Sports and entertainment venues aren’t just places to watch a game or concert anymore—they’ve become fully connected ecosystems. Fans now expect the same level of connectivity, convenience, and personalization inside an arena that they get at home. And the industry is responding. The global smart stadium market is projected to grow by more than $50.7 billion between 2023 and 2028, a 30% jump driven by demand for smoother transactions, better Wi-Fi, and stronger security, according to Yahoo Finance.

At ScanSource, we see firsthand how our suppliers are shaping this evolution. Here’s how today’s arenas are becoming smarter, safer, and more profitable—with the help of ScanSource and our best-in-class technology partners.

Connectivity that keeps fans engaged

Let’s be honest—no one wants laggy Wi-Fi when they’re trying to post a touchdown reaction or share a concert highlight. Reliable, high-density connectivity is the foundation of the modern arena experience.

Cisco’s Wi-Fi 6E solutions are powering some of the world’s most advanced venues, keeping tens of thousands of devices online at once. With 82% of fans using their phones during events (per Deloitte), this matters more than ever.

Meanwhile, Extreme Networks, the official Wi-Fi analytics provider of the NFL, has deployed cutting-edge 6 GHz and AI-driven network solutions in more than 30 stadiums. Together, these technologies ensure fans can stream, share, navigate digital ticketing, and engage with the venue in real time—without a single spinning wheel.

Faster, smarter transactions and concessions

Nothing kills the mood like standing in a concession line during a big play. That’s why arenas are turning to modern POS solutions to speed up transactions and improve the overall flow.

apg and Toshiba are leading this shift with durable, high-speed POS platforms that support mobile ordering, self-service kiosks, and cashless payments. Take Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, where more than 450 POS systems keep food, drinks, and merchandise moving quickly. The result? Happier fans, shorter lines, and higher revenue for venues.

Security that scales with the crowd

With tens of thousands of people passing through gates in a matter of hours, security must be both proactive and precise. And it’s only growing in importance—the global stadium security market is expected to rise from $14.01 billion in 2025 to $20 billion by 2030 (SNS Insider).

Suppliers like Hanwha Vision are at the forefront with AI-powered video analytics for crowd behavior, object detection, and license plate recognition. HES/Assa Abloy complements this with advanced access control, making sure only authorized personnel reach restricted areas.

And because none of this can afford a power interruption, CyberPower provides robust backup power and UPS solutions that help keep operations—and safety systems—running without disruption.

Operational infrastructure that works behind the scenes

Fans may never see the infrastructure that keeps an arena operating smoothly, but they definitely feel the effects when it’s done right.

NVT Phybridge ensures reliable voice and data communications, even in high-density environments where traditional cabling struggles. Datalogic’s scanning solutions accelerate ticket scanning at entry gates and boost efficiency at retail counters, helping prevent bottlenecks as crowds move throughout the venue.

When these technologies work in harmony, the entire operation—from entry to exit—feels seamless.

The smart arena era is here

Smart arenas aren’t just a trend—they’re the future of sports and entertainment, driven by innovations in connectivity, commerce, and security. With technology leaders like Cisco, apg, CyberPower, Datalogic, Extreme Networks, Hanwha Vision, HES/Assa Abloy, NVT Phybridge, Toshiba, ScanSource is uniquely positioned to help venues build immersive fan experiences and rock-solid operations.

As market demand accelerates, these solutions will define the next generation of venues—turning every game, concert, and event into an unforgettable experience.

Interested in learning more? Reach out to your ScanSource rep today.