Boxpark trials track and trace tool

Boxpark has unveiled its new digital Boxpark Black Card, a “customer-friendly” track and trace tool that collects customer data in a secure and contactless way.  

The dining, retail and leisure venue has appointed PassKit as its new technology partner to develop this new solution, which will be rolled out across its venues as a way to securely follow NHS track and trace guidelines. 

The group said it has “continued to digitalise the customer journey” by integrating Apple Wallet and Google Pay into the new pre-registration system, which features a “frictionless and contactless” check-in experience that uses a QR code scan. 

The digital Black Card encourages visitors to pre-register to assist with track and trace, whilst rewarding participants with offers and discounts from select traders in its venues, without the use of physical cards or vouchers. 

When a customer downloads the card they will receive a pass that can be added to their digital wallet for instant access, alongside an email version, which will then be scanned upon entry into the venue. 

The new system will launch this week across all Boxpark venues.

According to the casual dining group, one of the “key issues” facing the sector is handling customer data securely whilst enabling tracking and tracing. 

Its new tool has been launched after a recent survey revealed that only 53% of operators were able to assist the NHS Track and Trace, whilst many more were struggling to implement the right technology or process to do it. 

Roger Wade, Boxpark CEO and founder, said: “Initially we were concerned about meeting the Government requirements which were announced just a week before restaurants, pubs and bars were allowed to reopen, but we quickly identified a smart solution to use our existing membership card as a mechanic for capturing customer data – something that many operators haven’t considered. 

“We are extremely proud of our digital Boxpark Black Card and grateful to the team at PassKit who developed it in a way that is seamless for both customers and our operational staff.” 

He added: “Thanks to PassKit’s API, we have enhanced the contactless experience for customers and essentially created an incentive for them to register their details before they come to our sites. It’s an exciting process which we think will work effortlessly.”