Adder Technology launches Customer Experience Center
Adder Technology, a specialist in connectivity solutions and high performance IP KVM, today announced the opening of its new Customer Experience Center (CXC) at its global headquarters in the UK. The purpose-built environment marks a decisive step forward in how Adder supports customers evaluating complex technology decisions where connectivity and control are mission-critical.
Neil Hillier, SVP global sales and marketing at Adder said, “The Customer Experience Center defines how we intend to engage with the market moving forward. As an employee-owned business, we are focused on long-term value and meaningful investment. That same mindset is shared by our customers, who are making complex, high-impact decisions that require time, context, and verification. The CXC reflects these priorities and brings them together, truly representing the connection we value with our customers and partners.”
Experience On-Demand
Investment in essential, high-value, technology demands structured evaluation, cross-functional alignment, and demonstrable validation before approval. With stakeholders often distributed across geographies, efforts to bring people together can add delays and uncertainty to the process. According to Gartner, buying groups can range from five to 16 stakeholders across multiple business functions, increasing the need for coordinated evaluation and technical clarity.
The CXC provides a dedicated environment where customers can collaboratively explore solutions, verify compatibility, and align stakeholders through focused working sessions. Designed to support both in-person and remote participation, the facility is open year-round and enables meaningful evaluation aligned to customer decision cycles and complements existing time-bound industry events.
Experience with Context
The CXC has been designed to reflect the operational realities of the diverse industries Adder supports. From live broadcast and post-production to mission-critical control room environments in industrial, utilities, and transportation sectors, the facility enables visitors to evaluate IP KVM within representative workflows aligned to the performance, resilience, and integration demands of real-world operations.
Experience Technology Ecosystems
To further enhance customer experience with context, the CXC has been developed in collaboration with leading technology partners to reflect the multi-vendor environments customers operate in today. The CXC features a broad range of complementary solutions including:
- Control system unification software by Bitfocus
- PTZ cameras for remote viewing by Bolin Technology
- Data center infrastructure by Dataracks
- Visual production software by Disguise
- API integration and control via Stream Deck by Elgato
- High-end post-production monitors by EIZO
- Bespoke podcast table by Forecast Consoles
- Interactive presentation applications by FUTURESoftware
- Interactive touch screen displays by iiyama
- High-resolution LED display wall from Ledman
- Customizable control room consoles from LundHalsey
- IP networking switches by NETGEAR
- Pixel-perfect monitors by Philips
- Visual display software for control rooms by Ultimate Visual Solutions
The CXC positions Adder to support the next generation of complex connectivity decisions with confidence, clarity, and long-term commitment.
More information can be found here: https://www.adder.com/en/customer-experience-center
RC Deportivo La Coruña open Populous designed museum & tour
Spain’s RC Deportivo La Coruña has opened its unique new Dépor Museo & Tour to the public in A Coruña (Galicia). Designed by Populous, the project introduces a unique concept that combines an interactive club museum and a matchday hospitality venue.
As a museum, it offers a comprehensive journey through the identity of RC Deportivo across three major thematic areas: its sporting history and greatest achievements; its social, cultural, and Galician impact; and its institutional evolution alongside the emotional legacy of Deportivo and its fanbase.
On matchdays, the space transforms into a unique hospitality area for fans, offering experiences tailored to different audiences. These range from VIP areas and curated dining concepts to personalized services and immersive technological experiences. Drawing on Galician culture and the Club’s own identity, the venue operates as an integrated ecosystem, connecting Deportivo with fans and partners alike. More than an exhibition space, the Dépor Museo & Tour has been conceived as a gathering place for the entire Deportivo community; accessible and intergenerational, conveying the emotion, heritage, and values that have defined the Club for more than a century.
"We are proud to collaborate with Deportivo on this new milestone and to help create a unique space that seamlessly integrates museum and hospitality functions. The Dépor Museo & Tour is designed to preserve and strengthen identity and legacy, while creating an experience that connects the past, present, and future of this great football club. Combining the local expertise of our Spanish team with Populous’ international experience, we conducted an in-depth analysis of the Club’s historical and cultural heritage and its wider context, ensuring that every space reflects the spirit of Deportivo in an authentic yet contemporary way," said Jorge Betancor, Managing Director of Populous Espana.
