2022 June Issue

June 2022 // Vol. 30

Younger Generations Are Changing The Business

Chelsea

Scott Logan

Ducat

iello Marc Cin

Kylie Hicks

BELLA OF THE BOWL

BOWL EXPO SNEAK PEEK

Robot staff members are on the scene

Check out the latest, greatest, and what’s in store

MOVING FUN FORWARD

A U TO M AT I C S C O R I N G E S S E NT I A L S !

(800) 942-5939 Info@SteltronicScoring.com www.SteltronicScoring.com

Contents 6

June 2022 | Vol 30.6

Publisher’s Column

ea Sn

HOW TIMES THEY ARE A-CHANGIN’

Proprietor’s Desk IT’S ALL GOOD, MAN!

Your competitive marketing advantage

E L W X

PO

10

BO

BY STEPHANIE DAVIS

k Peek t o

BY STEVE SEMPECK

14

Marketing

CREATING KILLER MESSAGES Last of the 7 elemets

BY BRUCE DAVIS

14

Feature

BELLA OF THE BOWL

Robot staff members are on the scene

BY RYAN VASKO

18

Booze & Bites SAY CHEESE

The why and how of creating perfect food pics for social media

BY MIKE FERNANDEZ

28

Cover Story

YOUNG, VIBRANT, AND DIFFERENT

Younger generations are changing the business

BY DANIEL ELLMAN

46

Bowl Expo Sneak Peek

WHAT NOT TO MISS AT THE TRADE SHOW

What NOT To Miss At The Trade Show

46

YOUR INDUSTRY PARTNERS ARE RARING TO GO! It’s trade show time at Bowl Expo and these dedicated industry partners want to connect with you and help your business.

Check out their new products and services, show specials, & more!

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Atmosphere gives business owners the power to enhance guests’ experience with entertainment that amplifies positive vibes. It’s a consistently fresh playlist of highly curated video content that inspires, excites, informs, motivates, amuses, calms, and explores. Through our partnership with Atmosphere, business owners receive the service 100% Free and 1 Free Year of Atmosphere’s PRO Digital Signage!

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46 IBI June 2022

Check out the latest, greatest, and what’s in store

BY IBI ADVERTISERS

PUBLISHER & EDITOR

Stephanie Davis

stephanie@bowlingindustry.com

1850 San Marco Rd Marco Island, FL 34145 (239) 366-2230 Fax (239) 970-0538 stephanie@bowlingindustry.com

www.BowlingIndustry.com HOTLINE: 855-415-7517

MARKETING MANAGER & SALES Natalie Davis

natalie@bowlingindustry.com

NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Mike Fernandez

mike@bowlingindustry.com

EDITORIAL

MEMBER AND/OR SUPPORTER OF:

Jackie Fisher

fisher@bowlingindustry.com

Patty Heath

patty@bowlingindustry.com

OFFICE MANAGER Roxanne Damask

roxanne@bowlingindustry.com 4 IBI June 2022

CONTRIBUTORS Bruce Davis Stephanie Davis Daniel Ellman Mike Fernandez Kelly Grogan Patty Heath Fred Kaplowitz Marlies McKie Steve Sempeck Beth Standlee Ryan Vasko

VI

SI

CONQUEROR EXPERIENCE RELATIONSIHIP MANAGER ONE SYSTEM FOR THE ULTIMATE CONSUMER JOURNEY

T BO US W ATL EX BO PO OT 202 H 2 #1 2

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To learn more visit:

Editorial

HOW TIMES THEY ARE A CHANGIN’!

Y

oung, vibrant, and different is the foundation of this month’s cover story. Younger generations of operators have come on the scene in a fun, fresh way bringing new technology, hyped-up food and beverage, a strong emphasis on social media, and the latest guest attractions with them. Younger generations are rising toward the top of their family’s operations and are shaking things up along the way. Find out how these gregarious young folks are blazing their own trail and connecting with a new wave of customers.

Short-staffed? Are peak periods driving you and your staff weary? If so, this month’s feature story is a mustread that offers an innovative option to ease guest wait times and reduce staffing headaches, while providing guests with a dynamic experience. Introducing Bella and Kitty, the first smart service robots in the bowling and entertainment industry. Hear from proprietors who have recently ‘hired’ Bella and friends for their team.

For those of you planning on heading to Las Vegas for BPAA’s International Bowl Expo, I encourage you to take a few minutes and look through this month’s “Sneak Peek” of what NOT to miss at the trade show. In this section, exhibitors share what they are showcasing in the expo hall, giving you a preview of new products and/or deals being offered. If you haven’t inked your travel plans yet, there’s still time to show up in Sin City and connect with industry friends and discover products and services that can elevate your business.

This month, I had the pleasure of talking with Cameron Linder, of Western Bowling Proprietors Insurance (WBPI), as part of IBI’s “Inside Line” column.

6 IBI June 2022

Many of you may already know Cameron from his informative emails and direction during the Pandemic.

Hundreds of proprietors were able to navigate the very muddy waters of government confusion with his guidance. Highlights of my interview included learning about the many new changes in the world of insurance and some eye-opening facts about the importance of league prize fund coverage. On a side note: my favorite part of the interview was learning about a special talent Cameron has — you’ll have to check out the article to see for yourself.

And finally, be sure to head over to www. bowlingindustry.com for IBI’s exclusive online-only content. A fascinating article comes to us from our friends at Funk Bowling, who highlight five reasons why duckpin bowling is gaining popularity around the world and reeling in the casual player.

I hope to see you in Vegas at International Bowl Expo. The IBI team will be there covering the show and connecting with industry friends, proprietors, and exhibitors alike.

Stop by our booth #1022, and let’s chat!

•

– Stephanie Davis, Publisher & Editor stephanie@bowlingindustry.com

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www.bowlingindustry.com READ THESE TOP STORIES EXCLUSIVELY ONLINE Today’s Supply and Demand Job Market

BY MARLIES MCKIE, EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO CEO AND RECRUITING SPECIALIST AT TRAINERTAINMENT

In today’s job market, it seems nearly impossible to hire and retain employees. Learn about how to implement an Employee Retention Program to motivate your staff and keep them as a loyal part of your team.

5 Reasons Duckpin Bowling Is Gaining Popularity Around the World

BY FUNK BOWLING Duckpin bowling is nothing new, but recently it has gained popularity among casual bowlers. Learn the top five reasons why duckpin bowling is reeling in the casual player.

Choosing Carpets for Business Use – All You Need to Know

Center Care and Pinsetter Parts WEBINAR

BY OMEGA CARPETS

FEATURING DON AGENT AND BILL WALTERS

There are many factors to consider when choosing carpet for your bowling center or FEC. Learn about these before choosing your next carpet.

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8 IBI June 2022

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From the Proprietor’s Desk

“It’s

ALL GOOD, Man!”

By Steve Sempeck

S

tealing that little line from one of my favorite shows, Better Call Saul with Bon Odenkirk, the prequel to the phenomenal Breaking Bad series, Jimmy, the funny, quirky, but smart lawyer who doesn’t follow the rules perfectly, doesn’t want to be a stuffy trial lawyer like his brother. Jimmy felt there was a market to represent the common man.

He decides to change his name because he doesn’t want to be known as Chuck’s little brother anymore since he felt he would live in his shadow forever. So, he comes up with a name that people will remember. It’s like George Costanza on Seinfeld when he dates a girl and hums a commercial jingle that once it gets in your head, it’s tough to forget. So, Jimmy changed his name to Saul Goodman, “It’s all good, man.” Not a bad marketing ploy, although his character ends up being slimy in the end (sorry, spoiler alert!).

So how does this work with bowling? Well, with all the distractions our world has today and all the competition our bowling centers and FECs face, we must look for that competitive marketing advantage or unique selling position.

What can we do to keep our customers thinking of our center when it’s time for entertainment?

I had a consulting client who did something unique once — which I immediately copied. After the fall season was done around mid-June, the center hosted several special events for their past league bowlers and their current summer league bowlers. “You spent eight months bowling with us, and we want to thank you for your patronage.”

This proprietor hosted a picnic-style party, consisting of barbeque, a beer garden, a dunk tank where the hotshot bowlers, the proprietor, the association president, and others were dunked, with the proceeds going to the junior and high school programs. They even had a live band play in the parking lot. It was a huge party to say thanks to all the customers for the past year. It was free for all league bowlers and included a plus one. There was a cash bar along with prizes the beer distributors donated to them. It was a blast!

In the same vein, one year I hosted a similar thing inside since the weather was questionable. We did pretty much the same thing, but we included a ton of awards during 10 IBI June 2022

the event. It was like a giant bowling banquet for all my leagues. We presented league awards and gag awards — best form, worst form, etc. It was a big, fun party.

Sure, it cost a few hundred bucks on food and sundries, but talk about a blast and putting us at top-of-mind for customers! People received a snail mail invitation from us, enjoyed the party, had a blast, and came back in the fall.

We have to be unique. We must be talked about in a good way and known for something. Easiest lane conditions, best nachos, cheapest prices, etc., are all good, but those are not enough to cut it; customers will remember a fun party for a party’s sake. Try something different than your normal. You will be glad you did, and so will your customers.

Keep ‘em rolling!

Steve Sempeck Bowl Co Marketing and Management ssempeck@gmail.com

•

Here are some ideas for league retention: • PAID USBC FEES • FREE LOCKER RENTAL • BOWL-OLYMPICS COMPETITION (ask me about that one) • FREE LESSONS (Who’d a thunk!)

• SPECIAL EARLY BIRD LEAGUE BOWLER FOOD MENU • CHASE THE CASH (after league is done nightly) • TERRIBLE TURKEY TOSS (throw a frozen turkey or ham down the lane: strike and you win the meat and money)

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Marketing

CALL TO ACTION!

Don’t Miss the Final Step of Creating Killer Messages

S

ince the ultimate purpose of building an offer is to gain a response, a sale, or a sign-up, the final element is a critical one. Not only is it an element that must be included with every offer, but it is also one that deserves a great deal of your attention.

Good marketers know you should offer a variety of ways for people to respond. Here are a few examples to consider: • Call Now! • Join This Exclusive Club • Click On This Link • Text Us To Sign Up • Complete Thisant Form to get the most out of your marketing of money and efforts? The most • Complete Thisoutlays Email Reply effective way I know to gain optimum ROI • Scan This QR Code for your investment is to always follow a •three-step Visit Our Control Counter procedure when working to develop a It is proven thatplan providing multipleThe options consumers marketing or promotion. threefor steps outlined to sign up ornot gain more information will increase the to be below only need to be followed they need number of responders you’ll have. followed in the order presented.

As you brainstorm different call-to-action messages, be sure to create some urgency. want to stir – IDtype TheofTargeT ofYou Your prospects to act now while they are engaged with your MarkeTIng offer. Consider setting a deadline and offering a bonus you need to dial inan onillusion the target youroffer efforts. for earlyFirst responders.

