The San Diego Convention Center (SDCC) unveiled a new suite of Mamava lactation pods. The modern, freestanding spaces advance the facility’s commitment to serving the needs of all convention guests, especially during large-scale events that draw tens of thousands of attendees daily.
“These additions reflect our focus on providing an inclusive and welcoming experience for everyone who walks through our doors,” said Rip Rippetoe, President and CEO of the San Diego Convention Center. “By expanding and enhancing our lactation accommodations, we’re meeting the needs of our diverse event community, including exhibitors who often have limited time away from their booths.”
Augmenting two existing Mothers Lounges, both on the ground level, the four new Mamava pods will be available on all three levels of the Convention Center to offer convenient options for guests and workers alike. Each pod is equipped with easy-to-clean surfaces, convenient power outlets, and secure, app-enabled entry. Parents can use the free Mamava app to find the pods and Mothers Lounges, and to open the pods using the app.
“This partnership, sparked by our presence at the SHRM Annual Conference, reflects a shared commitment to supporting working parents,” said Sascha Mayer, cofounder of Mamava. “We believe all breastfeeding parents deserve a dignified place to pump or feed a baby distraction-free—anywhere, anytime. The San Diego Convention Center is helping normalize breastfeeding and expand equitable access to lactation support for the next generation.”
A ribbon-cutting event took place July 2 to introduce and celebrate the new pods. Guests included leadership from SDCC; San Diego Tourism Authority; Mamava; and the UC Health Milk Bank, a non-profit milk bank that opened in 2020 to serve vulnerable babies across the region.
“As San Diego leads the way in human milk science and innovation, the addition of Mamava pods to the Convention Center is another step toward building a community that actively supports families and promotes public health,” said Alison Wolf, Executive Director of the UC Health Milk Bank.