MONDO | STADIA #43 - Aug/Sep 25

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WRESTLEMANIA VEGAS

Green Hippo’s Hippotizer MX Series M edia S ervers were out in force for this year’s event at Allegiant Stadium.

DCU CENTER

EAW supply a new, state-of-the-art audio system for the 14,000-capacity multipurpose venue.

MURPHY CENTER

MTSU’s home of its basketball and track teams gets an impressive Martin Audio WPS line array system.

2025 AT&T WNBA ALL-STAR GAME Dodd Technologies utilise Ayrton, MA Lighting and, MDG technology for the AllStar Weekend events.

WELCOME

We’re delighted to feature The Riverside & Fulham Pier at Craven Cottage as our cover story for this issue. It has redefined what a stadium stand can be used for, allowing spectators to combine sport with the most luxurious, premium experiences in football. Away from match days, it’s now a truly world-leading destination on the banks of the Thames.

We take an in-depth look at the exceptional work of Populous and Stuart Forbes Associates on the game-changing project. Read all about it on page 12.

From London, we head to the dazzling lights of Las Vegas to cover the sheer spectacle of WrestleMania at Allegiant Stadium. We focus on Green Hippo’s Hippotizer MX Series Media Servers, which delivered incredible visuals for one of the biggest events in global entertainment.

Our journey through the latest venue technology continues with features on EAW’s adaptable new audio system at the DCU Center, as well as Martin Audio’s powerful installation at the Murphy Center at Middle Tennessee State University. There is plenty more inside, too.

As we head into a busy autumn period, there’s a huge amount to look forward to in the industry, and we can’t wait to catch up with everybody at the various tradeshows and conferences in the coming months.

We hope you enjoy ISSUE 43.

From Venue to Destination

award-winning

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 Embracing Technology for Safer Venues: How Digital Signage Supports Martyn’s Law | Tim Hoddy, Uniguesz THE FULL PITCH 012 The Riverside & Fulham Pier | Fulham, London

062 Automated Arenas: How Tax and Tech Are Squeezing the Stadium Workforce | George Vaughan, The Digital Line

By Buxton Press
Cover Image: John Lamb

EMBRACING TECHNOLOGY FOR SAFER VENUES: HOW DIGITAL SIGNAGE SUPPORTS MARTYN’S LAW

artyn’s Law – formally known as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill – is set to come into effect in 2026, introducing a legal duty for venue operators to improve public safety through preparedness and protective security measures. Named in memory of Martyn Hett, who tragically lost his life in the 2017 Manchester Arena attack, the legislation brings new obligations for venues to assess risk, plan for emergencies, train staff and communicate effectively during critical situations.

At Uniguest, we’re exploring how our portfolio of integrated visual engagement technologies – from digital signage and IPTV to enterprise video and room booking – can support venue operators in addressing these evolving responsibilities in a practical, scalable and effective way.

Real-Time Messaging and Dynamic Crowd Control

In a crisis, timing and clarity are everything. Uniguest’s digital signage and IPTV platforms allow venue teams to instantly override

regular content with emergency messages and dynamic evacuation instructions. Whether it’s directing crowds to the safest exits or triggering location-specific content from a connected alarm or building management system, the goal is to deliver clear, timely information where it matters most. Through integration with third-party systems – including fire alarms, access controls and crowd sensors – signage can adapt dynamically based on real-time data. This might mean displaying alternative routes if one becomes congested, issuing targeted alerts in certain zones or showing evacuation guidance in multiple languages via automated subtitle translations.

Preparing Staff with Bite-Sized, Auditable Training

One of the core requirements of Martyn’s Law is to train staff on how to respond in the event of an incident. Yet in venues that rely on part-time, casual or transient workforces – such as stadiums, theatres or festivals –delivering consistent, trackable training can be challenging.

That’s where Uniguest’s eStream platform comes in. Venue operators can deliver essential training in the form of short video modules that staff can access remotely on any device. Embedded quizzes, feedback forms and audit trails ensure engagement is measurable and compliant. This not only supports preparedness but builds confidence across the wider team – even those who might only work one shift a week.

Raising Awareness Without Inducing Panic

Martyn’s Law also encourages venues to promote vigilance among staff and the public, without causing unnecessary alarm. Through digital signage, venues can run discreet, lowkey messaging campaigns – for example: “If you see something suspicious, please speak to a steward,” or “Be alert. Report concerns.” In more advanced configurations, screens can even act as part of a covert alert system, using predefined visual codes to communicate sensitive messages to staff during potential threats – such as switching to a particular image or video file that quietly signals a lockdown protocol.

Integration, Interoperability and Resilience

As venues increase their reliance on digital tools, integration and reliability become critical. Uniguest systems are designed to work in tandem with wider security infrastructure, offering flexible API connectivity to fire panels, cameras, access control, building management and more.

We also build in failover and redundancy options – so content delivery continues even if part of the network goes down. This ensures that emergency messages can still be triggered and displayed without delay – maintaining compliance and public safety when it matters most.

Supporting Compliance and Audit Trails

Venue operators will need to demonstrate

compliance with Martyn’s Law. With Uniguest, every message, update and training session can be tracked – creating a digital paper trail of preparedness. From signage usage reports and alert delivery logs to e-learning completion records, our platform helps you back up your commitment with real evidence.

A Consultative Partner, Not Just a Vendor Martyn’s Law is still evolving – and so are the needs of the venues affected by it. As a vendor deeply embedded in the venue, stadium and public event sectors, we understand the importance of working collaboratively, not prescriptively.

We’re not here to offer a one-size-fitsall solution – but rather to help operators tailor digital engagement tools that enhance

their emergency readiness strategies in line with proportionate risk assessments and operational realities.

Ready to Learn More?

If you’re a head of operations, facilities or security exploring how your venue can prepare for Martyn’s Law, we’d be happy to talk. Our team can walk you through how integrated signage, IPTV and enterprise video solutions can complement your wider preparedness plan, helping you meet both the spirit and letter of the new legislation.

012 Fulham Pier at The Riverside | Fulham, London

THE RIVERSIDE & FULHAM PIER

Fulham, England

Images: Populous, Stuart Forbes Associates, Alexander James, Andrew Lunn

In a city renowned for its historic landmarks and vibrant culture, a new icon is emerging on the banks of the River Thames. Fulham Pier, the revolutionary redevelopment of Fulham Football Club’s Riverside Stand, is more than just an expansion of a historic football ground. It is a bold statement about the future of sporting venues, a testament to visionary design, and a groundbreaking example of how architecture and interior design can converge to create a truly unique, year-round destination. This ambitious project, masterfully executed by the architectural prowess of Populous and the refined interior design of Stuart Forbes Associates, sets a new global benchmark for stadium transformations, seamlessly blending the passion of football with the elegance of highend hospitality and the vibrancy of a community hub.

