How to Start a Laser Tag Business: Costs, Profitability, What to Expect

Starting an entertainment business can be quite the lucrative career. There are many activities to consider for family entertainment, but one that really jumps out is a laser tag business. Traditionally, it’s a family favorite. Stepping into the dark arena with glow in the dark obstacles while donning your light up vest and clutching your laser gun…it’s quite the experience, for any guest.

But, for most entertainment businesses, it’s not enough to just offer one experience, especially when there’s always space for more.

Below, we’ll detail why laser tag is better suited integrated along with a plethora of other exciting activities rather than investing in a standalone laser tag franchise.

Is a laser tag business profitable in today’s world?

Starting a laser tag business can be profitable, but there’s quite a laundry list of cons that accompany the task. For example, competition can be high when it comes to a laser tag business, so analyzing the market and finding the demand is a huge step.

There are plenty of areas to stumble during the process. From finding the right supplier to low margins, and everything in between. Going this alone can be quite a challenge.

It can also become quite costly fairly quickly. The overhead expenses and taxes alone could put you in the red before your grand opening.

What Equipment is Necessary to Start Your Own Laser Tag Business?

A laser tag facility requires a significant amount of square footage and equipment. Starting a laser tag business requires necessary equipment. An obstacle course adds an element of fun to the space. Of course, that includes décor. Many times, since laser tag is a game with darker lighting, most of the décor is glow in the dark, creating an exciting atmosphere.

Equipment is needed including laser tag guns and vests with operating software that responds to being hit. Management software and other miscellaneous items should be accounted for as well.

How much space do you need?

Typically, in a standalone facility it would need to be at least 5,000 to 6,000 square feet for a laser tag business.

Why is it better to include laser tag as an additional activity to a range of services?

Laser tag can be enjoyable for a variety of groups, but to really utilize the space to earn the most profit, it shouldn’t be the only activity offered. Having multiple activities such as dodgeball, trampoline courts, rock climbing, arcade, and so much more takes your space to the next level.

On top of that, most standalone laser tag businesses do not have food options. Ensuring that your customers have food and beverages while they get all their energy out is essential to top tier entertainment. This type of service guarantees repeat customers, customers staying longer at your establishment, and the highest potential for a successful business.

Is it better to own a franchise?

Yes, a franchise is certainly more reliable than going into business ownership alone, especially starting a laser tag business. Franchises offer more structure, extensive training, and support, help with negotiations, and you’re more likely to gain financial support when joining a franchise. Since they’re a proven concept, a financial team finds them more trustworthy.

How does Launch Entertainment manage to integrate laser tag into their facility?

At Launch Entertainment, laser tag is just one of the incredible activities we offer. We’ve taken it to the next level by branding our laser tag, “Fury Laser Tag.” We have two experiences for customers to enjoy: joining forces with United Earth or the Martian Syndicate, where players can achieve bragging rights in the state-of-the-art arena.

Consider Launch Entertainment as Your Business Endeavor

Deciding to go into business ownership is an adventure. You should be able to have all the benefits that come with business ownership, but also have fun while doing so and choose the least stressful option. By joining Launch Entertainment, all the hard decisions are removed from your experience. You have a knowledgeable team right behind you, every step of the way, setting you up for the best chance of success.

It’s worth investing in a franchise like Launch over a standalone laser tag business because you’re able to really utilize the entire space, and curate an experience that laser tag alone simply can’t compare. Launch Entertainment has a proven history with repeat customers and prioritizing a memorable experience for all ages.

If you’re ready to take the next step in owning your own family entertainment center, fill out this form and one of our franchise development representatives will be in touch.

Georgia Launch Entertainment Location Thrives Under New Leadership

Launch Dawsonville Experiencing Record Sales Through the First Quarter of 2022

DAWSONVILLE, Ga. – (May 10, 2022) – Launch Entertainment, a leading operator and franchisor of innovative, year-round family entertainment centers, is excited to highlight the success of the Dawsonville, Georgia, location. Opened in the summer of 2020 by husband-and-wife team Christina and Corey Stalnaker, Launch Dawsonville is now experiencing record sales. The success comes after Christina, a co-owner, assumed the role of General Manager in November. She made fundamental staff and protocol changes and raised the morale of the entire team.