Create thatofthe Clearly describe the people or organizations youbyhope to isn’t available in quantity and creating urgency using attract. time tolimited,” dig into traits, characteristics, and phrases like,Take “spots are “this is a limited time offer,”current or, “first 20 people only.” behaviors of your marketing target. No matter if your made up allows of individuals, couples, Failure totarget createis urgency prospects timegroups, to putor off thinking about your offer, and, time in many when companies, you need to take withcases, your staff to a consumer who strays away, they discuss all theshows thingsinterest that the then specific target might find oftenattractive never return. as part of your offer. Building an offer to appeal Your calls to action testedof before roll-out byusually to everyone orshould a large be segment the population running them a few people that match totoyour results in by a watered-down offerare thata appeals no one. target audience.

Listen, makemarketing: adjustments based on who A bonus to true target once you tighten feedback, and make sure that you have made it easy for target is, you will be able to save on costs to reach themyour to respond. them as well.

Note: All members of your team who might be involved with responses to your marketing should be completely educated on the offer and be ready to answer questions. All team members should be equipped to help prospects become customers.

All seven elements to creating killer messages are important! Marketers who skip steps or treat them lightly often end up saying, “That idea just doesn’t work for us,” or, “Our customers are different.” What I hope you savvy marketers understand is that weak offers equal weak responses, and well-built offers equal the strongest chance of success!

MARKETING BASICS WITH BRUCE DAVIS

Marketing LESSONS TO REMEMBER Monthly WITH BRUCE DAVIS

As the final installment of this ongoing series, this month we’re highlighting the last element: creating killer messages that boost results

THE MARKETING PROCESS

THE 7 ELEMENTS OF BUILDING KILLER MESSAGES

1. Build proper headlines and sub-headlines to attract attention.

2. Construct strong body copy that talks of the benefits to your target audience.

3. Include relevant testimonials; pictures and videos are even better.

4. Consider building in a premium that aligns with your target.

5. Consider adding a coupon; they boost response and keep the offer alive longer.

6. Clearly detail your guarantee.

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IBI

October 2021

7. Now it is time to “ask for the sale,” or in marketing lingo, “build your call to action.”

In simple terms, it’s time to tell the engaged, prospective consumer what to do next!

W Step 1

•

12 IBI June 2022

Feature

BELLA of the BOWL

By Ryan Vasko

Robot Staff Members Are the Future of Our Industry

T

alk about Employee of the Month!

The newest hire is a multi-tasker. She serves drinks and food, picks up shoes, upsells customers on entertainment options, and has consistently polite people skills.

She’s a quick learner, picking up on the layout and nuances of a center on the first day. She doesn’t ever ask for a day off, requires no benefits other than the occasional wipedown with a terry cloth, and is ready to start every day with a smile–provided you remembered to plug her in the night before.

Meet Bella. The premium delivery robot created by Pudu Robotics is the latest thing in the wave of tech-forward enhancements being brought in by smart business owners. Bella is a food-delivering, footwear-hauling, childamazing, ditty-singing dynamo, and she’s already turning heads in centers across the country.

“I was blown away the moment I saw her,” says Pat Ciniello, chairman of QubicaAMF Worldwide. He employs multiple robots at his centers and is leading the movement to sell them to as many others as possible.

“I contacted the distributor, and by chance, he had a number of robots with him; I made my purchase that day.

Bella is not intended to be a replacement for your staff.

Instead, its role is an invaluable supplement, one that frees up staff for more pressing roles.

14 IBI June 2022

“We thought we’d get a little flak from the staff, like, ‘Oh, great, there’s my replacement,’ but they really love them and saw the value right away,” says Lisa Ciniello, vice president of Bowling Management Associates. “While the staff is busy getting Lisa Ciniello, drinks for customers, Bella’s getting the Bowling Management pizzas ready, and they can follow her Associates to the tables. They’re getting better

REAL PEOPLE

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VISIT US AT BOOTH #1243

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Conqueror Web gives centers the flexibility to sell the exact same products online as they do in-person. That means a whole new range of possibilities for presenting bowling offers to customers with no compromises. The results are nothing short of amazing.

Just ask Sun Valley Lanes in Lincoln, Nebraska. They saw a 1,300% increase in online booking revenues heavily driven by their per-person all-you-can-bowl weeknight special, uniquely possible with Conqueror Web.

Sun Valley Lanes Lincoln, NE To learn more visit:

Feature

tips because the customer is having this happy, feel-good moment and getting their food faster.”

Operators who bought in early are giving Bella rave reviews, seeing immediate positive returns for crew members and patrons alike.

“We got it set up in no time,” says Kaleb Boje, manager at Brandon Crossroads Bowl in Tampa, FL. “They were ready to go out there and work right away. Everyone was excited and taking pictures. The whole thing was pretty smooth, which made it much easier to free up time for the staff to focus on anything else that’s needed.”

“It’s all about enhancing the experience,” says Chris Keller, owner of The All Star in Riverhead on Long Island, New York. “For birthday parties, the kids love seeing their cupcakes Chris Keller, rolling in on this robot, The All Star Riverhead and it’s singing ‘Happy Birthday’ or ‘Celebration,’ and they can’t believe it. It’s been so great.”

The beauty of Bella is her ability to integrate directly into the existing systems at any given center. If customers list what shoe sizes they need while completing an online reservation, Bella will bring them to the lane as part of the check-in process. If they get hungry, they can order from a QPAD or kiosk and have it served up in a flash. And once Bella recognizes that a lane is about to wrap up its allotted time, she heads over, nicely suggests that customers pile their shoes on her trays, and totes them back to the counter.

The setup process has also proved simple, with reps accompanying the delivery and helping staff members learn the ropes. The rollout involves Bella mapping out every square foot of the center and learning which areas to traverse. She also comes with a 16 IBI June 2022

guidance system and avoidance technology that recognizes something as small as a cup of water in front of her.

Another plus? Bella is a social media star that essentially markets itself and becomes a fast-spreading photo opp for customers.

“Right away, they have their phones out; they’re posting on social media,” says Keller. “We did a quick video of its maiden voyage, saying, ‘Come to the center and meet Bella,’ and we got over 35,000 hits just on that little post.”

“We didn’t have to do much,” says Boje. “We set aside this area at the snack bar with a sign that said ROBOT PARKING, which got people’s attention right away. But once they interact with it, they love it and talk about it, and it spreads so much just by word of mouth.”

Even with her internet-breaking ability, though, Pat’s main piece of advice is to consider Bella’s capabilities (not her draw as an attraction) first and foremost. “Don’t buy it for novelty,” he says. “We consider Bella a staff member. It’s fun, and she will get a lot of social media attention, but it should be about a better service model.”

“Have your staff learn the ins and outs of the robot,” says Boje. “Make sure they’re part of the process to help figure out how best to integrate Bella as part of the team.”

The future of robotic aides includes additional cooking, cleaning, and concierge services. They’ll be able to climb stairs, open doors, guide birthday party attendees to their proper rooms, learn and respond to voice commands, and so much more. “We’re only limited by our own imaginations by what we can do,” says Pat. It may seem wild and futuristic, but folks once thought that way about automatic scoring and glow-in-the-dark bowling, too. Bella and her robot companions are definitely more Jetsons than Flintstones, but the potential for the industry is out of this world.

•

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Booze and Bites

Picture Perfect

PLATING

By Mike Fernandez

The Why and How of Creating Picture Perfect Food For Your Social Media

THE WHY

N

ationally, food and beverage account for a large percentage of revenue for bowling centers and FECs in the United States. Are you giving your food the credit it deserves? Does your website or Facebook page show off your incredible pizza creations, or are they half-hidden behind someone’s arm, left in the dark?

Does your website or Facebook page offer your menu to potential guests?

As an operator, it’s up to you to create a narrative for your center and the way potential guests view it. Professional food photos can help you build a brand that stands out and owns a unique identity.

-Researchers found that colored visuals increase people’s willingness to read an article, description, or a promotional copy by 80%.

-77% of diners look up what food you offer before going to eat.

-Hubspot reports that when people hear something they retain 10% of the information, but pair that same information with an image and it rises to 65%.

-22% of people take pictures of food they’ve ordered, especially at parties. That’s free content marketing!

18 IBI June 2022

THE HOW LIGHTS!

Use natural or warm lighting, preferably diffused (not directly shining on the food). Avoid using your phone’s flash, lamps, or strong overhead lighting as the bright light will remove texture and make grease shine. If pictures come out too dark in your center, most free software gives you the ability to brighten photos afterward.

CAMERA! You don’t need a next-gen Nikon lens to photograph your food. Using an iPhone 11 or above will do the trick and don’t be afraid to ask a friend to use theirs. A key tip that improves 99% of food pics is to make sure to wipe down your phone lens with a cloth; some isopropyl alcohol added in is even better.

Booze and Bites

EXAMPLES

ACTION! Avoid confining yourself to one space. Try different spots near windows.

Try different angles.

Some displays of food look better from above (like, pizza), or from the side (burgers), or at a 45-degree angle (drinks). Try moving around the plate and taking photos at various angles so you can pick your favorite later. I’d recommend taking 10-15 photos of each plate.

EXAMPLE

A

Get Creative

Most photos of plates you’ll find online are greatly enhanced by photo editing. Consider playing around with photo filters on your iPhone or enlist the help of a photo editor who can do the work for you. They often have access to expensive editing programs and years of experience tweaking lights and colors.

Don’t have expensive tableware? Bring some things in from home. Don’t worry about stocking up on fancy plaid napkins for your photoshoot, you can simply take a flannel shirt, and fold it into a triangle under the plate to simulate a fine tablecloth.

Professional photos used for TV ads and online marketing use incredible tricks of the trade to get the right shot.

Here are a few fun ones: 1. Spray water on veggies to give them an extra fresh look.

2. Use a torch or lighter to melt just the corner of the cheese sticking out of your burger. Burgers are usually slightly undercooked to look extra juicy.

3. Use a paper towel to get some of the shiny grease off the top of your pizza.

4. Add antacids to drinks to make them extra fizzy.

5. Make a drink look colder by spraying deodorant spray on the glass.

6. Make fruit/veggies look fresher with a nice coat of hairspray!

7. Brown shoe polish adds bold color to burger buns and chicken wings.

8. There’s no syrup on TV pancakes, it’s all motor oil. Delicious!

9. There’s no ice cream on TV either, mashed potatoes in a cone keeps its form way longer!

EXAMPLE

B

Example A: Bacon jam burger. Pleasant natural lighting, the ingredients are visible and fresh, the focus is on the burger, but you can tell the fries are seasoned and crispy.

Example B: A buffalo chicken sandwich in a dark room with the flash on and zoomed in too much. There are a lot of distractions in this picture, including monstrous pickles. The chips look overly salty and greasy due to the flash. This was actually delicious, but I wouldn’t gather that if this was on a company’s Facebook page.

