MONDO | STADIA - Issue 31 - August | September

MULLETT ARENA

QINGCHUN FOOTBALL STADIUM

FORTRESS SYDNEY

FULL TIME

Henderson Engineering delivers its full scope of building systems design services for ASU’s new, multipurpose arena.

Qingdao’s new, 55,000-capacity venue is equipped with a powerful, state-of-the-art Coda Audio system by integrator, Tongbo.

The largest esports complex in the southern hemisphere is kitted our with a new NEXO audio system.

The Digital Line’s CEO, George R Vaughan, discusses whether AI-driven technology such as voice platforms are the future.

ISSUE 31 - AUGUST | SEPTEMBER 2023

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31 WELCOME

e’re delighted to have a genuinely iconic European venue as our cover story for ISSUE 31, with our focus on the home of Portuguese giants, S.L. Benfica - Estádio da Luz. Officially opened 20 years ago, with a total capacity of 64,642, Estádio da Luz has hosted both UEFA European Championships and Champions League finals, highlighting its standing in world football. Despite its success, the growth and ambiton has continued, with both the audio and lighting systems receiving significant upgrades recently. We’ve taken a closer look at how d&b audiotechnik and Musco Lighting have further enhanced an already-spectacular stadium. Check out the full feature on page 12.

We also feature Henderson Engineers project at Mullett Arena, in which they’ve delivered a full scope of building systems design services for ASU’s new, multipurpose venue.

Over in China, we’ve taken a deep dive into Tongbo’s integration of a new, stateof-the-art Coda Audio system at Qingchun Football Stadium. Staying with audio, there’s also a interesting project from NEXO, who has supplied a new system for Fortress Sydney - the largest esports complex in the southern hemisphere.

Our Team Talk column in this issue is courtesy of Renkus-Heinz, with a focus on beam-steering technology - and why OmniBeam is a game-changer for stadiums and arenas.

We also have fascinating article from George R Vaughan, CEO of The Digital Line, who discusses A.I. driven tech and how voice platforms offer a solution for hospitality in a world of rising costs and staff shortages.

W

Sam Hughes Editorial Director

31 INSIDE…

Cover Image: Musco Lighting

Editorial Director Sam Hughes s.hughes@mondiale.co.uk

Commercial Director Jamie Dixon j.dixon@mondiale.co.uk

Design & Production Dan Seaton d.seaton@mondiale.co.uk

Dave Bell d.bell@mondiale.co.uk

Finance Director Amanda Giles a.giles@mondiale.co.uk

Credit Control ar@mondiale.co.uk

Group Chairman Damian Walsh

MONDO | STADIA is published by Mondiale Media Limited, Strawberry Studios, Watson Square, Stockport, SK1 3AZ, UK Tel: +44 161 476 8340

TEAM TALK 006 Renkus-Heinz

EXTRA TIME

056 Kappture | K2 060 Clear-Com | IBC Preview

Printed By Buxton Press

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012 Estádio da Luz | Lisbon, Portugal 022 Mullett Arena | Arizona, USA

VENUE FOCUS AUDIO 030 Qingchun Football Stadium | Qingdao, China 036 Fortress Sydney | Sydney, Australia VIDEO 042 2023 Guinness Six Nations | Dublin, Ireland 046 USA Softball Hall of Fame Stadium | Oklahoma, USA BROADCAST 050 Við Djúpumýrar | Klaksvik, Faroe Islands

064 Full Time | George R Vaughan, The Digital Line

RENKUS-HEINZ WHY YOUR NEXT STADIUM INSTALL SHOULD USE BEAM-STEERING ARRAYS Beam steering has always been a great, if unconventional, solution for stadiums, but Renkus-Heinz’s OmniBeam is a game changer...

Images: Renkus-Heinz

hen “beam steering” enters a

music reproduction.

rates. Another reason is that drivers need to

conversation about audio systems,

The goal is consistent front-to-back audience

be acoustically aligned when spaced close

“houses of worship” immediately

coverage, meaning the people closer to the

together to prevent adverse sonic effects from

comes to mind for many

loudspeakers hear sound at approximately

occurring, meaning each driver must have

integrators. Not stadiums, arenas or other

the same volume and intelligibility as those

different acoustic settings applied to maintain

large venues. And while beam-steering arrays

far away, even over distances exceeding 35

coverage consistency.

are, in fact, an excellent solution for houses of

meters. Achieving consistent coverage involves

All of that probably sounds much more

worship, they’re also great for any application

pointing different beams at separate sections

complicated (and expensive) than traditional

where a traditional line array is commonly

of the audience. Think of an acoustic beam

line arrays, but it’s not. It’s just math, and

deployed. Like stadiums, for instance.

like the beam of a flashlight. Flashlights have

computers are great at solving mathematical

While traditional line arrays typically use

a defined cone of light brightest at the center

equations for you. Renkus-Heinz’s recently

horns with controlled dispersion patterns,

that weakens or spreads at the edges. If you

announced OmniBeam algorithm reduces the

they still often distribute a lot of acoustic

overlap flashlights correctly, you can maintain

time and know-how required to get excellent

energy to places where there’s no audience. Or

consistent light coverage over a larger area.

acoustic results from your beam-steering

worse, they don’t distribute sound to where

You may have to dim the flashlights used

array. No longer is alleged “rocket science”

people are sitting. And there’s nothing more

at the front of the audience or use brighter

involved in simulating and commissioning

off-putting at a sporting event (aside from

flashlights for the very back to get a consistent

steerable arrays. Now they’re as simple to

your team losing) than not being able to hear

light level regardless of where a person’s

deploy as point-and-shoot loudspeakers.

announcements clearly. Beam-steering arrays

sitting. Acoustic beams work similarly.

solve all these problems.

Beams are created by a group of drivers acting

What Makes OmniBeam Different?

cohesively, so beam-steered arrays typically

With OmniBeam, Renkus-Heinz is changing

A Little About How Beam Steering Works

have eight to 32 drivers or more. Each driver

the perception that beam steering is

Technically speaking, beam steering increases

requires separate amplification and digital

knowledge and time intensive — for niche

the direct energy (as opposed to reverberant

signal processing to enable this cohesive

applications only. Their new algorithm is

energy) in a space by directing sound at the

steering. One reason is that frequencies behave

the culmination of decades of expertise

audience, improving speech intelligibility and

differently over distance and decay at different

in steerable technology, replacing their

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TEAM TALK

previous “best-fit” algorithm to now deliver unmatched sound and coverage for 100% of venues with less time and knowledge required than ever before.