“Obviously, 2020 was a tough time to start a new business, especially a business in the family entertainment space. We couldn’t have a classic grand opening, and it was tough to build momentum with government restrictions,” said Christina Stalnaker, Managing Owner of Launch Dawsonville. “When I took over, I wanted to bring some positivity to the leadership team and let our staff know the tough times wouldn’t last. 2022 has been amazing so far! You can feel an energy and excitement each time you enter the building.”

Launch Entertainment, headquartered in Warwick, Rhode Island, is one of the fastest-growing family recreation movements in the United States. The state-of-the-art family entertainment center franchise was founded in 2012 by Rob and Erin Arnold. Launch offers a differentiated entertainment experience with a wide variety of attractions and amenities for all ages.

Christina and Corey decided to bring Launch to Dawsonville because of a lack of entertainment options for children in the area. As parents of three children of their own, they recognized the need, and are thrilled families now have the opportunity to fully take advantage of the addition to the community.

“We live in this community, so our customers are also our neighbors,” said Christina Stalnaker. “We are getting great feedback from local families.”

As residents of the area, the Stalnaker family realizes the value of a fun-filled experience with a great atmosphere to celebrate birthdays, family gatherings, church events, work outings, or just a date night that everyone from all walks of life can enjoy. Launch Entertainment is a service-based, high-margin business that drives repeat customers by going above and beyond what most family entertainment concepts offer.

“We are so grateful to have the Stalnakers in the Launch family. They opened their doors during an unprecedented time and have always navigated any and all challenges gracefully and with positive attitudes. They have come out the other side stronger and successfully.” said Launch CEO Rob Arnold. “Corey and Christina are great communicators, and when faced with challenges they were not exactly sure how to navigate, they never hesitated to reach out. Our team worked side by side with them then and now to help ensure their success. It’s franchisees like Corey and Christina that make our franchise strong and something to be proud to be a part of.”

Launch currently has 28 family entertainment centers open for business in 13 states across the nation. The rapid expansion of the family entertainment franchise continues by the hour, with numerous other locations in various stages of development.

Visit www.launchtrampolinepark.com for more information.

For franchising information, visit https://launchfamilyentertainment.com/franchise/.

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ABOUT LAUNCH FRANCHISING, LLC

Founded in 2012 by entrepreneurs Rob and Erin Arnold, Launch Entertainment is an innovative leader in the family entertainment industry. What started as an indoor trampoline park for kids has evolved into a year-round, all-inclusive family entertainment center featuring an XP Arena, ninja courses, climbing walls, laser tag, battle pits, bowling, giant trampoline surfaces, and more. As an ideal space for kids and adults alike, Launch offers a safe and enjoyable environment for date nights, birthday parties, family events, corporate events, church outings, fundraisers, and other get-togethers. Currently, there are 28 parks open and operating in 13 states, with numerous others in development across the country.

Successful Franchises Live By These 5 Unmistakable Qualities

Entrepreneurs interested in pursuing business ownership but uneasy about going it alone often turn to franchising. Franchising is a proven system of distributing products or services involving a franchisor and franchisee.

The franchisor establishes the brand’s trademark and business system. The franchisee pays a royalty and initial fee for the right to do business under the franchisor’s name and system.

In the U.S. alone, there are more than 750,000 franchises. Franchises provide employment to more than 8 million Americans. While it’s a huge part of the workforce, it takes a lot to create a successful franchise. Many burn out before the grand opening.

Below, we’ve detailed the five top qualities that contribute to a successful franchise.

What are the Keys to Franchise Success?

Once you’ve understood the fundamentals of franchising, it’s time to pick which is the best fit for you. Here are some factors to consider that should drive your decision-making:

Brand recognition: Having an established brand is one of the greatest assets for a franchise. This creates a customer base that already wants your service. Alone, this can be one of the hardest things to establish, and many businesses will try for years and still struggle to have returning customers. With a well-known brand, you get loyal customers from day one.
A healthy industry: Some industries are booming; some are stagnant. It’s up to you to confirm the opportunities available, the budget, and desired work expectations, but choosing the right industry is incredibly important to the overall success of your business.
Profitability: Will this business make me money? It’s a must to verify the business will be able to sustain you in short-term to create long-term financial security. Examine the past financials of the franchise as well as its growth trajectory and make sure to talk to franchisees about their experience.
Sustainability: In addition to profit, your franchise must survive. Look for franchises that have been around and have tremendous growth potential.
Marketing: Check out how the brand is revolutionizing their marketing strategies. Social media is a powerful tool now, and many companies are using it. Make sure the industry you’re looking at is using it to amplify and elevate the brand.