Few grounds in English football evoke a sense of place quite like Craven Cottage. Tucked away on the banks of the River Thames, its history is woven into the very fabric of its surroundings. The development of the new Riverside Stand, therefore, was never going to be an ordinary construction project; it was a once-in-a-generation opportunity to create a world-class sporting venue that was also a vibrant, year-

round public destination.

The architectural vision for this transformative project was led by the global firm, Populous. The sheer scope of the ambitious, multifaceted project was established from the very first meeting, as Declan Sharkey, Global Director and Senior Principal at Populous, explained: “As the lead architect on the Fulham FC Riverside Stand, our role at Populous encompassed everything from early concept design to detailed development and on-site delivery support. We first met with the owner and CEO of the club back in 2017 and discussed the potential to create a unique destination that could create an incredible experience on both matchday and non-matchday…we even discussed the opportunity for a private members’ club at that point!

“So, the process of working throughout the project with the club, consultants, and our internal teams to ensure that every aspect of the stand - both sporting and non-sportingreflected that vision has been an incredible journey.”

The project’s potential was intrinsically tied to its location.

The overall vision was to harness the power of the Thames to create a destination that blended elite sport with public leisure, transforming the site into a true community landmark.

“From the outset, the club and everyone involved saw the potential to reimagine the site as not just a great place to watch football, but as a year-round destination and an anchor for community life,” said Sharkey. “Integrating restaurants, event spaces, a boutique hotel, health club and riverfront terraces gave us the scope to create a destination that could transform matchday and non-matchday experiences alike, while driving revenue opportunities for the club.”

While there was no doubt about the unique opportunity for the club, due to its location, there were constraints and challenges that had to be addressed. The very river that offered unparalleled views also imposed immense logistical and environmental hurdles, alongside the sensitivities of building in a historic, residential area.

Sharkey added: “The site, in a residential neighbourhood and adjacent to a major river, presented challenges but the iconic location on the Thames makes it an amazing venue. Creating the walkway fronting onto the river, connecting the existing riverside paths either side, was a key part of the project.

“We were working with a confined footprint, environmental restrictions, and heritage sensitivities, all while keeping the stadium operational during construction. It was a balancing

act between progress and preservation.”

The architectural response was one of creative problemsolving and a deep respect for the context of Craven Cottage. Rather than imposing a generic form, the design grew organically, as Sharkey explained further: “The design was inspired by Fulham’s deeply-rooted heritage, the picturesque setting, architectural typology of boathouses, and the ambition to create something quietly iconic. We wanted to blend tradition with contemporary elegance; something that didn’t scream for attention but grew naturally from the riverside context. The flowing roofline was shaped by the surrounding landscape, the curve of the river, and the hulls of traditional barges, while the façade draws cues from classic British architecture and contemporary craft.”

This sensitivity was born from a profound sense of responsibility. Intervening in one of English football’s most beloved and characterful grounds meant the new structure had to feel like a seamless, natural evolution.

“Materials, proportions, and even the rhythm of the façade were carefully considered to ensure the Riverside Stand enhanced the historic setting without overpowering it.

Blending modern sophistication with Fulham’s character was non-negotiable,” Sharkey added. “Often, a stadium

redevelopment can start with a single iconic stand that then rejuvenates the stadium and the club – we are working on similar single stand projects at Wrexham and Racing Strasbourg.”

To manage the complex blend of uses - from the roar of a matchday, to the calm of a weekday morning - Populous conceived of the stand not as one building, but as a multilayered system. This central concept unlocked the stand’s dual identity and intrinsic flexibility.

“We thought of the Riverside Stand not as a single-purpose structure, but as a vertical village. Matchday functions - seating, concourses, media facilities - are seamlessly integrated with hospitality lounges, cafes, event venues, and public spaces,” Sharkey explained. Flexibility was key: spaces had to shift between game-day intensity and calm, daily use. Architectural detailing, access planning, and services all had to accommodate that dual identity.”

Ultimately, a stadium stand must excel at its primary function. Beyond the innovative public amenities, every

design decision was anchored in the goal of creating an unparalleled and inclusive experience for all supporters.

“The fan experience was at the heart of our design thinking. We worked extensively with Fulham to understand their supporters’ expectations and aspirations. The seating tiers were manipulated to ensure the stand created the best possible atmosphere for football. Sightlines were meticulously modelled to ensure every seat had a fantastic view,” said Sharkey.

Through this blend of ambitious vision, sensitive design, and technical ingenuity, Populous has delivered more than a stand. The Riverside Stand is a new chapter for Fulham FC and a gift to the local area, too - a vibrant, multi-layered destination that proves a stadium can be as dynamic on a Tuesday morning as it is on a Saturday afternoon.

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Fulham Pier at The Riverside is more than a stadium stand; it’s a 365-day-a-year destination, meticulously designed to blend the electric atmosphere of a match day with the refined luxury of a premium riverside venue. For Stuart Forbes Associates (SFA), who served as the lead designer on the interiors, the project was a masterclass in collaboration, aesthetic vision, and the seamless integration of technology. The project’s journey from concept to reality was a complex, evolving process, as Stuart Forbes, Owner at SFA, explained: “The project’s initial scope was quite different. The competition, devised by Legends, divided the project into 10 ‘lots’. The designated use for each level was still in flux, so the spaces had different titles than they do now”.

A key factor in the Fulham Pier project is the strategic focus on the non-matchday experience. The new stand is home to a whole array of premium amenities. These include a boutique hotel, a state-of-the-art spa, a member’s club with a rooftop bar, high-end restaurants, meeting spaces, and an entertainment zone, ultimately creating a visitor experience that is absolutely unique in terms of what a football club can offer.

SFA was appointed to the lead design role, a decision Stuart believes was based on their experience: “The club appointed us to the lead design role, primarily because our commercial background was a good fit for overseeing the team and coordinating all the consultants.”

SFA’s role was pivotal, leading the design and delivery to ensure a cohesive vision across the nearly 10,000 sq. metre fit-out. This involved coordinating a collective of international talent, including Lázaro Rosa-Violán for the restaurants and Dion et Arles for the members’ club.

Stuart added: “Our role was to develop an operational blueprint for these new firms - a layout that we knew would work with the club’s match-day and non-match-day operations. From there, LRV and Dion et Arles developed the conceptual look and feel and the material palettes for their respective areas.”

The Riverside is a level-by-level journey that shapes this landmark destination on the Thames.

