Business up at Van Andel, DeVos venues

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) - After being down in 2011, business is picking up at Van Andel Arena and DeVos Place in Grand Rapids.

Officials with the Convention Arena Authority on Tuesday delivered its annual report to the Grand Rapids City Commission.

While officials have continued operating in the black, revenue was down in the period from October 2010 through October 2011.

Business picked up in 2012 and the trend continues in 2013.

Concerts are a big indicator of success.

"What we're seeing is the concert activity is picking up. There seems to be a few more artists on tour. It's also a function of good timing. We just happened to slot them well this current fiscal year," said Rich MacKeigan of SMG Management.

MacKeigan said they are also closing in on a deal that would keep the Grand Rapids Griffins skating at Van Andel Arena for the next 25 years.