ASM Global has partnered with Evolv Technology, a leader in weapons detection security screening. Evolv Technology’s solutions will be deployed at ASM Global venues to enhance venue safety and security, as well as improve the customer experience by reducing queues and offering a “seamless and swift arrival” to the venue.

AO Arena, Manchester, operated by ASM Global, is the first arena in Europe to use Evolv’s cutting edge technology as part of ASM Global’s £50m investment into the Manchester venue. The venue has been using AI-based threat detection screening system, Evolv Express®, to screen guests as they arrive at the arena for events, without the need to stop or remove items from their pockets or policy-compliant bags. So far, the system has been used for eight shows and welcomed more than 54,000 guests with a full roll-out planned for September.

As part of this forward-thinking new partnership, ASM Global has been working closely with Evolv to ensure the technology has been tested to Government standards in both the UK and US, as well as collaborating on further improvements and continuous development.

Evolv Express® uses sensor technology with proven artificial intelligence (AI) to provide safer, more accurate threat detection at unprecedented volumes and speed of entry. Venue ingress data provided by Evolv’s analytics also helps venues to transform the way in which they plan their security staff and wider operations. In an industry first, security professionals can use historical and real-time screening data to gain insights and to make predictions about throughput, with the goal of improving the guest experience while making the space more secure.

Peter George, CEO of Evolv Technology, said: “We are thrilled to partner with ASM Global to provide an enhanced security posture for AO Arena while making sure the guest experience is truly enhanced. With this partnership, AO Arena joins other iconic venues secured by Evolv, including Lincoln Center and Gillette Stadium in the US. As we continue to expand globally, we look forward to working with ASM to help bring safer venues and better experiences to more people.”

Gary Simpson, director of safety security and risk for ASM Global, said: “We have been working with Evolv for over two years supporting the testing and development of the Evolv Express system.  The detection technology has been used for some time in America but this is the first such deployment at an arena in Europe. Given the positive experience at the AO Arena, Manchester we are planning a further roll out to other venues in Europe as part of our VenueShield programme.”