Colwyn Bay Football Club has introduced a new reusable packaging and smart beverage system at its stadium. The technology from Welsh-founded company Novira is now operational at the Blue Turtle Arena, following its official launch at another stadium recently.
The rollout stems from Novira's partnership with the Football Association of Wales, which made the firm the Official Title Partner of the Cymru Leagues. Consequently, the country's three domestic competitions now carry the Novira branding. For Colwyn Bay, the installation brings a modern element to the fan experience away from the field.
How the Novira system works
The ecosystem links two main hardware components: the intelliPour dispenser and the intelliBin return unit. Fans use a self-serve, cashless method to pour drinks, with the technology guaranteeing a consistent amount. They then place their reusable cups into a smart bin, which employs AI camera technology to examine any leftover contents. This gives clubs information on waste from food and drinks, aiding them in modifying serving sizes and cutting down on disposable packaging.
Chris Smith, Novira's Chief Executive Officer, emphasized the importance of community ties. He expressed pride in seeing the technology adopted by the initial clubs in the leagues. Smith noted that as a Welsh-born entrepreneur leading a Welsh-founded company, the partnership with the FAW offers a special chance to deliver tangible sustainability measures directly to the communities and clubs central to Welsh football.
A winning backdrop for launch
The technology became operational in North Wales amid a positive atmosphere for the Seagulls. The club earned a home win over Connah's Quay Nomads, with goals from J. Davies and S. Forde reversing an early deficit. This outcome extended a recent pattern of mixed but encouraging form over their last few matches.
Chief Revenue Officer Mike Ward stated that the information from returned containers sets their method apart. He explained that their system not only monitors the packaging but also observes what remains inside it. Ward added that the AI cameras in each bin document what food is actually left, allowing venues to identify oversized portions and items that are often not fully consumed.
Future expansion and next steps
Novira, which maintains offices in several locations, intends to keep collaborating with clubs throughout the Welsh leagues to widen the system's use. The firm is also adapting its technology for other catering and event settings, with plans for growth in other continents.
For Colwyn Bay, attention now shifts back to on-field matters as they get ready for their next home match. Supporters at that game will be some of the earliest to try the new tap-and-pour system during a competitive fixture, introducing a fresh aspect to the matchday experience.
More detail at businessnewswales.com
