SPEAKEASY TO ME! Exploring the Profit Potential and Bougie Fun of Covert Cocktails THE THREE-YEAR PLAN! Optimizing Your Center’s Sale Price When You’re Ready to Exit March 2023 // Vol. 31
FAIR DRAWS IN NEW BUSINESS & STAFF
JOB
FOR TENNESSEE CENTER
(800) 942-5939 www.SteltronicScoring.com info@steltronicscoring.com We are AUTOMATIC SCORING The industry leader for 43 years. 21,500 LANES INSTALLED 91 COUNTRIES SUPPORTED FREE TECHNICAL SUPPORT ZERO COST SOFTWARE UPGRADES BEST WARRANTY COVERAGE EASIEST TO USE WITH SUPERIOR QUALITY
Publisher’s Column
INSPIRING, FUN IDEAS LEAD THE WAY
BY STEPHANIE DAVIS
Finance
THE THREE-YEAR PLAN
Critical for your exit strategy
BY TRAVIS HARPER
Design
EMBRACING THE WEIRD
BY DANIEL ELLMAN
Cover BOWLING FOR JOBS!
Employment events produce revenue and employees
BY RYAN VASKO
Booze and Bites
SPEAKEASY TO ME
Exploring the possibility of covert cocktails
BY MIKE FERNANDEZ
Marketing
SIMPLE TECHNIQUES TO MAXIMIZE YOUR MARKETING
Make the most of your frontline assets
20 10 14 20
BY BRUCE DAVIS
Feature FUNDRAISERS DONE RIGHT
A solid stream of revenue not to overlook
BY MARK MILLER
PUBLISHER & EDITOR
Stephanie Davis stephanie@bowlingindustry.com
CONTRIBUTORS
Bruce Davis
Stephanie Davis
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
14 IBI March 2023 4
MARKETING MANAGER & SALES
Natalie Davis natalie@bowlingindustry.com
NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
Mike Fernandez mike@bowlingindustry.com
EDITORIAL
Jackie Fisher fisher@bowlingindustry.com
Patty Heath patty@bowlingindustry.com
OFFICE MANAGER
Roxanne Damask roxanne@bowlingindustry.com
Daniel Ellman
Mike Fernandez
Joel Forbes
Travis Harper
Patty Heath
Mark Miller
Robert Sax
Ryan Vasko
Contents March 2023 | Vol 31.3
MEMBER AND/OR SUPPORTER OF: 6 26 30 34
UPSELL FOOD AND DRINK—EASILY
MAKE IT SIMPLE FOR GUESTS TO SPEND MORE IN YOUR CENTER.
Food and beverage sales can contribute 30% or more of total revenue. Conqueror Web makes it easy to make your sales go up. Its innovative F&B functionality lets you effortlessly provide relevant menu choices at just the right moment as part of the online reservation process. The unique abililty to provide ‘smart’ F&B suggestions based on the web offer selected increases overall average ticket price. Your guests will love the experience—and you’ll love the results.
To learn more visit:
REAL PEOPLE REAL RESULTS REAL STORIES
INSPIRING, FUN IDEAS LEAD THE WAY!
Sometimes you meet people who inspire you to think outside the box, challenge your creativity, and find new ways of doing business. Chris James from Smyrna Bowl in Smyrna, TN, is one of those people. I’ve talked with Chris at numerous shows over the years and have always been impressed with how he brings in new business, solves problems, and has such passion for the industry. This month our cover story is about how Chris and his team host job fairs that not only expand their customer base and bring in new revenue but also have helped him fully staff his center and have surplus candidates on a waiting list!
How many of you have been to a speakeasy recently? Or ever? If you haven’t had the opportunity to slide into one, you’ll want to read the “Booze and Bites” column this month! Mike Fernandez shares an entertaining and thought-provoking topic that may inspire you to update a small unused space for your prohibition-era drink spot. Premium prices, new clientele, and limited hours make this idea even more intriguing.
Are you thinking of selling your center at some point? If so, Travis Harper’s article on how to get things in order over three years is one you’ll want to comb through and make notes on. Travis offers details, suggestions, and other easy-to-do steps that you can take to help maximize your selling price.
Be sure to head over to www.bowlingindustry.com for IBI’s exclusive online-only content. Sometimes furniture can be overlooked as part of the guest experience by proprietors but not by customers. While busy operators may have their sights on reinvesting in other improvements to the facility, customers use furniture every visit. Check out what Venue Industries has to share about five reasons to consider refreshing your look. Furniture is functional and a great way to elevate
guests’ experience with you. Our friends at Kegel have another popular webinar to help you effectively use coaching tools for training. See what Alex Gukov and Brent Sims have to say.