Renkus-Heinz has continued to innovate its beam-steering technology, seeking to ensure the best results for 100% of spaces while making beam-steering even easier to use. The all-new OmniBeam workflow is the fulfillment of the company’s mission to ensure exceptional, accessible, hassle-free sound for every venue.

The new OmniBeam algorithm is based on beam shaping rather than beam steering. The ideal beam shape is automatically created from parameters defined by the user within the new BeamWare interface. With the press of a button, OmniBeam generates ideal FIR coefficients for every unique venue, delivering faster, better and more consistent results than ever before with less time and knowledge needed. The result is custom-tailored coverage precisely dialed into the exact geometry of each space, providing the most consistent front-to-back audio experience possible. Equally important, OmniBeam allows integrators, regardless of their level of expertise, to achieve great results with minimal effort, every time.

Practical Benefits of OmniBeam for Stadiums Stadium sound is all about creating a great experience for every guest, so consistent coverage is essential. Beam-steering arrays

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TEAM TALK

008

are known for delivering precise coverage,

by moving the on-screen aiming handles

The IC Live loudspeakers easily deliver the

but getting that great coverage could take a

(because who doesn’t like to tinker?). If you

power and throw needed for the stadium,

while in times past. If a single array needed

want more energy somewhere, move the

delivering a 105 dB SPL peak at 100 feet.

to cover multiple audience areas, system

handle where you want, and the coverage

However, mounting the loudspeakers was

commissioners may have needed to configure

follows. And that’s it. For more granular

particularly challenging in this stadium due to

multiple beams with lots of iterations. Even

control of the beams, Renkus-Heinz still

its layout. Underneath the main stadium are

a single audience area may have required two

provides access to advanced controls should

several slender columns supporting the press

or three beams. And using multiple beams

you need them.

box, which were used to mount some of the IC

often required trial and error adjustments until

While OmniBeam is very powerful in its own

Live arrays. Additionally, ten custom speaker

landing on a satisfactory configuration.

right, it does not replace the need for acoustic

poles were installed, five on each side, in areas

OmniBeam simplifies the process and gives

simulation of the stadium with EASE or other

of the stadium without supporting columns.

you better, more consistent coverage from

tools. Instead, it augments your simulations by

With no overhang or canopy on the speaker

the first press of a button. Once you open the

making the beam steering within your project

poles, installing a loudspeaker on an overhang

interface, select the appropriate loudspeaker

simulation intuitive and easy to configure.

and aiming it down was impossible. Instead,

and enter the audience area. Then, press

Provided your simulation data is accurate,

24 IC Live arrays were effective because each

the aptly-named “Snap to Audience Area”

your beam-steering coverage will realistically

unit is steerable with an adjustable aiming

button. And voila — all the beam-steering

match what was predicted. And even if

angle from -30° to +30° — enough to reach

calculations, frequency adjustments and FIR

the acoustics aren’t meeting expectations,

every section of the stands with even coverage.

filter calculations are completed for you.

OmniBeam makes it easy to make quick

Repeat the process for each audience area,

adjustments that will yield great results for all

Final Thoughts

and you’re done with configuration — you no

the seating areas in the stadium.

Beam-steering arrays have been pigeonholed

longer need multiple beams to cover a single

Ballpark of the Palm Beaches Use Case

in the AV industry as only applicable for

audience area.

The 160-acre Ballpark of the Palm Beaches

houses of worship, but nothing could be

In a large venue like a stadium, this means

is the spring training home of the Houston

further from the truth. Any application that

less moving around during commissioning

Astros and Washington Nationals baseball

uses column loudspeakers, surface mount

from seat to seat, level to level, to ensure

clubs. A true state-of-the-art facility, it

loudspeakers, point-source loudspeakers or

the acoustics are satisfactory. Fewer

includes a 6,500-seat main field, six well-

even line arrays is likely a good fit for beam-

microphone placements are required, saving

appointed premium suites for up to 15 guests,

steering arrays. To make the simulation and

commissioning time because you do not have

and two party decks with food service and a

commissioning of the projects smoother,

to reposition or walk around as much to check

full bar. The main stadium utilizes two dozen

OmniBeam does all the heavy lifting for you,

the coverage repeatedly.

Renkus-Heinz IC Live beam-steering arrays to

giving you better, more consistent coverage

Many adjustments can be made simply

keep the audience engaged and informed.

with the press of a button.

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EVERY NOTE EVERY WORD EVeRYWHERE At Renkus-Heinz, audio is our passion. From the crack of a bat to the last note of a symphony, our mission is to deliver every single sound with utmost clarity.

Guests seek a complete experience. Clients pay for a comprehensive solution. Integrators require components that consistently and reliably perform at the highest level.

So a true sound solution is affordable. It’s adaptable to both complex and simple environments. And it makes every note sparkle and helps every word hit home.

Renkus-Heinz: The Sound Solution

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31 THE FULL PITCH

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ESTÁDIO DA LUZ Lisbon, Portugal Images: d&b audiotechnik, Musco Lighting, Miguel Mota Sousa

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ome to Lisbon’s Benfica football club, the Estádio

to the vision of the club president, Rui Costa, this would be

do Sport Lisboa e Benfica – known as the Estadio

achieved using the best technologies, facilities, and resources

da Luz (Stadium of Light) – is now providing an

available.

unparalleled stadium sound experience, thanks

The exceptional standard set by this installation is thanks to

to the installation of the world’s first totally cardioid d&b

the d&b XSL 8/12 cardioid line array, along with the new XSL

audiotechnik sound system.

SUB and A-Series augmented array. Together, these produce

Unique for a football stadium, the new system was installed

an even and powerful sound distribution, based around a

by Portuguese specialist NAN Audiovisuais, as part of a

series of small arrays just 1.7 meters in length. With each

complete refurbishment aimed at achieving a more dynamic

array providing more than 60 meters of vertical coverage

standard of utilization for the venue. The operators knew that

from the uppermost seat to the very front row, this is one

a new sound system would be imperative – and according

of the most discreet systems ever installed. The impressive

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broadband frequency control achieved by the cardioid

biggest challenge we have ever taken on, and we had only

technology of the XSL system minimizes reverberation times,

three months to deliver it in the run-up to Christmas. We are

taking intelligibility to a new level, one never achieved before

very grateful to our suppliers, including our partners at d&b

in the stadium.

audiotechnik, who have helped us to achieve what is possibly

In terms of technology and performance, the installation

the fastest supply and the most advanced sound system

was expected to place the Estadio da Luz at the top of the

installation for any stadium of this size on the planet.”

list of worldwide reference venues of similar size. It was to

He adds, “For this project we had a very simple task to

ensure that the facility remained as attractive as possible to

achieve. As the Benfica club leaders put it, ‘We are the best

the public, corporate clients, and promoters, while always

team, so we must have the best sound.’ So that was our

meeting the high standards laid down by UEFA and FIFA.

target!”