Populous — which also designed the Dépor Training Center, the club’s new training complex unveiled in 2025 — developed the project in line with the club’s ambition to turn the museum into a new landmark for A Coruña and Galicia.
Hill Dickinson Stadium to host Lionesses fixture against Ukraine
The Lionesses will travel to the north-west for the 8pm fixture at Hill Dickinson Stadium, after facing world champions Spain four days earlier in the away leg of the June international window.
It will be the first time an England team has played at the Premier League club’s home since it opened in August 2025. It is also set to play a major role as a host venue for UEFA EURO 2028 and is among the 22 proposed stadiums included in the Home Nations’ bid to stage the 2035 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Sarina Wiegman, England Manager, said: “It is very exciting for us to be playing for the first time at Everton’s new stadium. We have always said that taking this team around the country is so important, and we’re really looking forward to playing in front of fans in the north-west. The city of Liverpool has a rich football history with many connections to the Lionesses over the years, so it will be a very special evening.
Max-Morlock Stadium renovation: Proprojekt awarded contract
The city of Nuremberg has awarded PROPROJEKT the project management services for the next phases of the complete renovation of the Max-Morlock-Stadion as part of an EU-wide tendering process.
The tendering process was conducted in two stages as an EU-wide negotiated procedure. A total of six applications were received, of which five applicants were admitted to the bidding phase. Following negotiations and an evaluation of quality and price, Proprojekt was awarded the contract with the most economically advantageous offer.
Immanuel Geis, project manager and partner of the Proprojekt added: “We are very pleased to be able to support the city of Nuremberg and the club in the further development of the Max-Morlock-Stadium into an innovative, sustainable and economical and, in particular, emotional sports venue.”
Venu announces tech partnership with AmpThink
Venu Holding Corporation ("VENU" or the "Company"), owner, operator, and developer of premium entertainment and hospitality destinations, today announced another large, long-term strategic partnership with AmpThink, a nationally recognised leader in the design and deployment of complex technology systems in large-scale public venues. Under the agreement, AmpThink will serve as VENU’s Master Technology Integrator tasked with innovating across its current and future amphitheater development portfolio.
AmpThink will support the planning and implementation of large-format digital displays, immersive video walls, audio-visual systems, wireless infrastructure, creative technology solutions, and robust wired networking environments. The partnership reflects VENU’s commitment to responsible stewardship of capital and operational efficiency. By centralizing technology strategy, the Company aims to streamline deployment, reduce redundancies, lower total cost of ownership, and enhance long-term system performance across its venues.
“We view technology infrastructure as foundational to both the fan experience and the long-term performance of our venues,” said JW Roth, Founder, Chairman and CEO of VENU. “AmpThink brings deep expertise in complex venue integration, and this partnership strengthens our ability to execute efficiently, scale intelligently, and deliver immersive environments that serve both artists and audiences. Together, we will build the future of live entertainment.”
“We’re proud to partner with VENU as it builds a new generation of premium live entertainment destinations,” said Bill Anderson, President of AmpThink. “VENU is completely reimagining what it means to experience your favourite artist, integrating technology, design, and infrastructure in a way that elevates both performance and ambiance. We’re excited to contribute our expertise in resilient, scalable systems that support immersive experiences while maximising operational efficiency, strengthening VENU’s ability to execute at scale across its premium, national portfolio.”
AmpThink has delivered large-scale projects including SoFi Stadium and Hollywood Park, CPKC Stadium, and CityPark. Its experience of deploying high-density wireless networks and hyper-converged infrastructure in major public venues is expected to support operational reliability, long-term cost efficiencies, and scalable innovation as VENU’s portfolio expands. VENU’s current development pipeline spans Oklahoma, Colorado, and Texas, with a long-term goal of reaching up to 40 locations nationwide.
