The Premier League (PL) club, Everton FC have inked a multi-year partnership with a California-based security and networking subsidiary of Hewlett Packard Enterprise, HPE Aruba Networking.
As part of the agreement, the leading provider of business network infrastructure has become Everton Stadium’s official supplier, offering a secure and sophisticated networking infrastructure solution.
The system, which is presently being built at the club’s new waterfront location, will comprise switches, access points, wireless and wired network management and security software, network design, administration, and monitoring services.
HPE Aruba Networking is Hewlett Packard Enterprise’s business unit and a major provider of next-generation networking technologies. The agreement implies that the worldwide edge-to-cloud firm will offer an extensive networking framework throughout the Blues’ new 52,888-capacity stadium.
When the stadium opens for business at the beginning of the 2025–2026 season, Everton will be able to leverage HPE Aruba Networking’s solutions to build its connected stadium strategy and employ cutting-edge digital technologies to deliver a compelling fan experience for all visitors, encouraging them to stay longer and take advantage of the amazing amenities that the new stadium has to offer.
HPE Aruba Networking is a pioneer in security-first, AI-powered networking and has a long history of supplying vital infrastructure for sports and event facilities all over the world.
Building on this experience, HPE Aruba Networking will provide a complete solution allowing Everton to provide faster service at all digital points of contact, additional fan services real-time offers, and high connection across the stadium.
Richard Kenyon, Chief Commercial and Communications Officer at Everton FC, said, “Working with HPE Aruba Networking will give Everton Stadium a best-in-class Wi-Fi network infrastructure and we are delighted to have them as an Official Supplier. Their expertise in networking some of the biggest venues in the UK, Europe and North America will be important as we develop the digital infrastructure and potential of Everton Stadium. A big positive of the move to our new home will be connectivity for supporters and the opportunities that will provide us to engage our partners in delivering the latest in digital experiences and services, both on matchdays and during other events held at the venue.
“I would like to thank our Partnerships and Technology teams as well as our colleagues at Elevate for the work they have put in over recent months to secure this exciting deal.”
Mark Weeks, director of UK & Ireland, HPE Aruba Networking, said, “We are proud to be joining the project to deliver a world-class venue and a world-class home for Everton. At HPE Aruba Networking, we know that technology is a key element to every fan experience, from the point when they enter the stadium, at times when they want to share their excitement with loved ones outside of the stadium, at half-time, when leveraging local services like restaurants and bars, and even after the match has ended.
“HPE Aruba Networking’s custom-designed and reliable network infrastructure enables Everton to stay connected with their fans throughout their matchday experience and beyond, helping the Club create a modern, interactive matchday experience.”
Recently, the club also secured a multi-year partnership with the British sportswear brand, Castore.