Why Franchising is a Great Choice

There’s a reason many people head to franchising when deciding to go into business ownership. Franchises have brand recognition, which often comes with a built-in customer base. They have a franchise system with a network of other franchisees. That means shoulders to lean on and experiences to learn from. In addition, there’s also support and training from a leadership team that understands your success equals their success. In general, franchises are relatively successful. Be mindful, there is no guaranteed financial prosperity, but it’s definitely the more promising route over starting from scratch.

What Soft Skills do I Need?

It takes more than a strong franchise brand to help you create success. You have to have the skills it takes – or be willing to develop those skills – to be the right kind of good franchisee to help the franchise truly thrive. That’s where soft skills come into play.

As a good franchisee, you should be:

Passionate: Passion and drive are often the biggest motivation to be successful in any endeavor, franchise included. Having a passion for your brand will be visible and contagious to your team and your customers.
Coachable: Leave your ego at the door. It’s imperative you have a willingness to learn and grow. You must be able to accept training and guidance from the franchisor. It’s helpful to also view every experience, the good and the bad, as a way to learn. In turn, those lessons will lead you to more profitability and success.
Goal-oriented: To be a successful franchise owner, you must be goal-oriented. Having clear ideas of accomplishments you want to achieve and financial milestones you want to make creates a motivated and more productive environment for you and your staff.
Adaptable: Possessing the quality to be flexible and adapt to changing circumstances is crucial in franchise ownership. Being resilient in the face of mistakes as you establish your new business sets the proper tone for a successful franchise.
A risk-taker: Franchising can involve taking some risks. We’re not asking you to be a daredevil or reinvent the wheel, but it’s best to not be dominated by fear or concerns. Be open to change and willing to take moderate risks.

Consider Launch Entertainment

Launch Entertainment checks all the boxes for a successful franchise. The family entertainment center industry is projected to reach $40.81 billion by 2025.

Franchising for nearly 10 years, Launch has been an innovating leader, completely revolutionizing the family entertainment industry. Launch offers you an incredible opportunity to engage with the community and be a part of a trusted system that is rapidly expanding. If you’d like to learn more about investing in a franchise, click here to request more info.

Rapidly Expanding Launch Entertainment Inks Deal for First Location in Ohio

Family Entertainment Center Franchise to Open First Site Inside Outlet Mall in Jeffersonville, Ohio

JEFFERSONVILLE, Ohio – (May 3, 2022) – Launch Entertainment, a leading operator and franchisor of innovative, year-round family entertainment centers, is continuing to grow its presence across the nation. Launch is eager to announce its very first location will be coming soon to the state of Ohio. The franchise’s latest deal will bring a fun-filled experience for all ages to Destination Outlets in Jeffersonville, Ohio, and the surrounding area.

Launch Entertainment, headquartered in Warwick, Rhode Island, is one of the fastest-growing family entertainment concepts in the United States. The state-of-the-art family entertainment center franchise was founded in 2012 by Rob and Erin Arnold. Launch offers a differentiated entertainment experience with a wide variety of attractions and amenities for all ages, including XP Arena, ninja courses, laser tag arenas, virtual reality rooms, ropes courses, bowling, trampolines, Krave restaurant, Bar Hops beverage service, and more.

Aside from it being the first Ohio location, the latest Launch Entertainment facility heading to the Jefferson community is unique in that it will be the franchise’s first facility inside an outlet mall. This site will open within Destination Outlets, located at 8800 Factory Shops Boulevard. Launch’s very first Ohio family entertainment center is currently in development with plans to open by this fall.

“Opening a Launch Entertainment inside of Destination Outlets is just what this area needs,” said the new Launch franchisees. “The mall’s tagline is ‘Shop. Eat. Play.’ Launch exemplifies this concept. Our location will provide the community with a year-round destination for quality shopping, a variety of food choices, and engaging entertainment.”

