Tonight is the first game of Southend United's cashless payment pilot in the West Stand.
Season Card Holders and ticket purchasers in blocks S, T, U and V will have now received their cashless payment card through the post.
It is important that supporters in these areas bring that card with them tonight as otherwise they will not be able to purchase anything at the catering unit or in the bar.
No cash payments will be accepted at either of these locations and only cashless cards will be taken.
These cards will need to be topped up in advanced of visiting the catering outlets by seeing one of our Top-up Stewards to exchange cash for credit on your card.
Alternatively you can top up now by visiting the Blues Box Office in prior to tonight and top up with one of our ticketing staff.
A full FAQ on cashless payment can be seen below.
Q: Why are Southend United considering going cashless?
A: The Football Club has made a number of developments off the pitch in recent season to enhance supporters' matchday experience. Going cashless is the next step in delivering efficient customer service by speeding up the time it takes our vendors to serve customers.
Q: When is the pilot being run?
A: The cashless pilot will take place at the Brentford, Brighton and Stockport games.
Q: Will it affect me?
A: If you sit in the West Stand in blocks S, T, U, V and W then the cashless pilot involves you. The Family Enclosure is not included in the pilot.
Q: How do I get my cashless card?
A: Season Card Holders in West Stand blocks S, T, U, V and W have been sent their cashless card. Those supporters who purchase tickets on a match-by-match basis and have purchased for the Brentford game will also have received their card with their ticket. Those purchasing tickets for the Brighton and Stockport matches will be sent a card with their tickets going forwards or can collect one from the Blues Box Office.
Q: How can I put credit on my cashless card?
A: Two options are available to you if you wish to charge your cashless card with credit. Firstly you can contact the Blues Box Office at anytime in the week to place credit on your card in advance of the match. Alternatively there will be a number of Top-up Stewards at the match who can place credit on your card in return for equal amount of cash. It is recommended on the first occasion that you try to put credit on your card in advance of a matchday.
Q: How much credit can I place on my cashless card?
A: As much or as little as you wish. A minimum deposit of £5 applies and then in multiples of £5 thereafter.
Q: What if I don't spend it all in one visit?
A: If you are likely to come to Roots Hall again for another game then your remaining credit will still be valid for subsequent matches. However, if you are not sure when you might visit again or if you don't plan on coming to another match a refund can be obtained from the Blues Box Office either after the match or during the week of any unspent credit.
Q: How do I use the card?
A: You will place your food or drink order in the usual way with the catering vendor. You will be told how much the total of that order is and then you will place your cashless card on a reader on the counter. This will take payment for the products purchased automatically and will also give you a visual display of how much credit remains on your card.
Q: How can I tell how much credit I have remaining?
A: A supporter can either hand their card to our Top-up Steward to tell them how much credit they have left, enquire at the Blues Box Office or as mentioned above see a visual display when purchasing items.
Q: Can I still pay with cash in the usual manner?
A: If you are within the pilot area of the West Stand then no, only cashless payment cards will be accepted. However, if you are sitting in the East, South, Family or North Stands then cash is still accepted.
