smooth experience.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While Co-op Live has made significant strides in improving its reputation, challenges remain. Operational issues such as queuing and parking need ongoing attention. Additionally, the demand for major artists continues to be skewed towards London, potentially limiting the range of performances available in Manchester. The economics of concert touring also suggest that some artists may still prefer larger venues, making it essential for Co-op Live to continually innovate and attract talent.

Bottom line

Co-op Live has successfully transformed from a venue plagued by challenges to a thriving hub for live music in the North. As it prepares to host the Brit Awards, the arena's reputation is set to flourish further. Continued engagement with local communities and artists will be vital in ensuring its sustained success and in bridging the regional gap in major concert offerings.

FAQs

What is Co-op Live?

Co-op Live is Europe's largest indoor arena located in Manchester, designed to host concerts and entertainment events, enhancing access to live music for Northern audiences.

Why was Co-op Live's opening troubled?

The venue faced numerous delays and cancellations during its initial launch, leading to reputational damage and operational challenges that required significant recovery efforts.

How has Co-op Live impacted the local economy?

Co-op Live has created over 12,000 jobs and increased local tourism, with more visitors spending at Manchester's restaurants and shops during events.