Launch Franchisees are beneficiaries of comprehensive support and training from an industry-leading franchise team. The newest Ohio franchisees enjoy the independence of small business ownership while being backed by the benefits of a big business network. Launch is a reputable brand with a playbook for success.

Launch’s model, differentiated amenities, and one-of-a-kind Krave restaurant are key factors that made the Ohio franchisee team confident in bringing the family entertainment center into the community they call home. Launch Entertainment is a service-based, high-margin business that drives repeat customers by going above and beyond what most family entertainment businesses offer.

“Along with providing our community with an endless supply of fun, we are thrilled to offer new jobs to those in the Jeffersonville area,” said the new Launch franchisees. “At the core of Launch’s model is a group of community-focused individuals. This is one of many aspects in which we pride ourselves. In addition to the new job opportunities we will bring to this market, we are also excited to offer community-based activities to those in and around Jeffersonville. Our team is working diligently to develop new programs for our local school systems, including a bowling league they could participate in.”

“We are pleased to announce our first location in Ohio,” said Launch CEO Rob Arnold. “As a franchise, we are swiftly expanding our footprint across the nation, and this latest location is a testament to our success. Launch Entertainment will be a great addition to the Jeffersonville community and Destination Outlets. We look forward to working with the Jeffersonville team as they bring the community its very first Launch family entertainment center.”

Visit www.launchtrampolinepark.com for more information.

For franchising information, visit https://launchfamilyentertainment.com/franchise/.

ABOUT LAUNCH FRANCHISING, LLC

Indoor Playground Franchises: Why They’re Profitable

The act of play is an important part of a child’s development and growth. Play is more than just fun and games; It’s been proven to help kids learn about themselves and the world around them. It affects their social development, interests, and passions. This all leads to discovering important life skills as they grow.

For the most part, children have very little preference when it comes to choosing the play that they’re engaging in. It doesn’t matter whether it’s inside or outside, as long as they’re able to have fun. In this case, many parents opt for convenience, security, sanitation, and weather when choosing a space for their children. This creates the perfect opportunity for indoor playground franchises to thrive.

How Much Do Indoor Franchise Owners Make?

In 2019, children’s fitness franchises earned a total of $336 million in revenue.

Generally, the children’s fitness industry sees a good return on investment. The profit margins and returns for indoor playground franchises vary by location, business model, and overhead costs. It’s also impacted by the establishment’s reputation, and if there are attractions available for all ages.

When investing in an indoor playground business, begin with researching the total indoor playground franchise cost and be mindful of the environment and what’s happening in the community. For example, many of the peak hour times will align with the surrounding school’s schedules. This means weekends and breaks will be your busiest time. Despite this, it’s important to continuously offer activities and opportunities to engage with the community, so there is less down time. This could look like opening your doors to local businesses for employee exercises, field trips, fitness classes, or activities for non-school age children.

In addition to working with locals, it’d be worth your while to invest in internet marketing. Having eye-catching equipment creates a lively Facebook and Instagram feed. Social media has become a powerful tool, don’t be afraid to use it.

At the root of it all, create a high-quality experience with fun in mind. This means offering birthday packages, selling food and beverages, and making sure kids of all ages (and parents!) are welcome to join in on the experience.

There are a multitude of fun, creative, and easy ways to make an indoor playground more profitable.

What Equipment Do You Need to Start an Indoor Playground?

First and foremost, trampolines! There’s nothing like seeing the pure joy of kids and adults jumping to their hearts content and shaking off all the school and work stress.

It’s best to focus on fun when you’re thinking of a layout for your indoor playground. Making sure you have a little bit of everything for everyone goes a long way. There’s rock climbing, basketball, dodgeball, foam pit, laser tag, virtual reality, and so much more.

The best example of how to create the optimal experience is looking at seasoned family entertainment park, Launch Entertainment. With all these amenities and more, Launch creates an environment where it’s impossible not to have fun.

Who is the Target Audience & Why Do Indoor Playgrounds Appeal to their Needs?

When exploring indoor playground ideas for business opportunities, keep in mind the target audience for these types of centers are areas with a large population of children and parents who have disposable income.

Indoor playground franchises have several advantages. A major benefit to an indoor playground is the accessibility during every season. There is less opportunity for severe injury as many activities have cushions like ball pits and tumble mats.