Example C: iPhone 11 photo of a Bellini I was served. All it took to take to the next level was to click the Enhance button.

EXAMPLE

C IBI June 2022 19

Booze and Bites

SMOKEY BUSINESS Now that you’ve mastered the art of food photography, you can graduate to the art of putting on a show right at your bar. We’ve discussed before how smokey drinks are making waves around the nation due to stunning presentations and unique flavors.

IBI went on a hunt to see who could best serve bars in centers nationwide, and we found James Middleton, who had a background in both bartending and firefighting. Experienced in fire science, smoke behavior, and mixology, James created his product, SmokeTop, as a way for bartenders to easily and affordably change the way they serve drinks.

IBI: What made you decide that this product is what you wanted to bring to the public?

James: I didn’t really mean to start a company! It started as a way to smoke cocktails faster in the busy bar that I managed. As I was using it, a couple of my customers asked about it. They were looking on Amazon for one and couldn’t find anything like it. I knew then that I had created something new. I had 25 made, and then sold them; then made 100 more, and sold those. When COVID struck, and I was out of work at the bar, I spent all my stimulus money and tax return on creating Middleton Mixology. Then the e-commerce store followed, and I have been scaling up ever since.

IBI: How is this best promoted to customers?

James: Add a good picture to the menu and have the bartenders offer it at welcome. Once someone orders a smoked drink, the whole bar will see it and be wondering what it is and everyone will want to try one.

IBI: What do customers love about your product?

IBI: What are your two favorite smoked drink recipes?

James: Our customers love how cost-effective and simple the SmokeTop is compared to other methods.

It allows nonprofessionals to create elegant, creative cocktails at home. They really love to show it off to their friends and family at parties.

James:

IBI: What do bartenders love about your product?

James: They love how much more efficiently and quickly it smokes the cocktail. The SmokeTop is fail-proof; it has no batteries to die, hoses to get clogged, or fans to break.

It’s approximately the size of a coaster and takes up a fraction of bar space. Because it injects the smoke directly into the cocktail, it’s now a part of the drink and not just a show. It requires much less smoke to get the same effect and doesn’t fill the bar with smoke. It can be done right in front of the guest and even tableside.

IBI: How much of an upsell can operators expect from offering this?

James: We have seen up charges from $2 to $20 depending on the drink and the establishment. If you use all Middleton Mixology products, we estimate that the allin per drink cost to the owner is about 10 cents.

20 IBI June 2022

MANHATTAN Add ice to a mixing glass, smoke the ice with Middleton Mixology cherry wood chips and SmokeTop. In a stirring glass, add the ingredients below: • .75 ounces Sweet vermouth • 3 dashes bitters • 2 ounces rye whiskey • Stir, pour into a serving glass, garnish with a cherry

TOMMY’S MARGARITA Add ice to shaker tin, smoke ice with Middleton Mixology cinnamon chips and SmokeTop. Add the ingredients below: • 1 ounce fresh-squeezed lime juice • .5 ounces agave • 1.5 ounces tequila • Shake, pour into a serving glass, garnish with a lime

•

The old ways

of infusing your cocktails with smoke

are over.

We now have the SmokeTop cocktail smoker! It is fast, easy, and takes up minimal bar space. As a bar tender and manager James Middleton created the SmokeTop to effectively smoke cocktails on a busy Friday or Saturday night shift. You can smoke several cocktails at a time, and it only adds 5-10 seconds. It adds not only a spectacular visual effect, but also aromatic toasted depth to any drink.

Smoked infusion is not just for whiskey.

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Summer Revenue

Are You Planning for a

DIP?

By Beth Standlee

(and I don’t mean in the pool...)

A

s refreshing as that sounds, I’m not referring to 2. Search Google or Browse Facebook for Local Class cooling off in a pool, lake, or ocean. I’m talking Reunions and Family Reunion events about the dip in consumer behavior.

It is simple to google “High School Reunions in Fort It’s true that most location-based entertainment centers Worth, TX,” for example, and find many easy search are having a GREAT year. In many cases, it has been a options full of information. Many times, a contact name challenge for them to keep up with demand. What a is readily available. Check to see what their plans are wonderful problem to have! and if your center can be a resource for fun.

Full-season leagues have come to an end, the sun is A QUICK SAMPLE OF WHAT MY SEARCH PROVIDED beginning to shine, and the spring weather chaos makes way for lazy days at the lake or other outdoor recreation.

What can you do now to help your business continue to thrive through the summer into the fall?

It is no secret that competition for leisure time, money, and even inflation is knocking on our busy doors. I hope the four action steps suggested below are ones you’ll kick off now to continue to ride the wave of post-covid success and bolster your business as we begin to distance ourselves from this pandemic!

Search For Your Reunion from 250,000 Schools. Browse Over 460,000 Old Yearbooks Online. Join 70 Million 4 ACTIONS TO TAKE NOW TO Members & Search For Your Old School Classmates & AVOID A DIP IN BUSINESS Class Reunions Online. Lookup Alumni. Online Yearbooks.

Yearbooks. Plan Your Reunions.

1. Reconnect with Field Trips (Be the rainy-day option) Summer camps, daycare groups, and vacation Bible Search Results school children all need a place to go. Hopefully, you’ve Fort Worth, TX High School Reunions Events | Eventbrite already booked many of those groups by now. Many of https://www.eventbrite.com › tx--fort-worth › high-sch... the younger groups, however, may not have booked yet, so you still have time to call if you jump on it quickly.

20 Year Reunion: Lamar Class of 2002. Sat, Jun 11, 7:00 Invite them to book a field trip and remind them you PM. Private Venue • Fort Worth, TX. Starts at $45.00. are an ideal rainy-day option for those days when an Shaun McAlister. 58 followers. outside field trip turns into a wet mess!

22 IBI June 2022

Summer Revenue 3. Talk with Companies about a “Fail-Safe” Company Summer Picnic Don’t wait until the holiday season to begin a company party sales blitz; many companies have not gathered for two years and might welcome the opportunity to reconnect. Hybrid workspaces are now commonplace, so teams are not seeing each other every day. The need for people to gather and play, or work some and play some, is greater than ever. Why not position your meeting rooms as a great place to meet? They will need to eat and, of course, why not top off every company meeting with a round of bowling and arcade games? Thoughtful business owners need you to help them build morale and provide that perfect place for their teams to get together.

4. Look at the “Reach Calendar” One of the things we focus on each year at TrainerTainment is a way to provide location-based entertainment centers with a guide to stay ahead of what’s coming. The goal is to strategically look at the calendar in a 30-60-90-day format. The things we want to do 30 days from now need to be actively promoted during this time.

60 days away, production of those events should be in full focus mode. 90 days away, we are prioritizing what makes sense to work on in the business.

Having a tool like the reach calendar really helps those ‘Oh shoot!’ moments, when life has been busy and things may have gotten away from you. I totally understand; we’ve all been there. This helpful calendar can help you stay on track as you plan for special offers, promotions, or events.

For an easy download, use the IBI discount code of IBI50 and receive your reach calendar for 50% less than non-IBI readers! https://trainertainment.net/ product/2022-reach-calendar-digital-download/ I hope these four ideas have helped inspire you to take the plunge and prepare for the seasonal dip. I’m certain you want to keep the momentum going.

I hope you have the best year ever and look forward to seeing you all at Bowl Expo!

In fun, Beth and the Trainertainment Team

•

IBI June 2022 23

Inside Line

Meet Cameron Linder

By Stephanie Davis

Each month IBI’s “Inside Line” highlights a team member from one of our loyal advertisers.

It’s always fun to learn a little something new about people in the industry who make things happen at their company and for the industry. This month we talked with Cameron Linder, CEO of Western Bowling Proprietors Insurance (WBPI).

IBI: Hi Cameron, let’s start with how long you’ve been in the bowling industry and your current position at WBPI. Cameron: In some ways, I grew up in the industry. Since my father began WBPI and serving bowling centers for 33 years, I had a lot of experience traveling with him to conventions and proprietor meetings. I have been directly involved in serving this industry since 2013, about a year before I separated from the Air Force. In 2017, after doubling the size of the program and expanding it into 20 additional states, I purchased the company from my father and became the CEO. IBI: What makes WBPI unique?

Cameron: What makes WBPI unique is going above and beyond the realm of an insurance broker. Our response to the pandemic and the critical role we played helping hundreds of proprietors to understand and take advantage of the various government aid programs were well outside the purview of a normal insurance broker. We helped proprietors navigate the messy waters of government “help” in a way that set them up for success. WBPI provides so much more than insurance: training, counsel, advice, and a fighting spirit that understands that sometimes you need protection from your own insurance company!

24 IBI June 2022

The Linder Family

IBI: What new programs or initiatives are you working on?

Cameron: We just rolled out a new, custom property coverage form that is tailored to bowling centers.

Most proprietors are unaware that the full value of many league prize funds is not fully covered by the USBC if those funds were to be destroyed or stolen.

Furthermore, you have to follow very specific rules and steps in order to claim coverage for those funds. I’ve only known one proprietor who has successfully claimed the USBC’s coverage for stolen prize funds, and they only paid him $15,000 on a $40,000 theft. Additionally, a claims adjuster with a technical understanding of coverage would recognize that prize funds of others are

It’s more than Insurance...

Because you're family.

Cameron Linder CEO, Western Bowling Proprietors Insurance (WBPI) Rednil Insurance Brokers, Inc. cameron.linder@rednilbrokers.com

800.200.9998

www.wbpiprogram.com

Inside Line not covered by the money and securities or employee dishonesty coverage offered by most policies. Why? Because you can’t insure something you don’t own and with prize funds, the money doesn’t belong to the bowling center. I’m not saying these claims are always denied (many adjusters don’t understand that the league funds don’t belong to the insured), but to take away the guessing, we are now the only program that specifically offers league prize fund coverage up to $100,000 while the money is located inside the bowling center.

We also just launched our in-house rating platform which gives us better control over the underwriting process.

This has already been a tremendous success, and we are generating new business quotes in under 24 hours and renewals 30 or more days in advance. Plus, we now employ our own underwriter who does nothing else but underwrites bowling centers.

IBI: What trend do you see continuing in the insurance industry in 2022?

Cameron: From an insurance perspective, the biggest trend I see continuing is that there will be fewer and fewer carriers who will underwrite bowling centers; those that do underwrite them (we excluded) will restrict their appetites.

Liberty Mutual’s program collapsed last year in response to multiple, catastrophic property claims. K&K Insurance has rolled out its new program but excludes FEC exposures from consideration. The market has hardened considerably over the last three years, and I see this trend continuing through 2022 and possibly 2023.

IBI: What do you like most about your job?

Cameron: By far, the customers. Proprietors are such a special group of hard-working, passionate people. To me, they’re heroes who fight every day to earn their living, do something positive for the community, and who grind through the tough times because they’re passionate. The quality and friendship of bowling proprietors are what make Monday my favorite day of the week.

