Coventry’s Ricoh Arena has revealed details about the latest phase of its ongoing digital strategy by starting work on installing a giant LED screen at the venue.
When operational, the screen will be one of the largest of its kind present in a UK sports facility, measuring in at an expected 188 square metres.
The new screen will be placed on the South Stand at the Ricoh Arena, home of Premiership rugby union club Wasps. It will boast a 10mm pixel pitch, making it one of the highest resolution stadium screens anywhere in the UK.
The screen is being installed by ADI, a leading provider of stadium technology. ADI will work with Wasps to develop what is hoped will be an engaging matchday content platform.
Venue officials hope to have the screen installed and operational in time for Wasps’ clash with Leicester Tigers on September 16.
In addition, the Ricoh Arena will benefit from a new LED scoreboard and clock that are to be installed on the West Stand, as well as new LED screens at the entrance and inside the main atrium at the venue.
Stuart Cain, commercial director for Wasps and the Ricoh Arena, said: “We’ve responded to fans requesting better quality screens by installing one of the largest state-of-the-art pieces of technology in UK sport.
“This will massively improve people’s experience when watching Wasps. We’ve also invested in the main atrium which will improve the experience for the 700,000 people visiting conferences and exhibitions at the Ricoh Arena every year.”
ADI chief executive Geraint Williams added: “Wasps are really pushing the boundaries to create something special for their fans. We’re delighted to be a part of that.
“The new screen technology will certainly look impressive, but it is the content that will really bring it to life. Our production team will be working with the club and its fans over the coming weeks to develop that content and help deliver an experience like nothing else in rugby.”
The new digital technology comes after the Ricoh Arena also recently invested in high density Wi-Fi, allowing up to 20,000 people to log on at the same time at the facility.
Wasps also launched a new mobile application and installed contactless technology at all concourse bars inside the stadium. In addition, a new ticketing system and online retail store are being developed for next season.
Cain added: “When you add up the new screens, app, high-density Wi-Fi, contactless technology, new ticketing and retail websites then it makes Wasps and the Ricoh Arena one of the most digitally connected venues in the UK if not Europe.
“Staying ahead of the game is crucial for Wasps when trying to give fans the digital experience they demand both online, at the stadium and through their mobile.”
Image: ADI
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