Benfica’s technical team of Paulo Martins, Mario Correia,

The result generates a unique experience for a stadium

Hugo Garcia, and Vasco Martins, worked closely with NAN

environment hosting more than 65,000 people. As Mario

Audiovisuais, and d&b’s Head of Global EAS, Stefan Goertz.

Correia, Benfica’s Director of Audiovisual System, says: “In

Additional support with the creation and fine-tuning of d&b

16 years of stadium history I never felt such a high level of

ArrayCalc and EASE files was provided by d&b’s stadia team,

emotion from the audience. The voice from the speakers and

led by Senior Application Engineer, Dominika Obwarzanek.

the music never produced anything like this before, getting

NAN Audiovisuais director, Luis Vidigal, says, “This was the

the crowd so alive and such a part of the show!”

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Experience Matters Whether it’s an iconic venue like Wembley Stadium, training academy grounds, or a grassroots pitch, Musco’s sports lighting systems continue to be the solution of choice around the world. Our superior project management expertise, light control technology, system reliability and warranty, and special effects capabilities create unforgettable experiences for players and fans alike.

SCAN HERE to learn more about the Wembley Stadium project or visit

promo.musco.com/mondo2023

©2023 Musco Sports Lighting, LLC · ADSTA23-1

245x318_ADSTA23-1 Mondo Stadia.indd 1

1/19/23 4:23 PM

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s the home ground of two-time European

The stadium has undergone several renovation projects in

champions and 38-time Portuguese Primera

recent years, and when club owners determined it was time

Liga champions Sport Lisboa e Benfica—more

for a new field-of-play lighting system to replace the original

commonly known as Benfica—the 64,000-seat

HID lights, they wanted a state-of-the-art LED system that

Estadio da Luz is among the largest venues in Europe and

would deliver exciting benefits on a number of fronts.

has hosted UEFA Euro and UEFA Champions League matches

Specifically, Benfica wanted a lighting system that would

featuring other top clubs from around the world.

meet the highest broadcast standards for international play,

Completed in 2003, Estadio da Luz—which translates in

offer eye-catching special effects technology, minimise glare

English to “Stadium of Light”—features a sleek architectural

from affecting players and spectators, and complement the

design including a distinctive polycarbonate roof that allows

stadium’s unique architecture.

sunlight to stream through.

To achieve all of its lighting goals and transform the overall

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experience at the Stadium of Light—which has served as

providing exceptional reliability and trouble-free operation

home to some of the best football players in the world—

while also seamlessly aligning with the venue’s unique,

Benfica partnered with Musco for the development of a

award-winning architectural aesthetic.

highly-customised LED system.

The system also includes Musco’s Show-Light® Pro Venue

Utilising its patented Total Light Control—TLC for LED™

special effects controls package, along with colour-changing

technology, Musco developed an LED retrofit system upgrade

RGW luminaires strategically located throughout the stadium,

that achieved all of Benfica’s lighting goals at Estadio da Luz.

for the creation of cutting-edge light shows with light-to-

The new system provides clear, uniform lighting across the

music synchronisation.

stadium’s pitch that exceeds the recently published FIFA

With the new TLC for LED system in place, Benfica also

Standard A broadcast specifications, while its patented fixture

benefits from Musco’s long-term parts and labour warranty,

visoring technology significantly reduces glare throughout

which guarantees light levels and eliminates maintenance on

the venue.

the new lights well into the future.

Musco custom built new structural mounts that were clamped to the existing gantry on the underside of the stadium’s roof,

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MULLETT ARENA Arizona, USA

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he scorching Sonoran Desert Region in North

heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system

America is unsurprisingly not known as a hotbed

at the facility is central to maintaining ideal temperature,

for ice sports. However, the hockey program

humidity, and dew point to sustain excellent ice quality no

at Arizona State University (ASU) has been

matter the conditions outdoors.

breaking that mold for years, progressing from an intramural

“ASU was committed to having one of the best ice sheets

club team to an NCAA Division 1 contender. The university

within collegiate sports and beyond. Poor indoor conditions

rightfully ventured to build a state-of-the-art multipurpose

related to temperature, air distribution, humidity levels, and

facility to match its profile as a competitor at the highest

water quality have a direct impact on the quality of the ice

level of American collegiate sports. An all-star design and

sheet and its ability to perform under the heavy usage and

construction team was assembled to realize that vision

fast-paced play of collegiate and professional Hockey. So,

including Henderson Engineers, a national building systems

providing a high-quality HVAC system is one of the most

design firm with offices in Phoenix, a stone’s throw away

important decisions you can make when building a hockey

from ASU’s main campus in Tempe, Arizona.

arena,” explained Kelly Hyde, Henderson’s sports practice

Enter Mullett Arena, a 5,000-seat, 210,750 square-foot venue

director who served as project manager for Mullett Arena.

that opened in October 2022 to great fanfare. At the heart

“We’ve worked on numerous ASU athletic projects

of the $134 million facility are two ice rinks, one of which

throughout the years including their newly renovated Sun

caters to ASU hockey main events and public gatherings such

Devil football stadium, football student athletic facility,

as concerts and trade shows and is designed to meet both

football indoor practice facility, men’ and women’s basketball

NCAA and professional hockey standards. The second ice

practice facility, and their fitness complexes at both their

sheet serves as a multifunctional community/training space

Polytechnic Campus as well as their West Campus. This puts

for hosting practices, youth sports, figure skating, and other

our team of experts in this field at an advantage because we

community-oriented programs. The Henderson-designed

understand what it takes to deliver to ASU’s high standards.”

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Given the energy intensive process of maintaining ice rinks,

home game so far during the 2022-2023 NHL season.

