Wicket has signed its first Canadian customer, with the Calgary Flames deploying the company’s opt-in facial ticketing technology at VIP entry lanes at the Scotiabank Saddledome. The rollout begins in March, ahead of the team’s return to home ice following the Olympic break.
The deployment covers VIP lanes only for this season, giving premium ticketholders the option to link a selfie to their ticket for walk-through entry without stopping to scan a barcode. Calgary Sports and Entertainment Corporation, which operates the Flames, is framing the trial as preparation for a much larger rollout when the team moves to its new arena, Scotia Place, in 2027, where the organization plans to extend facial ticketing to all entry lanes across the venue.
“We’re always looking for ways to enhance the experience for Flames fans, and this partnership with Wicket positions us at the forefront of fan-centric innovation,” said Ziad Mehio, Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer at Calgary Sports and Entertainment Corporation. “With the upcoming move to Scotia Place, we’re excited to test new technology that will help make every visit more seamless and enjoyable.”
Wicket CEO Alastair Partington said the Flames deployment marks an important geographic expansion for the company. “This deployment demonstrates the Flames’ commitment to innovation and fan experience, and we’re proud to support them in bringing frictionless access and next-generation ticketing to their fanbase.”
Wicket’s platform, which uses opt-in facial authentication rather than mandatory scanning, has seen significant uptake across North American sports. The company crossed five million Express Entry scans at live events last fall, and its technology now covers the entire NFL following a six-stadium pilot. The Calgary deployment is the company’s first foray into the NHL market in Canada.
The Saddledome trial gives the Flames organization hands-on experience with the technology before committing to a full-venue deployment at Scotia Place, which is expected to be one of the most technologically advanced arenas in the league when it opens.
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By the ID Tech Editorial Team