The Linder Family

IBI: When you’re not working, how do you like to spend your time?

Cameron: When I’m not working, I’m usually engaged in bible study, historical reading, or remodel projects. I occasionally preach at our church and just last week I built a new shower for a friend of mine who lives around the corner from us. They now have a 2-bathroom house, and we did it for less than $1,500 in materials. The balance of working with my head in the insurance business and working with my hands in some way has always kept me motivated and feeling energized.

IBI: What would our readers be surprised to learn about you?

Cameron: They’d definitely be surprised to learn that I’m an avid social partner dancer. Tango, swing, blues, ballroom—my wife Tracee and I love to dance. I used to be part owner of a national dance event called the Fusion Exchange. We don’t dance as much as we did when we first got married but give us a smooth floor and good music, and we’ll adapt different styles of dance to whatever music is playing.

•

IBI: What is one habit, technique, or strategy that you employ at work to keep you organized and on-task?

Cameron: I’m a weird combination of creative mess and detail orientation. My desk is a mess, but my email inbox and program management tools are neurotically organized and up to date. My number one technique is my slavish attention to staying on top of email. I’m well known for my responsiveness in communication—people have asked me how I organize my email because I’m so on top of it—but keeping my emails marked, labeled, and read is what keeps me organized.

26 IBI June 2022

Cameron and wife Tracee showing their dynamic form

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Cover Story

Young!

By Daniel Ellman

Vibrant!

DIFFERENT!

Chelsea Ducat

Younger Generations Are Changing The Family Business

C

helsea Ducat’s career after high school took a few twists and turns; after attending college in Alabama, she settled in Tallahassee, Florida, and then Nashville.

While she wasn’t quite sure what her long-term plans were, she had one thing in mind: “I knew I wanted to be AnywhereBut-Here, U.S.A.,” Ducat said with a laugh. “Here” in this case was central Florida, where she grew up around Cypress Lanes, owned by her father and grandfather.

But then a funny thing happened. She came back to visit one day and ended up helping her dad out in the bowling center. “I realized that I really missed being here,” Ducat said. “The work felt purposeful. We weren’t just part of corporate America. Instead, we were providing good, wholesome entertainment to good people.”

Since then, Ducat has moved back, settled in Lakeland, FL, and now helps run Cypress Lanes and a second family center, Strikers. She’s just one of many young proprietors who are keeping centers across the country in their families. And as this next generation increases their roles in the business, they’re changing the game.

GROWING UP IN THE INDUSTRY

Kylie Hicks spent a lot of time in bowling centers. Her family owns two centers in California, where she’d go after school and hang out. “I got to really know some of the people who worked for us for years and years,” Hicks said.

“And because of that, I knew I’d always end up back here in some capacity.”

At first, she began working in one of the center’s restaurants, and eventually was given more and more responsibility. Today, she’s co-owner of Hi Joy Bowl in Port Orchard, WA, with her two brothers and uncle.

Scott Logan has a similar story. His family has been in the industry for four generations. And while he wasn’t pressured into following in their footsteps, bowling came naturally to him because it was “what he knew.”

28 IBI June 2022

He started as the arcade manager in one of his family’s centers.

For 10 years he worked hard to “prove I was supposed to be there and that things weren’t handed to me because I was the owner’s son.” Eventually, he became general manager and now co-owner of Grand Station Entertainment, a family entertainment center in College Station, TX.

WITH POWER COMES RESPONSIBILITY

Taking over a center is never easy, but it’s even harder when you’re taking over responsibility from family. It may involve changing the way your parents or grandparents have done things for decades.

“There had been a lot of changes I had wanted to make before, but I didn’t really have the position or power to do it,” said Logan. For instance, he introduced lane servers, treating the center more like a restaurant so that bowlers could order food and have it brought to them while playing.

“Once you make a change like that, one thing leads to another,” Logan said. “We needed to up our food standards and become a full-fledged restaurant. Guests expected better quality, and we needed to meet those expectations.”

Marc Ciniello is another young proprietor making his way as part of a family dynasty. His parents, Pat and Lisa, own six facilities across Florida. Marc runs FastTrax, which includes go-karts, an arcade, miniature duck-pin bowling, bumper cars, and more. He also spent three years as general manager of Headpinz Naples, one of his family’s FECs. “A lot of the business in our centers caters to league bowlers, but we need to dive into the idea of recreation,” Ciniello said.

“The entertainment aspect of bowling is going to become the dominant force and we need to adapt to that.” That means new technology and new profit centers such as virtual reality are key components to a diverse operation.

“There are a lot of people afraid of change and that’s a problem,” Ciniello said. “But technology affects every sport, from golf to tennis to the more major sports. If you scoff at technology, you’ll get left behind.”

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Cover Story CATERING TO A NEW GENERATION

In addition to technology, one of the biggest changes being made across the bowling industry is adapting to the interests and ways of life of newer generations. “We need to get out of our old-school mentality,” Ducat said. “We have fewer league bowlers now, and we need to focus on — and market — our open play.”

Ducat has placed an emphasis on marketing via social media. “We knew our league bowlers and their families and what they eat for lunch,” she said. “But now we have a more transient crowd, and we need to still reach them to stay top-of-mind.”

Cypress Lanes and Strikers now engage with people on social media, creating an online persona with the lingo and language used among younger generations. “My dad doesn’t really care for that type of thing,” Ducat said. “But if we’re going to move forward and appeal to a millennial population, we need to meet them where they are.”

Hicks has similar plans, hoping to revamp her center’s website and improve online reservations. “Sometimes when you’re in the industry so long, you have the mindset, ‘If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,’” Hicks said. “But a fresh set of eyes can help push us forward, and that’s what I am trying to bring.”

In the end, despite the challenges and changes they are making, the young proprietors say they have been embraced by all members of the bowling industry. “My family and the whole industry have been great to me and welcomed me with open arms,” Ducat said. “Though I never expected to be here, I’m so glad I am.”

Other young operators share their vision of where they think the future of the bowling and FEC industry is going: Eddie Gable, Ohio-based RollHouse Entertainment, Regional Manager “The bowling industry is becoming about providing the best overall experience to win the battle for the customer. Drivers like food, beverage, and other forms of entertainment have become important for us in winning that battle.”

30 IBI June 2022

We asked young proprietors what drew them back to bowling and what they love most about the industry.

MARC CINIELLO “We’re a small industry and everybody seems to know everybody. Being in the centers and watching day-today operations, there’s always an adrenaline rush. What we do is sometimes too much fun to call it a ‘job.’”

CHELSEA DUCAT “The people in this industry are so good.

When you go to Bowl Expo or other events, connecting with other operators is fantastic.

I enjoy being in the business of offering fun experiences.”

KYLIE HICKS Eddie Gable, RollHouse Entertainment

Jeremy Cottrell, Yorktown Lanes, Parma Heights, OH “Don’t count out being ‘just’ a bowling center. As a traditional bowling center, in an age of FECs and boutique operations, we’re coming off one of our busiest seasons in years. In our area, open bowling is on the rise, and we’re experiencing an influx of leagues as FEC and hybrid centers are turning away their weekend leagues. Many people think if you want to survive, you must add other revenue generators like redemption games and laser tag, which have significant initial costs involved. For a family-owned center, that’s not so easy to pull off. We remained ‘just a bowling center,’ and are doing it the best way we know how, and it appears to be working.

Be proud of what you do. Do it well.”

•

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT THE BOWLING INDUSTRY?

“Our employees and our customers keep me coming back every day. We’re in the people business more than anything else.”

SCOTT LOGAN “The one thing that bowling has over anything else is that you can bring multiple generations together to enjoy the same activity. We need to hang our hat on that.”

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TIKTOK AS A MARKETING TOOL Worchester, UK, is not a big town. Worchester Bowl is a bowling center that is a neighbor to Worchester University from which a lot of its staff and customers come. One way to push the center, the team has come up with innovative and fun TikTok videos with views from 1,000 to 21,000. Manager Racheal Irwin-Hall shares that these videos have been an excellent way for the staff to come together to brainstorm ideas and film them. They are a big hit with children and have brought in a lot of new customers.

Children enjoy TikTok: they find the videos fun and bring their parents in to visit the center. Bowlers are even encouraged to do their own. The app is also a way for local businesses to collaborate and promote themselves and their community.

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34 IBI June 2022

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T

he last two years have forced a lot of business operators to be innovative and creative in how they do business. Proprietors in many industries found new ways to drive revenue, partly because of restrictions put in place. Some of these new streams of revenue are here to stay and can even be expanded as a profit center.

What if I told you there was a solution to help you market to new customers, create efficiencies within your F&B operations, and provide a unique experience for your guests without spending additional marketing dollars or changing your operations, and in a completely risk-free way to generate incremental revenue in less than 30 days?

Virtual delivery-only restaurant brands are the newest solution in the industry available to operators that allow them to maximize their kitchen space by simply fulfilling delivery orders and featuring specific menu offerings within their center. With pre-defined menus designed for simplicity and profitability, operators can quickly implement these in their locations using their existing kitchen equipment and SKUs. Capture revenue from hungry customers in your area that may not be looking to bowl at that time but are looking to spend money. These brands allow you a new way to cross-market your center to guests coming to pick up their orders or by dropping center goodies in the delivery bags, driving great visibility for your location without the massive marketing budget.

Providing your in-house guests with the opportunity to explore new menu offerings and try nationally recognized

38 IBI June 2022

menus from their favorite celebrities and brands will provide a reason for guests to keep coming back and to spend more while they are there. If you were looking for a way to differentiate your center from any other local activity, featuring burgers from MrBeast, cakes from Buddy V, The Cake Boss, or the official hot dogs from NASCAR, adding virtual food brands delivery-only would be the way to do it.

Virtual brands provide operators with a unique opportunity to maximize their existing F&B operations, while driving incremental sales and providing a unique menu experience to their in-house guests.

Virtual Dining Concepts (VDC) is the leading provider of over 12+ delivery-only celebrity brands and is working with centers across the U.S. to provide a simple and easy solution to help maximize space and capitalize on this readily available revenue. They do all the work, while your team just makes the food – that includes training, technology, recipes, marketing, and promotions. In less than 30 days, your center can take advantage of the opportunity too! www.VirtualDiningConcepts.com

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Design

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Immersive Entertainment Is Winning Customers Over

By Daniel Ellman

T

hanks to technology, it seems as though people have every piece of entertainment they may ever need right at their fingertips. From movies and TV shows, streaming music channels, virtual reality goggles, and more, it’s difficult to convince someone to leave their home.

And that’s a challenge for the bowling and family entertainment industry.

“The key to long-term success is winning the battle between out-of-home entertainment and in-home entertainment,” said Jim Kessler, CEO of Lasertron, an immersive entertainment company based in New York. “You need to give people a dramatically better reason to leave home and interact with others in a fun and engaging way.”

A DIFFERENT WORLD

Bowling, of course, is one way to draw people in. But that typically only attracts one type of customer.