Henderson looked to minimise environmental impact by

“Mullett Arena is a flagship project not just for hockey at

equipping Mullett Arena with intuitive control systems that

ASU, but for ice sports throughout the Southwestern United

allow facility operators to adjust energy consumption based

States,” said Hyde. “It will not only attract high level athletes

on power needs at a given time. This efficiency approach

but new fans too, which was top of mind for us through

was in alignment with ASU’s sustainability requirements,

every step of the design process. The Coyotes choosing to

which stipulate designing toward LEED Silver benchmarks at

bring their talents to the venue is a major stamp of approval

minimum.

for the quality that was delivered by the entire design and

Beyond top notch ice, the fan experience is front and center

construction team.”

at the venue. A social deck, club lounge, premium club

Henderson’s full scope of building systems design services

seats, two group suites, and 20 luxury suites are among the

included acoustical consulting, electrical, fire and life safety,

amenities spread across the building’s three floors. Such

mechanical, plumbing, security, and sustainability design

factors were undoubtedly under consideration when the

and engineering. Other key players included Mortenson

Arizona Coyotes NHL team signed a lease to use Mullett

Development, Inc. as the design-builder, Mortenson as

Arena as their interim home base in mid-2022 after departing

the general contractor, SCI as the architect, and Dibble

their former arena. The move has resonated with spectators,

Engineering as the civil engineer.

who have flocked to Coyotes events and helped sell out every

BUILDING SYSTEMS DESGIN SERVICES: Henderson Engineers | DESIGN-BUILDER: Mortenson Development, Inc. | GENERAL CONTRACTOR: Mortenson | ARCHITECT: SCI | CIVIL ENGINEER: Dibble Engineering 026

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PUT EVERY WATT TO WORK. INTRODUCING

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31 VENUE FOCUS

AUDIO 030 Qingchun Football Stadium | Qingdao, China 036 Fortress Sydney | Sydney, Australia

VIDEO 042 2023 Guinness Six Nations | Dublin, Ireland 046 USA Softball Hall of Fame Stadium | Oklahoma, USA

BROADCAST 050 Við Djúpumýrar | Klaksvik, Faroe Islands

QINGCHUN FOOTBALL STADIUM Qingdao, China Images: Coda Audio

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art of the Park Sports Complex in the Chengyang

was engaged to supply and install a comprehensive audio

district of the Chinese city of Qingdao, the

system for Qingchun Football Stadium, and chose a CODA

Qingchun Football Stadium was designed by

Audio system to meet the demanding brief. The primary

the China Southwest Architecture Design and

objective of the system is to ensure exceptional power and

Research Institute, and built by China Construction Eighth

clarity, in order to ensure that everyone present inside the

Engineering Bureau.

stadium can hear announcements at all times, often against

With seating for 55,000 spectators, the stadium constitutes a

the background of loud crowd noise. Headroom in such

major development for international football in China. With

circumstances becomes a vital element of the PA system, as

ambitions to stage the Asian Cup and World Cup tournaments

does the ability to precisely control its area of coverage to

in the future, the stadium needed to conform to the stringent

avoid the sound reflections created by many walls and glass

standards of the game’s worldwide governing body, FIFA,

surfaces.

as set out in its Stadium Technical Recommendations and

The system at Qingdao deployed two of CODA Audio’s

Requirements.

principal ranges to cater for the seated areas and playing-

The fully-roofed, two-tier construction provides for every

surface areas respectively. CODA’s HOPS12i high-output

requirement of players, officials, media representatives, VIPs

three-way point-source loudspeaker was used for the main

and fans to international standards, while a multifunctional

seating areas. 20 groups of three HOPS12i (140° vertical x

training hall, swimming pool, two further grass pitches and

90° horizontal were mounted under the catwalk to give even

commercial spaces complement the development of the site.

coverage of the entire area, while ViRAY compact line array

Leading production specialist and integrator, Tongbo,

loudspeakers took care of the playing area. Four groups

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AUDIO

of eight ViRAY (two groups on each of the east and west sides) comfortably cover the pitch. A further six CODA Audio G512-PRO 12-inch compact, two-way versatile point source speakers can be deployed for the rostrum area or anywhere else in the stadium where mobile returns are required.

Discussing the new Coda Audio system at Qingchun Football Stadium, Lang Jun, Senior Engineer, said: “In the first event of this year, the sound clarity and coverage were excellent, providing a natural balance. The audio maintained high clarity whether at low sound pressure or high sound pressure, receiving praise from the owner and various parties.”

CODA Audio Director of Global Sales and Marketing, David Webster added: “We’re very proud to see CODA Audio providing the solution for such a high profile stadium in China. This is a major project in a venue that will stage leading international matches and serves to demonstrate how the audio quality, flexibility and adaptability of CODA systems can meet and exceed the very highest standards demanded.

“The Qingchun Football Stadium is also another fine example of Tongbo’s excellent work - their team has now been involved in the delivery of a wide variety of large scale prestigious installations and live performances using CODA, all of which have securely cemented our high reputation amongst their clients.”

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Perfect Combination

ViRAY for the field

Compact 3-way Line Array System

HOPS12i for the crowd

High Output 3-Way Full Range Point Source for Installations

CODA Stadium Advert Mondo Stadia.indd 1

codaaudio.com

10/08/2023 18:56

AUDIO

FORTRESS SYDNEY Sydney, Australia

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ith over 50 years of dedicated experience in the

word ‘performance’ was on the lips of every supplier involved

audio-visual landscape, The Avit Group deploys

in the project. Faced with providing a loudspeaker solution

industry-leading technology in the design of

befitting of such a technological pedigree, The Avit Group

comprehensive systems for hospitality and

selected NEXO’s P15 point source system for the Alienware

entertainment venues nationwide. The company’s reputation

Arena.

for compelling solutions is due in part, to their affinity for

The Avit Group’s Operations Manager, Adrian Davis, outlines

well-crafted hardware. Tasked with the installation of a

Avit’s role in realising the venue’s grand vision: “For the

premiere audio system for the exhilarative Fortress Sydney,

Fortress esports project, we were given the brief to create

The Avit Group chose state-of-the-art technology from

a dynamic, immersive, and technologically advanced AV

French loudspeaker brand NEXO.

system, which sits somewhere between an entertainment

Located in Chippendale’s Central Park Mall, Fortress

venue and a broadcast studio. The vision was to set a new

Sydney is a ground-breaking gamer’s haven. The expansive

benchmark for esports venues not only in Australia but

new site now holds the title of largest esports complex in

across the globe. It was essential to provide seamless and

the Southern Hemisphere, drawing crowds as a modern

high-quality audio experiences that would engage audiences,

entertainment mecca. Housing a slew of colourful arcades,

whether they were on-site or connecting digitally. Our

streaming booths, a themed tavern, sci-fi inspired bar, PC

goal was to ensure that the AV infrastructure was flexible

LAN lounge and a colossal custom-designed esports arena,

and robust enough to accommodate a variety of events

Fortress Sydney has been designed from the ground up as the

and broadcasts without compromising on quality or user

unparalleled capitol of the city’s gaming community.

experience.”

