ZCG-Backed VENU+ Introduces GoPod® Mobile Face Scan, Bringing Industry-First Locker Technology to Guests’ Mobile Phones

New solution developed with HID enables faster, more flexible locker rentals and advances VENU+’s technology-enabled guest experience platform

ORLANDO, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--VENU+, a leading global provider of tech-enabled guest mobility, storage and entertainment solutions for the world’s top amusement destinations, today announced the introduction of GoPod® Mobile Face Scan, an industry-first locker technology that allows guests to use their own mobile phones to scan their faces and rent a locker directly at the door. VENU+ is backed by ZCG Private Equity, the private equity arm of Z Capital Group, LLC (“ZCG”), a privately held global firm.

Developed in partnership with HID Global (“HID”), a leading provider of trusted identity solutions, including biometric authentication and verification, GoPod® Mobile Face Scan builds on VENU+’s existing kiosk-based face scan technology. The solution is designed to make locker rentals faster and more flexible for guests while helping venue operators deliver a more seamless experience. This technology implementation reflects VENU+’s continued focus on anticipating guest needs and applying advanced technology to make everyday interactions more intuitive.

VENU+ will unveil the technology at IAAPA Expo 2026 in Orlando, where the company will also showcase updated face scan cameras and products from its expanded smart locker portfolio.

“GoPod® Mobile Face Scan reflects our continued investment in technology that makes the guest experience more seamless while helping our venue partners meet the evolving expectations of their visitors,” said John Dunlap, Chief Executive Officer of VENU+. “That starts with understanding how people experience our partner venues and anticipating what they need along the way. By partnering with HID and building on our existing locker technology, we’re giving guests more convenient ways to access their belongings and helping operators deliver a simpler, more efficient experience. We look forward to continuing to explore new technologies that can enhance the guest journey across our platform.”

GoPod® Mobile Face Scan allows guests to bypass the kiosk, select a locker and begin their rental by scanning a QR code and using their phone to scan their face. Guests can access their locker throughout the rental using multiple methods, including face scan, phone, PIN or kiosk. Guests can also store their phones in the locker and retrieve their belongings using another access method, combining the convenience of mobile rentals with the freedom to enjoy the venue without carrying a device.

The solution is designed to meet the needs of both venue operators and their guests through:

• Direct-to-door rentals: Guests can select a locker and complete the rental process on their phone without first visiting a kiosk.
• Flexible access: Guests can access their belongings using face scan, phone, PIN or kiosk, with VENU+’s patented keypad access available at every locker door.
• Guest choice and privacy protections: Face scan is optional, and biometric information is deleted when the rental ends. VENU+ does not store or sell guests’ biometric information.
• Fast, convenient service: A streamlined mobile experience helps guests spend less time renting a locker and more time enjoying their visit.

The solution is designed to comply with the General Data Protection Regulation (“GDPR”) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”). HID’s biometric technology is used across a range of settings, including major airports.

The introduction follows VENU+’s acquisitions of VLocker and Tiburon Lockers earlier this year, which expanded the company’s smart locker capabilities and strengthened its ability to serve entertainment destinations across global markets. GoPod® Mobile Face Scan builds on that momentum as VENU+ continues investing in technologies that modernize venue infrastructure and improve the guest journey.

IAAPA Expo 2026 takes place November 16–20 in Orlando, Florida, with the show floor open November 17–20. To learn more about GoPod® Mobile Face Scan, watch the product video here.

About VENU+

VENU+ is the world's leading provider of full-service, tech-enabled solutions designed to generate revenue and improve the guest experience for entertainment destinations worldwide. Its offerings include guest mobility, smart lockers, souvenir coins, photo capture, and entertainment solutions. VENU+ operates in all 50 U.S. states and across 13 countries on four continents, setting the global standard for world-class products and services for more than 42 years. For more information, visit www.VENUplus.com.

VENU+ is backed by ZCG Private Equity, the private equity arm of Z Capital Group, LLC ("ZCG"), a leading, privately held global firm.

About ZCG

ZCG is a leading, privately held global firm comprised of private markets asset management, business consulting services, and technology development and solutions. ZCG’s investors include pension funds, endowments, foundations, sovereign wealth funds, central banks, and insurance companies. For almost 30 years, ZCG Principals have invested tens of billions of dollars of capital. ZCG has approximately 250 professionals across five countries and is headquartered in New York. For more information, visit www.zcg.com.