“If you want to truly diversify and attract an entirely new audience, you should think about immersive attractions,” said Danny Gruening, vice president of marketing for Creative Works, a global manufacturer of immersive experiences.

That sounds easy enough, but what exactly does “immersive” mean? The answer isn’t simple.

“In general, the idea of immersion is an attraction that is able to transport the customer into a different world,” Gruening said. “Whether that’s virtual reality, an escape room, or a themed laser tag arena, these types of attractions create a sense of wonder and awe and make people forget for a few minutes that they are in an entertainment facility.”

Kessler added that the social aspect of immersion is vital to success.

42 IBI June 2022

“You can put on virtual reality goggles at home, but you can’t play laser tag or compete in axe throwing in your living room,” Kessler said. “That’s how you win the battle between in-home entertainment and out-of-home entertainment.”

MOST POPULAR ATTRACTIONS

Speaking of axe throwing, Kessler said that has quickly become one of his company’s most popular attractions. “We’ve created an axe throwing experience with laser projected targets and lighting that really draws in the customer,” he said.

“Axe throwing has proven to check all the boxes: people can compete, socialize, have fun with their friends, and eat or drink while playing. It truly elevates the social human experience.”

The axe throwing customer base also tends to skew toward young adults, a demographic that often spends more time and money within an FEC. Laser tag, escape rooms, and even mini golf are also incredibly popular, according to Creative Works.

“Using blacklights and other special effects, we’re able to give people a story-driven golfing experience that is fun for all ages,” said Gruening.

Design WHERE TO START

If you’re interested in adding immersive attractions, Gruening said it’s key to do your research ahead of time.

“First, think about your goals. Are you trying to draw in more customers, or get them to stay longer? Are you looking to increase per capita spending, or sell attractions bundles to draw more corporate events? Those are all questions you should be asking,” Gruening said.

Next, it’s important to talk with other proprietors and go to events such as Bowl Expo to see where they have found success. Finally, reach out to industry partners, such as architecture and design firms, along with manufacturers.

IT’S ALL ABOUT WORKING TOGETHER

“Once you have ideas in mind as to the type of attractions you’d like to add, we will help you find the best ways to fit them into your center,” said Howard Ellman, principal architect and co-owner of Dynamic Designs, which has decades of experience designing family entertainment centers. “We’ll help you with the architectural side of things, such as where to place your attractions for maximum profit. But we’ll also ensure that new attractions match the themes and branding that have already been established within your FEC.” Dynamic Designs also works hand-in-hand with manufacturers so that your new equipment, laser tag arenas, and other structural elements come together perfectly. “We have great working relationships with

attractions companies so that you’ll be able to create the perfect profit centers for your facility,” Ellman said.

Kessler added: “There’s not a start and stop between manufacturers and designers. We all must be on the same team, and work together to help create an incredible experience.”

EMBRACING THE FUTURE

In the end, finding success in the entertainment industry is all about looking ahead. Technology is constantly improving, meaning in-home entertainment is improving as well. “Don’t improve the technology in your center just for technology’s sake,” Gruening said. “Be sure you are embracing technology in order to improve your facility’s social and immersive experience.”

•

FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT CENTERS DESIGN & ARCHITECTURE Congratulations on your new center — thanks for selecting Dynamic Designs.

Interior & Exterior Design • New Concept Development Planning & Consulting • Architecture Theme Design • Re-Imagining of Existing Facilities Call (248) 644-7275 for a consultation today, and learn more at www.dynamicdesignsinc.net IBI June 2022 43

Jason Belm 14 PBA Majors

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8 time PBA Champion

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THE WORLD’S TWO BEST BOWLERS HAVE A MESSAGE FOR YOU Connect your center and let your bowlers compete with us!

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What NOT To Miss At The Trade Show

YOUR INDUSTRY PARTNERS ARE RARING TO GO! It’s trade show time at Bowl Expo and these dedicated industry partners want to connect with you and help your business.

Check out their new products and services, show specials, & more!

AlleyTrak AlleyTrak is the complete lane reservation and management system designed specifically for bowling alleys.

Manage your recurring events, leagues, parties, packages, along with many other features AlleyTrak has to offer. Save time by allowing guests to make reservations online 24/7. Create more revenue opportunities and speed up your cash flow with online payments. AlleyTrak was made to be affordable, while still offering an extensive amount of features to be the best option for online reservations. There are no contracts, setup or cancellation fees; just a simple monthly subscription.

Reach out to AlleyTrak.com today to schedule a live demo to see how AlleyTrak can benefit you.

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Atmosphere TV

Elevate your space with Atmosphere TV, the the #1 streaming TV service for businesses. Atmosphere is a business entertainment solution that amuses like social media, immerses consumers like live entertainment, and reaches the unreachable TV audience that so many brands crave. Atmosphere empowers business owners to cut the cord and break away from expensive cable costs with 60+ FREE channels on an Atmosphere provided device.

Atmosphere gives business owners the power to enhance guests’ experience with entertainment that amplifies positive vibes. It’s a consistently fresh playlist of highly curated video content that inspires, excites, informs, motivates, amuses, calms, and explores. Through our partnership with Atmosphere, business owners receive the service 100% Free and 1 Free Year of Atmosphere’s PRO Digital Signage!

Visit https://atmosphere.tv/partner/international-bowlingindustry-magazine to sign up today.

Bowl Expo Sneak Peek BBBI

BBBI Unveils NEW LEAGUE BUILDING Service!

The industry’s premier marketing and software development company launched its no-risk league building service in early 2022 and is ready to expand from the test phase to a complete industry launch.

Centers around the country participated in the FunBowlingLeagues.com test phase with phenomenal results. If you would like leagues built and delivered to you, visit Booth #918 to learn more from the Bowling Business Builders International team and see if your center qualifies. The BBBI team is also excited to share 2 new ways they’ve been boosting sign-ups for their Kids Bowl Free centers. This outrageously successful program has registered over 30 million children and families to date and is in its 15th year of providing bowling centers and FECs with traffic, data, and spending when and where you want it. For more information contact 1-877-841-4599.

BMI

SPRING INTO FUN! Stop by booth #828 where we will showcase our extensive product line of the most trending redemption merchandise in the industry!

From toys that go POP, SPIN, SQUISH, SQUEEZE & more, we are always in stock with the hottest trends of the year.

We also carry over 30 of the hottest trending licenses in the industry, featuring products/characters from the latest blockbuster movie, TV show or video game.

Besides our expertly chosen product assortment, we offer a one-of-a-kind full-service redemption management program, AMRS™ , completely managed by our BMI team of experts.

AMRS™ incorporates state-of-the-art plan-o-gram technology with seamless merchandise analytics and aligns with every leading redemption POS system, ensuring accurate, efficient redemption merchandise management.

Brunswick

SYNC SERVICE KIOSK Get guests to the fun faster with Sync Service Kiosk!

Brunswick’s latest business solution helps alleviate labor concerns while enhancing the guest experience.

The fully integrated automated technology reduces wait times, streamlines ordering, and improves accuracy while offering the instant gratification your guests seek.

Guests are drawn in by the captivating digital displays and empowered to build a personalized in-center experience including bowling, F&B, games, cards, and other attractions. The consistent sales presentation with optional upselling increases spend per visit. By reducing the demands on the front desk staff, centers can redeploy employees to compensate for staffing challenges. Proprietors report that the Sync Service Kiosk can save them 2-3 staff people during peak periods!

Schedule your demo at Bowl Expo today or come see us at booth 1118 to experience the Sync Service Kiosk.

Dynamic Designs & Associates DYNAMIC DESIGNS & ASSOCIATES, INC. With more than 36 years of entertainment design experience, Dynamic Designs’ team of professionals will lead you through every phase of your project — from concept to content to architecture to construction management. Awareness of current industry trends in materials and production keeps the company’s customers ahead of the curve, not only in design, but also in durability. Dynamic Designs strives to provide fun, exciting environments with innovative, award-winning design solutions in creating venues that provide memorable experiences for guests while also being perfectly planned for staff efficiencies and profitability.

Visit us at Bowl Expo at booth #913. For more information, go to: www.dynamicdesignsinc.net

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Bowl Expo Sneak Peek Ebowl

Your website is the FIRST IMPRESSION of your business Get real results with a BowlRx website!

Built specifically for the bowling industry by our team with over 20 years’ experience in Digital Marketing.

Featuring awesome desktop/mobile designs, advanced SEO techniques, data building forms, integrated online reservations, and more. Post instant messages directly to your website right from your mobile! Best of all, we do the heavy lifting building and maintaining your website so you can focus on your business. Special Bowl Expo show discounts! Stop by Booth #719 or go to BowlRx.com.

Firstlease, Inc Firstlease, Inc. is now Apex Commercial Capital.

Firstlease has merged with Apex Mortgage Corp., a commercial mortgage lender under the new name of Apex Commercial Capital. A full-service lender, Apex Commercial Capital has focused core business lines of commercial mortgage lending and equipment financing for small businesses.

With the merger, Apex Commercial Capital will be a technology-enabled, small-balance national commercial finance company that is agile, positioned for organic growth, and capable of adding additional product lines.

This merger will strengthen our ability to help small businesses achieve their financial goals by offering them a wide variety of commercial financing products and services. We are committed to providing the best financial solutions to small businesses, and through combining our skills and more than 25 years of experience, we can improve our offerings to better fit the needs of those we serve.

Expert Hosiery Add fun to your Glow Bowling nights! Centers selling glow socks are turning socks into extra revenue!

“Our bowlers love the sock variety offered by Expert Hosiery.” ~ Joe Poelking, Poelking Lanes, Dayton, OH Our socks are for all ages and are a keepsake, reminding bowlers of the good time they had when bowling, keeping bowling top-of-mind for your customers. Expert Hosiery is a premier supplier of high-quality socks to bowling centers and FECs. We pride ourselves on lifetime relationships. Sock variety includes white, glow, themed, and customized logos. For orders, call, email or order online 24/7! Phone: (919)799-7707.

Email: support@experthosiery.com.

Website: www.funtimefootwear.com.

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The Hansell Group

The Hansell Group is your solution to buying or selling a bowling center. We will use our 100 plus years of bowling experience to bring you qualified buyers or we will find you a center that will be the perfect fit for you. Our consultation and valuation services will make your bowling center sale or purchase a positive experience!

Bowl Expo Sneak Peek Hologate HOLOGATE will be returning to International Bowl Expo 2022 to reveal many exciting developments.

They had a stellar launch of HOLOGATE ‘HYPER GOLF’, a 9 hole, unprecedented fusion of miniature golf and next-level gamified social experience. Special effects, funky music tracks, individually themed, and all happening on an interactive, high-tech course; learn about the latest installations and experience development for HOLOGATE ‘BLITZ’, their state-of-the-art VR racing and flying motion-simulator;…and *BONUS* the WORLD PREMIERE SCREENING of a teaser video featuring their partnership with one of THE MOST BELOVED STUDIO FRANCHISES! HOLOGATE will also be showcasing the HOLOGATE ‘ARENA’, the world’s leading LBE virtual reality platform on the planet, now in 38 countries with over 12,000,000 plays, and featuring their latest thrilling VR games!