Sponsored by high-end PC gaming titan Alienware, Fortress

After careful review of a variety of speaker options for the

is by nature, a hub for the tech-savvy. Packed with a myriad

Arena, NEXO’s celebrated P+ system was deployed in a L+R

of elite gaming PCs, peripherals and addressable lighting, the

hang configuration, made up of a P15 loudspeaker and L18

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AUDIO

sub on each side. Adrian reveals that “NEXO’s reputation

unbelievable specs were no lie – they exceeded everyone’s

for delivering pristine sound quality, combined with the

expectations at The Avit Group, especially our audio nerds.

versatility of their P+ series, made it a clear choice.”

Both the speaker and subwoofer components are robust and

Proving NEXO a worthy contender for the Alienware Arena,

reliable, ensuring that Fortress can operate smoothly during

where gaming tournaments are rendered into a thrilling

high-stakes esports events.”

spectator sport, Adrian champions the capabilities of the

With an extensive history utilising NEXO across a variety of

P+ Series: “The obvious standout features of the NEXO P15

installs, The Avit Group’s Managing Director, Brad Magri

speakers and L18 subs are their impeccable sound quality,

summarizes: “The reason we went with NEXO is that we have

high output, and compact design. The P15’s asymmetric

always been so pleased using the brand for years. I have a bit

dispersion pattern provides excellent coverage to everyone

of a passion for the product range thanks to the quality of

in the arena, while the L18 subwoofers deliver powerful and

output, and high-end sound and aesthetic in such small-

accurate low frequencies, crucial for an immersive gaming

form cabinets.”

and entertainment experience. The quality and SPL level of

Leading the charge with a meticulous level of premium-tier

these speakers was very surprising. We were first presented

technology throughout, Fortress Sydney’s uniquely esports-

this option on paper from the team at Group Technologies

driven capabilities have placed it firmly on the map for

and it was only when auditioning that we realised that the

gamers across the country and beyond.

MANUFACTURER: NEXO | DESIGN & INSTALLATION: The Avit Group 040

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PITCH PERFECT SOUND

From local arenas to flagship international stadia, NEXO delivers a thrilling sonic experience for fans along with full safety compliance for stadium operators.

Find out more about pitch perfect sound at nexo.sa.com

Thinking. Inside the box.

Sans titre-1 1

24/03/2023 16:22

VIDEO

2023 GUINNESS SIX NATIONS

I

n a top-level sporting tournament, everything needs to be at the top of its game – players, coaches, match officials, fans – and technology.

At the 2023 Guinness Six Nations, Catalyst Event

Production Services had just seven minutes to set up the onpitch trophy presentation podium LED backdrop and footer – so turned to Absen, an LED brand they knew they could trust

Dublin, Ireland

to perform.

The 2023 Guinness Six Nations Championship saw Ireland take the ‘Grand Slam’ champions title once again. Absen,

Images: Absen, Getty Images

one of the world’s leading LED display brands, brought 8.3 million viewers onto the side-line to watch the Championship Trophy Presentation at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin, Ireland.

Spanning six weeks, the 2023 Six Nations Championship was the 24th annual international men’s rugby union competition, contested by England, France, Ireland, Italy, Scotland and Wales. UK-based events production company, Catalyst Event Production Services was enlisted to deliver outstanding results for the trophy presentation ceremony, working alongside its client, live events agency, EVENT360

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who specialise in the design and delivery of global sport

needed a familiar product, but one that was reliable, easy

events.

and fast to assemble, ensuring the presentation stage was

The deciding games, played on the same day, meant that

set within the allotted time. Because of this, the Absen PL

Catalyst’s teams needed to be on site at both Stade de France,

3.9 PRO outdoor screen was specified. Catalyst was an early

Paris and Aviva Stadium, Dublin, ready to install the trophy

adopter of this unique product, purchasing the first batch

presentation screens at the winning game’s stadium – and it

in 2018. Catalyst is now the main UK rental house stocking

could have been at either venue. Once the final whistle had

PL3.9 Pro with over 75sqm.

blown, there was just a brief window of seven minutes for

A total of 28 LED panels were pre-assembled in three

the crew to assemble the screens - and it was at the Aviva

separate sections, attached and carried onto the pitch on a

Stadium, where Ireland won 29 – 16 to England.

bespoke frame, 7.5 metres wide. The client’s design included

Due to the time constraints, the screen installation needed

a 7degree curve in the front footer, another function of this

to be quick and simple, allowing the team to assemble

product.

efficiently and in time for over 51,700 stadium spectators

The Absen PL3.9 Pro was one of the first of Absen’s PL series.

and over 8 million broadcast viewers to watch the trophy

This series has developed into a diverse product range with

presentation.

both indoor and outdoor products, with a thin, lightweight

The ceremony set up consisted of a large curved front

chassis design. Available in multiple pixel pitches ranging

footer LED, as well as LED banners left and right behind the

from 1.9mm to 4.8mm, it supports a range of applications

winning team, to clearly display the Guinness Six Nations

including HDR (High Dynamic Range) display, capable of

branding and name of the winning team.

producing more realistic and colourful high-resolution

Under these intense conditions, the Catalyst team not only

images with a grayscale up to 16bit. The award-winning

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VIDEO

PL series is a high-performance, broadcast grade, high-

The video content for the panels was supplied directly by the

definition display, with high-grade electronics and advanced

client, boldly displaying the Guinness Six Nations branding,

mechanical design, recommended for all live events.

winning team’s showreels and the winning team ‘stings’.

“Our teams were really up against the clock, faced with the

With the install and display working seamlessly, the trophy

challenge of needing to provide a high-quality and reliable

presentation ceremony was a resounding success.

product in one of two locations. The short installation time

“The Absen PL3.9 screens are perfectly designed for live

made a fairly standard installation massively challenging.

events, particularly within a large stadium environment.

Needing a durable, decent pitch and curved LED product,

The excellent pixel pitch, simple installation and product

there was nothing else on the market that quite fits the

flexibility means customers can rely on Absen to deliver

bill like the Absen PL3.9. So much so, Catalyst now has the

outstanding results time and time again.” explained Jessica

largest outdoor stock of this product, totally at over 280

Golding, European Brand and Marketing Director at Absen.

panels.” commented Ronnie MacLennan, Catalyst Event Production Services Managing Director.