Together, VENU and AmpThink will prioritise artist- and fan-centered design, ensuring that technology systems enhance immersive experiences while maintaining operational excellence behind the scenes. From VENU’s omni-content programming model to premium environments like the Aikman Club and Luxe FireSuites to large-scale stage production capabilities, the collaboration is designed to elevate the live entertainment experience across all touch points.
Marvel Stadium boosted with introduction of Optical Tracking Technology
The AFL and Telstra have announced a two-year partnership with Champion Data to trial cutting-edge Optical Tracking Technology at Marvel Stadium, representing a significant advancement in football technology and innovation.
A program that is set to pioneer the way AFL stadiums could look in the future, the trial will see more than 40 cameras installed at Marvel Stadium, creating a sophisticated data capture system designed to transform multiple aspects of the game.
The optical tracking technology will enable the development of comprehensive data models across five key areas:
- Fan Engagement: Integration of enhanced broadcast and digital content to elevate the viewing experience for AFL supporters.
Performance Analytics: Advanced injury prevention measures and detailed performance analysis to support player welfare and development. - Coaching Innovation: Real-time team structure analysis, in-game technique assessment, and the ability to explore the creation of virtual reality coaching content to enhance tactical preparation.
- Officiating Support: Goal-line technology and additional adjudication tools to assist match officials in critical decision-making.
- Medical Applications: High-quality vision capture for concussion assessment and other medical analysis requirements.
Pioneered by Telstra, the collaboration reflects a shared vision to advance the sport through innovative technology, enhancing player welfare, coaching capabilities, fan engagement, and officiating standards.
Telstra has invested heavily in increasing network capability at Marvel Stadium to enable the new technology, now establishing it as the AFL’s leading venue for technological innovation.
Australia’s leading telco has rebuilt its network at Marvel Stadium, converging 4G, 5G and Wi-Fi infrastructure to provide the high-speed connectivity critical to monitoring the rapid movement from cameras during play, creating the conditions necessary for live analytics, officiating support, and enhanced fan experiences at scale.
The trial is expected to commence following camera installation in mid-2026, with insights gathered throughout the two-year program informing potential broader implementation across AFL venues.
The introduction of optical tracking follows the successful launch of Telstra Touch and Track, developed by the AFL, Telstra and Champion Data, which allows AFL fans who are blind or have low vision to follow live AFL games by physically feeling player and ball movement.
The system previously used 14 cameras to track the ball, with the new optical tracking trial expanding this to more than 40 cameras following the player and ball, which will further enhance the experience and support the continued rollout of the initiative.
Bec Haagsma, AFL Executive General Manager Customer, Commercial and Technology, said: “Optical tracking puts the AFL and Marvel Stadium at the forefront of how technology can shape the future of our game, both on and off the field.
“Working with Telstra and Champion Data, we’re excited to explore over the next two years how this technology can enhance everything from player welfare and coaching to officiating and the way fans experience football — not just at Marvel Stadium, but across AFL venues into the future.”
Nathan Gumley, Group owner - IT software engineering, Product and Technology, Telstra said: “Optical tracking is a step change in how we understand the game, and more importantly how we bring fans closer to it. We’re focused on building products that turn world class network capability into world class experiences, and this project is a perfect example of that in action. It’s only possible through deep partnership, and we’re proud to be working alongside the AFL and Champion Data to unlock richer, faster insights that can power everything from officiating to more personalised digital experiences for fans.”
Scott Fitzgerald, General Manager Marvel Stadium said: "The Optical Tracking Technology trial at Marvel Stadium will enhance our capability as a venue not just for AFL games but for other sports, major events and concerts.
"At Marvel Stadium, we are leaders in innovation and are always continuing to look at ways to improve the stadium alongside Telstra and Champion Data. We are excited to see the rollout of this program and how it can improve multiple aspects of how we operate."
Aaron Cross, CEO, Champion Data said: “Champion Data commenced our optical tracking program two years ago, appointing Dr Stuart Morgan (from the AIS) to lead the program. In the 2025 AFL season we delivered live ball tracking. In 2026 and beyond, the next phase is a potentially world-first integration of optical tracking with event and device technologies in a live ecosystem for the AFL.