Indoor playgrounds often undergo routine cleaning. This creates a more sanitary environment than any outdoor opportunities for play. For example, Launch has raised the bar in sanitation by passing the rigorous “STERILE” cleanliness certification program. This program was designed specifically for family entertainment centers. This includes providing cleanliness to all surfaces, trampolines & attractions, equipment, railings, inventory, lockers, and employees & guests. The requirements all meet or exceed CDC guidelines.

In terms of entertainment, most of these indoor playgrounds are destined to thrive in areas where there are a lot of families either visiting or living. They also excel when activities are geared toward every age. This makes families much more inclined to stay longer, and also to return.

Consider Franchising with Launch

Launch Entertainment continues to prove time and time again, what it takes to drive customer foot traffic and create a loyal customer base with fantastic return rates. Whether it’s family night, date night, a team-building meeting exercise, or college kids looking for a place to feel young again, we’re the go-to. We prioritize creating an incredible experience for all ages.

Starting an indoor playground can be daunting with many obstacles hurled towards you, but you don’t have to go it alone. With us, you can have the incredible opportunity of engaging with the community and being an anchor for incredible memories while also receiving ongoing support, training, marketing assistance, and ample resources from a franchise system that is driven to see you succeed.

If you’re ready to take the next step in owning your own family entertainment center, fill out this form and one of our franchise development representatives will be in touch.

Launch CEO and Family Farm Featured in The Franchise Times

Rob Arnold and his family farm are the subjects of a recent feature in the Franchise Times, an important resource for those in the franchising community.

The article details the Arnold’s journey toward starting a farm during the heart of the pandemic and how tending to the animals helps ease the stress of leading the fast-growing business. Rob and his family started the farm in 2020 while Launch was shut down, and they now have cows, goats, chickens, and bees!

“You get some sense of accomplishment taking care of animals, keeping a nice clean farm, sitting out there and enjoying time,” Arnold explained in the article.

The Arnolds have no plans to slow down when it comes to Launch or the farm! You can check out the entire article here.

Kids Gym Franchise: Franchises for Active Play

When researching a kid’s gym franchise, it’s possible several names come to mind. While often identified as a family entertainment center or trampoline park, Launch Entertainment is still very much a kid’s gym franchise. With ample opportunity for active play and promoting exercise among youth, Launch has cemented itself as a clear industry leader and standout investment.

A franchise that encourages active play, exercise

When thinking of active play, many people think of Launch Entertainment. With tons of amenities for all ages, we have completely revolutionized the trampoline park industry. Our family entertainment center franchise started as a trampoline park, but today is nothing short of an indoor amusement park.

One of the ways we differentiate ourselves in the market is through our all-inclusive customer base. It’s true we’re a great option for engaging kids in physical play, and we’re constantly evolving to add more family entertainment activities. But we also happen to be a destination of choice for fun-loving people of all ages. We’re a family entertainment center that caters to more than just families.

The perfect alternative to a kid’s gym

The founders of Launch Entertainment always had a vision to create an experience that appeals to all ages. It’s fun for family nights, date nights, work events, and college outings. This means we cast a net for a broader customer base, which can potentially mean a more diverse revenue stream for greater profitability. Compared to a kid’s gym that requires a more structured environment geared toward younger children in a limited age bracket, Launch Entertainment may be able to maintain more long-term, repeat customers.

To participate in the pre-scheduled programs of some kid’s gyms, children must be enrolled by a parent or guardian. With Launch, customers come at their convenience for a fun time, although they can book ahead for parties and special events.

Launch is constantly adding new attractions that appeal to everyone who walks in our doors. Trampoline courts, dodgeball, and rock climbing are just a few examples. Our activities allow kids and adults alike to play in a big way.

When it comes to making sure kids get enough activity, Launch is perfect. You don’t need specialized knowledge as a franchise owner to make sure you’re providing the right kind of enrichment and physical development training for the 4-12 crowd; you just need to know how to spread the word in your community and make your business the go-to spot for fun.

Entertainment through exercise

Launch is designed to get people pumped up and excited to move. From the obstacle course and laser tag to the Launch Pad and tumble tracks, Launch has much more to offer than a kid’s gym franchise. Many times, parents want an outlet for their children that requires them to simply enter a building and have fun until the kids are worn out, no extra fuss. Launch Entertainment provides that, too. Parents can enjoy themselves in our on-site restaurant or join in the fun with their kids.