MANUFACTURER: Absen | EVENT PRODUCTION: Catalyst Event Production Services | LIVE EVENTS AGENCY: EVENT360

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POWERED BY ABSEN LED EXPERTS IN GLOBAL SPORTS APPLICATION

Singapore Smash 2023 (World Table Tennis)

DOTA2 International 2022 Finals (Esports)

Vivint Arena (Utah Jazz Sports Stadium)

VIDEO

OGE ENERGY FIELD - USA SOFTBALL HALL OF FAME STADIUM Oklahoma, USA Images: Daktronics

T 046

he USA Softball Hall of Fame Stadium turned to

“Welcoming various events each year while bringing 300+

Daktronics to design, manufacture and install

teams to the USA Softball Hall of Fame Complex annually,

a new main outfield video display and two

these three new boards are going to bring an upgraded

ribbon displays at the venue in Oklahoma City,

experience for fans, athletes, coaches and umpires to enjoy,”

Oklahoma. The installation was completed this spring as the

said Managing Director of Operations, Jake Magness. “With

displays are shining bright for the 2023 season.

the new Daktronics boards, we will be able to continue

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focusing on growing the game in a positive way and showcasing the

on this video display and ribbon board project to ensure fans have a

athletes while doing so. Both the new ribbon boards and the outfield

fully immersive experience at every game.”

videoboard will allow us to showcase the technology improvements

The video display is capable of variable content zoning allowing it

of the game, our athletes and their statistics as well as highlight our

to show one large image or multiple zones of content. This could be

partners with the many different varieties that the board allows.

any combination of live video, instant replays, up-to-the-minute

“When coming to the Softball Capital of the World®, you will be

statistics and game information, graphics and animations, and

able to catch a glimpse of the new boards no matter where your

sponsorship messages.

seats are at! We are honored and thankful for the individuals who

The ribbon displays can show supplemental game information and

made it possible for this to happen here at the USA Softball Hall of

supporting graphics while also allowing the opportunity to highlight

Fame Complex.”

sponsors throughout events.

The main video display in left field measures approximately 26.5

The venue will also receive a content package that will be produced

feet high by 36 feet wide while each of the two ribbon displays

and delivered by Daktronics Creative Services, an award-winning

mounted to the seating fascia measure roughly 3.5 feet high by 100

in-house creative team.

feet wide. All three displays feature 10-millimeter pixel spacing to

Daktronics has grown with the sports industry from the company’s

deliver excellent image clarity and contrast to images and graphics

beginnings in 1968. Today, the company has LED video display

shown at events.

installations at hundreds of colleges and universities across the

“For the largest stage of collegiate softball, the technology we’ve

United States.

installed will bring all of the video and excitement fans expect to see on game day and then some,” said Perry Grave, Daktronics Sales Representative. “We’re honored to work with such a great venue

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M Y KO N O S , G R E E C E | 7- 1 0 M AY 2 0 2 4

www.stadiasessions.com

BROADCAST

VIÐ DJÚPUMÝRAR Klaksvik, Faroe Islands Images: Riedel

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world-first delivery of live UEFA Champions League football coverage took place this month in the Faroe Islands - thanks to a unique broadcast via internet from space.

Fans of the beautiful game across the world were able to tune into live coverage of the Champions League qualifier from the remote North Atlantic islands between local side KÍ Klaksvík and Hungarian giants Ferencvaros, thanks to an extraordinary match broadcast by low-Earth-orbit (LEO) connectivity from satellite internet provider, OneWeb. The game was hosted at the Við Djúpumýrar stadium in Klaksvík, the second largest town on the Faroe Islands. This remote location has traditionally made connectivity requirements for sports

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BROADCAST

broadcasting challenging, but for this match-day coverage,

also government and enterprise requirements too. To bring

OneWeb worked with delivery partner Network Innovations,

coverage and connectivity to remote locations like this is the

as well as Open Broadcast Systems to stream the match live

future and we look forward to supporting more games like

via its LEO constellation, allowing for real-time viewing so

this for UEFA.”

fans didn’t miss a moment.

Douglas Yeaman, Technical Sales Manager, at Network

Despite finishing 0-0, supporters from across the world were

Innovations added: “It was a pleasure to facilitate the

able to watch the action as it happened across multiple TV

live stream of this game, and we look forward to future

and streaming platforms, including local TV station TV2 and

opportunities in helping broadcasters, among other

global video-on-demand channel, Paramount+.

users, overcome the challenges of remote, unforgiving

OneWeb connected its High North satellites to its recently

environments. As OneWeb’s trusted partner in delivering

launched flat panel user terminal, the Kymeta Hawk u8,

high-speed, low-latency connectivity, Network Innovations

which can be easily mounted on a building or vehicle to

is thrilled to see this solution operate as an alternative to

deliver high throughput and low latency communications,

conventional satellite vehicles. It’s an exciting milestone not

with download speeds of 75mbps and consistent stream speed

just in the world of satellite, but the world of sports.”

of 10mbps using a 15mbps upload.

OneWeb now has over 600 satellites in LEO, providing

Positioned on top of one of the Við Djúpumýrar stadium

coverage across North America and Europe. And in June

stands, the terminal was a simple plug-and-play solution,

2021, OneWeb also announced it had achieved its ‘Five to 50’

providing a suitable alternative to traditional satellite vehicles

mission designed to deliver next-generation space-based

- of which the Faroe Islands have none - and mitigating the

connectivity to Alaska, Canada, the United Kingdom, Northern

limitations of backpack-style broadcast solutions, for high

Europe, Greenland and the wider Arctic region.

quality sports transmissions. The Kymeta terminal works

Customers connect to OneWeb’s LEO constellation using a

seamlessly alongside the OneWeb LEO satellites to deliver a

family of user terminals which ensure fixed, on the pause and

reliable stream at comparable bitrates.

on-the-move communications, even at high speeds.

Charlie Clark, Director of Government at OneWeb, said:

By the end of 2023, OneWeb will provide customers with

“This successful broadcast in a remote location like the

Communications On The Move and the ability to integrate

Faroe Islands paves the way forward for low-Earth-orbit

Digital Age technologies into its network, including Cloud

connectivity and opens up more of the world to global

computing and the Internet of Things, making remote

communications, for not only entertainment and sport but

production and enhanced broadcasting ever more accessible.