IBI launched new business resources in 2023 to help operators up their entertaining game. January was kicked off with a new publication that was delivered along with the regular IBI issue. “What’s HOT & TRENDING for Bowling and Family Entertainment Centers” is an annual resource guide highlighting new products and services for progressive operators. Operators, suppliers, and industry experts share the latest trends and how they affect center operations. You can access this year-round online along with another new resource, “AMUSEMENT ALLEY, Entertaining Beyond the Lanes,” which focuses on fun and different ways to engage guests. Look for “AMUSEMENT ALLEY” periodically throughout the year, in both print and digital formats.•
– Stephanie Davis, Publisher & Editor stephanie@bowlingindustry.com
PS: Don’t forget to sign up for the $30,000 giveaway. Register each month for your chance to win at www.bowlingindustry.com
Editorial
IBI March 2023 6
READ THESE TOP STORIES EXCLUSIVELY ONLINE
Online Only Marketing – 2023 It’s Time to Plan!
BY TRAINERTAINMENT
Even though we are three months into 2023, it isn’t too late to start planning for a successful year! Vivian Conterio from TrainerTainment explains how to reflect on 2022 to set yourself up for a great 2023. Make sure to download the 2023 reach calendar to make planning your year a breeze.
5 Reasons to Consider New Furniture for Your Bowling Center
BY VENUE INDUSTRIES
Furniture is often an overlooked part of the bowling business, but it is something customers notice right away. It might seem like a large task to replace your furniture, but the benefits will outweigh the hassle. Venue Industries explains five reasons you should consider new furniture in your bowling center and how they can help.
The Importance of Parts Packages for Arcade Games
BY BETSON ENTERPRISES
Having an arcade is a great source of revenue for any bowling or family entertainment center. However, it is inevitable that some games will break down due to general wear and tear. Betson Enterprises explains the importance of purchasing a parts package for your arcade to keep it operating smoothly and to keep your guests happy.
Effective Use of Coaching Tools for Training
BY ALEX GURKOV AND BRENT SIMS FROM KEGEL
In this webinar, watch Alex Gurkov and Brent Sims from Kegel discuss the use of coaching tools and how they can improve the learning cycle. These strategies are great to use for coaching any sport, not just bowling!
www.bowlingindustry.com
IBI March 2023 8
SPARK!
YOU GOTTA SEE THIS.
Spark is bowling’s hottest attraction: totally addictive, multisensory, interactive, one-of-a-kind, next-level bowling. See for yourself: Scan the QR code or visit brunswickbowling.com/spark to immerse yourself in Spark, another game-changing innovation from Brunswick.
©2022 Brunswick Bowling Products, LLC. Form #0122-01
By Travis Harper
THREE-YEAR The PLAN
Critical for Your Exit Strategy
Ihave spent the past several months talking to you about the steps you should take to get your finances in order. This was done as part of a bigger picture I refer to as the “The Three-Year Plan” to be prepared for your exit strategy. Why three years? If your financials are in poor order presently, it is necessary for you to clean them up and maintain them for three years. Potential buyers, and their banks, will want to see this three-year history. There are some additional steps you can take in the meantime.
You will want to prepare and keep up to date a handful of important documents. Having these documents ready to go when you decide to pull the trigger on your exit strategy will be very helpful.
• Asset List
• Maintenance Records
• Recent Improvements
• Vendor List
Asset List
Compiling and having an asset list readily available serves two purposes. It gives a prospective buyer a good look at the capital equipment in your building and how old it is. If the buyer is using a bank, and especially an SBA, they will require this document as part of their approval process.
Finance
IBI March 2023 10
Cameron Linder CEO, Western Bowling Proprietors Insurance (WBPI) Rednil Insurance Brokers, Inc contact@wbpiprogram.com wbpiprogram.com It’s our mission to keep you out of trouble so you can focus on what you do best: facilitating the creation of lasting memories for your customers. After 34 years, we’ve seen
possible go wrong inside a bowling center.
everything
WESTERN BOWLING PROPRIETORS INSURANCE
I would use $500 as the benchmark for including items on this list. This would include equipment such as computers, printers, POS hardware, and lane conditioners.
