Published by Neil Thompson, 11th November 2025
Stadium Experience is delighted to confirm that Global Payments Inc., a leading worldwide provider of payment technology and software solutions, will return as the headline sponsor of The Stadium Events & Hospitality Awards 2026, taking place next summer at the home of Everton Football Club.
Global Payments delivers tailored hospitality solutions for more than 5 million business locations worldwide and is the payments tech provider for some of the world’s most iconic stadiums and venues. In the UK, Global Payments delivers leading technology and continuous innovation to 41 venues and is redefining the stadium experience with services such as pre-event ordering, table service, self-order kiosks, and QR code scanning.
As part of the event, Global Payments will present the evening’s final prestigious accolade: The Overall Matchday Hospitality Award. This hotly contested category recognises the very best UK stadium hospitality experience, with all venues competing for the same award regardless of size.
“We are proud to once again support this unique gathering of industry professionals, who strive to provide the ultimate guest experience at their venues. As a company committed to building technology that delivers the best event day experience in sports and entertainment, we welcome the chance to honour our fellow experts’ dedication to the fans and this industry.”
Steve McArdle, Director, Sports and Entertainment Solutions, Global Payments
Debbie Rigney, Director of Stadium Experience and the awards organiser, commented: “We are thrilled to welcome back Global Payments as headline sponsor for what will be our 19th annual awards. Their ongoing support is invaluable, and we look forward to showcasing their innovative solutions as we bring together UK stadium venues in Liverpool to celebrate the very best in our industry.”
About The Awards
The Stadium Events & Hospitality Awards 2026 will take place on Thursday 2nd July 2026 at Hill Dickinson Stadium, the new home of Everton Football Club. The event will welcome over 500 guests from stadium venues across the UK to enjoy a night of fine dining, the prestigious awards ceremony, and an onsite after-party running until 3am.
Now in their 19th year, the awards shine a spotlight on the dedication and expertise of catering, operations, and conference & events teams working at football, rugby, and cricket stadiums nationwide. There are 15 award categories to enter, with submissions closing on Friday 27th March 2026. All entries are independently judged by industry experts.
Find out more about The Stadium Events & Hospitality Awards 2026.