A Flexible,

High-Tech Basement Space

Beneath the main concourse lies a space with a remarkable dual identity – The Orange Box. On a match day, it’s a vibrant sports bar for nearly 500 fans, though it can transform into an intimate, 245-seat theatre. The name is a nod to Craven Cottage’s first stand, built in 1896, grounding the high-tech venue in the club’s rich history.

Tom Penny, Associate Director at SFA, went into more detail: “The basement is one of the most interesting areas in terms of its use of technology. For a space that seats around 500 people, we have the production capability you might expect in a concert hall ten times the size.”

Designed in collaboration with Theatre Projects , the space leans into a raw, subterranean aesthetic, with a restrained palette of microcement, solid European oak, and blackened timber.

These materials form a neutral canvas that allows each event to shape the atmosphere and character of the space. Black acoustic panelling, integrated throughout, not only enhances acoustics but creates visual consistency across seating areas and bar fronts.

The AV system is designed in a way that allows an event production to take complete control of the space, receiving local input sources from the venue hirer to run their own bespoke production.

“The centrepiece is a massive 10.8-metre wide screen,” said Tom. “And, underneath that, there’s a motorised stage that retracts and extends with the push of a button.”

Additional features include a curtain system that can divide the space to form a central stage or intimate lounge zones, while ceiling rafts serve both aesthetic and practical roles, concealing building services without compromising design.

A dedicated Green Room connects directly to the pitch – an exclusive touch that offers private access for speakers and performers.

The fit-out includes retractable seating, a fully addressable DMX lighting system, and a suite of lobby displays, allowing for everything from live music and cabaret, through to cinema screenings and gala dinners.

Mastering the “Main Street” Concourse

The new Riverside Concourse extends over the River Thames on cantilevered decking, featuring suspended reed beds that enhance the riverbank’s ecology. Critically, on nonmatch days, this project restores the uninterrupted Riverside Walk between Putney and Hammersmith bridges - a public path that has been closed for over a century. By seamlessly blending public and private land - thanks to a strategic collaboration between the club and statutory authoritiesthis once-gated area has been transformed into a vibrant, accessible, and welcoming destination for all.

The main concourse presented a unique geographical and philosophical challenge. Stuart noted: “The fundamental challenge with the ground floor concourse is its geography. It’s a very long, thin site, hemmed in by the river on one side and the back of the stadium seating on the other.” This constraint was the driving force behind the entire design philosophy for the space. “As soon as you create a queue that runs perpendicular to the main walkway, you create a major blockage,” Stuart added. “So, a huge part of our work was focused on people and queue management.”

SFA’s solution was to create a central boulevard. Stuart said: “Aesthetically, the idea was to create the feeling of a ‘main street’ or a central boulevard with different offerings along its length.”

The technological challenge was balancing the screen-heavy needs of a match day with the desire for a premium, techfree atmosphere at during the week.

“Our solution was to hide the technology in plain sight,” Tom revealed. At the bars and food concessions, static, backlit signs can be physically removed on match days to reveal digital menu screens hidden behind them.

Tom added: “It was a fundamental design decision. We wanted to avoid the feeling of being in a fast-food restaurant where you’re always reading off a digital menu.”

The concourse’s standout feature is a vast, curved screen that serves as a dynamic art installation and large, central activation zone that completely reshapes the building’s core into a vibrant hub.

“It’s an incredibly versatile area,” said Tom. “A DJ played a set to 2,000 people in there a few weeks ago, and the energy was incredible. We unlocked the potential of that space by improving the flow around it.”

While the final look and feel of the central core are influenced by several level-specific design variables, the feature stairdeveloped from the Populous geometry - remains a central architectural element. A key design detail includes ribbed timber lining panels that visually align the balustrades, spandrels, and the decorative timber screen at ground floor level. This creates a cohesive visual connection between the

lobby and the adjoining concourse.

This concourse area is now considered a seamless extension of the lobby and functions as the primary space for welcoming and transitioning visitors to other parts of the building. It also offers flexible usage: it can act as a pre-event area or crush bar supporting nearby facilities, and can even operate as an exclusive private space, enclosed by large sliding glazed Crittall screens and a theatre curtain for added intimacy, privacy and acoustic attenuation.

Flexible & Formal Dining

The first floor presented what SFA described as a “particularly difficult puzzle to solve,” balancing the complex needs of match-day hospitality with the everyday operations of two independent restaurants.

SFA collaborated with the Fulham FC operations and marketing teams to create a layout that met the project’s complex operational needs. They then partnered with the renowned Barcelona-based design studio, Lazaro Rosa-Violan to develop the unique look and feel of the spaces. The fine dining restaurant, ‘Brasserie Constance’, was conceived to be a source of pride for the local community. Drawing inspiration from the beauty of the River Thames and the legacy of innovator Constance Spry, its philosophy is to pair the traditional with the uncelebrated. This ethos is

reflected in the menu curated by Michelin-starred chef Adam Byatt, where local, seasonal ingredients shine in dishes of understated elegance.

Throughout the project, SFA provided technical oversight, coordinating with multiple stakeholders to develop a comprehensive design package for the fit-out process. They worked closely with LRV to ensure the technical specifications aligned with the evolving design concept.

The material palette is rich and varied, featuring dark oak and walnut flooring, Spanish black and white hexagonal tiles in the washrooms, and bespoke artisanal ceramic tiles for the bar at Brasserie Constance. The space is further defined by custom jesmonite ceiling panels and handmade, artist-stained panels that emulate terracotta in the second restaurant, Water’s Edge.

SFA built in subtle ways to manage the atmosphere across the two restaurants. Stuart explained: “We incorporated large pivoting screens. These can be used to control the size of the dining room on show, so you can section off areas to keep the energy concentrated in one part of the floor.”

In these spaces, providing screens for match-day viewing without compromising the high-end aesthetic was critical.

Tom added: “On match days, these screens can drop down into secret flaps within the joinery, ‘Thunderbirds-style,’ to reveal TVs.” In other areas, planters are removed from a

central banquette to allow screens to pop up from within the unit, disappearing completely when not in use.

“The Thames Bar, which is more of a drinks-focused lounge, has more conventional, integrated screens, while each of the private dining rooms also has a screen and its own AV control panel. This allows guests to play their own music or connect a laptop to display their own content.”

A “Horizontal London House”

As you ascend the building, the integration of technology becomes even more artful, serving a vision for an exclusive, multi-faceted members’ club. “The members’ club on the upper floors is a concept we developed with Jamie Caring and Dion et Arles,” said Stuart. “We envisioned it as a ‘horizontal London house,’ where the experience unfolds as you move through different rooms - from dining areas to work zones and cinema spaces - creating a unique sense of escapism for a football club.”

