Two professional soccer teams in Osaka, Japan have introduced a new project delivery system in their stadium development and management. The teams have developed project models in which they take major part in operation and management, suggesting a possibility for the construction industry to introduce a new business model.

The new stadium for Gamba Osaka, funded by a group of local businesses and fans, completed in September 30 and the ownership was transferred to the local government of Suita City. Osaka-based construction giant Takenaka Corp. was responsible for construction. The annual cost of operation and management estimated at 480 million yen will be covered by the team, which has been appointed as a designated operator by the city.

The other Osaka-based professional soccer team Cerezo Osaka announced a plan September to upgrade its home stadium at 5 billion yen, doubling the capacity to 40,000 by 2019. Contributions from the local community will likely be able to cover the cost. The new stadium, when completed, is to be donated to the municipality and the team is expected to become the operator of the site. (2015/10/13) Photo: New Stadium for Gamba Osaka (above), Rendering of New Kincho Stadium for Cerezo Osaka