Maintenance Records
Having a good maintenance log to show a potential buyer shows that you have been keeping your equipment in the best shape possible. You will want to keep records of maintenance on the following:
1. HVAC System
2. Roof
3. Plumbing
4. Electrical
5. Lane Machine(s)
6. Pinsetters (Separate Log)
Recent Improvements
Keeping a list of recent improvements again shows to a potential buyer that you have reinvested back into your business. I would keep the list to the past five to seven years unless it is a large capital expenditure such as a brand new roof or HVAC system.
Vendor List
Having an up-to-date vendor list is something expected by buyers prior to them taking over. Preparing and maintaining this document now will save you the heart ache of having to rush to put it together at the last minute.
Other Steps To Take
There are a couple of additional steps you can take to help maximize your selling price. When was the last time you walked the entirety of your facility and took note of things needing an update? How many different streams of revenue do you have? What have you tried recently to increase revenue?
Facility Tour
While the facility is closed and quiet, grab a pen and tablet and walk your facility. Turn on all of the lights so you can see well. You are looking for things that don’t look as good as they used to. Don’t forget to include restrooms, kitchen facilities, and storage spaces. Here are a few things to be looking for:
• Stained or worn flooring
• Non-working or lack of proper lighting
• Painted areas needing a fresh coat
• Ceiling tiles missing or stained
• Bathroom fixtures that have seen better days
Make sure you write down everything you see that needs work. Make a plan to correct everything on your list over the next year or so. As you mark these off this list, make sure you add them to your recent improvements list.
Increase Revenue
Potential buyers will want to see year-over-year increases in revenue to show that the business is not just maintaining but growing. Making sure that you are increasing your prices to keep up with the times is a small way to show this.
Diversifying and adding additional revenue streams is another good way to increase revenue. If you don’t currently have vending machines in your building, consider it. Depending on your state, adding Lotto, Keno, and Pull Tabs can make you some additional income. Coming up with ways to make your F&B program more prevalent can make a big impact on your bottom line. Consider offering bowling packages that include food. Concentrating on your birthday party programs can also help with this.
Bottom Line: Continually identify and try new ways to increase revenues.
The Three-Year Plan
If you follow all of the steps that I have discussed in all of the articles I have written recently, you will be in the best possible position to sell your center for it’s top dollar value.
Now, does this mean that once you have done all of this work, you have to sell? No, of course not. The beautiful thing about the this exit plan strategy is that you can just continue to roll it forward until you are ready or must sell. You will be prepared.
As always, many of the topics in this article could use a much longer conversation so if you would like to talk further about your specific plan, feel free to reach out to me by email: travis@firstframebowling.com.•
Travis has 15+ years of center management experience and is currently the operations manager at First Frame Bowling and the midwest representative of the Hansell Group. You can contact Travis at travis@firstframebowling.com or (844)923-BOWL (2695).
Finance
IBI March 2023 12
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Design
The Importance of THE
EMBRACING WEIRD
By Daniel Ellman
When the owners of Fulton Alley came to Dynamic Designs, Inc., for assistance, their plans were ambitious – and unusual. They wanted to build a bar, restaurant, and bowling center within an old bus terminal in the parking garage of a casino in New Orleans.
“We decided as a group that we weren’t going to fight the location and instead embrace it,” said Doug Wilkerson, co-owner of Dynamic Designs and master planner of the project. “That’s why we decided to make some parking garage elements as part of the design.”
Indeed, the design includes concrete columns, curbs, and even some slopes that were part of the bus terminal. There are also big-arched windows, and the exterior elements take into account two main streets that pass by the center. And the entire facility has an industrial feel, with a color scheme that helps it fit in with the surrounding environment.
What resulted was a design as unique and impressive as any before. And it’s timeless – when it first opened, Fulton Alley was named one of the best new bars in the U.S. by Yahoo! Travel. And it’s still going strong more than seven years later.
Creative ideas in creative spaces
If you have a unique space that you want to utilize as part of your FEC, don’t let that be a deterrent. Every building and every project – including yours
– should have something quirky and different. Design firms such as Dynamic Designs – designing family entertainment centers for more than 35 years — can make your center come to life, no matter the logistics. “The more creative we can be with your center means it will more likely stand out from the crowd,” Wilkerson said. Wilkerson pointed out that the latest trends are for customers to support businesses or unique locations. “Our society loves a pizza shop that was formerly a gas station or residential lofts that used to be part of a factory,” Wilkerson said. “It gives things more of an independent feel than some big-box retailer who has the same style or design across the country. It’s really a big draw.”
And once drawn into your facility, a more interesting building will help your customers create memories and social media-friendly moments and eventually return with their friends and family, benefiting your bottom line.