HOLOGATE will be exhibiting at Booth #954.

Find more information visit us at www.hologate.com

Intercard

Switch and Save with Intercard Intercard introduces its latest Edge Mobile Apps collection, which includes a Mobile Wallet that lets guests use Apple Pay and Google Pay. We will also present our E-commerce platform that enables guests to buy in advance game cards, gift cards, package deals and more. Purchases are made securely online and redeemed in your center at a contactless kiosk, saving guests time and reducing labor costs.

Experience our new iTellerPlus software that expands the future of self-service kiosks in entertainment centers.

It can be programmed to upsell guests on additional activities or food and beverage, all based on their initial choices. Intercard customers will receive the updated software for free. Switch and save with Intercard. www.intercardinc.com/products

Kegel SPECTO ADVANCED TRACKING SYSTEM HELP BOWLERS IMPROVE AND INCREASE ENGAGEMENT IN YOUR CENTER

IBI

Specto is a bowling ball tracking system that collects and uses data to create an unmatched bowling experience for bowlers of all ages and levels. Customers can use the Specto system and app to become better bowlers, have more fun bowling, and keep their skills sharp. New bowlers and kids will have fun using Specto to improve their games and this is a great way to start them on their way to becoming lifelong, regular customers. Serious bowlers will love using Specto to record their performance, see their strengths and weaknesses, and practice with or without a coach.

Some of our most popular stories have come from proprietors who have told us about their unique leagues or special promotions, successful fundraisers, creative programs they offer to staff and guests, and innovative ways they boost guest experience.

LEARN MORE AT SPECTOBOWLING.COM

Get featured in INTERNATIONAL BOWLING INDUSTRY magazine!

One of the extraordinary things about being in this industry is that operators love to share their successful ideas with other operators. And here at IBI we love to share the good vibes!

Feedback from our readers is one reason IBI has high reader engagement and a contemporary approach of sharing news and trends.

Come visit the IBI team at Booth #1022 and let’s talk!

IBI June 2022 49

Bowl Expo Sneak Peek LAI Games

Asphalt 9 Legends Arcade Asphalt 9 Legends Arcade 5D Simulator lets you tear up the asphalt and take on the world’s top drivers in the most thrilling arcade racing simulator available. Guests can get behind the wheel of high-end super cars such as Porsche, Lamborghini, W Motors and more. Players drive, boost and perform stunts across real-life locations in single or multiplayer modes as they work their way to collecting all 20 racing machines. A simple Facebook login allows guests to track their progress, pick up where they left off, and compete on global leaderboards for the game. The game features 5D simulation with a motion platform, dynamic wind jets, premium hardware, HD video graphics and a 43” monitor, and won the AMOA Operator’s Choice Award for 2022. See it in person in Booth #128 at the show!

Lanetalk Free Service from Lanetalk!

Lanetalk has signed partnership agreements with high-level professional bowlers to help run tournaments in bowling centers.

Connect your center with Lanetalk to have your bowlers participate in global tournaments and use their scores from open play or league play. To date, Lanetalk has hosted more than 20 global events with more than 50,000 bowlers worldwide! Lanetalk has created a sophisticated system that ensures honest and reliable competition. More than $100,000 has been awarded to tournament winners, and funds are growing monthly. To become involved with Lanetalk and allow your bowlers to enjoy the tournament experience, as well as gain extra revenue for your center, visit Lanetalk.com to make a FREE account! Come visit booth #1308 at Bowl Expo to chat with the Lanetalk team and meet Jason Belmonte and Jon Taffer.

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Middleton Mixology

Think you’ve seen every way to smoke infuse your cocktails? The SmokeTopTM from Middleton Mixology is the most effective, simple, and fastest way to do it. It can smoke a drink in less than 10 seconds back to back, night after night, drink after drink. Don’t believe me? Come by our booth 819! Middleton Mixology’s owner, James, and sales manager, Travis, will be showcasing the SmokeTop cocktail smoker live! This is the absolute best way to elevate the craft cocktails at your bar, and draw in new customers. We will be doing demonstrations with samples, and even have products to purchase at wholesale pricing. You can use it at your bowling alley, or even at your home bar. Don’t miss James and Travis giving a spectacular smoke show at the expo.

New Center Consulting

New Center Consulting, Inc has teamed up with Lane Engine and TouchDesk to offer an integrated phone app that allows centers’ customers to book reservations, order food and beverage, add additional venue services and more all through a dashboard you control. The system offers on-line webpage that is tied to your existing webpages, handles all customer credit processing at no additional costs to you, and allows you to offer “push” notifications to your customers when conditions that you set are available for suggestive selling. It is like having a center Kiosk in your customer’s hand. Works just like other phone app services your customers may be using every day. Best of all, you can utilize this system at any center. Stop by Booth #1010 or call Glenn Hartshorn at 248-375-2751 for more information.

Bowl Expo Sneak Peek Neo-Tac Inc A manufacturer of lane conditioners, lane cleaners and bowling ball maintenance products will be unveiling 3 new products at Bowl Expo. Come visit our booth or contact us below for more information. Email or Call us for a free sample 300@neotac.com Phone: 585798-6400>800-355-5306 VISIT BOOTH 832 AT BOWL EXPO Visit our website www.neotac.com NEO-TAC SINCE 1997

Player One Amusement Group At P1AG we live and breathe amusement.

We specialize in the sourcing and distribution of quality amusement and vending equipment for both commercial and retail customers.

Incorporating amusement equipment into your operation can be daunting and resource intensive. We offer expert consultation and advice on game room layout design, prize redemption strategies and sourcing the latest equipment, as well as help with set up and ongoing support. Whether you purchase equipment directly or use our Revenue Share program, we have the solution for you.

QubicaAMF

Conqueror Kiosk Make Conqueror Kiosk the first touchpoint for your customers when they arrive and get ready to deliver exceptional service! Guests can check in for reservations, explore offers, pay for bowling and extras, and order food and beverage. The Kiosk is the perfect way to showcase your variety of offerings and upsell customers to play and spend more at each visit—all while reducing lines and wait times. It provides an easy self-service experience that customers want and have come ot expect. www.qubicaamf.com/ conquerorkiosk

Raw Thrills

King Kong of Skull Island™ VR (VR Game - Available Now) Raw Thrills has taken the virtual reality experience to the next level with King Kong of Skull Island™ VR! This cinematic VR adventure weaves cutting-edge hand interactivity, exciting motion seat action and dazzling visual effects into one show-stopping unattended cabinet. Explore the mysteries and dangers that lurk across Skull Island through three immersive episodes.

Visit booth 1424 at Bowl Expo to see the hottest new games and learn how we can help you win.

Email: GetAnswers@WinWithP1AG.com www.winwithP1AG.com

IBI June 2022 51

Bowl Expo Sneak Peek Redemption Plus Redemption Plus comes to Bowl Expo with a now-tripled product line, along with awardwinning services of redemption store design and redemption merchandise training. The company spent much of 2021 tripling its product line in response to supply chain issues that affected every aspect of its customer base. “Instead of just waiting for supply chain delays to clear up, we quickly adjusted our strategy to bring in more licenses and more variety from domestic vendors in 2021,” shares Senior Program Manager Anthony Boyer.

Now with supply chain issues starting to stabilize, the company boasts a stronger licensed product line than ever before to complement a diverse generic assortment of prizes.

Steltronic

Steltronic has unveiled our new food and beverage mobile ordering system.

Food and soft drink orders will be printed in the kitchen, while alcoholic drinks will be printed in the bar.

Customizing a pizza is super simple with the touchscreen for the items you want added to your pizza. Adding a custom menu item to your burger, or a personal note to the chef for preparation is also available for any item purchased.

Customize each tablet for the specific items to be purchased. It’s all customizable from your Steltronic Focus-NEX front desk or back office computers.

(800) 942-5939 or by email: info@steltronicscoring.com

TrainerTainment Semnox Semnox’s Online Cashless Payment Systems Integration of Semnox’s cashless payment system enables businesses in convenient online bookings, party bookings, card sale, recharge, combo products sales and more! This platform has seen a rise in its customer base owing to its ease-of-use and brilliant features! The systems flexibility to integrate with safe and secure payment gateways makes it all the more important for businesses which are looking for contactless solutions.

The best way to increase your family entertainment sales is through exposure to potential new customers. Our new 3-tiered Sales Coaching program will allow every type of Family Entertainment Center, regardless of size, to grow group and birthday sales to new levels resulting in increased annual revenue. Our training programs will teach your sales team how to make the most out of parties and group events at your bowling center, roller rink, trampoline park, or any family entertainment center!

No one is born a salesperson. A TrainerTainment® sales coach is able to help transform your sales team into a motivated and successful selling machine. Schedule a growth call now to see how our Educate-Engage-Evolve Sales training tiers can help you grow your people and your sales. https://trainertainment.net/schedule-meeting/

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Bowl Expo Sneak Peek US Bowling

Virtual Dining Concepts

We’re excited to be at this year’s Bowl Expo, be sure to visit us at booth #528 to see the latest in automatic scoring, 24 volt String Pinsetter Technology (soon to be sanctioned for tournament and league play), configurable seating, mini bowling and much more. Don’t forget to ask about our exclusive Pulse Scoring rental program and other leasing options.

VDC Helping Centers Drive Incremental Revenue With Virtual Brands!

Virtual Dining Concepts (VDC) is the leading provider of delivery-only brands helping kitchens across the U.S. generate incremental revenue by adding one of VDC’s Celebrity Virtual Brands to their operations!

Our Pulse Scoring rental program is one of the easiest ways to modernize your facility without breaking your bank account. With our exclusive Pulse Scoring rental program there’s no additional financing or collateral required , giving you the freedom to upgrade quickly and easily.

TOPWhen PICKS You’re In

Through the cross-utilization of current in-house SKUs, no added labor & the benefit of marketing distribution channels reaching millions of engaged followers, VDC provides centers with a way to truly maximize their kitchen space & see over $500+ in revenue on a daily basis.

Centers are able to capture off-premise revenue, enhance in-house offerings & create major efficiencies within their operations by participating in these brands.

Visit the VDC Team to learn more at Booth 730 or visit virtualdiningconcepts.com!

VEGAS

From our own Vegas connoisseur, industry expert Carey Tosello of eBowl.biz.

G

oing to Bowl Expo? (If not, you should!) The educational seminars help you stay on top of your game, the exhibits show you what is new in the industry, and the networking opportunities with other operators is priceless!

Of course, there are other distractions in Sin City, and here are the ones that I highly recommend if you are planning to spend some extra time in the desert. Note that Vegas is extremely busy with all the pent-up travel demands, so advance reservations are a must!

