In a move never before seen in the Southern Hemisphere, the MCG will trial new technology with company WaitTime in a bid to improve fans' experience at food and beverage outlets.
WaitTime uses artificial intelligence, sensors and algorithms to track queue lines and wait times, and will let spectators know which outlets are busy and which are quiet, allowing for fans to purchase their food and drinks without hassle.
The information will be shown on screens around the ground, and with installation currently underway, the technology is set for a trial during the upcoming AFL Finals Series.
The trials will begin on the ground level and basement level of the Great Southern Stand and Olympic Stand.
โQueue times are a major challenge for large venues such as the MCG โ when you have thousands of people trying to place an order at peak times you are always going to have some level of delay," Melbourne Cricket Club CEO Stuart Fox told mcg.org.au.
โThis system will not only help to inform MCG patrons about the expected wait time, but also show and direct them to other nearby outlets that they may not have previously considered, and which may result in a quicker service experience.โ
WaitTime CEO Zachary Klima said the company was excited to branch out into a different part of the world, and is thrilled to be working with the MCG.
โAs an incredibly forward-thinking venue, dedicated to creating amazing experiences for their patrons, MCG is the perfect partner for WaitTime as we debut our technology in the southern hemisphere," Klima said.
"Weโre looking forward to working with Australiaโs biggest and most renowned stadium to ensure fans spend less time waiting and more time enjoying the entertainment.โ