So, if your old building has attractive windows, brick patterns, or doorways, great! Instead of covering them up, design professionals can incorporate them in the design, just like they did at Fulton Alley.
Do you have a room you need help with? No problem!
A number of profit centers can fit the space and connect with your customer base.
IBI March 2023 14
If your center is in a typical, ordinary building but you have a theme idea that may be wild and wacky, go with it! Professional designers experienced in the niche of bowling and entertainment can work with you to pull off a unique idea in a fun and inviting way.
Run toward your differences
“We love the process of embracing the weird,” Wilkerson said. “What we design for one proprietor will be very different than what we design for another with different ideas and vision. We have team members with decades of experience who will meet with you every step, checking in with mood boards and ideas that will ensure you are comfortable with our plans – and that they will make an impact in your community.”
Ultimately, by not running away from your differences – and instead running toward them –you will create a more profitable and successful center than you could have imagined. Embracing the weird translates to authenticity, and customers love authenticity. Stay true to your weirdness and see how business grows.
1/2 PG DYNAMIC Design 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 FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT CENTERS DESIGN & ARCHITECTURE Congratulations on your new center — thanks for selecting Dynamic Designs.
IBI March 2023 15
Meet Bill Snoberger
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 who make things happen at their company and for the industry. This month we talked with Bill Snoberger, national sales manager at US Bowling.
IBI: How long have you been in the bowling industry?
Bill: I have been a bowler all my life. I joined my first bantam league back when I was 7. Fast forward to 1976 when I was at a bowling tournament and got to talking to Mickey Colletti, who founded the famous Junior Amateur Tour. Mickey was the pro shop operator and part-time deskman at the legendary Hollywood Star Lanes and was looking for extra front desk help at the center. I eagerly took the job and that was my foray into the actual “make my living” from the bowling business; that was 47 years ago!
IBI: How long have you been with US Bowling? What is your current position?
Bill: I started with US Bowling in January 2017. When US Bowling acquired the assets of Murrey International where I had been working since 1983, I met with Daroll and David Frewing and they asked me to remain on and become their national sales manager. They immediately made me feel like family from the day I started. People can take a lesson from this. It is always best to take the high road with your competitors. You never know when you might be meeting face-to-face about life-changing circumstances like this.
IBI: What makes US Bowling unique?
Bill: Professionalism! Being the largest family-owned
Inside Line
Bill, circa 1976 working the front desk at Hollywood Star Lanes
IBI March 2023 16
Bill with clients Angela and Joey Alvarez
business in the bowling industry, we have to be better than our competition. Years ago, there was a company that had a slogan, “Quality goes in before the name goes on.” That describes US Bowling to a tee. Daroll and David are still hands-on every day. I mean EVERY DAY. They care in making certain everything we manufacture is manufactured to the best it can be. If there is a way to make it better, we are always striving for perfection. Our customer service is unsurpassed. If an inquiry comes in and it wasn’t responded to promptly, our sales staff will get a note from Daroll asking for details on why. I don’t believe there is another company in the business that brings so much experience from a manufacturing, marketing, and sales perspective.
IBI: What new programs or initiatives are you working on?
Bill: US Bowling has been aggressively perfecting our 24 Volt Automatic String Pinsetter. A very safe, energy efficient, low maintenance pinsetter. Realizing how bowling centers are struggling to find talented backend personnel, having a reliable string pinsetter that can be maintained by enthusiastic customer service personnel is exactly what the industry needs. Plus, with only about 80 moving parts on the 24 Volt string pinsetter, the parts inventory nightmare is a thing of the past. Combining our Pulse Entertainment Scoring system with our 24 Volt string pinsetters has become the industry’s winning combination.
We have people on staff who are constantly updating some of the coolest Pulse Entertainment scoring graphics ever developed. Of all our scoring graphics, the 1980s-themed line of graphics are the coolest thing I’ve seen. What’s old is definitely new again.
IBI: What are the trends in 2023?
Bill: Back in October 2022, I was invited to speak to the Southern California Bowling Proprietors about this exact topic. There is a major change on the horizon. It really has to do with the emergence of the string pinsetter. With the USBC on the verge of sanctioning our 24 Volt String Pinsetters for league and tournament play, it’s going to change the industry.
Our industry has gone from almost 8 million sanctioned league bowlers in 1997 to just about 1 million in 2022. Our industry has changed and the revenue stream is changing as well. Leagues are still a vital part of a center’s income, but it can’t be all of it. Centers are having to weigh their options for the future.
