Partnership increases touchless fan journey at Target Field via the MLB Ballpark app
MINNEAPOLIS-ST. PAUL, MN – Continuing preparations for a potential return of fans to the ballpark in 2021, the Minnesota Twins today announced a partnership with Venuetize to deliver the safety and convenience of contactless ordering and payments for concessions and retail items at Target Field. This collaboration with Venuetize, experts in connecting technology ecosystems and delivering cutting edge, mobile-first e-commerce experiences within the sports and entertainment industry, will allow Twins fans to order and pay for food, beverages and merchandise via the MLB Ballpark app on their mobile devices.
Combined with the MLB Ballpark app’s digital ticket delivery, the Twins’ partnership with Venuetize allows for a touchless, single-app fan journey through key areas of the Target Field experience, from frictionless entry to a contactless process for ordering and purchasing food, beverage and merchandise.
“Delivering opportunities for a contactless experience in as many areas of Target Field as possible is a primary factor in our ongoing discussions with Governor Tim Walz, public health officials and Major League Baseball regarding a pathway to the safe return of Twins fans to our ballpark,” said club President & CEO Dave St. Peter. “The ability to order and pre-pay for concessions and merchandise from your seat, on your phone, before quickly picking up your pre-packaged selection, minimizes concourse congestion and potential touchpoints, while maximizing fan safety and convenience. Venuetize is a proven industry leader, we are grateful for their seamless integration with the MLB Ballpark app, and we look forward to further collaboration that enhances the fan experience.”
Upon returning to Target Field, Twins fans will be able to open the MLB Ballpark app, use the mobile ordering function to select their desired food and drink (or Twins gear), and complete payment via their personal mobile wallet – all from their mobile device, and without leaving their seat. Pre-packaged order pick up from separate, designated “grab-and-go” stations will complete the contactless dining and/or retail experience, while greatly reducing lines at traditional concession stands. Further details will be announced at the appropriate time.
“Venuetize has been fortunate to work with several professional sports teams and leagues that have held events with fans back at venues. We can already tell from the data that mobile payments are reducing order time and improving the overall fan experience,” said Todd San Jule, Venuetize’s VP of Product & Innovation. “We couldn’t be more excited to be working with our great partners in Minnesota to deliver innovative, fan-friendly solutions through the MLB Ballpark app to Twins fans as they return to Target Field.”
The 2021 home opener for the back-to-back American League Central Division champion Twins is scheduled for Thursday, April 8 vs. the Seattle Mariners, with a 3:10 p.m. first pitch from Target Field.