Football fans, families and sports enthusiasts have something exciting to look forward to this summer as FTY Lab prepares to open the doors to its brand-new, state-of-the-art facility in Poole.
Opening on Friday 3 July 2026, the impressive new 14,000-square-foot centre at Sterte Road Industrial Estate marks a major expansion for the popular interactive football attraction and its sister company, Elite Skills Arena (ESA).
Following five successful years at its Branksome location, the move represents a significant investment in both the business and the local community. The larger site will not only allow FTY Lab to offer an enhanced visitor experience but will also provide ESA with a new 5,000-square-foot manufacturing warehouse and expanded office space.
Visitors can expect a completely reimagined football experience featuring 15 cutting-edge technology stations, including an interactive pitch, Padbol and the highly regarded ICON training system. Designed to appeal to players of all ages and abilities, the new venue aims to combine sport, entertainment and social experiences under one roof.
Sam Freeman, ESA Group CEO, told us, "We’re incredibly excited to open the doors to the new FTY Lab this summer. Following five successful years in Branksome, extensive consultation with our customers, and significant investment into new areas of the facility, we’re proud to unveil a completely reimagined, state-of-the-art experience. We can’t wait to welcome you in."
The facility has been designed as much more than a football training centre. Alongside its interactive sporting attractions, visitors will find a fully licensed sports bar showing major sporting events throughout the year. Two dedicated event rooms will also be available for birthday parties, corporate functions and networking events.
One of the event spaces will double as a gaming room, complete with eight gaming consoles, ensuring there is plenty of entertainment for younger visitors and gaming enthusiasts alike.
Luke Whitley, FTY Manager, added, "We’re super excited to be opening our new site and starting this new chapter. This Centre is about more than football — it’s about bringing the local community together and creating opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to train, improve, and enjoy the game in a positive environment. We wanted to build a welcoming space where people can develop confidence, stay active, and share their passion for football. We’re proud to bring something fresh and exciting to the local community."
The new centre has already attracted praise from local representatives, with Bournemouth West MP Jessica Toale highlighting the positive impact of the business's continued growth. She said, "FTY Lab is an incredible local business with international reach. I was delighted to visit them earlier this year with Small Business Minister Blair McDougall. The move to their new site in Poole is fantastic news. It shows they are going from strength to strength and offering something exciting for our community. Congratulations to Sam, Luke and the whole team.”
The opening of FTY Lab's new home is set to add another exciting leisure attraction to the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole area, offering a unique combination of football technology, family entertainment and community-focused activities.
Opening Details
Opening Date: Friday 3 July
Location: Unit 5, Sterte Road Industrial Estate, Poole, BH15 2AF
Whether you're looking to sharpen your football skills, enjoy the latest sporting action with friends, host a memorable event or simply try something different, FTY Lab's new Poole facility promises to deliver an experience unlike anywhere else in the region.
