Behind the Scenes of the COPA America: Riot Color’s Graphics and Sports Signage Success

When the excitement of COPA America sweeps across a continent, the spectacle isn’t just about the football; it’s also about the dazzling displays that set the stage for one of the world’s most watched sports events. This year, as teams from across South America gathered to compete for the prestigious title, Riot Color, a division of ARC Document Solutions, played a pivotal role in transforming sports stadiums across the United States into vibrant hubs of football fever. Riot Color, in collaboration with TGI South America, a tech-led global sports media company, executed a massive project under extreme pressures, delivering exceptional results that went beyond just meeting expectations.

Project Overview

Riot Color was tasked with creating and delivering an extensive range of event-branded graphic signage for COPA America—a project spearheaded by Riot superstars Rachel Piersall and Tyler Edema. The scope included everything from vinyl and fabric banners to foam core substrate signs used for press backdrops, chair stickers, locker room signage, wayfinding, and info desk signs. This comprehensive branding package was crucial for setting the thematic tone of the event and ensuring functional navigation and information dissemination across all venues.

Execution Challenges

The project spanned multiple cities including Kansas City, Atlanta, San Francisco, Miami, New Jersey, Orlando, Houston, Arlington, Charlotte, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and Phoenix. Each location required a tailored approach to signage, considering the unique layouts and audience interactions at each stadium. The logistics of coordinating production and delivery across these widespread locations were daunting, especially given the tight two-week timeline to produce and ship thousands of items.

Adding to the challenge, the project did not start as smoothly as hoped. TGI South America faced significant setbacks when their previous suppliers failed to meet the critical deadlines. With the event already in progress, Riot Color and ARC were called upon to rescue the situation in what was essentially the eleventh hour—a testament to their reliability and capacity to handle high-stress, high-stakes projects.

The Riot Solution

With little room for error and time ticking fast, the Riot team sprung into action, leveraging every ounce of their extensive resources and expertise. The production involved round-the-clock printing services to meet the overwhelming demand for high-quality, durable graphics suitable for the high-profile nature of COPA America.

One of the standout features of Riot Color’s involvement was their ability to maintain consistent quality and branding across all materials, regardless of the medium. Whether it was the fabric banners fluttering in the breeze, vinyl graphics that lined the stadium corridors, or foam core signs that directed tens of thousands of fans, each piece served its purpose both functionally and aesthetically.

The diversity in materials used also highlighted Riot Color’s versatility in printing solutions. Foam core substrates offered a lightweight yet visually striking option for indoor signs, while the robust vinyl suited outdoor settings, ensuring durability against the elements. Fabric banners added a touch of elegance and movement to the static visuals, enhancing the festive atmosphere of the stadiums.

Delivery and Impact

Despite the logistical complexities, Riot Color successfully managed the nationwide distribution of signage to all 14 stadiums involved in the tournament. Each batch arrived on time and was installed without a hitch, thanks to meticulous planning and coordination with local teams on the ground.

The impact of Riot Color’s work was immediately evident. Not only did the signage elevate the fan experience, providing clear guidance and building excitement, but it also reinforced the branding of COPA America across multiple touchpoints, creating a cohesive visual journey for attendees and viewers alike. The effectiveness of the signage was crucial in managing the large crowds, ensuring safety, and contributing to the overall success of the event.

Client Feedback and Future Prospects

The effort and skill demonstrated by Riot Color did not go unnoticed. In a heartfelt email from TGI South America, they praised the Riot team for their extraordinary commitment and professionalism under pressure. The message highlighted the seamless collaboration and the critical role Riot Color played in rectifying the initial setbacks faced by the event. TGI South America expressed deep gratitude and a strong desire to maintain this partnership for future events in the USA, recognizing Riot Color as a key ally in their operations.

The success of the COPA America signage project by Riot Color illustrates the profound impact of well-executed event graphics and the importance of choosing the right partners in the dynamic world of sports event management. It was a project that went beyond mere printing—it was about creating an atmosphere, guiding millions of fans, and crafting memorable experiences through the power of visual design. As Riot Color looks to the future, their role in the COPA America has undoubtedly set a high benchmark in the industry, promising exciting possibilities for upcoming events. Through challenges and triumphs, the project stands as a testament to what can be achieved with talent, technology, and teamwork.