
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.
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.
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 https://launchfamilyentertainment.com/franchise 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.

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!

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.
Family Entertainment Center Franchise Awards New Location to Jae Noh in Northern Virginia
MANASSAS, Va. – (March 16, 2022) – Launch Entertainment, a leading operator and franchisor of innovative, year-round family entertainment centers, is continuing to grow its presence across the nation. The franchise’s latest deal will bring Launch’s fun-filled experience for all ages to Manassas, Virginia, and the surrounding community.
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, including XP Arena, ninja courses, laser tag arenas, virtual reality rooms, ropes courses, bowling, trampolines, Krave restaurant, and Bar Hops beverage service, and more.
Jae Noh, the latest Launch Entertainment franchisee, has worked for the government in the patent industry for more than 30 years. Noh is thrilled to launch a new career as his own boss while bringing the Northern Virginia community its very own family entertainment center. The Manassas Launch location is currently in development with plans to open by 2023. As residents of the area, Noh and his family know 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.
“As a father to two daughters, it’s been challenging to find places to go as a whole family,” said Noh. “In the Northern Virginia area, there’s honestly not much to do. When I heard about Launch and what they have to offer not only to the children but parents too, it really influenced my decision. Launch Entertainment fills a much-needed void in our community. I can’t wait to provide a safe, fun, and positive destination for everyone to enjoy and spend quality time together.”
Launch Franchisees are beneficiaries of comprehensive support and training from an industry-leading franchise team. Franchisees like Noh 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 Noh confident in bringing the family entertainment center into the community he calls 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 Entertainment supports my objective of attracting more activity-based clientele,” Noh said of his decision. “Their innovative business model coupled with their willingness to evolve and improve customer satisfaction speaks volumes. My beliefs align seamlessly with Launch’s leadership team to always stay ahead of the curve. As the demands of customers change, Launch’s business model allows us to remain competitive and the number one choice for those seeking an exhilarating experience.”
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.
“Launch Entertainment will be a fantastic addition to Manassas and the surrounding community,” said Launch CEO Rob Arnold. “We are thrilled to continue expanding our footprint across the nation and the state of Virginia. Jae is a visionary. He has ambitious goals for the Manassas Launch location. We are excited to support his endeavors and watch Jae thrive as he works to open his very first family entertainment center.”
Visit www.launchtrampolinepark.com for more information.
For franchising information, visit https://launchtrampdev.wpengine.com/franchise/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.
