Serving Aces Off the Court: How WEMI Brought ATP UMAG Fans Closer to the Game with Smart Vending

When Tennis Meets Technology in Croatia

At the scenic coastal town of Umag, Croatia, where the annual ATP Plava Laguna Croatia Open draws thousands of tennis fans, a new kind of match point was scored—not on the court, but off it.

In between gripping rallies and star-studded matches, spectators noticed something unexpected near the venue’s entrance and fan zones: sleek, eye-catching vending machines offering official match balls and pro training balls, directly from the tournament.

It wasn’t just merchandise—it was a piece of the ATP experience, available 24/7, right at the fan’s fingertips.

The Client’s Challenge: How to Offer Official ATP Products—On-Demand, On-Brand

The event organizers wanted to enhance the fan experience by giving audiences direct access to official match gear, including:

• ATP UMAG official match balls

• Professional-level training balls used by top players during practice

However, traditional methods of merchandising faced challenges:

• Booth staffing was limited to match hours

• Inventory control and sales tracking were inefficient

• Fans wanted instant access to souvenirs—even late at night

• Pop-up shops took up space and required constant management

The question was clear:
Can we deliver premium merchandise around the clock, while maintaining ATP branding and operational simplicity?

WEMI’s Solution: A Branded Smart Vending Experience for Sports Fans

WEMI designed and deployed a tailor-made vending solution, built specifically for the ATP UMAG tournament environment.

Key Features:

•  Temperature-stable compartments to preserve the quality of the pressurized tennis balls

•  Modular grids fitting both boxed match balls and multipacks of training balls

•  Contactless payment & multilingual touchscreen—perfect for international fans

•  Real-time remote monitoring of inventory and machine status

•  Custom-designed exterior with ATP UMAG branding, lighting, and animations

From concept to installation, the system was ready within 20 days, requiring only power and internet at the venue.

The Outcome: A Grand Slam for Fan Engagement and Sales

In just the first 5 days of the tournament, the smart vending machine delivered impressive performance:

• Over 65% of purchases occurred after match hours, proving strong evening demand

• Restocking only once a day, saving staff time and logistics cost

• Fans from 18+ countries used the machine—enabled by multilingual UX

• Photos and shares on social media increased brand visibility organically

The machine didn’t just sell balls—it extended the ATP experience beyond the match.

About WEMI: Redefining Smart Retail for Global Brands

WEMI builds intelligent, unmanned retail systems that blend convenience with brand storytelling. Our solutions serve:

• Global sports tournaments

• Event organizers

• Retail chains

• Lifestyle brands

From sports merchandise vending to electronic, food, medical and flower solutions, we help brands unlock new retail possibilities—anywhere, anytime.

Final Thought: A Souvenir That Serves Emotion

Tennis is a game of precision, power, and passion. At WEMI, we believe every purchase can echo that emotion.

A fan buys an official match ball from a glowing vending machine at 11PM—
It’s not just a product.
It’s a memory of a perfect serve, a favorite player, a summer night in Umag.

We’re proud to help the ATP UMAG tournament serve fans—on and off the court.

Want to elevate your sports event retail?
Contact WEMI for a custom vending solution that serves performance, presence, and passion—24/7.