Yorkshire CCC taps WelcoMe inclusive technology for world first at Headingley Cricket Ground

The Yorkshire County Cricket Club reports that Headingley Cricket Ground has become the first sports ground in the world to partner with WelcoMe, an accessibility support system provider.

Through the integration of WelcoMe’s solution, visitors with accessible or additional needs will be able to plan their visits in advance, communicate specific support requirements, and receive a tailored experience from trained staff across the stadium.

Anna Spencer, Head of Venue Operations at Yorkshire County Cricket Club, says: “We’re delighted to be working with WelcoMe to take our accessibility provision to the next level. Cricket is a game for everyone, and it’s vital that Headingley is a place where all supporters feel valued, comfortable, and safe."

“This system gives visitors the tools to personalise their matchday experience and enables our team to provide the right support with greater awareness and understanding.”

The WelcoMe system is now fully operational ahead of all Northern Superchargers fixtures in the Hundred. From parking assistance to tailored guidance inside the stadium, the aim is to ensure that every visitor’s journey is as seamless and enjoyable as possible.

Spencer adds: “This partnership is part of a broader commitment to inclusion across all areas of the Club. From infrastructure improvements to enhanced staff training, we’re making meaningful changes to ensure Headingley is one of the most accessible sporting venues in the country.”

Founder and CEO of WelcoMe, Gavin Neate, says: “Headingley Cricket Ground becomes the first sports venue in the world to offer this new level of personalisation for disabled sports fans. We are truly excited that together with this iconic venue, we can prove to the rest of the world that a new level of supporter experience is available to all.”

2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

Inclusive retail will be a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.

The awards. which are now open for entries, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Our 2024 hall of fame entrants were revealed during an event which took place at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London on 21st November, and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by comedian Lucy Porter.

In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “The event is now into its sixth year and what a journey it has been. The awards started life as an online only affair during the Covid outbreak, before launching as a small scale in real life event and growing year on year to the point where we’re now selling out this fine, historic venue.”

He added: “Congratulations to all of our finalists. Many submissions did not make it through to the final stage, and getting to this point is no mean feat. Checkout-free stores, automated supply chains, immersive experiences, on-demand delivery, next generation loyalty offerings, inclusive retail, green technology. We’ve got all the cool stuff covered this evening.”

“But just importantly we’ve got lots of great examples of companies taking innovative tech and making it usable in everyday operations - resulting in more efficiency and profitability in all areas.”

Congratulations to our 2024 winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Lucy Porter, and all those who attended November's gathering. 

For further information on the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards, please fill in the below form and we will get back to you asap.