IBI: What do you like most about your job?
Bill: I love the people I work with at US Bowling. Starting at the top and going down, it’s a group of completely dedicated people. We have staff that comes into the factory on weekends, on their own time, to get work done. I enjoy hearing customers soak in my words and have a better understanding of the business they are about to embark on. I love how they go from being cautiously optimistic and apprehensive when I first spoke with them to being so excited, they can’t hide their newfound enthusiasm to get this new project done.
IBI: When you’re not working, how do you like to spend your time?
Bill: I really enjoy spending as much time as I can with my fiancée Mary. We’ve been together going on 30 years and have the same interests. Our bowling friends set us up on a blind date thinking we might be good together; boy were they right! We love going to live concerts, whether it’s Bruce Springsteen at the Sports Arena or a yacht rock band at the local park, we love live music. Mary and I have been Dodger season ticket holders for 15 years. I will rush home the 37 miles from Chino to Glendale, change into my Dodger regalia, and make the 15-minute drive over to Dodger Stadium. Rinse and repeat 60+ times per year.
IBI: What would our readers be surprised to learn about you?
Bill: I have 13 sanctioned 300 games when shooting 300 still got your name mentioned in the local bowling paper. When I was 16, I went on a three-week bowling exhibition with six boys and six girls to Australia and Hawaii.•
Inside Line
IBI March 2023 18
Bill with fiancée Mary at their beloved Dodger Stadium, cheering on the Boys in Blue
Contact Betson Sales: (800) 524-2343 | sales@betson com www.bet s on .co m VISIT US IN BOOTH A231
for JOBS! BOWLING
By Ryan Vasko
Employment Events Produce New Business & Employees for Smyrna Bowling Center in Tennessee
When Chris James agreed to host a job fair at Smyrna Bowling Center, he figured it was a great way to help and do something for folks and companies in his area. “Supporting Strong Community” is the motto of the beloved 52-lane institution in Smyrna, TN.
What he couldn’t have predicted, however, was how the decision would soon pay off dazzlingly. Not only was the job fair a successful networking asset, but it was also a smart, unexpected way to bring in new business and build a surplus of potential employees for his center. James, who has served as the center’s general manager since 2019, initially came into contact with the local office of the American Job Center while looking for staffers of his own. While there, he struck up a conversation with Jeff Glidden, a Career Specialist for the county, and an opportunity organically presented itself. “We got to talking, and he mentioned he needed a facility for the Smyrna area,” James recalled. “So, I said, ‘Jeff, just come to the bowling center; we’ve got plenty of room. I think it’d be grand.’ Long story short, it created a way to bring in small businesses and large factories and showcase us as an option for a company party.”
The first fair at Smyrna was held on a Wednesday morning,
with two dozen companies representing manufacturing, automotive servicing, food production, local airlines, and other industries in attendance. Since each paid a fee to take part, which covered his day’s income, James could close the alley and devote the entirety of the time to the job fair. With the space available (the center is the largest in Tennessee), each vendor was given a high-top Brunswick table to conduct business at, making for a functional and memorable experience.
“It’s a fun atmosphere, and we love coming every time,” Glidden said. “It puts people at ease and makes it easier for employers and job seekers to interact. If we can host a job fair in a place where people can bring their kids, say, that makes a big difference. It also provided a lot of additional traffic from people who would come to bowl, so there was a lot of cross-marketing.”
With a positive response, Smyrna Bowling Center has since hosted three additional job fairs, and with each, they’ve
Cover Story
IBI March 2023 20
REAL PEOPLE REAL RESULTS REAL STORIES
22 9 5 LANES OF EDGE STRING LEAGUES DAY-A-WEEK PLAY
All of my leagues stayed with the center...
After replacing our pinspotters with the EDGE String machine, all seven of my leagues that were USBC sanctioned stayed with the center. From the staff morale to the customer experience, everything is up. I call EDGE String the no stress machine!
To learn more visit:
Mark Bowen, Proprietor Dover Bowl Dover, NH
learned and evolved for a better experience. James offers door prizes for the vendors who attend, typically things that incentivize them to come back to the center for company events, parties, and team-building activities.
“I redid our meeting room in the back of the center, took up the carpet, and put in new flooring,” James said. “For our next fair, we had a great turnout, and I worked with Jeff and his staff to transition everything from the concourse of our center into our conference rooms and get a little more privacy and room to work in.”
