Success Story
Hertz Arena: Where Champions Rise and Memories Are Made
Since 1998, Hertz Arena and the Florida Everblades have stood as pillars of entertainment in Southwest Florida. From professional and collegiate sporting events to concerts, Cirque du Soleil performances, wrestling shows, comedy acts, and more, the arena has firmly established Southwest Florida as a world-class destination for both locals and visitors.
The 2019 partnership with Hoffmann Family of Companies marked a turning point for Hertz Arena and the Florida Everblades. In just three months, the arena underwent a sweeping renovation, featuring new luxury suites, repaved parking lots, and enhanced food service options. Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, ongoing investments ushered in multiple record-breaking financial years and a historic three consecutive Kelly Cup Championships, making the Florida Everblades the first team in ECHL history to achieve a 3-peat.
Hertz Arena’s evolution hasn’t stopped there. Recognized for its building improvements and commitment to sustainable construction, the venue has also earned two nominations for Country Music Venue of the Year. HF Companies and Hertz Arena continue to enhance their offerings, from events and retail experiences to food and beverage services, reinforcing the arena’s status as a premier destination for entertainment and community engagement.
“My original partner wanted to sell the arena and the hockey team. We looked at many options. We had helped put hockey on the map in Florida, yet the building needed care and investment to fix flaws. Enter the Hoffmann Family of Companies.”
“We hit it off immediately. The negotiations were a hard bargain for all, but it was all above board with genuine straight talk. After the deal closed everything just got better and better. Immediately. I feel blessed to have them as partners.”
Craig Brush, CEO of Hertz Arena and the Florida Everblades
Performance Highlights
- Full renovation of the Hertz Arena in three months— from new luxury suites to freshly paved parking lots
- Expansion and improvement of food services
- Addition of two recreational rinks & youth training academy/camps
- Continued investment during Covid shutdown
- Two record financial years in a row
- Back-to-back ECHL hockey championships
- Awards for building improvement & sustainable construction
- Country music venue of the year nominee