Cirque du Soleil is back live again, and our favorite is KA! Playing at MGM Grand: https://youtu.be/Pmqz_gdiY8o Aerosmith! Yes, the boys are still alive and kicking with two shows at Park MGM during Bowl Expo week: https://parkmgm. mgmresorts.com/en/entertainment/dolby-live.html

Tour info here: https:// www.allegiantstadium. com/tours For a unique dining experience, check out the Mayfair Supper Club at Bellagio. Fine dining, cocktails, and entertainment that is a throwback to the golden days of Vegas: https://bellagio.mgmresorts.com/en/ restaurants/the-mayfair-supperclub.html Our new favorite restaurant in Vegas is Amalfi by Bobby Flay at Caesars Palace. Featuring Italian coastal cuisine, with a fish monger who will guide you thru selecting your catch for the chef to prepare. If you love seafood, this is the place: https:// www.caesars.com/caesars-palace/restaurants/amalfi Looking for a steak? Vegas is full of great steakhouses, but if you haven’t tried Bavette’s at Park MGM, you are missing out.

A classic Chicago style steakhouse with a hidden speakeasy in the back: https://parkmgm.mgmresorts.com/en/restaurants/ bavettes.html?icid=GMB_Restaurants_Bavettes

And if heavy rock is not your scene, Justin Bieber will be at T-Mobile Arena on June 28th: https://www.axs.com/ events/388455/justin-bieber-tickets?skin=tmobile

Craving a burger? Gordon Ramsay Burger at Planet Hollywood has the best burgers on the Strip. The only place you will get a fresh burger grilled over hard wood for a unique flavor: https:// www.caesars.com/planet-hollywood/restaurants/ramsay

If you are a history buff, the Mob Museum downtown is a must: https://themobmuseum.org/

We love our trips to Vegas, so feel free to reach out with questions about our recommendations!

Just Win Baby! Sorry, but the Raiders season will not have started yet. You can take a tour of this amazing stadium with views of the Strip, and a field that rolls out into the sunshine.

They actually have a house band that plays live during games!

•

Carey Tosello is the founder of eBowl.biz and BowRx.com. He is a frequent visitor to Las Vegas, a serious foodie, and live entertainment fan. He can be reached at carey@ebowl.biz.

IBI June 2022 53

Shorts

INDUSTRY NEWS MOVERS & SHAKERS ARE ACTIVE

Dave & Buster’s Entertainment, operators of entertainment and dining venues, has announced that it has entered into an agreement to acquire Main Event from Ardent Leisure Group Limited and RedBird Capital Partners. Upon closing, later in the year, Chris Morris, the current CEO of Main Event, will be the CEO of Dave & Buster’s.

Main Event is a family entertainment concept with 50 locations in the U.S., including three recently acquired The Summit locations in Colorado. It is known for its bowling centers, laser tag, and virtual reality games. Dave & Buster’s venues comprise dining and an extensive array of games, plus watching live sports. The company has locations in 40 states, Puerto Rico, and Canada.

“We are thrilled to welcome Main Event to the Dave & Buster’s family,” said Kevin Sheehan, board chair and interim CEO. “Main Event’s existing footprint works well with Dave & Buster’s current geographies, and each brand has significant growth opportunities.”

Main Event is also a premier sponsor of Special Olympics International, supporting fundraising and serving with its venues for Special Olympics events nationwide. Interestingly, Main Event is also a partner of the NFL Dallas Cowboys.

“On behalf of the entire team at Main Event, we are excited to join the Dave & Buster’s family,” said Chris Morris, Main Event’s CEO. “We will be well-positioned to leverage our collective experience and provide our consumers with a category-defining entertainment experience.”

BOWLING & DANCING ARE A TEAM

Crystal and Nick Ratke

Bowling goes with just about anything. You can put lanes and movie theaters together, join them with arcades and laser tag arenas, join a restaurant and bowling, and complement the lanes with a ballroom. That’s what happened in Pierz, MN. Pierz Ballroom and Lanes, as of December 30, 2021, has new owners. Nick and Crystal Ratke took ownership and brought their exuberance. Crystal shared that her first job was bussing tables at the ballroom. The combo of bowling and a ballroom is a good one. There are eight lanes and an arcade, which facilitates league and open play. The ballroom is open and available for weddings, community events, and parties of all sorts. Weekend dances and bowling dates give lots of options.

The possibilities are limited only by the Ratkes’ imagination.

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IN REMEMBRANCE Bowling has lost its Fairy Godmother. Elaine Brumberg, owner of Thunderbird Bowling Center in Warminster, PA, has died.

Among many lifetime accomplishments, the 82-year-old, inspirational dynamo will be remembered for her glittery pink fairy godmother costume and her many visits to sick children throughout the Delaware Valley.

She was dedicated to many organizations but in particular to those serving veterans, sick children, and individuals with special needs.

Every Saturday, she shared her enthusiasm for bowling with her patrons and, if not able to be there, she would take her traveling dinosaur bowling center and party favors to children who were not well enough to go to a center and a birthday party. It was important to her to make sure they had the opportunity to enjoy a bowling experience.

Brumberg’s husband, Norman, had five bowling centers at which she worked parttime in later years and attended bowling management school to learn the business.

After Norman became ill, they sold four of the centers, keeping only Thunderbird Bowling Center. With Norman’s death, Brumberg, in her seventies, managed the business with perseverance and tenacity. Her obituary stated: Elaine was like a race car driver, navigating every turn at 100 mph. She was always full-speed ahead and put her passion, energy, and soul into everything she did. She was a barrier breaker and role model, a feisty and savvy business owner, and a loving and devoted mother, wife, companion, grandmother, great grandmother, and friend.

Contributions in Elaine’s memory may be made to Bowlers to Veterans Link.

REAL PEOPLE

REAL STORIES

REAL RESULTS

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LEAGUES

LEAGUE BOWLERS

LANES OF EDGE STRING

My lanes are always up and running.

I installed EDGE String at Townline after having a great experience operating them in my 12-lane center, Gametime Lanes & Entertainment, for more than a year.

EDGE String has been a complete game-changer for my business from day one.

My employees are happier, my lanes are always up and running, and the overall bowling and guest experience is better at Townline as a result.

Anthony DeCotis, Owner

Townline Tenpin Luxury Lanes and Gametime Lanes & Entertainment Massachusetts To learn more visit:

Read about 80 years of BVL in the July issue.

BVL.O RG

MOVING FUN FORWARD

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Marketing

SEGMENTATION

Your Key to More Effective Marketing

By Fred Kaplowitz

M

arketing and segmentation go hand in hand. If you’re looking to boost your marketing efforts and stay competitive with other forms of recreation, you may want to take a closer look at how you can segment your way to more effective results.

Q: What is market segmentation?

A: In a nutshell, it’s a marketing strategy that divides the interests, demographics, and behavior of consumers into separate groups to help you market to them more efficiently.

Hard-hitting communication is an ideal way to make your bowling center or FEC stand out in the crowd. Segmenting is powerful marketing ammunition for building offers, writing messages, and choosing the medium you’ll use to get the word out.

While there are a lot of different ways to segment, for this article we’ll look at how you can use valuable data you probably already have to engage customers to come back more often, spend more money, and take advantage of other offers you have.

Having an in-depth look at the information you derive from things such as your online reservation system, website, loyalty program, POS system, or other tech tools can provide you with important information that can maximize your marketing.

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ASK YOURSELF A FEW QUESTIONS When are your customers coming in?

How much are they spending?

What attractions and/or food do they reserve in advance?

How often are they taking advantage of your upselling efforts?

How frequently are they returning?

Which social media are they coming from?

What offers are they responding to and how did they find your website?

WE HELP YOU WIN. MAKE YOUR SPACE PROFITABLE, NO MATTER WHAT SIZE. FIND OUT HOW IN BOOTH 1424 AT BOWL EXPO.

WinWithP1AG.com

Marketing The marketing tools you already have in place should be able to provide you with a plethora of information if you access it, analyze it, and use it. Yes, this takes a bit of work, but once you make a commitment to using the tools you already have, you’ll be on the road to better results. Utilizing the information you have at your fingertips can be priceless in your marketing efforts.

It’s important to differentiate the types of guests you are serving. Is this their first time coming to your center? Are they a returning guest? Would you consider them a VIP customer?

Based on who they are, you’ll want to modify the message to fit their profile. Based on how they found you and what offers they respond to, and how often they’re coming in, you’ll want to tweak your packages and media used.

It’s all about accessing information and using it to the maximum.

Let’s take a quick look at the cruise industry and how they utilize information to offer an optimal guest experience.

While their approach is quite detailed and grand, I think we can learn something from them, even if we scale it down to a more realistic approach in our businesses.

Carnival Cruise Lines takes a very impressive approach to creating a highly personalized experience for their guests.

According to Carnival Corp Chief Experience and Innovation Officer John Padgett, “Our focus is personalization on a large scale. And to do that you need an incredible amount of information that the guest creates every second. We then use that information for very specific segments, almost individualized, you could say.”

60 IBI June 2022

Padgett goes on, explaining, “Here’s a very simple example.

If a guest orders a Pepsi, we know right away that on his next dining or snacking experience, he will never be offered a Coke, always a Pepsi, and the server will ask if he wants a larger size Pepsi. It is our way of making the guest feel like we know what he wants before he does, which makes him feel special and makes upselling far easier. We want our guests to interact with the crew and our ship on a personalized basis, and by using real-time information about who they are and what their needs, wants, and desires are, we can achieve our goals.”

Wow! That’s a whole new level of segmentation! I’m not suggesting we go overboard with these analytics, but it is interesting to see how the big guys are using data to their advantage and to provide a personalized guest experience.

Whether you have the tools already in place or are looking for new technology to help your center run more smoothly, be sure to put a high priority on using technology and its data to help your marketing efforts run at lightning speed.

•

Marketing is in Fred Kaplowitz’s DNA. He loves to solve problems, and he meets challenges head-on.

He has successfully produced results for hundreds of clients. He is a husband, father, consultant, coach, teacher, motivator, copywriter, and a speaker. He has been a friend and contributor to IBI for the past 25 years.

Website: www.kaploegroup.com email: fredkaplowitz@gmail.com.

Cell phone: 516 359 4874

GOODHELP IS EASY TO FIND.

INTRODUCING SYNC SERVICE KIOSK.

Come see us at Bowl Expo #1118 to experience the Sync Service Kiosk.

©2022 Brunswick Bowling Products, LLC. Form #0122-01C

The Sync Service Kiosk was designed to alleviate your labor concerns while enhancing the guest experience. The fully integrated, automated technology reduces wait times, streamlines ordering, improves accuracy, and upsells on every transaction, all while offering the instant gratification your guests seek. Get guests to the fun faster with Sync Service Kiosk, brunswickbowling.com/servicekiosk.

