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Queens of the Stone Age Tickets

Manchester Arena has been renamed the Phones 4 U Arena after a new multi-million pound sponsorship deal with the telecoms company. 

The venue, formerly known as the Manchester Evening News Arena, has now been rebranded under an agreement with the arena's management company SMG Europe. The Manchester Evening News reports that work will now begin on a refurbishing the arena's interior and exterior.

Regional vice president of SMG Europe John Knight said: “The relationship we had with the MEN left a fantastic legacy and was so positive in terms of raising the profile of the venue and boosting the promoters we work with, that we took our time in finding the right new partner.

“It wasn't just a question of taking a cheque to put someone's name above the door.  There have been other offers on the table from local and national firms, but we believe Phones 4u has the right demographic for our business and will engage our customers, as well as allowing us to engage with their millions of customers. "

He added: “At the end of the day, it is about selling tickets, which also benefits the economy of the city.”

The iconic venue has seen performances by the likes of Muse, Coldplay, Radiohead, Green Day, Justin Bieber, Blur, Bon Iver and many more. 

Below - Watch time lapse footage of Muse erecting their 2nd Law stage at Manchester Arena last year

Under the agreement, the refurbishment will see upgrades to lounges and concourse areas, as well as improving broadband services so gig-goers can go online and 'share their concert experience'.

Chief commercial officer at Phones 4U Scott Hooton said: “This is an incredibly exciting time in Phones 4u’s history as our brand grows and evolves, and strives to engage with a broader audience.

“The partnership is also particularly relevant considering the rapid convergence of the entertainment and mobile space and over time, will allow us to deliver a whole host of exclusive benefits to our customers.”

In the coming month, the venue will play host to the likes of Queens of the Stone Age, Vampire Weekend, Jay Z, Paramore, Leonard Cohen and many more. For more information visit Gigwise gig tickets. 

Below - Photos: Muse live at Manchester Arena