The unique location was a huge source of inspiration. Stuart added: “We were lucky to have a fantastic backdrop on both sides. You have the most amazing views of the city and the historic Johnny Haynes Stand and The Cottage on the stadium side, and then the River Thames and the Wetland Centre on the other.”

The Level 2 Lounges (Markers I, II & IV) are contemporary, adaptable spaces ideal for a range of functions, from corporate events and product launches, through to weddings and private parties. These premium event spaces combine exquisite food and world-class service with unparalleled river views. On match days, they serve as a premium ticket and

sponsors’ lounge.

The name ‘Markers’ is inspired by the mile markers of the Oxford and Cambridge boat race, which passes directly in front of the stand.

The lounges are highly flexible, with the Putney end of the floor able to be subdivided by high-quality sliding screens into multiple, acoustically independent rooms. The Hammersmith end is a single, large open-plan space for conferences and larger events.

“The most significant design feature, however, is the ceiling, which was inspired by the adjacent river. We wanted to mirror the incredible ripple effect you see on the sandbanks of the Thames when the tide goes out,” said Stuart.

“This was translated into a slatted ceiling design. Into this, we integrated long, black lines that look like tentacles, mimicking an encroaching waterline. All the building services - lighting, sprinklers, speakers - are neatly contained within these black slots, which keeps the ceiling design clean and uncluttered. The main access panels for the HVAC and air conditioning are consolidated in the central section, too.”

To ensure versatility, the bars, serving counters, and pitchside entrances can be completely concealed behind solid oak panels, removing all football references to create a neutral setting for any event.

At the heart of level 2 are two exclusive spaces: the Chairman’s Lounge, which seats 20, and the Directors Lounge, which accommodates 64.

The project involved a two-stage design process. First, SFA worked with the Fulham FC’s Directors to establish the operational brief and layout for the lounges and service

kitchen. This plan then became the design brief for Dion et Arles, who conceptualised the aesthetic, finishes, and furniture.

SFA maintained technical oversight throughout, integrating the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems and coordinating with all stakeholders to develop a comprehensive design package for the fit-out.

The interior is defined by bespoke craftsmanship. The furniture was largely custom designed, with bespoke carpets by Galerie B. Walls are lined with burled elmwood and rosewood veneers in carefully considered panelling, the ceiling features a bamboo veneer grid, and the bars and joinery are finished with Rosso Orobico marble from Italy.

In the Chairman’s Lounge, where a modern screen would be jarring, the team devised an elegant solution. “We acquired a 17th-century French tapestry from a collector and designed a custom polished brass rail for it to slide on,” Tom explained. “On non-match days, the tapestry covers the wall; on match days, it slides to the side to reveal the screen.

Introducing Lighthouse Social Lighthouse Social, located across the top three floors of The Rvierside, is the first private members’ club to open within a Premier League stadium. It is envisioned as an extraordinary destination leading the way in design and sophistication. To create the club, SFA worked with Jamie Caring and his company Sevengage, who acted as the client’s specialist advisor. Together, they developed the conceptual layout, which then became the design brief for Dion et Arles.

The material palette throughout the members’ club is refined and sophisticated, featuring materials sourced from around the world. The flooring is bespoke European Oak and walnut from France. Key surfaces include black granite from Zimbabwe, a Breccia Pontificia marble bar top from Italy, and complementary Nero Marquina marble from Spain. For the washroom vanities, Rosso Levanto marble from Italy was selected. The design is accented with bespoke solid brass trims, while the level four bar showcases dramatic Nacarado Oyster shell and Explosion Blue Quartzite from Brazil. Level 3 includes:

- The Screening Room: A vintage-style cinema featuring thick, luxurious curtains and a lush velvet ceiling. These elements create an intimate atmosphere while also hiding equipment and controlling natural light and sound.

- The Study: A tranquil ‘break out’ space for work or relaxation. It offers a calm atmosphere with soft, tactile materials, muted tones, and functional ‘turning seats’ that provide a comfortable alternative to a conventional office.

- The Conservatory: A unique private dining room with a ‘greenhouse’ theme that embraces the building’s glazed façade and river views. Features like brick flooring, lattice details, and soft pastel colours create a feeling of being outdoors.

- The Library: An intimate and homely dining space styled as a ‘home away from home’. It features wooden floors, wall shelves filled with books and unique objects, and coloured mouldings inspired by David Hicks.

- Lantern - Sharing a design link with the Library through

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its walls and ceilings, the Lantern offers a more vibrant and lively dining atmosphere, distinguished by its dense, mosaicpatterned flooring.

- The Overlook - A classically-inspired room with stunning views through a glazed façade. The space feels bright and open, featuring beautiful hand-painted wallpaper where oversized imagery provides a distinct modern twist. Level 4 includes:

- Bathrooms: Unisex bathrooms are designed to be both functional and social. They create an unexpected feel by contrasting modern open ceilings with more traditional-style sinks.

- The Pantry: A functional utility space, concealed behind wooden shutters, located between the Exotic Room and the Bathrooms.

- The Savannah Room: A vibrant and playful space filled with colour. It features African-inspired themes in its fabrics and patterns to create a unique and lively atmosphere.

-The Common Room: A refined lobby lounge that balances sophistication with a casual feel. Key features include glossy wood wall panels with brass inlays, soft carpets, and an open ceiling, creating an elegant space to enjoy tea and coffee.

- The Bridge Bar & Lounge: A dark and intimate night bar that uses glossy, reflective materials and soft amber lighting to create a moody atmosphere. Velvet details and plush carpets help absorb sound, enhancing the intimate feel.

- The Escape: In contrast to the Night Bar, this is a classic, social lounge. Mirrored walls create a sense of openness, while a quieter, more intimate setting is arranged around a fireplace with hand-crafted wall panels.

- Walham’s: This space is designated for private dining. Technology within the Lighthouse Social members’ club is almost entirely disguised as furniture or art.

“The hidden tech philosophy continues in the Members’ Club. Screens aren’t in every room, but where they do exist, they disappear into joinery or are concealed within voids used for planting and artwork,” explained Tom.

“We developed some very bespoke solutions. On level four, screens are hidden inside large, beautiful cabinets that look like wardrobes. They have mirrored panel doors that fold back into the cabinet to reveal the screen inside.

The Rooftop Experience

The journey culminates on the rooftop, where technology enhances the outdoor experience.

The space features two bars and a central entrance that opens into an inviting mix of lounge arrangements. Furnished with a variety of planting, bespoke furniture, rugs, pergolas, and parasols, the area is perfectly designed for guests to relax and take in the amazing skyline.