Consider Franchising with Launch

Launch Entertainment has perfected the formula for a successful business, with ongoing support and guidance to steer you on the path toward success. Launch has been open for business since 2012, and started franchising just a year later.

When you work with the Launch team, you’ll be able to count on a widespread network of support from other franchisees and the corporate office. We offer ample pre-opening training as well as ongoing support throughout the life of your franchise.

To learn more about the benefits of owning a Launch Entertainment franchise, please fill out this contact form and one of our franchise development representatives will be in touch.

Launch Entertainment Inks Deal for First Location in Texas Expanding Footprint Nationwide

Family Entertainment Center Franchise Awards New Location to Marine Veteran in Houston

HOUSTON – (March 28, 2022) – Launch Entertainment, a leading operator and franchisor of innovative, year-round family entertainment centers, is thrilled to announce its very first location in the state of Texas. The franchise’s latest deal will bring Launch’s fun-filled experience for all ages to Houston and the surrounding area.

Founded in 2012 by Rob and Erin Arnold, Launch offers a differentiated family entertainment experience with a wide variety of attractions and amenities for everyone including XP Arena, ninja courses, laser tag, bowling, trampolines, premium food and beverage service, and more.

The newest Launch Entertainment location will be heading to the Houston community. This comes as a result of an agreement recently signed by Marine veteran Robert Adkins and his business partner Frank Fults. Texas’s first Launch Entertainment location is currently in development. As residents of the area, Fults, Adkins, and their families know the value of an invigorating adventure with a great atmosphere to celebrate birthdays, family gatherings, church events, work outings, or just a date night that everyone from all walks of life can enjoy.

“I can’t wait for my fellow Houstonians to check out this amazing, multifaceted entertainment center,” said Robert Adkins. “We are so passionate about kids. As I get older, I’m learning life is short, and spending time with my two children is a big deal. We are excited to create an environment for families to form long-lasting memories.”

Launch Franchisees are beneficiaries of comprehensive support and training from an industry-leading franchise team. Franchisees like Adkins and Fults enjoy the independence of small business ownership while being backed by the benefits of a big business network.

Launch’s model, differentiated amenities, and one-of-a-kind Krave restaurant are key factors that made the two long-time friends and business partners confident in bringing the family entertainment center into the community they call home. Launch Entertainment is a service-based, high-margin business that drives repeat customers by going above and beyond what most family entertainment businesses offer.

“Launch offers everything a family could ever want under one roof,” Adkins said of his decision. “I love how the company is very family-oriented and emphasizes the importance of the employee experience. At the end of the day, it’s all about loyalty and the culture we promote.”

Launch currently has 25 family entertainment centers open for business in 13 states across the nation. The rapid expansion of the family entertainment franchise continues by the hour, with numerous other locations in various stages of development.

“We are thrilled to break ground on our first Launch Entertainment location in Texas,” said Launch CEO Rob Arnold. “As a franchise, we are focused on developing more facilities in large markets, and we plan on growing our presence throughout the state. We are eager to work with a dynamic duo like Rob and Frank and support them as they embark on this profitable journey with Launch.”

Visit www.launchtrampolinepark.com for more information.

For franchising information, visit https://launchfamilyentertainment.com/franchise/

ABOUT LAUNCH FRANCHISING, LLC

Founded in 2012 by entrepreneurs Rob and Erin Arnold, Launch Entertainment is an innovative leader in the family entertainment industry. What started as an indoor trampoline park for kids has evolved into a year-round, all-inclusive family entertainment center featuring an XP Arena, ninja courses, climbing walls, laser tag, battle pits, bowling, giant trampoline surfaces, and more. As an ideal space for kids and adults alike, Launch offers a safe and enjoyable environment for date nights, birthday parties, family events, corporate events, church outings, fundraisers, and other get-togethers. Currently, there are 25 parks open and operating in 13 states, with numerous others in development across the country.

Is Owning a Bowling Alley Franchise Profitable in 2022?

Bowling is a time-honored tradition. It’s been part of Friday night fun with the family, friends, or a date night for decades. The question, though, is how profitable is a bowling alley franchise in 2022?

