Southend United fans hit out at cashless stadium move

Southend United FC fans have accused the club of introducing cashless payments without consulting them.

Earlier this week, the club announced supporters must pay by card at the box office, bars, kiosks and corporate areas at Roots Hall stadium.

Club chief executive Tom Lawrence said it meant staff could serve fans quicker and the changes would be effective for the match against Aldershot Town on Saturday.

But the supporters' group, the Shrimpers Trust, said it would "formally" raise the issue at its next meeting with the club.

"There is a case for modernising commercial processes at the club but we are acutely aware of those fans who might not be able or willing to make the transition," said a trust spokesperson.

"The wider concern for us is that no-one was consulted.

"Neither the fan advisory board, nor the trust through its regular liaison meeting with the club were made aware that this significant operational change was coming."

The fan group said it was disappointed in light of the new Football Governance Act legislation, which aims to give supporters a greater say in their clubs.

A consortium led by Australian businessman Justin Rees bought the club from former owner Ron Martin in 2024, following years of financial uncertainty and debts.

"The club has made many positive steps forward since the change in ownership and we hope that this is an oversight, rather than an indication of the how the club might operate in the future."

Mr Lawrence said the club's priority was to keep "improving the experience" for supporters.

"The new systems will also help us monitor stock levels and better understand what supporters buy which will ensure we can meet the demand for those popular products," he explained.

"Ultimately, we want to deliver a smoother, more enjoyable matchday experience and this is another important step ready for when we build a new East Stand."

Fans will still be able to buy matchday programmes from vendors using cash.

Many other English football stadiums are cashless, including League Two club Colchester United.

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