The economic benefits of hosting the Republican National Convention are touted often, but who would have imagined that Tampa Bay Lightning fans would reap some of the rewards.
To accommodate the RNC at the Tampa Bay Times Forum, the Lightning is temporarily closing down its merchandise store on the western plaza.
“The area will be taken over by the RNC much like most of the, some of the office space and a lot of the under, the parking garage and everything will all be taken over,” said Brian Breseman, media relations manager for the Lightning.
That means clearing out all the merchandise from 20th Anniversary ball caps to Steven Stamkos jerseys – it all has to go. So, the Lightning set up a “blowout sale” to coincide with the state back-to-school tax holiday. All clothing merchandise under $75 will be tax free this weekend.
In addition, in honor of the Lightning’s 20th Anniversary, the organization is offering the general public a 20 percent discount on all merchandise.
“This is a great chance for season ticket members to come in and get a 50 percent discount,” Breseman said “Or the general public to come in and get 20 percent off not only 20th anniversary stuff but everything else in the store.”
It’s a two-day sale, Saturday and Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Parking is free in the west parking lot.
Breseman added that the Lightning executive offices will remain open until the week of the RNC for fans looking to buy season tickets.