The bowling industry is working to rebuild after facing a steep decline. While bowling alleys are slowly rising again in popularity, what is catapulting into the spotlight is family entertainment centers.

Below, we’ll provide why investing in an entertainment center that includes a bowling alley is a much more promising business venture.

How Much Can a Bowling Alley Franchise Owner Make?

The most pivotal factor when looking to establish a successful bowling alley is location. Many bowling alleys are seeing a higher profit if they’re in the neighborhoods where families have a combined household income of over $100,000 a year.

Alternatively, the family entertainment center industry is predicted to see immense growth in the upcoming years. According to a market data forecast, the global entertainment centers market size is projected to reach around $50 billion by the end of 2026. Centers like these become destinations. People will seek out centers that provide entertainment for every member of their friend group or family.

Bowling Industry Growth Trajectory

To take a look at the future of the bowling alley franchise, let’s do a quick recap of the past. There’s been a consistent downward trend in the bowling industry, which saw a 0.3% decline between 2017 and 2022. The market size of bowling in the U.S. has declined faster than in the arts, entertainment, and recreation sectors.

The primary damaging factor to the bowling industry is high competition and its lack of appeal to younger consumers.

The future of bowling and its profitability is there, but it will take work. Bowling centers must transform into family-friendly destinations with upscale amenities that appeal to people of all ages while maintaining the traditional components of a bowling alley.

Why Might a Family Entertainment Center be More Profitable?

A multi-activity family center may offer you the potential for higher ROI because of its ability to be a destination for a much broader swath of customers.

You’d be investing in an industry that doesn’t need an image makeover and doesn’t have to worry that consumer trends will shift away from their lone activity. The variety of games, food, and activities offer endless combinations and the flexibility to update quickly when consumer habits change. A bowling alley is often included in these entertainment centers, so if your heart is set on having a bowling alley, it’s still completely within your reach.

The family entertainment center is making strides in an industry that’s only trending upward. These facilities continue to adapt to meet consumer needs and trends, and their ability to evolve and match their customer’s needs is what will continue to earn them success.

How Launch Entertainment is an Industry Leader

Launch Entertainment sets itself apart from other entertainment centers with our innovative adaptations. Ours is a business that runs on creating long-lasting memories, for every age and interest. This mindset has created an abundance of innovative ideas and attractions that make Launch more than a regular trampoline park — and so much more than just a bowling alley.

Consider Investing in a Launch Franchise

If owning a bowling alley is on your mind, you can have that and so much more with a family entertainment center like Launch.

Launch empowers our franchisees to enjoy the independence of small-business ownership while being supported by a big-business network. If you’re interested in owning your own entertainment center, fill out this form and we’ll be in touch!

What is a Family Entertainment Center & Why is it an Attractive Industry?

A Family Entertainment Center (FEC) is similar to an indoor amusement park. With games and attractions, it’s a safe, clean, and fun space for children, teens, and adults alike.

FECs are a great investment in a profitable and rewarding industry, no matter your experience level. From the aspiring entrepreneur to the experienced and savvy businessperson, FECs are something that everyone can relate to and they are predicted to continue trending upward in popularity.

In this article, we’ll lay out all the ins and outs of an FEC with complete transparency so you can make the best decision for your future.

What is considered a family entertainment center?

An FEC can come in a variety of forms. It’s often entirely indoors with theme park qualities. Indoor centers can range from 15,000-20,000 square feet, but some facilities have much larger spaces For example, Launch Entertainment boasts upwards of 50,000 square feet.

Bowling alleys integrated with arcades, restaurants, and music are popular. Laser tag, skating rinks, playgrounds, and zip lines are all under the umbrella of entertainment centers. FECs also host private celebrations like birthday parties and corporate events. With smartphones and computers solidifying their presence in everyday life, the need for in-person quality time is more prevalent than ever. FECs are a fun way to profit, while giving families in your community a path to create long-lasting memories.

What can I learn about this industry? (Activities, games, customer base, history, etc.)

The entertainment industry is growing every year. The facilities gained popularity in the early 1970s as arcades and mini-golf centers spread across the nation. It’s good to know that the global FEC market is projected to expand by a CAGR of 10.2% from now through 2026 and reach around $50 billion by the end of that year, doubling the $24.35 billion size of the market in 2021, according to Market Data Forecast and Emergent Research.

