The United Center, home to the Chicago Bulls and Chicago Blackhawks, has taken a significant step towards sustainability by partnering with Culligan International, a global leader in water treatment solutions. This multi-year partnership will see Culligan become the official water partner for the arena, introducing a range of eco-friendly initiatives aimed at reducing reliance on single-use plastic.
At the heart of this partnership is the introduction of Culligan’s infinitely recyclable aluminum water bottles, which will be available at all concession points throughout the United Center. These bottles are designed to replace single-use plastic bottles, encouraging fans to make more conscious environmental choices. To further enhance the sustainability efforts, the arena has installed new premium water fountains, refilling stations, and multi-functional faucets, providing convenient access to clean, great-tasting water.
The partnership extends beyond simply offering reusable bottles. The United Center has also implemented enhanced recycling capabilities, encouraging fans to dispose of their aluminum bottles in designated Culligan recycling bins strategically placed throughout the arena. This initiative reinforces the commitment to a circular economy, ensuring that the aluminum bottles are recycled and reused.
Aluminum, as a sustainable packaging material, offers significant environmental advantages over plastic. Its infinite recyclability and impressive 57% recycling rate, compared to the 29% recycling rate of plastic, highlight its environmental superiority. Additionally, the aluminum bottles are BPA-free, ensuring a healthier and safer choice for consumers.
“Teaming up with Culligan as our Official Water Partner is a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to enhance the fan experience and reduce single-use plastic throughout the arena,” said Joe Myhra, Chief Operating Officer, United Center. “By eliminating plastic water bottles from our concessions and introducing refillable, aluminum water bottles, we’re reducing plastic waste and empowering our fans to make more conscious environmental choices with a purpose-driven, hometown partner.”
The partnership also extends to the exclusive lower-level suites at the United Center, where Culligan has installed premium, multi-functional faucets that provide instant access to both cold and sparkling water. This ensures a luxurious water experience for suite holders, further elevating the overall fan experience.
To showcase Culligan’s diverse range of water treatment solutions, a dedicated installation on the concourse level features a portfolio of home and office solutions, making it easy for fans to discover and adopt sustainable water practices beyond the United Center.
This partnership goes beyond simply offering sustainable water solutions. It embodies a commitment to a greener future and aims to inspire fans to adopt more sustainable practices in their daily lives. The partnership will be showcased throughout the season with impactful branding, promotional nights, interactive experiences, and giveaways, reinforcing the importance of water quality and sustainability.
“Culligan has proudly kept our neighbors, friends and fellow businesses across Chicago hydrated with clean, great-tasting water for nearly 90 years,” said Al Hamood, President and Chief Financial and Administrative Officer, Culligan International. “With this new partnership, we are taking water transformation to the next level, delivering high-quality, game-changing drinking water solutions to fans, athletes and artists in our hometown, and inviting all to join us in reducing reliance on plastic.”
This collaboration signifies a shift towards a more environmentally conscious approach to fan experiences at the United Center. By working together, Culligan and the United Center aim to inspire both fans and the broader community to embrace sustainability and make a positive impact on the environment.
