AFL tries to make queuing for a beer and pie at the footy a thing of the past with new technology – here’s how it works
- Amazon introduces ‘Just Walk Out’ technology
- First rolled out at Marvel Stadium at AFL games
- Fans pick up food and drinks, don’t miss a single action
- When fans leave the ‘store’ with items, they will receive an electronic receipt
- Already in use in the US, at TD Garden in Boston
Queuing up for a beer and pie at the footy could be the way of goal umpires wearing long white coats thanks to space age technology being rolled out by the AFL.
Melbourne’s Marvel Stadium will become the first sports venue in the Southern Hemisphere to introduce Amazon’s innovative ‘Just Walk Out’ technology, meaning fans will no longer have to go to the box office.
The primary goal is that supporters can pick up their food and drinks on the way and not miss a moment of the game.
Items will be ‘contactless’, meaning supporters won’t have to queue at the tills, said the Announce sun.
When entering the ground, fans can use their debit card, credit card or mobile wallet as an accepted method of payment.
Queuing up for a beer and pie at the footy could go the way of the dodo thanks to space age technology being rolled out by the AFL (pictured, a Geelong supporter at the MCG)
Marvel Stadium in Melbourne introduces Amazon’s ‘Just Walk Out’ technology for cashless purchases – it ensures fans don’t miss out on any of the action (pictured, Demons star Christian Petracca)
With advances in digital technology, on-site pie vendors (pictured) could also be phased out
They are then charged for their items – and given an electronic receipt – when they leave the ‘shop’.
The technology is already being used in the US at sports venues such as TD Garden, home of NBA side the Boston Celtics.
People purchasing alcohol will still be required to provide ID for age verification when asked.
The expectation is then that the technology will eventually be rolled out nationally.
Kylie Rogers, general manager of customer service and commercial director of the AFL, said the code embraces the technology.
“We are constantly looking for new ways to innovate and modernize our fan experience,” she said.
“We expect everyone to enjoy the fast, convenient experience Amazon’s Just Walk Out technology will provide.
“At the end of the day, it’s about the fans, to give them a next-generation stadium experience so they can spend more time enjoying the football.”