Basketball team Atlanta Hawks used technology from California-based AiFi and Verizon to power its recently added Hawks Express cashierless checkout store at the State Farm Arena.

Located on the 100 West main concourse, and operational from last month, the store uses AiFi’s computer-led autonomous retail technology powered by spatial intelligence. Verizon’s 5G Edge technology helps make it simple, fast and convenient for fans to purchase food and beverages in the arena without queuing, so they can spend more time in front of the action.

Shoppers simply enter the store, select their items, and exit, with purchases automatically processed through their mobile payment method.

“Our collaboration with Verizon and the Atlanta Hawks and State Farm Arena showcases how autonomous retail and seamless entry can transform stadium environments,” said Steve Carlin, CEO of AiFi. “By leveraging cutting-edge technology with spatial intelligence, we are enabling faster, frictionless transactions that redefine convenience for fans while optimising venue operations.

As part of a larger technology initiative, State Farm Arena has also installed Delta fly-through lanes powered by Verizon at gates one, two, three and seven and deployed Verizon sensor insights in the arena’s technical hub. The sensor insights provide near real-time data-driven intelligence to ensure all technical equipment is operating at peak efficiency.

“State Farm Arena is always exploring new digital options to enhance the experience for both our fans and staff,” said Kim Rometo, chief technology officer for State Farm Arena (www.statefarmarena.com). “We are excited to see how the integration of Verizon 5G Edge and AiFi’s technology at the Hawks Express store will make an impact on checkout efficiency and customer satisfaction.”

AiFi (aifi.com) operates in over 280 autonomous store locations worldwide, serving frictionless checkout in over 20 sports stadiums globally including the Intuit Dome, Nissan Stadium and American Express Stadium. It had opened more than 74 stadium stores by the end of 2024, a 236% increase in total stores since 2023. The spatial intelligence company has reached more than nine million customers and processed 7.1 million orders with more than 33 million products sold.

AiFi’s technology is supported through partnerships with Microsoft (www.microsoft.com) and Verizon (www.verizon.com), and the company has raised $80m from investors.