Marvel Stadium to introduce Just Walk Out technology
The AFL has announced Marvel Stadium will become the first venue in the Southern Hemisphere to introduce Amazon’s Just Walk Out technology for checkout-free purchases.
The move will modernise the stadium’s food and beverage offering as part of the venue’s redevelopment, giving fans the ability to grab food and drink and get back to the game faster, thanks to a frictionless shopping experience.
The new technology will be available at two outlets at the Docklands stadium, known as ‘The Runner’, one food and beverage and one bar, in time for the early rounds of the 2023 AFL Season.
Fans will simply use their credit or debit card, or mobile wallet payment option at entry, collect their items, and leave the store without having to wait in line to checkout, returning to their seat quicker than ever.
Just Walk Out technology is made possible by artificial intelligence like computer vision and deep learning techniques, including generative AI, to accurately determine who took what in any retail environment. Amazon built synthetic datasets to mimic millions of realistic shopping scenarios, including variations in store format, lighting conditions, and even crowds of shoppers, to ensure accuracy in any environment.
The technology is currently in use at sports venues across the USA, including TD Garden, home of the Boston Celtics (NBA) and Boston Bruins (NHL), and Climate Pledge Arena, home of the Seattle Kraken (NHL).
Fans purchasing alcohol will be required to show their ID to a store attendant for age verification.
An AFL spokesperson said the new technology enhances Marvel Stadium’s vision to be the most technically advanced stadium in Australia.
“We are continually looking at new ways to innovate and modernise our fan experience, and we know everyone will love the fast, convenient experience that Amazon’s Just Walk Out technology will deliver. Ultimately, this is about the fans, bringing them a next-generation stadium experience so they can spend more time enjoying the footy.”
Managing Director at Delaware North Gary Brown said, “Delaware North is always looking to implement technology solutions that are easy to use and improve speed of service for our guests. To that end, we are thrilled to collaborate with Amazon to use their Just Walk Out technology at Marvel Stadium. These stores will deliver a fast, frictionless experience, helping to eliminate queues and get fans back to their seats faster than ever.”
