Press Room

Partnership launches as part of KICC reopening and expands partnership with Kentucky Venues.

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (August 8, 2017) — When the expanded and renovated Kentucky International Convention Center (KICC) reopens its doors in August of 2018, it will do so with a new food and beverage partner. Kentucky Venues has named Levy Convention Centers the exclusive concessions and catering provider for KICC and its guests.

“We’ve worked with Levy at the Kentucky Exposition Center since 2015,” said Jason Rittenberry, President and CEO of Kentucky Venues. “We share a commitment to providing exceptional service and hospitality to our clients and guests, and delivering the best experience possible. With this agreement, we can bring that same level of excellence to the Convention Center.”

With a focus on local sustainability and flavors, KICC will offer an in-house garden with education sessions on the importance of Kentucky farms, reducing carbon footprints, and supporting local gardens. Guests will also find an in-house bakery in addition to a flexible coffee and bourbon bar featuring a local roaster, fresh produce from local farms, and bourbon tastings in the afternoon and evenings.

“Kentucky Venues is evolving the Kentucky International Convention Center into a true world-class building with these renovations, and we’re excited to match this transformation with an equally world-class hospitality experience,” said Andy Lansing, President and CEO of Levy. “Along with the Kentucky Exposition Center, we look forward to continuing to work with Kentucky Venues to bring the unbridled spirit of the region to our guests through local flavors and partnerships with the region’s farmers.”

The contract, awarded through competitive bidding by the Kentucky Finance and Administration Cabinet, takes effect July 1, 2018. The five-year contract includes a renewal option for two additional five-year periods.

About Levy Convention Centers

Levy Convention Centers is currently the exclusive hospitality provider for the Kentucky Exposition Center and Churchill Downs. Led by a team of dedicated culinary and operations professionals within the Levy portfolio, Levy Convention Centers creates inviting spaces and experiences for people to gather and share ideas, learn from trends and each other while connecting over a meal. The group services a portfolio of venues across the country, including: Georgia World Congress Center, The Greater Columbus Convention Center, and Boston Convention & Exhibition Center.

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