“It enhances the 2025 solution and creates a pathway to global leadership in both officiating and game insight. The AFL has set significant expectations in both domains, and we aim to meet them while deepening our long-standing partnership with Telstra in fan engagement and attracting new fans with innovative ideas for game-day experiences.”
SIS Pitches transform Hednesford Town playing surface
A new, state-of-the-art hybrid pitch looks set to play a major role in a season to remember for Hednesford Town FC, with the club challenging at the top of the Northern Premier League just months after the pitch was installed.
The pitch, which was developed and delivered through a collaboration between SIS Pitches, SEL Environmental and FORMA, was installed over the summer as part of a major investment programme led by club owners, Craig and Amanda Gwilt.
Designed to provide a faster, more durable and consistent playing surface, as well as advanced water recycling capabilities, the new hybrid pitch system is now being hailed as a key factor behind the Pitmen’s strong start to the 2025/26 campaign.
Hednesford’s board appointed SEL Environmental as the project’s main contractor, who in turn approached SIS Pitches, having been made aware of the business’s expertise and delivery of Everton’s state-of-the-art pitch at Hill Dickinson Stadium. Noting the ambitions for Hednesford’s 6,000 capacity Keys Park, the vision was to install the same pitch system as Everton’s, bringing a world-class playing surface to English football’s seventh tier.
The standout feature of the new Keys Park pitch is its pristine SIS Grass Hybrid surface. Synthetic fibres have been stitched into the natural grass to give roots a stable anchor, greatly enhancing durability throughout a demanding fixture schedule. These fibres also create vertical channels that encourage efficient water movement and support stronger, deeper root development compared with a standard natural pitch, resulting in a more resilient and consistently high‑performing playing surface.
Beneath the playing surface itself, the SIS Air AquaCycle system delivers significant performance and sustainability benefits, combining advanced aeration technology with FORMA’s revolutionary 525,000‑litre Formavoid® subterranean raft system.
Acting as a water‑storage layer directly beneath the pitch, the Formavoid® raft captures rainfall at source and retains it close to the rootzone for controlled, sustainable reuse. During heavy rainfall, the aeration system’s vacuum fan draws excess water through the pitch into the raft, where it can either be harvested for irrigation or temporarily stored and released at a regulated rate. Meanwhile, the aeration system operates in pressure mode to relieve compaction, enhancing airflow and nutrient movement to promote healthier turf.
With limited space at the stadium, a bespoke 40‑foot containerised plant room was created and installed on site. Fully controllable via smartphone, tablet or computer, the solution is expected to deliver strong environmental gains and a favourable long‑term return for the club.
Commercially, the new hybrid pitch is already proving its value. With capacity for up to three times the use of a standard natural surface, Keys Park can now host Premier League academies, women’s fixtures, and potentially serve as a training venue for future international tournaments.
Craig Gwilt, owner and chairman at Hednesford Town FC said: “We set out to install one of the most technologically advanced pitches in the world here at Keys Park and certainly feel like we’ve achieved that goal. Feedback from our own coaching staff and players, as well as from opposition clubs has been overwhelmingly positive so far. We certainly feel like we have one of the best facilities in the region, if not the country here in Hednesford, which really helps to put the club on the map and allows us to forge partnerships with some of our neighbouring Premier League and EFL clubs.”
“One of the most satisfying aspects of the project is that we’ve not only introduced an asset that will benefit the club commercially but will also minimise our environmental impact. For us, balancing those two has always been paramount.”
Miami Freedom Park: Evolv to provide spectator screening services
Evolv Technologies Holdings, Inc., a leading security technology company pioneering AI-based solutions designed to create safer experiences, today announced that Evolv Express® has been selected for use stadium-wide at Inter Miami CF's new home located at Miami Freedom Park.
Evolv Express Gen2 systems will be installed at the new 25,000-seat Florida stadium, which is slated to open on April 4, 2026. Evolv Express was designed to allow people to move through screening at their natural walking pace, aiming to provide a welcoming security screening experience for fans.
The stadium will also utilise the Evolv eXpedite™ autonomous x-ray bag scanner for additional screenings.
