In his session, O’Meara will draw on real-world deployments across major arenas and stadiums to demonstrate how robust, future-ready infrastructure delivers measurable ROI – from increased spend per fan to enhanced safety, sustainability and long-term flexibility. Below, O’Meara shares his perspective on the challenges venues face today, the opportunities ahead, and why collaboration across the industry is essential.

What key topic will you be addressing at the summit?

“Next-generation connectivity: the foundation for fan experience, revenue growth and operational excellence.

“Venues are currently facing a perfect storm of challenges. Fans expect seamless digital experiences – from mobile ticketing and in-seat ordering to sharing live content in real time. At the same time, venue operators are under pressure to increase revenue, improve safety systems and operate more efficiently.

“All of this depends on robust, reliable connectivity. Yet many venues are still operating with outdated infrastructure that simply can’t keep pace with demand. Data usage is doubling year-on-year at major events. For example, the Taylor Swift Eras Tour averaged over 50 terabytes per show – around 60% more than the Super Bowl.

“The question is no longer whether venues need to upgrade connectivity. That’s a given. The real challenge is how to do it in a way that delivers tangible business outcomes today while preparing for tomorrow’s innovations.”

How does your technology help solve a major challenge for live-venue operators?

“We help venues solve the capacity crisis while unlocking new revenue opportunities. A great example is First Direct Arena in Leeds, the UK’s first 5G neutral host venue. The arena needed to replace decade-old infrastructure that could no longer support modern demand, while futureproofing for emerging technologies, such as augmented reality experiences, in-seat ordering and advanced analytics.

“We delivered a multi-carrier 5G network that supports all UK mobile operators through a single, consolidated infrastructure. This provides seamless connectivity for all 13,781 fans, significantly reduces the infrastructure footprint – freeing up valuable venue space – and lowers total cost of ownership compared with multiple carrier-specific systems. Crucially, it also provides the capacity needed to support next-generation fan experiences and IoT applications.

“We’re seeing similar results across our wider portfolio. At the Stadium of Light, Sunderland AFC’s 49,000-capacity home, our 5G network has transformed both fan satisfaction and operational efficiency, enabling seamless mobile ticketing, cashless payments and in-seat ordering for Premier League matches. At T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, home of the Stanley Cup champion Vegas Golden Knights, our high band 5G network with 145 antennas delivers some of the fastest speeds in the sports and entertainment industry. At Rocket Arena in Cleveland, a neutral host DAS supports 800,000 fans annually, achieving a 67% reduction in equipment space while enabling mobile betting and cashless transactions. And at Cowtown Coliseum, a Texas Historic Landmark, we’ve demonstrated that cutting-edge connectivity can be deployed while preserving architectural integrity.

“The consistent result across all these venues is that fans stay connected, operators gain the flexibility to innovate, and venues benefit from having one reliable partner managing the entire system. We’re also currently conducting new research into the tangible and intangible ROI of connectivity – from revenue per fan to loyalty and satisfaction metrics – and I’m looking forward to sharing those insights soon.”

What outcomes or collaborations are you hoping to see from this summit?

“Deeper alignment around what next-generation venue experiences should really look like. The industry is at an inflection point. Fan expectations are rising, technology is evolving rapidly, and no single organisation can deliver the future alone. I’m hoping to see stronger collaboration between venue operators, technology partners and content creators.

“In particular, I’d like to see meaningful conversations around unified approaches to fan data and personalisation, standards for safety-critical communications, strategies for sustainable and energy-efficient infrastructure, the use of connected technologies to drive operational efficiency, converting fan experience into revenue, and new commercial models that work for venues of all sizes.

“At Boldyn, partnership is central to how we work. We’re here to listen, learn and co-create solutions that move the industry forward.”

How is your company innovating in security and safety?

“Connectivity isn’t just about fan convenience — it’s foundational to venue safety. Our networks support critical systems such as real-time CCTV and video analytics, crowd-flow monitoring and management, digital ticketing and access control, emergency communications for staff and first responders, and secure back-of-house operations.

“We’re also integrating advanced edge capabilities that allow venues to process data locally and respond faster. Whether it’s identifying congestion points, supporting contactless entry or enabling secure staff communications, our infrastructure ensures safety technologies perform reliably when they’re needed most.”

How does your solution enhance fan engagement, satisfaction and loyalty?

“We enable the connected experiences fans expect, and the personalisation that keeps them coming back.

“Today’s fans want more than just a seat – they want an experience worth sharing. Our networks support instant social sharing, with research showing that 87% of fans post to social media during events. They also enable seamless digital services, from mobile tickets – now used by 77% of fans – to in-seat ordering, which 73% say they want. On top of that, our infrastructure supports immersive experiences such as AR activations, personalised offers and real-time statistics.

“Our research shows that when fans feel connected, both digitally and emotionally, they stay longer, spend more and return more often. By ensuring every fan’s device works flawlessly, we help venues deliver the moments that matter.”

What trends will shape the next three to five years, and how are you adapting?

“We’re seeing four major shifts. First is the rise of hybrid physical-digital experiences, with fans expecting personalised, interactive content layered onto live events. That requires low-latency, high-capacity networks that support AR, VR, edge computing and real-time personalisation.

“Second is operational automation, from AI-driven crowd management to smart concessions and digital ticketing, all of which demand infrastructure that can operate at scale. Third is sustainability, with venues seeking greener, more energy-efficient systems. Our neutral host model consolidates infrastructure, reducing both power consumption and physical footprint.

“Finally, new event types and audiences, including esports and gaming tournaments, require ultra-low-latency connectivity that traditional networks simply can’t deliver.”

What are you most looking forward to at the summit?

“The conversations. Events like this give us direct access to operators, developers and innovators who are tackling real challenges and exploring new opportunities. I want to hear what’s keeping people up at night, what’s working, what isn’t, and where they see the industry heading.

“Those insights help us ensure our solutions continue to meet the evolving needs of venues and fans. And it’s genuinely energising to be surrounded by people who share a passion for elevating the live entertainment experience.”

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

"We’re entering a new era for live events, one where connectivity is a strategic differentiator, not just a utility. At Boldyn Networks, we’re committed to helping venues deliver unforgettable experiences, operate more efficiently and stay ahead of what fans want next. Whether it’s sports, gaming, concerts or festivals, our mission is simple: empower venues to create moments that matter.

“We’re also excited to be conducting new research that quantifies the real impact of connectivity on venue performance, looking at both tangible ROI, such as revenue per fan, and intangible benefits like satisfaction and loyalty. We’ll be sharing those insights in the coming months, and I’d love to continue the conversation at the summit.”

The Arenas Operators and Developers World Summit will be hosted at the NEC in Birmingham, UK, from 10-11 February 2026. Book your delegate pass today by clicking here.