Along with the news of the 2021-22 fixtures which have been released this morning, we would like to make supporters aware of some changes to matchday operations that will come into effect for our pre-season matches later in the summer.
CASHLESS STADIUM
As with many other football clubs and retailers nationally we have made the decision to move to a cashless stadium when supporters return to football next season.
The move away from cash checkouts around the ground began with the introduction of card-only tills in 2019-20, which was well received by supporters. By installing contactless card machines and cashless tills at catering kiosks, we were able to significanly reduce queuing time and reduce cash handling.
Today, with the safety of supporters at the front of our minds as the pandemic continues, we have decided to make Keniworth Road a card-only environment. This will drastically improve the money handling process and minimise Covid exposure for our teams, and supporters alike.
PLEASE NOTE THAT OUR FIRST GAME AS A CASHLESS STADIUM WILL BE FOR OUR PRE-SEASON FRIENDLY AGAINST PORTSMOUTH ON SATURDAY 24th JULY.
- We will be card-only at all kiosks, bars, the ticket office and club shop.
- Information with regards to Golden Gamble and matchday programme sales will be communicated prior to the beginning of the new season.
We will be able to deliver this project in partnership with reputable providers WorldPay and Kappture
Our streamlined payment solution is more modern and secure. We will be able to accept all major payment methods, including Apple and Google pay via mobile devices. Contactless payments will be accepted up to £45.
The pandemic has been a catalyst for many changes and we understand that for some supporters this will represent a significant change to their matchday routines. In-stadium purchases are an important source of income for the club, which we have been without during behind-closed-doors games. We are grateful for your patience and support as we roll out the new systems.
Please ensure you bring a suitable payment method with you to avoid issues at the till when you visit Kenilworth Road.
Season Cards, Mobile Tickets and Smart Turnstiles.
As well as the move to a cashless stadium, from the first pre-season friendly on the 24th July against Portsmouth, we will be introducing our new access system at Kenilworth Road.
Looking ahead to our move to Power Court, we are beginning to implement new technologies that will enable us to operate more efficiently and improve the matchday experience.
A key part of this transition is the installation of a more sophisticated entry system.
All visitors to Kenilworth Road on a matchday will need to scan their season ticket cards or mobile e-ticket at the turnstile. These will replace paper tickets and season ticket booklets.
A video demonstration will be published prior to the first match when the new system goes live, and we will be sharing in-depth information as to the new process as soon as we can.
We anticipate that Season Ticket Holders will be sent their new season cards in early July, these will enable access to the stands via our new smart turnstile scanners. Commercial and hospitality customers and their guests will also receive access cards.
Standard matchday ticket holders will now be able to receive a print-at-home or mobile e-ticket which means no more queuing at the ticket office ahead of kick off!
There are a number of reasons to move to a new system:
- It is now necessary to replace the current system which has reached end-of-life in terms of technology and support.
- Limitations due to the pandemic have required us to have to be able to collect accurate information with regards to who has attended the stadium. The new system will enable this much more easily.
- The new system will help us improve the security inside the stadium, with a more accurate picture of attendance.
- In time, we will be able to integrate this technology with other systems to be able to offer better loyalty schemes to supporters, in-seat catering, and other initiatives to help enhance the fan experience.
Further information with regards to both of this projects will be communicated ahead of our match against Portsmouth - please check our website and social media regularly for updates.
Thank you for your support.