The Flyers are challenged with "attracting new generation of fans while still serving a loyal yet aging fan base," and parent company Comcast Spectacor has made several changes to "lure younger consumers" to Wells Fargo Center, according to Christian Hetrick of the PHILADELPHIA INQUIRER. Overall attendance is "down this season," but there are new fans "coming back for more." However, some season-ticket holders have "complained about changes" such as the New City Terrace level -- a $25 "standing-room only section." The area previously used for suites now "features a lounge resembling a sportsbook, a rage room where you can smash dishes with sledgehammers, and a 23,000-square-foot space called the Assembly Room." Average attendance for this area has been at capacity -- roughly 1,600 -- up from 1,000 last year. Some 83% of Assembly Room attendees had "not been to a Flyers game in at least the last three years," and 25% of them have "already purchased a second game." The Gritty Command Center is a new spot geared toward younger fans where "kids can get wigs or their faces painted." The Flyers last year raised prices by as much as 89%, but said that a "low price point" now is part of their play. The $25 ticket is "roughly half the price" of the cheapest last season. However, that has "offended some season ticket holders who pay thousands a year" (PHILADELPHIA INQUIRER, 2/9).