Breaking it down further, the admission fees and ticket sales dominate the overall family/indoor entertainment centers market and that’s expected to continue. Whether it’s a church or family outing, a date night, or a corporate event where employees can let out their inner kid, family entertainment centers have activities for all ages to enjoy.

Why is the industry attractive for business-minded people?

For someone with a business mind, family entertainment centers are prime real estate. They’re attainable and appeal to all demographics, making growth and potential success more realistic. This industry serves communities of all ages in small and large cities, meaning many locations are viable options for an establishment like this.

By targeting highly populated areas like malls, FECs are thriving, and projected to only grow. According to a report from World Today News, the market is forecast to increase at a considerable rate through 2025 and beyond.

What is most desirable about this industry is its constant evolution. This is reflected in what’s added to the entertainment centers, and how it continues to impress people of all ages with hours of entertainment offered at their fingertips.

Is it better to franchise or start my own FEC?

Starting an FEC business on your own can be intimidating. You won’t have access to the group buying power, the proven business model, or the support and guidance you can expect with a family entertainment franchise.

Joining a franchise is a better move than forging your own path, especially for a family entertainment center. When you invest in a franchise, you’re buying the right to use the company’s name and likeness, and you have support with lease negotiations, purchasing equipment, and marketing. You also are buying into a brand that has the public’s support and trust. An FEC is typically very active with activities like go-karts, zip lines, and trampolines – all of which could be dangerous if not done correctly. When you invest in a franchise like Launch, customers already know they will have a safe and fun experience.

What equipment is needed?

For every FEC, it’s important to have quality equipment so you can ensure safety in your facility. To do so, you need to invest in a company that makes it a priority to explain its equipment protocols and adheres to all the safety requirements.

For example, at Launch, one of your needs for equipment would be trampolines. To make sure the Launch experience is safe for everyone, we insist on quality equipment. To ensure that quality, we use in-house manufacturing to provide cost-efficient, sturdy equipment for people to enjoy. Many investors will stand behind outsourcing, claiming it’s the cheaper option. However, outsourcing may not be cheaper in the long term if the equipment has to be replaced or repaired more often. With our in-house manufacturing, we’re able to keep track of every step of the manufacturing process so we have a complete picture of where we’re allocating funds.

What’s the difference between an FEC and a single-activity center like a bowling alley?

The differences between a single-activity center like a bowling alley and an FEC franchise like Launch are huge, but the biggest one is things to do. When people go bowling, they might bowl a few games before going to a movie or heading out to eat. At Launch, the fun is an all-day affair. Customers can start on the trampolines and then take a laser-tag break before dominating in virtual reality. After all that fun, hungry players can visit Krave to fuel up while they bowl some frames. Launch has activities for all ages, and it’s built for all-day fun.

What games and activities does Launch Entertainment provide?

Many communities have a plethora of family entertainment centers. Bowling alleys, skating rinks, mini-golf, and pool parks all serve the ultimate purpose, which is to have fun! One of the best FEC franchises is Launch Entertainment. With wall-to-wall trampolines, a rock wall, battle pit, and so much more, Launch is the place for all-day fun with friends, family, a group, or even coworkers! Family entertainment centers have activities from toddlers to adults – all ages can enjoy.

Trampoline Courts: Our massive trampoline surfaces let customers launch themselves to new heights. They can slam dunk on the basketball court or flip into the Launch Pad.

Dodgeball: We take dodgeball to the next level with our trampoline dodgeball court.

Cliffhanger: Our cliffhanger Mountain rock climbing wall lets customers challenge themselves in a safe environment.

Battle Pit: Our multi-attraction battle pit is a place where friends can challenge each other to a jousting battle or BOSU balls to see who will be the last one standing.

In addition, when you need to refuel, customers can enjoy our full-service Krave restaurant. Whether it’s handmade pizza or fresh salad, all of our food is made-to-order with fresh ingredients.

Consider franchising with Launch Entertainment

Striving to give more each day to the people in the communities we serve, Launch offers an exciting experience for any occasion. It has all the ingredients for a successful business with ongoing support and guidance to help steer you on the path toward success.

If you’re ready to take the next step in owning your own family entertainment center, fill out this form and one of our franchise development representatives will be in touch.