AEG to Launch 3,800-Capacity Venue at London’s Olympia in 2026
AEG Presents UK has unveiled plans for the British Airways ARC, a new live music venue with a capacity of 3,800, which will be located above the west exhibition hall at the Olympia Convention Center in Kensington, London. The venue is scheduled to open in 2026 as part of a substantial $1.7 billion renovation project aimed at revitalizing the historic site.
The Olympia Convention Center, which has served as a significant event space for 138 years, has a rich history that includes hosting renowned acts such as the Jimi Hendrix Experience, Rod Stewart, and The Cure. With the opening of British Airways ARC, AEG aims to honour this musical legacy while providing a modern venue equipped with world-class facilities for both artists and fans.
AEG has partnered with AXS for ticketing services related to British Airways ARC, and it is currently accepting booking inquiries. Interested parties can find more information on the venue’s official website at britishairwaysarc.co.uk.
Renovation Plans and Future Developments
The Olympia Convention Center was acquired in 2017 by Deutsche Finance International and Yoo Capital. In 2021, plans were announced for a new 1,575-seat theatre, which has since been named the Olympia Theatre. Managed by The Shubert Organization in collaboration with Trafalgar Entertainment, the theatre is set to open in late 2027. This addition is part of a broader strategy to enhance the complex, which will include 30 new bars and restaurants, two new hotels, and 550,000 square feet of office space.
Andrew Spencer, Chief Operating Officer for AEG Presents Europe, expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating, “Olympia is a place that has an incredible musical history which we want to honour whilst creating a venue that is thoroughly modern with world-class facilities for artists and fans alike.”
AEG’s Commitment to Live Entertainment
AEG Presents UK manages a diverse portfolio of venues and events throughout the United Kingdom. This includes the popular summer concert series at Hyde Park and booking responsibilities for locations such as the University of Wolverhampton at The Halls, Watford Colosseum, indigo at The O2, and Eventim Apollo.
The British Airways ARC is poised to be a significant addition to London’s vibrant live music scene, contributing to the ongoing evolution of the historic Olympia site while providing an exciting space for future generations of artists and audiences alike.