Tom said: “The pergolas have integrated speakers and a very cool, advanced system of fully retractable, waterproof

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louvres. The louvres can be tilted, fully closed to protect from rain, or retracted completely to open the space up to the sky.”

Luxury, Boutique Hotel

Connected to the Riverside Stand is the Fulham Pier Hotel, a new luxury boutique offering that brings high-quality hospitality to the historic riverside setting. Designed by SFA, the interiors embody a relaxed, modern elegance. Natural materials, bespoke joinery, and a refined palette create a calm, welcoming atmosphere focused on comfort, craftsmanship, and a strong connection to the location. The hotel features individually designed rooms and suites, all offering views over the Thames, providing a luxurious stay that is firmly rooted in its unique surroundings.

World-Class Wellness Desination

Inspired by its deep connection to the Thames, the Fulham Pier Health Club & Spa offers a memorable journey into luxury and wellness. The design captures the river’s reflective qualities, with flowing spaces that move from vibrant communal areas to intimate private retreats. An aesthetic of timeless elegance is achieved through a rich palette of natural stone, timber, and foliage, accented by soft, layered textures.

Every detail, from the adaptive lighting to the placement of lounges for optimal river views, is carefully considered to create a harmonious and inspiring environment.

Redefining the Modern Sporting Venue

Ultimately, the success of Fulham Pier lies in its unwavering delivery on an exceptionally bold vision, proving that a stadium need not be a monolithic, single-use structure that lies dormant between matches. The result is not merely an upgrade to a historic ground, but a ground-breaking benchmark.

Stuart concluded: “The entire project at Fulham Pier is built around a 365-day operation with a multi-faceted business model, completely redefining how stadiums can be utilised. This has been a strategic way of generating more revenue that can be invested back into the club.”

This meticulous attention to detail throughout Fulham Pier all serves a singular vision. It’s this fusion of ambitious design, seamlessly integrated technology, and sharp commercial focus that defines SFA’s landmark project on the Thames.

“Our design approach sets a new benchmark in stadium design, blending modern luxury with the rich heritage of Craven Cottage, and redefining what it means to experience football in the 21st century,” added Stuart.

MYKONOS, GREECE | 12-15 MAY 2026

VENUE FOCUS

WRESTLEMANIA @ ALLEGIANT STADIUM

Las Vegas, USA

Green Hippo’s new Hippotizer MX Series Media Servers were out in force for this year’s WWE WrestleMania spectacular, pumping out 4K live action and pre-made content across a wealth of LED screens and strips.

Eight Hippotizer Kasai MX Media Servers – which are distributed by ACT Entertainment in North America – were at the heart of the video setup, working with 12 Hippotizer Boreal+ MK2 and two Hippotizer Karst+ MK2 Media Servers. The 2U, 10-bit video playback, robust Kasai MX Media Servers empower users to run two 4K outputs and offers Genlock for large surface displays that need more than one output. The Netflix live-streamed, two-night WrestleMania event took place at the 65,000-capacity Allegiant Stadium in Paradise, Nevada, just outside Las Vegas. Upstaging once again took the video helm, supplying all the Hippotizer Media Servers, system design and integration support between the design, LED vendor NEP Screenworks, content creation and programming teams, in addition to a dedicated system technician to handle all the technical setup, operation and

integration on site.

“I had a demo of the new MX Series at LDI last year and was impressed by the performance advances and hardware upgrades,” says Tony Thompson, Project Manager at Upstaging. The Kasai MX Media Server can replace two of my Boreal+ MK2 Media Server on a show when using 4K output to HD Splitter outputs, which is great for using less rack space. The better performance and solid reliability are great as well. Green Hippo’s forward thinking on where the industry is going and now offering us the required options in the product path is paramount to us delivering successful events.”

Inside the stadium, the team drove a monumental amount of content to LED screen, strips and ribbons, some of which was pre-made by WWE and Possible, and live action feed. More than 20 LED display areas were rigged, ranging from a YesTech 3mm Stage Fascia 11520 x 640 canvas and 10496 x 768 canvas Balcony Fascia, to Allegiant Stadium Upper Ribbons consisting of a 13344 x 448 canvas and Lower Ribbons of a 13856 x 448 canvas. There were also a range of

other video elements, including Ring Skirts, LED barricades, an LED ramp, and concourse and balcony towers made from ROE Carbon 5 and Carbon 3 LED panels.

“The Kasai MX Media Servers handled all the 4K elements for the show,” Thompson continues. “The Boreal+ MK2s were on HD duty, and the Allegiant Stadium House LED Boards. “All of the Media Servers proved to be the best option when it came to reliability, flexibility, and workflow. Hippotizer’s content management system and ZooKeeper is the biggest help to overcome challenges. And then the flexibility of VideoMapper allowed us to get creative to maximize physical outputs.”

Chris Keene, WWE Media Server Programmer, comments: “The impact of the Hippotizer MX Series at WrestleMania can’t be overstated. We did massive amounts of transition work, presetting and crossfading tons of layers. With Hippotizer, it’s simple and direct. We used more layers than we would like sometimes for processing, but the Hippotizers handled the challenge without a problem.

“The thing that always impresses me most is the ability of Hippotizer Media Servers to be so solid – they’re true workhorses. We’re constantly syncing, encoding, swapping clips in the map, and all the while playback is never interrupted. At WrestleMania, we ask a lot from the Media Servers. The Hippotizers make it possible to manage the workflow by being solid and not crashing. Constantly syncing hundreds of gigs across a network of 22 media servers could be a bottleneck in the process of programming the show, instead it is what makes it possible.”

THE NEW HIPPOTIZER MX SERIES ENSURES SEAMLESS PERFORMANCE, MINIMIZES DOWNTIME, AND ENHANCES THE OVERALL QUALITY OF ANY PRODUCTION.

DCU CENTER

Worcester, USA

Images: Ben Schenck, Josh Wingell

For over 40 years, the DCU Center has been a central hub for live entertainment in New England, drawing millions of fans for everything from hockey games to concert tours. But behind the scenes, one challenge was holding it back: the aging sound system couldn’t keep pace with the quality of events it hosted.

With up to 14,000 seats and a wide variety of events, the DCU Center needed a system that was not only powerful, but efficient. “We needed a system that matched the energy and professionalism of our diverse event schedule,” said Sandy Dunn, General Manager of the DCU Center for Legends/ASM Global. Turning to Eastern Acoustic Works (EAW®), a leader in advanced loudspeaker technology, the DCU Center began a journey to transform the entire audio experience for everyone who walks through the doors.

