ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — The University of New Mexico athletics department has released figures for the first year of general beer and wine sales sold in the 2016-17 season for UNM’s primary three revenue-producing sports. For football, men’s basketball and women’s basketball UNM generated $143,553 in net revenue.
The 2016 football season and the 2016-17 men’s and women’s basketball seasons were the first that UNM offered beer and wine in all general seating areas. Previously sales were limited to the U.S. Bank End Zone Club & Zia Levels of University Stadium and the U.S. Bank Club and Suite Level of WisePies Arena.
For the 2016 football season, UNM Athletics netted $72,631 in sales of beer and wine. For the 2016-17 men’s basketball season, UNM Athletics netted $63,632 and UNM netted $7,290 during women’s basketball. UNM’s net numbers are 50% of the total beer and wine sales. Revenues generated from beer and wine sales will help offset decreases in concessions sales due to attendance figures.
Last year New Mexico hosted six home football games in addition to net sales from the Gildan New Mexico Bowl. UNM also hosted 17 men’s basketball games and 19 women’s basketball games.
“Levy did a great job implementing our beer and wine sales policies and we will continue to work together to improve the experience and options for our fans.” said Deputy Athletic Director Brad Hutchins.
| Sport | Net Sales | Total Sales |
| 2016 Football | $ 72,631 | $145,262 |
| 2016-17 Men’s Basketball | $ 63,632 | $127,264 |
| 2016-17 Women’s Basketball | $ 7,290 | $ 14,580 |
| TOTAL | $143,553 | $287,106 |
Along with sales in the general seating areas, UNM also had specialty areas including the Chama River Brewing Company Craft Corner, which was a special ticketed area for football games that included covered seating in the end zone with televisions available and a buffet meal.
Fan safety is the University’s top priority, and UNM worked in conjunction with Levy Restaurants, UNM Police and the UNM Campus Office for Substance Abuse to develop several procedures to ensure responsible consumption. In addition, Levy Restaurants is in good standing with the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department, and is committed to responsible alcohol service locally and nationally at over 100 sports and entertainment venues. The team utilized state approved training providers such as “WayToServe” to ensure all staff adhered to responsible alcohol service policies and procedures.
“We have a great schedule for football that includes hosting our Rio Grande Rivalry game against NM State this season, and we are excited to kick off the season on September 2” said Hutchins.