‘The Wall’: Gurnee theater converted into giant sports bar for fans to watch March Madness

After struggling in the course of the pandemic for the final couple of years, that is the kind of crowd that brings a smile to the faces of bar and restaurant homeowners.

“It looks like Christmas if you bought NCAA’s and St. Pat’s on the similar time,” stated Tim Borden, with Ala Carte Leisure.

There could also be just a few folks at Finn McCools in Schaumburg who’re alleged to be at work as an alternative of watching basketball.

Beth O’Donnell, who’s cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes within the event, stated she is legit.

“I took as we speak and tomorrow off, additionally,” O’Donnell stated. “It is a two-day celebration.”

Whether or not they’re on the bar or at work, a current examine suggests 48% of staff do their NCAA brackets at work, and March Insanity prices American firms about $2.4 billion an hour in misplaced productiveness. That is greater than $16 billion for your complete event.

How firms can encourage work productiveness throughout March Insanity video games

However one office skilled stated given the present competitors for high quality staff, firms ought to embrace the event.

In Gurnee, they’re placing the ending touches on an enormous new idea for watching the video games after changing a theater into an enormous sports activities bar, full with a 40-foot display screen, comfy recliners, and a full bar and meals menu. They’re taking a look at including these at lots of the 90 Marcus theaters across the Midwest.

“It is totally different than a theater as a result of the lights are up a bit bit, you may discuss to your folks — it isn’t like a film the place you sit there quietly,” stated Greg Marcus, CEO of Marcus Theaters.

They plan to have this open year-round, however they have been dashing to get it prepared for March Insanity. The truth is, they’re anticipating a giant crowd for the Illinois and Loyola video games Friday.