SPONSORED BY:

DELIVER ON THE HYPE! Ready to extend the reach of your bowling business by activating today’s younger consumers? HyperBowling is designed to get Gen Zers, Millennials and others Hyper-stoked by delivering the perfect blend of bowling and gaming. It makes it easy to offer something for everyone.

Scan the QR code to see what the Hype is about!

BOWL EXPO 2022

VISIT US AT BOOTH #1243

PREFERRED VENDOR LIST Apparel EXPERT HOSIERY Customer Service

www.funtimefootwear.com

919.799.7707

support@experthosiery.com

Expert Hosiery is a premiere supplier of high-quality socks to Bowling Centers & FECs. We pride ourselves in lifetime relationships. Socks variety includes White Bowling Socks, Glow Socks, Theme Socks & Custom Logo Socks. Our Customers are our best Testimonial! For orders, call, email or order online 24/7.

Architecture Design DYNAMIC DESIGNS

www.dynamicdesignsinc.net

Howard Ellman

Info@dynamicdesignsinc.net

248.644.7275

Interior & Exterior Design – New Concept Development – Planning & Consulting – Architecture – Theme Design – Re-imagining of Existing Facilities

Arcade Distributor BETSON ENTERPRISES Sales Department

www.betson.com/bowling

800.524.2343

Sales@betson.com

Betson offers a full assortment of arcade and vending equipment and has the largest inventory selection of new & used games and parts.

Automatic Scoring STELTRONIC SCORING

www.steltronicscoring.com

Sales Department

Info@steltronicscoring.com

800.942.5939

The world’s leading independent automatic scoring manufacturer since 1980.

NEW CENTER CONSULTING Glenn Hartshorn

www.newcenterconsulting.com

248.375.2751

ghartsho@yahoo.com

Touch Score – A truly revolutionary scoring upgrade for legacy systems.

Capital Equipment/Supplies BRUNSWICK BOWLING PRODUCTS

www.brunswickbowling.com

Michael Postema

Info@brunswickbowling.com

231.343.2043

The leader in the bowling industry for over 130 years, Brunswick Bowling provides products, services, and industry expertise for new and existing bowling centers.

KEGEL Gus Falgien

863.734.0200

Lane maintenance equipment/supplies, pinsetter parts, and coaching tools.

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www.kegel.net Gus.Falgien@kegel.net

Capital Equipment/Supplies (continued) NEO TAC

www.neotac.com

Frank Bernabei

300@neotac.com

585.798.6400

Lane Conditioners and Lane Cleaners. Bowling Ball Cleaners And Polishes.

QUBICAAMF

www.qubicaamf.com

Sales Department

info@qubicaamf.com

804.569.1000

QubicaAMF is the world’s largest manufacturer of bowling and mini bowling products. With our innovative products, we will help our customers fully unleash that potential to extend the bowling population, to reach the younger generations, to increase their spending, frequency of visits—and your revenue.

Cashless Technology INTERCARD Sales Department

800.732.3770

www.intercardinc.com Sales@intercardinc.com

Intercard introduced cashless technology to the amusement industry and has been leading the way for 30+ years. Cashless systems from Intercard increase customer spending and satisfaction and boost revenues by up to 30% at entertainment centers worldwide.

SEMNOX SOLUTIONS Sales Department

610.400.8901

www.semnox.com Sales@semnox.com

Semnox’s online cashless payment systems – a one stop solution for your entire bowling center operations.

Food & Beverage ALCOHOL CONTROLS Sales Department

630.486.1880

www.alcoholcontrols.com profit@alcoholcontrols.com

We carry numerous liquor pour control systems, liquor portion control pourers, and beer controls that allow you to accurately measure how much alcohol or beer is being served during a day and cross-reference it with the number of sales made. We have pour tracking systems, liquor pour spouts, and even shot pouring training tools, as well.

VIRTUAL DINING CONCEPTS Kelly Grogan

508.351.2556

www.virtualdiningconcepts.com kgrogan@virtualdiningconcepts.com

Our goal is to help the restaurant community generate additional revenue and sources of income through virtual brands. We give you the expertise and know-how of seasoned restaurateurs, knowledge from national chain experience and the vision to put it all together in one complete, easy to implement solution.

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PREFERRED VENDOR LIST

Lighting/Sound DFX SOUND VISION Insurance Mike Bovino

www.dfxsoundvision.com 800.555.5280

info@dfxsoundvision.com

Your FEC specialists creating extraordinary experiences byINSURANCE providing dynamic audio, video, lighting and automation services WESTERN BOWLING PROPRIETORS www.wbpiprogram.com and integration that elevate communication and give your entertainment center that WOW factor.

Cameron Linder 800.200.9998 contact@wbpiprogram.com WBPI has dedicated itself to insuring bowling centers for more than 30 years and is exclusively endorsed by 8 state bowling proprietors insurance associations. Our staff of insurance experts and professional bowlers provide staff training, insurance education, advocacy, and business advice. No one fights harder for you! Contact us today for a competitive insurance quote!

Marketing

BBBI/KIDS BOWL FREE Andy Vasko

877.841.4590

www.kidsbowlfree.com Andy.Vasko@kidsbowlfree.com

At BBBI our goal is to create new customers and profits for bowling centers through our time tested Kids Bowl Free Summer Bowing Program and our new League Development System featuring Fun Bowling Leagues for all ages.

BOWLING LEADS Zach Boulanger

844.468.4144

www.bowlingleads.com Zach@bowlingleads.com

We help bowling centers find new leads and turn them into raving repeat customers with our done for you automated marketing system.

EBOWL.BIZ & BOWLRX.COM Carey Tosello

www.eBowl.biz 541.549.0999

Carey@eBowl.biz

Digital marketing for bowling: BowlRx websites, Facebook for bowling, and more.

THE KAPLOE GROUP Fred Kaplowitz

516.359.4874

www.kaploegroup.com fredkaplowitz@gmail.com

The ultimate marketing and management company for your leisure, entertainment, or recreation business.

Professional consulting and coaching available.

Online Reservations ALLEYTRAK Chris Behling

815.519.9843

www.alleytrak.com Chris@alleytrak.com

AlleyTrak is the complete lane reservation and management system designed specifically for bowling alleys.

Manage your recurring events, leagues, parties, packages, along with many other features AlleyTrak has to offer. Save time by allowing guests to make reservations online 24/7.

REX RESERVATIONS

www.reservewithrex.com

Kevan Sadigh

Kev@reservewithrex.com

323.805.8310

Seamlessly manage lane reservations for your bowling venue. Set different prices for peak and off-peak times.

Allocate your desired number of lanes to be reserved online, while also keeping some for walk-ins.

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Redemption Supplies BMI MERCHANDISE Sales Department

www.bmimerchandise.com 800.272.6375

Sales@bmimerchandise.com

BMI’s extensive product line features the trending themes, licenses and brands driving amusement play. We bring our customers a constantly changing mix of the finest electronics, novelties and toys – priced right.

REDEMPTION PLUS Mike Tipton

www.redemptionplus.com

888.564.7587

Smile@redemptionplus.com

Products that perform. Services that simplify.

Training TRAINERTAINMENT Beth Standlee

www.Trainertainment.net

817.886.4840

Beth@trainertainment.net

Fun Training – Serious Results.

Virtual Reality VRCAVE Alex Rossol

www.vrcave.ca/ibi

780.577.9655

sales@vrcave.ca

vrCAVE produces premium VR escape room products suited for any bowling alley or FEC looking to add VR as an option to their establishment. They work with companies of all sizes, help with the headset installation, and provide the software and technical support.

Shorts

SURGE ENTERTAINMENT ARRIVES IN BOSSIER CITY, LA Bossier City, LA, knows Drew Brees; he was their exceptional NFL New Orleans Saints quarterback. However, now Brees, as the co-owner of Surge Entertainment, is bringing an adventure park where kids and families can play together.

The park brings entertainment, fitness, and sports facilities together in one venue. Brees said, “I am always looking for ways to provide great family experiences. This is why I created the Surge brand.” This site in Bossier City covers 60,000 square feet. There are two bowling venues, a standard one with 23 lanes and a VIP center with eight lanes. There is a two-level laser tag area and ropes courses, rock walls, soft-play, sports

simulators, and a 100-game arcade. Don’t forget an indoor zip line that can deposit the guest in the bistro that serves hot Cajun classics and operates a full bar. “This place is going to be the best thing that has hit Bossier City,” Dominic Minniti, Surge Entertainment COO, said.

IBI June 2022 67

Classifieds

YOUR BETTER SOURCE FOR SOCKS and we mean it!

Socks from Expert Hosiery are world class and our Bowlers love the variety!

Joe Poelking

Owner, Poelking Lanes, OH

68 IBI June 2022

Classifieds EQUIPMENT FOR SALE NEW & USED Pro Shop Equipment.

Jayhawk Bowling Supply. (800)255-6436 or jayhawkbowling.com.

EDUCATION & TRAINING PRO SHOP TRAINING. Classes always forming. Jayhawk Bowling Supply (800)255-6436 or jayhawkbowling.com.

SERVICES AVAILABLE Drill Bit Sharpening and Measure Ball Repair.

Jayhawk Bowling Supply. (800)255-6436 or jayhawkbowling.com

HEAD MECHANIC WANTED Head Mechanic needed for busy center in New Jersey. Great salary and benefits package. Brunswick A-2 pinspotters. Email resume to sgroce@nationwidebowling.com

YOUTH DIRECTOR WANTED Youth Director needed for busy center in Tennessee. Great salary plus benefits. email resume to: GM ChrisJames-chris@smyrnabowling.com

HELP WANTED GREAT OPPORTUNITY - 24 lane center, AMF 82-70’s in Western, PA. Strong leagues, billiards, vending. No bar or restaurant.

Qualified candidate must have diversified skills – front desk, mechanically inclined, lane maintenance, customer service. Pay commensurate with experience. Send resume to mick31@consolidated.net.

IBI June 2022 69

Classifieds

There is still time to have a strong summer with

KIDS BOWL FREE

TM

1-877-841-4590

AMF and some BRUNSWICK PC board repair/exchange.

6 month warranty, fast turnaround. Call or write: WB8YJF Service 5586 Babbitt Road, New Albany, Ohio 43054 Toll Free: 888-902-BOWL (2695) Ph./Fax: (614) 855-3022 (Jon) E-mail: wb8yjf@sbcglobal.net Visit us on the WEB! http://home.earthlink.net/~wb8yjf/

to place your Classified Ad in International Bowling Industry Magazine

Call (239) 821-2534 or E-mail your ad to:

Natalie@bowlingindustry.com

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INTRODUCING… THE EDGE FREE-FALL PINSPOTTER From the leader in pinspotter innovation & technology comes the new EDGE Free-Fall Pinspotter.

With innovative features, including the Tech Wizard App—the only operational support expert system available for pinspotting equipment—EDGE Free-Fall delivers amazing performance and operational efficiency, along with peace of mind.

Proudly designed and assembled in the USA.

See the EDGE Free-Fall in action!