What transforms a routine matchday into a memory that fans cherish for years? It’s not just the roar of the crowd or the thrill of the game—it’s the seamless experience behind the scenes, from swift food orders to effortless payments. In 2026, Global Payments Inc., a titan in payment technology, steps into the spotlight as the headline sponsor of The Stadium Events & Hospitality Awards at Everton Football Club’s new Hill Dickinson Stadium. This partnership promises to elevate the celebration of stadium excellence to new heights, showcasing how innovation can redefine fan experiences.
Why This Sponsorship Packs a Punch
The announcement of Global Payments as the headline sponsor for the 2026 awards isn’t merely a branding move; it’s a testament to the growing intersection of technology and sports hospitality. Scheduled for July 2, 2026, at Everton’s cutting-edge venue, this event marks a pivotal moment for an industry increasingly reliant on digital solutions to meet soaring fan expectations. With over 500 industry professionals set to attend, the night of fine dining and recognition underscores a shared mission: to honor the unseen efforts that make stadiums more than just places to watch a game.
This sponsorship signals a broader shift in how stadiums operate as multi-purpose entertainment hubs. Global Payments, supporting over 5 million business locations worldwide, brings a wealth of expertise to the table. Their involvement hints at a future where every transaction, from buying a hot dog to securing a premium seat, is as smooth as a well-executed play on the field.
The Heart of the Stadium Awards
The Stadium Events & Hospitality Awards, now in its inaugural year of a new era at Everton’s home, stands as a beacon for those who toil behind the scenes. From catering staff ensuring meals are top-notch to operations teams managing massive crowds, these awards celebrate the unsung heroes of sports venues across football, rugby, and cricket in the UK. The event’s after-party, lasting until 3 a.m., offers a rare chance for these professionals to unwind and connect over shared challenges and triumphs.
Beyond the glitz of the ceremony, the awards highlight a critical truth: fan satisfaction hinges on the details. As stadiums evolve into year-round destinations for concerts and events, the pressure to deliver exceptional hospitality intensifies. This platform not only rewards excellence but also sets a benchmark for what fans should expect, pushing venues to innovate or risk being left behind.
Global Payments: Redefining the Game
Far from just a name on the event banner, Global Payments is actively shaping how fans interact with stadium environments. With solutions like pre-event ordering, self-order kiosks, and QR code scanning already in place at 41 UK venues, their technology slashes wait times and boosts satisfaction. Their role as presenter of the coveted Overall Matchday Hospitality Award in 2026 further cements their commitment to recognizing venues that excel in guest experience, regardless of size.
Their impact is tangible—consider a packed football match where thousands of fans order refreshments without missing a goal, thanks to streamlined payment systems. This isn’t just about convenience; it’s about crafting moments that keep fans coming back. By aligning with the awards’ mission, Global Payments amplifies the focus on blending cutting-edge tools with heartfelt service across diverse sports arenas.
Voices That Echo Innovation
Steve McArdle, director of sports and entertainment solutions at Global Payments, encapsulates the essence of this collaboration: “Supporting an event that unites the best in stadium hospitality is an honor. It drives us to push boundaries in enhancing every fan interaction.” His words reflect a shared industry sentiment that technology isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity for managing modern crowds.
Feedback from venues using these systems paints a vivid picture of change. One rugby stadium reported a 30% reduction in concession stand lines after adopting self-order kiosks, translating to happier fans and higher sales. Such stories reveal the ripple effect of innovation, where recognizing the teams behind these advancements at the awards becomes a catalyst for industry-wide improvement.
Seizing the Spotlight in 2026
For stadium operators and hospitality teams eager to make their mark, the 2026 awards offer a golden opportunity. Embracing tech solutions, such as those pioneered by Global Payments, can transform operational efficiency—think faster transactions and personalized service that wow attendees. Submitting entries for one of the 15 award categories by the March 27, 2026, deadline provides a chance to gain recognition, with independent judging ensuring a level playing field for all contenders.
Networking at the event also holds immense value. The late-night after-party isn’t just a celebration; it’s a forum to exchange ideas with peers from across the UK’s sports landscape. Venues, whether small cricket grounds or sprawling football complexes, can leverage these connections to adopt best practices and forge partnerships that elevate their game, proving that excellence is within reach for any team willing to innovate.
Reflecting on a Milestone Moment
Looking back, the partnership between Global Payments and The Stadium Events & Hospitality Awards at Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium in 2026 stood as a defining chapter for stadium hospitality. It highlighted how technology and dedication intertwined to create unforgettable fan experiences. The event not only celebrated the industry’s finest but also set a precedent for what was possible when innovation met recognition.
As the industry moved forward, the challenge became clear: venues needed to continue adopting advanced tools to stay competitive. Teams were encouraged to explore new payment systems and hospitality strategies, ensuring fans felt valued at every touchpoint. The legacy of that night in 2026 served as a reminder that the future of stadium experiences depended on a relentless pursuit of excellence, inspiring a new wave of transformation across the sports world.