Concurrent with the deployment, Evolv has been designated as the “Official Fan Screening Provider of Miami Freedom Park.” The company will have a brand presence inside the new stadium on match days and year-round on the venue’s digital media.
“It’s especially gratifying to add Miami Freedom Park to our professional sports customer roster, which now stands at over 60 teams and venues in the U.S. and Canada,” said John Baier, Evolv’s Vice President of Sports & Entertainment. “Just as the Stadium is cutting edge in design, Express and eXpedite are cutting edge in security screening technology. It’s an ideal combination, and we’re excited to help deliver on the team’s vision to build a first-class destination for Miami and the world.”
Evolv Express has been used at all match venues and select training sites during prominent global soccer competitions. Worldwide, Evolv counts nearly 100 customers on its sports and entertainment roster, and more than 1,100 across all verticals. The deployment also expands Evolv’s substantial existing footprint in the Sunshine State, joining Benchmark International Arena (formally Amalie Arena) in Tampa, among others.
Designs for a world-class sports enclave in Amdavad revealed
Designs for an ambitious, 350-acre masterplan for the new Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave at the heart of Amdavad have been unveiled.
A design consortium of BDP, Cox Architecture and Collage Design is shaping a vibrant new district where world-class sport meets community life, blending international expertise with the cultural richness of Gujarat.
Situated beside the Sabarmati River, the enclave will become India’s newest city park offering recreation and social amenities to the people of Amdavad.
Like Le Corbusier and Louis Kahn’s seminal works in Amdavad that inspired B. V. Doshi and Charles Correa, the new enclave weaves tradition and modernity into a world-class precinct that reflects India’s growing ambition to combine global sports with community-focused development, bringing socio-economic growth to its cities. With the Commonwealth Games Federation naming Amdavad as the host city for the Commonwealth Games centenary event in 2030 and Gujarat confirmed to host the 2029 World Police & Fire Games, the design signals the city’s emergence as India’s premier sports capital.
These events will help to enhance infrastructure development, generate significant investment and business opportunities and create more than 20,000 jobs in the hospitality and retail sectors in the city.
The masterplan is guided by four guiding principles: climate responsiveness, integration with nature, architecture that is modern yet authentic, and a sustainable legacy for the city. Centred on a green boulevard and anchored by the iconic, 132,000-seat Narendra Modi Stadium, the plan integrates Commonwealth Games-ready facilities with plazas, gardens, and climate-responsive streetscapes.
Three major venues - the International Tennis Centre, an Indoor Arena, and an Aquatic Centre - together with a National Institute of Sports Excellence, are framed by stepped landscaped podiums that balance security, scale, and Gujarati architecture traditions. A mandala grid and lush greenery provide year-round comfort and highlight the entrances to each venue.
At the centre of the enclave, a new Tennis Centre, the first of its scale in India, will feature a 10,000-seat centre court, 5,000- and 3,000-seat show courts, and eight match courts. A floating fabric roof and suspended soffit provide shade while allowing natural ventilation, and shaded balconies with planted edges offer views of the river and surrounding matches. A fan plaza will connect all courts, creating an energetic focal point for spectators. The tennis centre will also transform into a tennis club with indoor and outdoor tennis courts, hospitality venues and other ancillary uses.
Nestled between the new International Tennis Centre and the Narenda Modi Stadium is the new National Institute of Sports Excellence. This new sporting ashram will become the centre of training for India’s next generation of sports stars. The complex includes training halls, gymnasiums, recovery equipment and bio-medical facilities to be used by the athletes and coaches.
At the eastern end of the SVP Enclave is the new 18,000 seat international indoor arena, making it the largest indoor arena of this scale in India. Designed to international standards for gymnastics and basketball finals, this venue will also go on to host concerts, family entertainment as well as kabaddi and other sports. Facades clad in bronze anodised aluminium jali screens reference traditional jharokhas and chhajjas, providing both cultural depth and environmental protection.