COMPANIES: OneWeb, Network Innovations, Open Broadcast Systems

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3/30/2022 4:21:38 PM

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IN DETAIL 056 Kappture | K2 060 Clear-Com | IBC Preview

FULL TIME 064 George R Vaughan, The Digital Line

KAPPTURE The Ultimate Choice for Unbeatable Security and Versatility: Introducing Kappture’s Revolutionary K2 Product n today’s fast-paced and technologically-advanced world, security and versatility are two paramount factors that businesses seek when investing in Point-of-Sale (POS) devices. Addressing these essential needs headon, Kappture proudly unveils its groundbreaking K2 product, setting a new standard in the market with unrivalled security, innovative modular design, and multiple stand options to suit every operational environment.

I

Unrivalled Security for Complete Peace of Mind When it comes to security, the Kappture K2 stands head and shoulders above the competition. Employing Kappture’s proprietary hardened operating system across all devices, this cutting-edge solution offers unparalleled protection against potential threats. By completely locking down the devices with no external communication, the attack surface is vastly reduced, ensuring sensitive data and customer information are shielded from malicious attackers.

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With the Kappture K2, businesses have the freedom to choose from numerous screen sizes (11”, 15”, and 21”), catering to diverse requirements and operational setups. Whether it’s a compact kiosk or a spacious self-checkout station, the K2’s flexible screen options provide an ideal fit for every business scenario.

Interchangeable Compute Modules; Cost-Effective and FutureReady One of the standout features of the K2 is the ability to interchange compute modules, resulting in significant cost savings for businesses.

Unlike traditional devices where compute modules are integrated into the screen, the K2’s modular design allows for easy replacement of damaged screens without the need to swap out the entire unit. This forward-thinking approach not only saves money but also ensures businesses stay future-ready with seamless technology upgrades.

Flexible Peripherals for Seamless Integration To further enhance its versatility, the K2 boasts an array of flexible

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peripherals, including NFC, Scanner, MSR (Magnetic Stripe Reader), and Biometric options. This wide range of peripherals allows businesses to tailor the K2 to their specific needs, enabling efficient and smooth operations with enhanced customer experiences.

A Multifunctional Platform for All Your Business Needs The K2 truly shines as a single multifunctional platform, offering various usage options that cater to the unique demands of different businesses. From traditional POS and KMS (Kitchen Management System) functions to customer status screens, kiosks, and self-checkout solutions, the K2 does it all with a single panel. This streamlined approach simplifies business operations, reducing clutter and maximising efficiency.

Multiple Stand Types for Any Setting Recognising that each business has its own spatial requirements, Kappture provides multiple stand types to accommodate diverse operational environments. The flat folding dual hinge stand proves invaluable in limited spaces, as it condenses down flat behind bars, freeing up precious room. On the other hand, the single hinge 058

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stand excels in cable management, ensuring a clean and organized countertop or back area.

Eco-Friendly Low Power Consumption In today’s climate-conscious world, reducing power consumption is a priority. Kappture’s K2 addresses this concern admirably with its low power consumption design. By minimizing energy usage without compromising performance, the K2 contributes to a greener future while lowering operational costs for businesses.

In conclusion, the Kappture K2 sets a new industry benchmark with its unbeatable security, unmatched versatility, and eco-friendly attributes.

By combining superior security features, a modular and adaptable design, along with various stand options, the K2 empowers businesses to thrive in an ever-changing landscape. As businesses navigate the evolving technological landscape, the Kappture K2 stands as the ultimate choice for a secure, future-proof, and all-encompassing hospitality technology solution.

www.kappture.co.uk

H O S P I T A L I T Y

T E C H N O L O G Y

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CLEAR-COM IP-based and remote production intercom solutions, a well as new feature announcements for the Arcadia Central Station at IBC2023. t IBC this year, Clear-Com® will showcase the latest advances in IP-based intercom for a wide variety of applications at stand 10.D29, hall 10. They will highlight innovative features of their flagship Eclipse® HX Digital Matrix Intercom System, including Dynam-EC™ real-time production software, industry-leading role-based workflows, and the new 2X10 Touch™ desktop touchscreen panel. The award-winning IP-based Arcadia® Central Station will be available for demonstration, including the HXII-DPL Powerline device, an IP interface that delivers power and digital audio from Arcadia to HelixNet® Digital Network systems, as well as highly anticipated new features to be revealed at the show.

Today’s broadcast applications require an unprecedented level of efficiency and flexibility, with solutions for remote production, on-rem, and virtual production workflows. At IBC, Clear-Com will demonstrate a broad range of solutions to meet these needs. Dynam-EC is a powerful and intuitive software tool that allows operators to quickly switch all audio input and outputs, audio mapping, IFBs and partylines at the touch of a button. New features introduced in EHX 13.1, including the implementation of role-based workflows and support for NMOS 4 and 5, facilitate many of the needs of broadcast applications for large-scale events such as the World Cup or other global sporting events.

A popular choice for flypacks and OB vans, Arcadia Central Station brings together HelixNet®, FreeSpeak®, Clear-Com Encore®, other 2W/4W endpoints, and third-party Dante devices in a single, integrated system. Arcadia offers licensed-based scalability that allows it to meet numerous production needs, with support for over 100 beltpacks and up to 128 IP ports, with additional upgrades available in the future.

The new HXII-DPL Powerline Device connects to any existing Arcadia

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system via its own network port to provide Powerline connectivity via 3-pin XLR anywhere on the network, opening a world of digital audio connectivity to HelixNet users.

“We continue to see an accelerated adoption of hybrid and remote workflows as well as advancements in IP infrastructure,” said Chris Willis, Senior Vice President of Worldwide Sales at Clear-Com. “We look forward to connecting with the broadcast industry in the region, to share our solutions and learn more from those who are implementing these new ways of working and communicating.”

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GEORGE R VAUGHAN CEO, THE DIGITAL LINE Is Voice the New Player In Hospitality?

aving worked in the venue and hospitality industry for over two decades, we talked to George R Vaughan, current CEO of technology consultancy, The Digital Line, about his views on the opportunities afforded by true A.I. driven tech and how in many ways, voice platforms offer a credible solution in a world of rising costs and staff shortages.

H

The world after Covid It is an unquestionable fact that the pandemic had a very disruptive effect on the global economy and no industry was arguably impacted more than the hospitality sector. Even now, two years since the last lockdown, many venues and stadiums remain in recovery mode, with a lack of staff still top on their list of concerns.

Conversely, not a week goes by without some new stadium announcement making headlines in the industry press, with the promise of the latest and greatest to lure fans to another live spectacle. But how different can each new venue be in what it delivers and how do you turn customers into fans?

Furthermore, what needs to be implemented to 064

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ensure those fans will then regularly choose a season ticket over a Sky “sofa subscription”. I’ve said it many times before, customers and fans are very different beasts and converting one into the other is no easy task. Many might argue we are creatures of habit but those habits can still be tweaked and just a small shift can result in significant change.