EAW partnered with venue leadership and top-tier industry collaborators to bring the vision to life. The system was designed by WJHW, a firm renowned for large-scale venue AV, with installation led by Ostrow Electric Company and Metropolitan Interactive. The result is a fully customized audio solution built to address the architectural and acoustic challenges of the DCU Center. The centerpiece of the new system is EAW’s ADAPTive Series, featuring six main hangs with six Anna Loudspeakers and three Otto Subwoofers each, totaling 36 Anna and 18 Otto modules. Supplementary QX300 and MK2300 Series loudspeakers provide detailed coverage across all seating zones.

The new ADAPTive system can perfectly cover the venue’s full room seating from a sporting event standpoint, but because of its ability to adapt coverage to different scenarios, it can also change coverage to focus full system energy on

Musco’s

in Cardiff, Wales.

Principality Stadium Cardiff, Wales, Home of the Welsh National Rugby Team

only the lower or mid-level seating without the demand of addressing the array mechanically. This allows for less reverb and tighter, more intelligible sound at smaller events, all while maintaining the same signature sound for each audience scenario.

“One of the standout features of the EAW system is its ability to deliver precise, uniform coverage across a large and acoustically complex space, no matter the event,” says Rob Hornbaker, Director of Operations of the DCU Center for Legends/ASM Global. “While our previous system served us well for many years, today’s events come with more advanced technical demands. The new EAW system not only delivers exceptional sound quality but is also more efficient and easier to manage for our in-house operations team. This holistic approach ensures the system is built to meet the demands of today’s events while being adaptable for the future.”

Another ADAPTive feature that shines in this install is the ability for the venue to easily redeploy the existing clusters with minimal manpower. The DCU Center frequently hosts events like graduations along with family events and can now

reconfigure the speaker clusters into an endzone deployment.

“Since the installation, guest feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Artists and production teams have also noted the difference, pointing out how easy it is to achieve a clean mix in the space,” says Hornbaker.

As the DCU Center looks ahead to hosting even more toptier events, the new EAW system positions it as a premier destination for those seeking exceptional production quality. “Fans, event organizers and production crews have all commented on the clarity and balance of the sound throughout the arena, regardless of their location in the building,” explains Dunn. “This is the result of a powerful, flexible sound system that enhances every event so the DCU Center can host the next generation of live entertainment.”

Take Control of Your Sound

Built for the demands of stadiums and arenas,

ADAPTive Systems ensure every audience member hears at a level of detail previously unrealized from a line array system.

By offering unmatched frequency response from a line array coupled with unrivaled user control of coverage through EAW’s Resolution software, ADAPTive is the ideal solution to match the scale, energy and expectation of any event.

MURPHY CENTER

Images: Martin Audio

Situated at Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) in Murfreesboro, The Murphy Center—home to the University’s men’s and women’s basketball and track teams—recently commissioned a new Martin Audio WPS line array system, after a long gestation period, dating back several years. The contract was won by the experienced Nashville-based Spectrum Sound Inc, which has been providing audio production services to customers since 1979 and has lately been turning increasingly to Martin Audio for its installed sound solutions.

The arena’s outdated PA system had reached end-of-life after years of patchwork fixes. To deliver modern performance and reliability, Spectrum Sound was tasked with designing a new solution. Key goals included consistent coverage, high speech intelligibility, and full-range musical reproduction across the 11,520-seat venue. With the space also hosting conferences, graduations, and community events, system versatility was essential.

Spectrum Sound’s team recognised that Martin Audio’s Wavefront Precision series, with its advanced control and optimisation capabilities, was ideally suited to managing the challenging acoustics of a reverberant basketball court, further complicated by reflective glass walls. Martin Audio’s WPS and WPM arrays were chosen for their scalable coverage and clarity. This combination ensures powerful, adaptable sound for events of any size or format, delivering a consistent, high-quality experience in every seat. System Integration Sales Managers Ken DeBelius and Paul Royer secured the project after a compelling on-site demo by Martin Audio’s Director of Strategic Projects, Brad Stephens, won over the client.

Following the bid, Operations Manager Zach Mitchell and Project Manager Rod Hester, saw the implementation through to completion, with assistance from Martin Audio’s Product & Application Support Manager, Joe Lima. The latter quickly formed a positive working relationship with the Spectrum team, assisting with the system engineering, designing an

inspired 360° subwoofer array and seeing the project through to commissioning.

“A major factor in choosing Martin Audio was its optimization technology,” said Zach Mitchell. “We needed precise coverage only where it was needed. We worked closely with Joe throughout the process, taking his concept and making sure it was properly implemented, all while keeping the client’s goals front and centre.”

The old system was removed, and new custom rigging and steels designed for the new PA. The design solution was for a six WPS arrays in the round. “Utilising a mixture of array sizes, along with FlexPoint FP15s as court fills and CDD12s as a delay ring behind the scoreboards, we were able to get consistent coverage in every seat,” Mitchell explained. But the major triumph is the 360° sub bass array conceived by Joe Lima. This comprises four clusters of four SXCF118 cardioid subs flown in the centre of the arena.

Lima’s eyes immediately lit up on surveying the site. “This was a rare opportunity in an arena that didn’t have a centre

scoreboard, but rather two giant LED walls on the ends,” he said. “This allowed us the full real estate of the grid for sub placement.” A radial 360° dispersion TM (in the round) array immediately came to mind.

The team started working on various configurations with different boxes in Martin Audio’s DISPLAY3 prediction software, until they landed on the SXCF118. “This fulfilled all requirements while staying under the grid’s load limits,” Lima recognised. “We knew we didn’t have to steer energy away from the bottom, as they were also required to fill the court for the players, so line length wasn’t a concern, and 16 boxes (four hangs of four boxes on different axes) hit the SPL we needed.”

But Lima sensed they were in unchartered waters using cardioid subs. “We tried different approaches in DISPLAY 3— playing with distance, aim and delay times—and ended up with a variation of the TM array, where the subs are aiming sideways, instead of inwards, and are a bit spiralled off centre, with a slight upwards delay.

“With this configuration we gained 2dB over the traditional TM layout, and it gave us a ±2dB variance in the octave around 50Hz, in the entire seating area of the arena with the court being 6dB down. It’s probably the most coherent and consistent subwoofer system I’ve ever experienced.”

Completing the complement of speakers is an additional 24 WPMs (12-a-side) deployed in a portable fashion, for graduations and special events, augmenting WPS with courtside coverage.

Other complexities included setting the Hard Avoid values, since the raked seating is retractable. Thus, to ensure optimum direction of energy in all configurations Spectrum deployed a custom Q-SYS solution P\programmed by Max Kelley to recall system presets based on the needs of each event. All DSP meanwhile is contained in the combination of Martin Audio iK42 and iK81 process controlled amplifiers which drive the main system in 1-box resolution. In addition to the PA, Spectrum Sound provided a full acoustic treatment package, installed an advanced network and fibre infrastructure, and oversaw a console upgrade.

