Crypto.com Arena Boosts Support for Breastfeeding Guests

Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles hosts over 240 events a year—from annual GRAMMY Awards to Disney on Ice—and is home to four professional sports teams: NBA’s Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers, the NHL’s Los Angeles Kings, and the WNBA’s Los Angeles Sparks. And they’re a leader when it comes to setting the standard for an inclusive guest experience. With the purchase of five Mamava lactation pods, breastfeeding guests and employees now have easy access to multiple private spaces to pump or nurse, no matter where they are in the one million square foot arena.

Increase convenience and improve efficiency

Before the addition of Mamava pods, breastfeeding parents had a few options for pumping and nursing, including the First Aid room and a Mother’s Lounge provided for employees. “We knew that restrooms and First Aid were an option that was available to guests, but we wanted to find an even better option for guests while attending events,” says Amber Watts, Senior Director of Guest Services at Crypto.com Arena. “The Mamava lactation pods provide a much more convenient and easily accessible option for our employees and team members to use before, during, and after their shifts.”

Prioritize an inclusive experience

To ensure convenience and ease for guests and employees, the team at Crypto.com Arena placed lactation pods in highly visible spots on multiple levels—two on the main concourse, two on the upper concourse, and one on the premium level. “We didn’t want the pods off in a corner, and we didn’t want guests to spend all their time trying to get to, or into, a space,” says Watts.

Add value without losing valuable real estate

For busy arenas that host year-round events, it can be a challenge to advocate for allocating space for new amenities. “Every venue struggles with finding space for non-revenue-generating products,” says Watts. “But Mamava pods are moveable, easy to assemble and relocate. And they don’t require permitting and licensing. Mamava has thought through everything, from the lighting to multiple forms of access. It’s a great product, but also easy to use.”

Expand amenities that make a difference

“Creating a wonderful guest experience isn’t just about adding more concession stands—it’s also about making sure our environment is inclusive,” says Cara Vanderhook, Vice President, Marketing & Communications at Crypto.com Arena, who points out that women are often the ones buying tickets for and driving to the arena’s events. “Breastfeeding parents shouldn’t miss out on [event] opportunities because they have to pump. Having the pods shows a level of compassion that's not often a focus,” says Vanderhook. “It’s also a testament to our Guest Services team, who are always looking for ways to make people feel included.”