First Direct Arena, ASM Global

Member since 24th Aug 2023

The Arena’s unique “super theatre” style configuration is designed to enhance the visitor experience, with all seats facing the stage and high-quality acoustics providing the best experience in the UK.

Organisers, visitors, delegates and presenters alike, will enjoy a more intimate atmosphere with reduced viewing distances inside the venue which can accommodate up to 12,500 delegates or 2,250 square meter exhibition space.

Whatever size you need, From 10 delegates to 12,500 we've got you covered. With two flexible spaces for between 10 - 200 and our main auditorium from 400 upwards.

4 Superstars testimonials for First Direct Arena, ASM Global

Successfully executing every request from start to finish

I wanted to send a little note to you and the team to say a huge thank you for your help with the Asda event.

My thank you extends to everyone involved, not just during the live event but in the run up when lots of effort was put in to make things run so smoothly on the day.

It was a great team effort and I really enjoyed working with you all, so please pass on my thanks to Jamie, Sue and Karen and the catering team who kept us and the delegates fed and watered so well. Mick and all the (poor!) security guys who froze every day to keep the crazies out and the not so crazies in. James and your team and above all yourself for running around and successfully executing my every demanding “corporate” request from start to finish!

17 days ago by ASDA - Izzy Robinson - Project Manager

A great spectacle for netball and the city

I just wanted to drop you a line to say a huge thank you on behalf of everyone at Leeds Rhinos Netball for your work supporting the event yesterday.

All staff on site were helpful and supportive of any requests we had and no ask was too big. It was great to see so many of them engrossed in the final few minutes of play as the game went right to the wire. A great spectacle for netball and the city, with all fans leaving the arena buzzing after the final whistle.

17 days ago by Leeds Rhinos Netball - Operations Lead

Exceptional choice for our annual Apprenticeship Fair

First Direct Arena has consistently proven to be an exceptional choice for our annual Apprenticeship Fair, and there are several reasons why we prefer this venue. It's significant capacity makes it one of the largest spaces available in Leeds, allowing us to accommodate a vast number of exhibitors and visitors comfortably. This year alone, we saw over 11,000 attendees and 110 exhibitors, which is a testament to the arena's ability to handle large-scale events with ease.

The arena's central location is a major advantage. It is situated in a spot that is easily reachable whether one is coming by car, on foot, by bike, or using public transport like buses and trains. This accessibility is crucial in ensuring that potential apprentices from all areas of the city have the opportunity to attend.

The venue is equipped with wheelchair-friendly entrances and lifts, making sure that the fair is accessible to everyone, regardless of physical ability. This inclusivity is essential for us as it reflects our commitment to providing equal opportunities for all individuals interested in apprenticeships.

The arena not only offers the space and facilities to host a successful fair but also embodies the spirit of accessibility and inclusivity that is at the heart of our event.

1 month ago by Dave Myers - Employment and Skills Leeds

Event was truly exceptional

Collaborating with the First Direct Arena to organise a customer-facing event was truly exceptional. Lisa, Magda, and Lottie were consistently available to support me during the event planning process. At the actual event, Magda expertly orchestrated the transformation of the Black and White lounge into an exhibitor hall, with her dedicated crew's assistance, and she also ensured that the Inner Concourse served as the ideal presentation space.

The entire crew worked tirelessly to ensure that the event spaces were prepared on time. The First Direct Arena staff displayed impressive knowledge throughout the process and offered valuable recommendations for suppliers. Ayre Audio Visual, one of their suggested suppliers, played a pivotal role in enhancing the professionalism and seamless execution of our event. Ayre AV provided a team of technical experts who efficiently managed any lighting or sound issues that arose during our speaker presentations.

The catering services provided were nothing short of fantastic, offering a delectable variety of food and snacks, including options to accommodate specific dietary requirements. The bar service operated smoothly, with regular updates on the bar tab's status, ensuring a stress-free experience for all attendees.

I extend my thanks to Lisa, Magda, and their team for their invaluable contributions to the success of our event.

1 month ago by Boxxe

Were you impressed with First Direct Arena, ASM Global?

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FAQs answered by First Direct Arena, ASM Global

How do you get to the arena?
We’re located in the center of Leeds City, West Yorkshire, next to the A58(M) Inner Ring Road connecting to the wider motorway network via the M62 and the M1. We're also located 15 minute walk from Leeds Train station and 30 minutes drive to Leeds Bradford Airport.
What AV does the arena include?
We are a dry hire venue so have no AV or production facilities on site. You are welcome to use your own supplier or we can recommend our preferred supplier.
Can I provide my own catering?
All our catering is done in house. Our Head Chef and her team will offer a variety of choices, tailored to suit a range of audiences, budgets and dietary requirements. We try and keep all options open as the team can support all aspects of the event from breakfast, lunches, and sit-down banquets.
Can I hang things from the grid?
Absolutely, rigging can be carried out anywhere in the auditorium our maximum ceiling height is 18m. For safety reasons this must be booked and carried out by our own team.
Do you have parking?
We don't have any delegate parking available due to our city center location however there are over 7,500 car parking spaces within a 15-minute walk of the arena. We do have some limited space for organisers parking/ event trucks.

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