“Our vision for the Sports Enclave is to create an inclusive, sustainable and distinctly Indian destination for world sport. By drawing on Amdavad’s architectural traditions and blending them with cutting-edge design and technology, we are designing-out single use, sporting venues that decay over time. We are shaping new, visually beautiful places that will host the world’s greatest sporting moments, but also remain an active, vibrant part of the city’s everyday life for decades to come,” said Manisha Bhartia, Urbanism Director and Head of BDP India.
To the west of the SVP Enclave next to Modi Stadium is the new Aquatic Centre seating 12,000 spectators during major tournaments and reducing to 4,000 post-event. Following consultation with international sporting federations, the centre will be designed to meet international event hosting standards for world-class swimming, diving and synchronised swimming and will also serve the community as a learning and leisure pool.
An exposed exoskeleton, double-glazed curtain wall, overhanging roof and coloured glass louvres ensure the centre has both visual impact and passive climate control. The lantern-like form recall the floating sky lanterns of Diwali on the Sabarmati River.
The riverfront itself will be transformed into a central Games Plaza, envisioned to host ceremonial spaces for mega sporting events and later evolving into a vibrant public destination with dining, community sports courts and an urban park for year-round use by Amdavad’s citizens. The biodiverse park will act as a “green lung” for Amdavad, hosting national and international events while remaining open to all year-round.
“The rich architectural response, building on Indian modernity and tradition, has created a truly unique design full of meaning and context that will make a lasting experience for global sporting events as well as a legacy that goes beyond such events. This new public park and associated architecture will place Amdavad on the world stage for many years to come,” added Alastair Richardson, Director, Cox Architecture.
The consortium’s vision offers a bold new model for how major sporting events can elevate a city, creating a destination for the world while leaving a lasting legacy for its citizens.
Hill Dickinson Stadium to host top Nations Championship fixture
Everton Football Club has confirmed that Hill Dickinson Stadium will host an international rugby union fixture this summer, as Fiji take on England in the Nations Championship on Saturday 11 July 2026.
The match will see Mick Byrne’s Flying Fijians face England in what promises to be a spectacular occasion at Everton’s world-class waterfront home. The fixture forms part of Fiji’s inaugural Nations Championship campaign, with the Pacific nation choosing to stage its designated home fixtures in the Northern Hemisphere.
Kick-off for the historic fixture is scheduled for 2:10pm (BST), with the match to be broadcast live on ITV1 in the UK.
The Nations Championship will begin in July 2026, with Fiji facing Wales in Cardiff before travelling to Merseyside to meet England, ahead of a third fixture against Scotland at Murrayfield.
The event will transform Hill Dickinson Stadium into a celebration of Fijian culture and heritage. As a designated home fixture for Fiji, supporters can expect vibrant fan zones featuring traditional music, food, dance and cultural performances, creating an authentic atmosphere and a unique matchday experience for fans in Liverpool and beyond.
“We are incredibly proud to welcome Fiji and England to Hill Dickinson Stadium for what will be a landmark international occasion. Our new stadium was built to host world-class sport and entertainment, and this fixture is another powerful statement of its status as a global events venue. To see an international rugby match of this calibre staged here so soon after opening reflects our ambition and the confidence event organisers have in our facilities and the city region,” said Angus Kinnear, Chief Executive Officer at Everton Football Club.
“We are pleased to be taking the England men’s team to the North West to play Fiji at Everton's Hill Dickinson Stadium; a fantastic new venue that is fitting for the inaugural year of the Nations Championship. The Nations Championship delivers more meaningful, high-stakes fixtures that will energise existing fans and attract new audiences. Hosting this fixture in a new stadium will only add to this,” added Bill Sweeney, Rugby Football Union CEO.
Since opening in August 2025, Hill Dickinson Stadium has already hosted the Rugby League Ashes and will welcome Rugby League’s Magic Weekend in the summer, while also preparing to stage international football fixtures including Scotland v Ivory Coast in March as part of their respective World Cup preparations.
Everton's home has also been confirmed as a host stadium for UEFA EURO 2028 and is currently shortlisted as part of the UK bid process for the 2035 FIFA Women’s World Cup - underlining its status as a global sporting destination.