THE ORIGINAL TURF PROTECTION FOR STADIUMS

TRANSFORM

YOUR PITCH INTO A PROFIT CENTRE

As the ultimate turf and ice protection for arenas, stadiums, and sports facilities, TERRAPLAS® allows venues to become truly multipurpose. Our solutions make it possible to host concerts, sports events, and more, maximising your revenue potential while protecting your greatest asset - your original turf or ice surface.

As a result, all feeds—whether commentators’ mics, video playback, and other live and pre-recorded sources—are faithfully reproduced. As Zach Mitchell confirms, “This is the largest project we’ve completed with Martin Audio and the difference in the room is night and day — the system is very flexible and translates all sources accurately.”

Paul Royer summed it up: “Our customers are thrilled with the performance of the Martin Audio system, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. This project reinforced our confidence in Martin Audio and enables us to provide even greater results for our clients.”

Ron Malone, Assistant VP Business & Finance at MTSU, added his thanks to Spectrum Sound for their “incredible assistance” during the installation phase. “The Martin Wavefront Precision system has performed precisely as

advertised,” he said. “Its capability to control and direct the acoustical energy, both where we determine it is needed, and at the same time where we do not want audio, met our primary goal of this project. It provides better zone control to accommodate various configurations for floor coverage during event games, and floor/bowl coverage during Convocation with a stage.

“We could not be happier with our selection, and we know that we could not have done this without the great folks at Spectum Sounds Inc.”

2025 AT&T WNBA ALL-STAR GAME

Indianapolis, USA

Images: RP Gough, ACT Entertainment

Pendleton, Indiana-based Dodd Technologies, Inc., which works from page to stage building sets and audiovisual elements that make for memorable events, utilized an array of Ayrton lighting fixtures, grandMA3 consoles and MDG hazers for the 2025 AT&T WNBA All-Star Game. ACT Entertainment is the exclusive distributor of the Ayrton, MA Lighting and MDG brands in North America.

Dodd Technologies acted as the production partner with Pacer Sports & Entertainment for the All-Star Weekend events at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. Friday night July 18 featured the WNBA Skills Challenge, which was broadcast on ESPN. The game was played on Saturday and aired live on ABC, Disney+ and ESPN+. Dodd Technologies was not only responsible for the game’s halftime show, headlined by GloRilla, but also for the musical team introductions and other performances that added entertainment value to the weekend telecasts. The company had previously worked on the 2024 NBA All-Star Game and has a number of major sports credits.

Dodd Technologies designed the halftime stage to be an organic part of the court. “We wanted to make sure what we built looked like part of the existing architecture of the space,” says Vice President Andy Meggenhofen, who acted as the event’s Lighting Designer. “The all-LED stage had an upstage wall, side walls that staggered down to follow the

seating lines, and a large LED floor. It was a very dynamic stage with a lot of depth and 3D effects while keeping the sight lines to all the seats. It provided great backgrounds for camera and great visuals for the live, sold-out audience.”

About half of the Ayrton lighting used for the event had previously been sold by Dodd Technologies to the Fieldhouse to be part of its permanent inventory. Dodd supplemented that gear with its own Ayrton fixtures keeping in mind that they needed “fixtures with a lot of utility, versatile feature sets and long-throw capabilities.”

Fifty Ayrton Khamsins were mounted in trusses about 100 feet over the main stage to deliver key lighting and effects.

“They do both very well,” says Meggenhofen. “Khamsin is a good utility fixture; as a profile it covers a lot of ground and its output cuts through for TV lighting. They provided the punch we needed without blocking sight lines.”

Sixteen Zonda 9 FX furnished back light for the main stage. “They are a great wash light from an output standpoint and very successful as effects lights,” he notes. “We’ve used them on media day shoots for Indy Car, the Pacers and Fever and gotten a lot of very dynamic looks out of them.”

Four more Zonda 9 FX were set into the teams’ entry hallways to highlight players’ exits from the tunnels.

Seventy-four laser-source Cobra2s were also deployed.

“We’ve found a good niche for them with their beam effects outlining the court and their scanning effects and unique

projections on the court,” Meggenhofen explains. He points out that since “all the power had to go to the ceiling, we could get a lot of these fixtures in the air without requiring a lot of power. They run very efficiently!”

Dodd Technologies has been using the grandMA platform for about 15 years, and Meggenhofen says, “we’re very entrenched with them. From consoles to nodes, they’ve been very reliable, trustworthy, easy to set up and versatile. And the support we’ve received from ACT and MA Lighting is also a big selling point.”

The company programmed the halftime show on grandMA3 consoles and provided a complement of gear for the show’s lighting control. Two full-size grandMA3s operated on the ground and at FOH for focus. Both eventually moved to the FOH position with one desk acting as a backup unit. In addition, Dodd supplied two XL processors, four 8-port nodes and a replay unit.

Dodd also placed one MDG ATMe haze generator with fan in each of the four corners of the catwalk. “This is our standard

hazer for these types of events,” Meggenhofen reports. “They provide a very even haze into the building without seeing the source. It’s great quality haze for TV; it does what you need it to do without giving that lingering smoke look.”

Dodd conferred early on with ACT to confirm the plans they had in mind for the event and Meggenhofen notes that “our reps were great at answering our questions at all times of day: They were always available. There’s a lot of good gear out there, but it’s really all about the support.”

For the WNBA events Jason Lenhart and Asher McKenna were the Master Electricians; Nic Claypool the Lead Rigger and JD Fackler the House Rigger; Chris Lintner House Lighting; Jennifer Beavers Game Lighting; Otis Howard the TV Lighting Director; Stephen Sakowski the Follow Spot Lighting Director; Jess Baker the Programmer; Mike Grimes the Gaffer; and Nolan Howard the Lighting PA.

EXTRA TIME

062 Automated Arenas: How Tax and Tech Are Squeezing the Stadium Workforce | George Vaughan, The Digital Line

AUTOMATED ARENAS: HOW TAX AND TECH ARE SQUEEZING THE STADIUM WORKFORCE

Vaughan, The Digital Line

he Current Landscape

TThe world is changing and that change is being driven by technology. From the way we communicate to how we work, shop and travel, digital systems are no longer just tools; they are the architects of a new social and economic order. Entire industries are being redefined by the speed of innovation, where automation, artificial intelligence and connectivity are setting the pace. The shift is not subtle, it is seismic, reshaping the foundations of how societies function and how people engage with one another. This transformation is also not confined to any single sector. It is visible in the rapid evolution of financial services, the reinvention of healthcare through data, the automation of manufacturing and the digitization of entertainment and sport. What was once futuristic is now everyday reality: machines anticipating needs, algorithms curating experiences and intelligent networks guiding decisions in real time. The result is a landscape of opportunity and disruption in equal measure, where progress promises efficiency and growth but also demands adaptation,

resilience and foresight.

