Photo credit: All Habs / NHL
This morning, the Montreal Canadiens, Geoff Molson and the new CIBC Vault are in the spotlight as fans notice lower-bowl seats sitting oddly empty at period starts.!
Lately, more and more images have been circulating and comments keep piling up.
Many notice that the first rows at the Bell Centre, even though they’re among the most expensive, often remain empty after the periods begin.
That’s where the famous CIBC Vault comes into play.
Premium ticket holders now go through this brand-new, highly private lounge – a chic space with a bar, high-end meals, and an exclusive atmosphere.
But many believe that’s exactly the problem.
People are enjoying the place a bit too much and coming back to their seats too late.
Result: the Bell Centre looks half empty at the beginning of every period, even when the building is full.
And honestly, I don’t think anyone expected how much this new feature would change the atmosphere.
It now seems to be hitting Montreal full force.
Here’s what the HabsOnReddit page shared:
“If you’ve noticed the rows of empty seats at the Bell Centre during the beginning of a period, it’s likely due to the new private, corporate (and very expensive) lounge that Geoff Molson and the Montreal Canadiens introduced this season.
La Voûte CIBC lounge in Montreal is inspired by the Air Canada Signature Club in Toronto according to the Canadiens website.”
– Habs On Reddit
Bell Centre, CIBC Vault and fan experience
I see it often – that gap between fans who arrive early and those in the VIP sections who take their time.
That’s surely what explains all those empty seats we notice right at the start of periods.
To me, it shows how much the game-day experience has changed.
And I understand the true fans who feel like it takes away some of the atmosphere we used to love at the Bell Centre.
The photos on social media prove it – it’s obvious.
Everyone is talking about it, and it doesn’t seem like it’ll calm down anytime soon.
Some think it’s a nice upgrade for high-end clients.
But others feel like we’re losing a bit of the authenticity of Montreal hockey.
One thing is clear: this topic strikes a nerve with fans.
And honestly, I think this debate will continue for a long time.
In the end, what really matters to me is that the atmosphere stays strong and that everyone can experience a true Canadiens game without unnecessary distractions.
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The real reason Canadiens fans keep noticing empty seats at the Bell Centre
Do you think the CIBC Vault is hurting the Bell Centre atmosphere?