The SSE Arena, Belfast keeps the faith with Global Payments tie up including frictionless grab and go outlet

The SSE Arena, Belfast has extended its collaboration with Global Payments.

The partnership began in 2022 and has seen the integration of Global Payments’ technology throughout the arena, spanning 15 concession units, the ground floor bar OFF ICE, and a variety of self-serve kiosks, including the Loaded Fries and Pizzarena stations.

With the introduction of Pay by Link, hospitality customers can now take advantage of prepayment facilities, eliminating the need for in-person transactions or storing card details by the merchant.

Most recently, the company has enabled transactions at the PAY & AWAY store - a frictionless, grab and go outlet powered by Amazon’s Just Walk Out technology and the first of its kind in a European indoor arena. 

Dermot McGinn, Group Head of Food and Beverage at The Odyssey Trust, says: “Global Payments has been a game-changer for our venue operations. Their technology has streamlined transactions across every part of the arena, helping us deliver a smooth, efficient, and enjoyable experience for every visitor. As we continue to innovate for our guests, it’s invaluable to have a partner who understands our industry and works with us to stay ahead of the curve.” 

Steve McArdle, Director of Sports & Entertainment Solutions at Global Payments, says: “The SSE Arena is renowned for creating unforgettable live experiences, and we are proud to help make every moment count.”

“Our goal is to provide fast, reliable, and secure payment experiences that enhance the customer journey from the moment they arrive until the final encore. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to innovation and to setting new standards for the entertainment sector.” 

2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

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

The awards. which are now closed for entries with our finalists and shortlists being announced this week, 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.