WICHITA, Kansas, May 7, 2008 – Its season opener was rained out, but the Wingnuts’ new cashless system got a little practice Wednesday.
Want a hotdog at a Wingnuts game? Well you’re money’s no good at them and that doesn’t mean it’s free. The Wingnuts are the first team in the nation to go totally cashless.
“Some of the stadiums in Europe have been cashless for 10 years and the technology has been slow to come to the United States, but we're bringing it over here now,” said Cameron Wall with Total Venue Control.
Some places will still take credit or debit cards, but fans are encouraged to pay with a Smart Card.
"We've got Wingnuts on the front, but we're going to evolve to getting some players on the front sort of like playing cards so they can be collector’s items,” said Josh Robertson, Wingnuts owner and general manager.
Fans buy the cards when they walk in the front door. Cash is accepted there and wherever you go from there, you just swipe to pay.
And with no cash or change to deal with; it’s supposed to be about 30% faster.
"One complaint that I've heard a lot of, being with the Wranglers for nine years is the wait in line for concession stands, and this is supposed to speed them up dramatically,” said Robertson.
After the game, you can get a refund on any unused funds or keep the card for next time. It’s good for two years. Faster, more, convenient and safer; Wingnuts management is hoping it will keep you coming out to the ballpark.
The company that makes the cards is hoping the idea will move up to the big leagues.
"I'm definitely hoping it catches on and this is a great place to start,” Wall said.
Because of tonight’s rain out, the Wingnuts season opener has been rescheduled for Thursday night at 7:05, followed by a double-header on Friday at 5:05. Anyone who purchased tickets for Wednesday night’s game can trade them in for another home game.
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