Matchday operations for Carlisle United have been enhanced through upgrades made to wi-fi facilities throughout the stadium.
Integrity IT Solutions, based in Carlisle and Annan, has carried out major technology improvements at Brunton Park.
The IT team installed new cable and significantly upgraded the stadium’s wireless broadband to ensure the club could for the first time offer card payments at all its bars and kiosks, reducing the requirement for handling cash and improving the speed of service.
The work has substantially improved the club shop and online ticketing systems.
In addition, guest wi-fi will now be provided to all fans in the club’s restaurant and sponsor boxes to give visitors instant internet access.
Stephen Whelan, technical director at Integrity IT Solutions, said: “Thousands of fans head to Brunton Park every home game to enjoy the football, and this upgrade around the stadium will add to that experience.
“By offering card payments for the first time, the club are demonstrating their commitment to providing refreshments in a Covid-safe manner and that the safety of their customers is of paramount importance.
“The contactless payment option will quicken things up too and reduce queues, improving fans’ matchday experience in general.
“We are proud to have worked on a major project with an organisation which means so much to so many people in the local community.”
Carlisle United finance director Suzanne Kidd said: “Modernising our operating systems ensures we can deliver a high standard of service to all of our fans.
“Reliable and robust wi-fi is crucial to us being able to ensure we can continue to operate our club shop and ticket system on busy match days, and our work with Integrity IT Solutions has been vital in this.”
Peter Johnson, director of John Watt & Son, Carlisle United’s catering partner, said: “Working in partnership with Carlisle United, we looked to meet the needs of supporters so they can make card payments at all catering points. This reduces queuing times, improves cash security and allows us to ensure we have the right products in place.
“The improvement in the broadband network and wi-fi in the stadium was crucial to enabling us to deliver cashless payments across the ground. The improved wi-fi means all areas of the ground are now covered.
“Supporters have improved access to the internet, for browsing and for making use of the Carlisle United catering app to pre-order their refreshments at half-time.”