It might sound like an obvious thing to say but selling an experience requires an honest interpretation of what the concept of an experience is to start with. It needs to be something special. Something different. Something unique. As the industry knows, competition is no longer limited to other stadiums or venues. In less than a decade, streaming has permanently altered the way we consume popular forms of entertainment such as movies, music and gaming, while travel, eating out and even hotels have been re-invented by the likes of Uber, Deliveroo and Airbnb.

I often site the banking sector as a good example for how things have changed. Since the invention of currency, payment for goods and services has had a clear identity but in the last two decades we have arguably seen the greatest number of successive

developments, with the evolution from cash-to-cardto-contactless and now mobile. Throughout this rapid transformation things “moved without moving” but have dramatically shifted the landscape.

New generations generate new ideas The hospitality industry cannot afford to be complacent. Whilst audiences have returned, there is an increasing suggestion that some Millennials and a large percentage of Gen Z are not as enthusiastic about live sporting events as the generations that preceded them.

One recent 2023 survey in the US claimed that nearly seven in ten 18–26-year-old sports fans (68%) consume most of their sporting content through social media, whilst 21% would rather check the highlights of a sporting event to keep up to date, instead of watching a full match.

Another survey from Morning Consult claimed that Gen Z consumers in the U.S. are watching less live sports and a third don’t watch any live sports at all.

Fandoms also appear to be impacted with 38% of Gen Z apparently exacerbated by the multitude of other accessible entertainment options alongside the

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fragmented nature of sports media rights, accessibility to games and ticket affordability.

If anything, today’s consumer has too much choice and when faced with such an abundance of options, tends to not only be more selective, but also look to diversify the experiences they commit to. This leaves event organisers having to be more creative than ever and I don’t believe this trend is restricted to Gen Z. As a Gen Xer myself, I’ve seen my habits shift in the last few years. It takes a very special movie to get me into the cinema these days when I know I can watch most recent releases on one of numerous streaming platforms from the comfort of my living room and even as a diehard football fan, my calendar is not forgiving enough to allow me the luxury of writing off one day a week to see my favourite team play live.

And don’t get me started on the hurdles of travelling, crowds, anti-social behaviour and ticket prices.

One of the problems seems to be that the link between home and venue isn’t being exploited to its full potential, although I do believe there are platforms on the market that can address this gap.

Equally, if the staff aren’t there to help with operations, technology can provide a credible solution whilst

still delivering a premium experience and keeping customers engaged.

Disparate systems continue to litter the technology landscape and though many suppliers claim to have cracked the problem, challenges persist. A.I. remains the buzz term of the moment but many existing solutions made for the hospitality environment are built on legacy platforms that are still learning to accommodate this new technology in a meaningful way. This is not dissimilar to the transformation that has happened in banking, with the new kids on the block like Starling, Revolut and Monzo disrupting the sector with applications that were built from the ground up to be truly digital, leaving traditional high street establishments to play “catch up” as they modify their existing systems.

Speak and you will find Love them or hate them, Amazon appear to be primed (excuse the pun) to help venues achieve something different. The innovative work they have been doing with their Just Walk Out technology (if you haven’t tried it yet, I’d recommend paying a visit to one of their stores) has the potential to

revolutionise the shopping experience in stadiums and venues, whilst I believe their Alexa platform deserves serious consideration for hospitality, particularly when it comes to service and staffing challenges. Having initiated the launch of voice hospitality using the audico system at Ascot Racecourse during my time there as Head of Technology, it soon became apparent that this platform had plenty more to offer if people were prepared explore it further.

I’ve already seen the benefits of voice technology working in the health sector, particularly with those in senior living and the overall trend is only going one way. According to consumer research from Ampere Analysis, 52% of internet households now own a voice assistant in the UK while Statista’s latest research indicates that globally, there will be 8.4 billion voiceoperated devices in use by 2024. Speaking is one of the most natural things we do. audico was built from the ground up as a true A.I. platform, quickly grabbing the attention of global acquirer Elavon, with whom they now share a defined partnership, allowing the system to incorporate full, PCI compliant payments. Its latest incarnation will WWW.MONDOSTADIA.COM

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see audico provide a fully functioning voice/touch POS via Alexa display devices through to KMS and stock systems in collaboration with Kappture POS and even offer NFC throughput to Apple/Google wallet with pass partner, ProntoCX. It has the potential to turn the premium hospitality space on its head by bridging the gap between at home and in-stadium experience – providing rich data without the need for an app.

Voice keeps it simple however, even in a busy, noisy environment where speaking might not be a practical option, audico’s touch capabilities mean that whatever you can ask for you can also “tap” for, thanks to Alexa’s intuitive touch screen displays. And this is where building something from the ground up really starts to show its advantages. The platform started with voice and then integrated all the other more common components in afterwards. It was a case of building the intelligence first rather than trying to layer it on later.

Using this approach means what you have now is a single system that can incorporate full voice or touch functionality and offers outof-the-box concierge, payments, facilities management, POS/KMS integration, merchandise, room controls, NFC & loyalty integrations, ticketing deployment as well as a connected @home service all for a single, per device licence fee that’s less than the price of a monthly coffee subscription. Hosted by AWS you are also assured the kind of security and robust platform that provides peace-of-mind even during the busiest periods.

It’s good to listen Society went through a fundamental switch. Customer’s expectations changed. Whilst most people will agree that there is nothing quite like the live experience, two years of being away from 066

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the spectacle of in-person events did shift people’s collective mind set and many of the answers we are now looking for could come from the audience of tomorrow.

For some years now I have worked closely with the University of Surrey, recognised world-wide as a leading centre for tourism and hospitality and their students, who are some of the best representatives of Gen Z, continue to amaze me with their insight, vision and capacity to embrace a challenge. In my experience, when trying to understand this group too many businesses still spend time talking about them rather than to them.

This emerging generation also possesses one character component that I see missing in a lot of industries today. Courage. More than money, vision, staff or application, the greatest hurdle I regularly encounter is fear. It’s easy to say no, to keep the status quo. It’s much harder to say yes and back a brave decision.

There’s no denying that for some, moving to a voice application might seem like a step outside their comfort zone but it certainly shouldn’t be viewed as alien. People are already using voice regularly at home as well as in other industries. Successful tech is often tech that feels familiar. Giving people a solution in one environment that they already use in their everyday lives keeps it simple but also smart and that can’t be anything if not a good thing.

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06.10.2022 13:26:10