The Coming Wave

Stadiums and arenas are often viewed as “cathedrals of modern culture” and were for a long period playing catch up in this new age of technology. They are places where millions gather to celebrate sport, music and collective experiences. Yet behind the spectacle lies a workforce facing unprecedented pressure as the tide begins to turn. In the UK alone, high-profile job losses within the hospitality industry signaled just how fragile the sector’s employment base has become. In July, British media reported that much of it was due to the direct impact of the rise in national insurance, with 69,000 roles estimated to have been shed since April 2025, in contrast to 18,000 jobs gained during the previous year. Rising employer contributions have added more than £1 billion in costs, pressuring businesses to cut staff or in some extreme cases, close sites.

Alongside this, a wave of AI-driven automation is surging into the hospitality

sector. While many executives hail these tools as saviours for efficiency and fan engagement, frontline employees increasingly see them as existential threats. The uncomfortable truth is that AI will reduce human jobs overall in every employment space.

The Macro Picture: Automation Is a Net Reducer

Although it makes for difficult reading, the evidence is now overwhelming: automation through AI is shrinking the hospitality and live events workforce.

• Arden University projects that almost 442,000 UK hospitality jobs will be lost by 2030, which is almost a third of the sector.

• McKinsey estimates that up to 25% of global hospitality roles could be displaced over a similar period. Many of these are back-of-house roles that are highly repetitive and rule-based like accounting, revenue management, scheduling and administration.

• Hospitality platforms are adopting AI systems that forecast demand, optimize scheduling and shift staffing dynamically to match peak and off-peak periods. This leads to leaner teams with more flexible hours.

• Real-world examples reinforce this with Zedwell Hotels in London cutting its reservations team by 66% and adopting AI kiosks, while Applebee’s and IHOP are embedding AI into staffing decisions and service delivery.

For stadiums and arenas, the parallels are clear. Ticket offices are vanishing. Concession counters are being replaced by “Just Walk Out” frictionless retail. Security teams are augmented - or partially replaced - by AI scanners, facial recognition and computer vision. The long-term direction is unambiguous: fewer people, fewer roles.

Why Redeployment Still Matters

If total jobs shrink, is there a conversation to be had about moving existing employees into new roles at all? The answer lies in the distinction between elimination and evolution.

• Transactional tasks like scanning tickets or handling cash are vanishing.

• New tech-adjacent roles like AI system supervisors, guest experience curators, data interpreters are also appearing.

• Redeployment is about reputation and regulation: operators who redeploy instead

of simply cutting demonstrate responsibility, winning public and employee trust. Zedwell is a good case in point: staff removed from reservations were reassigned to concierge and guest-support duties, preserving employment while improving the guest experience. In the Las Vegas casino sector, unions have negotiated compensation and retraining packages for workers displaced by robots. However, redeployment won’t save every job.

The Stadium Lens

Looking ahead to try and assess where redeployment may happen requires a detailed examination of the areas where AI is likely to accelerate most quickly in stadiums and arenas. Based on current industry data, five areas stand out.

1. AI-Powered Security & Threat Detection

Security is one of the most critical aspects of stadium operations. Traditionally, this required large teams of stewards and security personnel conducting manual bag checks, metal detector scans and ticket inspections. AI-driven security platforms such as Evolv or Patriot One, use computer vision, sensor fusion and machine learning to identify threats in real time.

2. Real-Time Crowd & Flow Management

Managing the safe and efficient movement of tens of thousands of fans has always been labour-intensive. Traditionally, large stewarding teams directed queues, monitored toilets and helped with congestion. Now, AI and digital twin models can predict and adjust crowd flows in real time.

3. Hyper-Personalized Fan Engagement

Fans no longer want a one-size-fits-all experience. AI and generative content platforms are enabling personalization at scale, from tailored concession offers to customized content on digital signage alongside pre and post event engagement.

4. Operational Efficiency & Sustainability

Stadiums are some of the largest and most energy-intensive buildings. AI can optimize building systems, including lighting, HVAC, water and waste, while predictive maintenance prevents costly failures.

5. Officiating Accuracy & Analytics

Fairness and accuracy in officiating are under constant scrutiny. AI-powered systems such as Hawk-Eye, VAR and computer vision platforms reduce human error in decision-making.

The Workforce Reality: Three Gaps to Overcome

Whilst the concept of redeployment is possible it is not automatic and there are some major hurdles that continue to stand in the way, including:

• The Skills Gap: Because not every steward or ticket officer can become a digital operations analyst.

• The Volume Gap: Because even with redeployment, fewer roles are likely to exist overall.

• The Generational Gap: Because while younger staff may embrace AI tools, older employees could face harder displacement.

The Human Factor: Where People Still Matter

With the outcome seemingly inevitable, even as AI accelerates across stadiums and arenas, there remains a critical truth, which is impossible to ignore. Fans come for the experience, not just efficiency. Technology can streamline the basics like ticket scanning, concessions, even entry gates but it cannot replicate the empathy, discretion and human connection that make live events memorable. This will likely become particularly evident in the distinction between general admission and premium experiences. For most general admission areas, the future will be increasingly automated and ‘people-free.’ We already see this trend in retail and fast food restaurants where self-service kiosks, frictionless F&B and AI-driven crowd management dominate. However, in premium lounges, suites and VIP experiences, human interaction will remain essential. High-value guests expect not only seamless service but also genuine personal engagement. From concierge-style hosting to curated experiences, the human role here is irreplaceable. In fact, the more automation takes hold across standard operations, the more valuable human staff become in these premium zones,

where hospitality, storytelling and emotional connection elevate the live experience beyond what AI can deliver. The collection of data will enable employees to fully understand and deliver a totally unique and curated experience. Ultimately, we should never forget that humans are social animals and they thrive in environments that reflect that humanity. Technology will undoubtedly shape tomorrow’s stadiums and arenas but it must never strip away the soul of what makes these experiences so unique in the first place.

YOU DREAM IT WE DESIGN IT

Our new scoreboard is a marvel of modern technology bringing a significant increase in both the size and number of screens visible to HEAT fans. The flame ball itself is an impressive piece of visual art that is going to revolutionize many aspects of our in-arena experience for fans and partners alike. Our friends at Daktronics have outdone themselves and we’re forever grateful to them for helping us bring this unique project to life.”

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