Being more thoughtful about the space allows Smyrna to floor 52 lanes of league bowling in the front of the house while the fair is held in separate conference areas. And while the continued participation of so many organizations is heartening, even better for James is the opportunity to continue to build relationships with them and open new avenues for business.
“It was really cool to see someone going that extra mile,” said Karen Mull, human resources coordinator for Steel Technologies, a metal processing company based in Murfreesboro, TN. “All our current employees got to go for a free night of bowling after we attended the job fair, which was a really nice thing to offer.”
For James, the keys to keeping these events successful and bringing new organizations in have been staying proactive and putting in the extra work on his end to boost attendance. He helps lead marketing efforts along with the staff at the American Job Center. He reaches out to businesses in the region to keep new vendors coming to the fairs, including recent contacts with Kroger, Waffle House, and Nissan production support company Yates Services.
“I can’t just sit here,” he said. “You have to think outside of the box if you want your business to grow.”
Staffing solution!
During the event, James hosts his booth seeking new candidates for his busy 52-lane center. The results? Smyrna Bowl is fully staffed and has a surplus of job candidates on file. At the time of printing this article, James tells us that he fired two employees this week and was able to fill the positions from his surplus list immediately! Now, that’s genius!
Today’s bowling centers and FECs face new barriers to reaching and retaining customers. The success of Smyrna’s efforts to rethink how they use their space and create new sources of revenue is a testament to being open to trying something new, being willing to evolve, and always serving as your own biggest advocate.
“Chris has been very hospitable, accommodating, and welcoming to people coming in,” Glidden said. “That made a big difference. It’s been a great partnership for all of us—the bowling center, the American Job Center, and the vendors who attend—and the folks who come in looking for a job have been very pleased.”
“It’s all about finding new ways to expose folks to what you’re offering,” James said. “Bowling is built on repeat business, and you simply want to repeat what works. I had an opportunity to help keep this industry alive, and I’ll do whatever I can to make it work.”
Owners interested in hosting a job fair in their area can reach out to their local American Job Center (careeronestop.org). Beyond that, they should take a lesson from James’ ingenuity and willingness to take advantage of opportunities (even those outside the normal course of business) coming their way. You never know where your next success story will start.•
Cover Story
IBI March 2023 22
Ryan Vasko is a writer based in Portland, OR with 20 years of experience as a journalist, speechwriter, and marketer. Growing up in his family’s bowling center Ryan spent significant time bowling with his dad and grandpa and working at the center. His dog is a good boy.
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If you have Legacy Scoring (Brunswick AS-80/90, Frameworx or AMF Magic Score, Accuscore, Boss) you can upgrade the Management System to TouchDesk. This is a great option if your scoring is still doing the job, but you worry about the management system lasting through another season. System is CDE/BLS Compatible, offers POS options, and more. Once purchased, you can upgrade scoring - one pair at a time.
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A BIG SHOUT OUT TO THE PBA AND USBC!
Thanks for the opportunity to showcase all of our stats and insights to the bowlers of America during the U.S. Open event.
See you at the next competition!
Lanetalk is free for centers, fast and easy to set up. For details or to connect your center today – lanetalk.com
By Mike Fernandez
SPEAKEASY SHHHHH….the password is ‘Buttercup Babies’ TO ME
Exploring the profit potential of covert cocktails SAY WHAT?
My fiancee and I had been scouring south Florida for weeks to find a classy, unique date night experience away from the madness of spring breakers in town. Eventually, we caught a social media influencer boasting about the incredible food and unforgettable drinks at Room 901. It was just down the street, and I, being a professional foodie, wondered how I had never heard of it.
Our special date had to be reserved a few months out, as the venue only accommodates two couples at a time. I put on my best suit, she put on her best dress, and we followed the address to a nearby hotel.
I straightened my jacket, fixed my tie, and took a powerful stride to the front desk.
Front Desk Associate: “Hi, how can we help you?”
Me: “Hello. Buttercup Babies.”
Front Desk Associate: “Right this way!”
Room 901 was a speakeasy!
A secret room to eat and drink, a heightened experience. We were guided to hotel room 901,
covered in black drapes, Great Gatsby-esque decor, mood lighting, and jazzy-jukebox-style music.
A single bartender in a Roaring ‘20s style robe and curled mustache put on a show of crafting incredible cocktails to match our tastes while we enjoyed small plates of jaw-dropping food unique from the menu downstairs. We forgot about the outside world or that we were in a hotel room. We had it all to ourselves, and afterward, we told everyone we could.
This opened up a can of worms that led us to speakeasies in every city we visited, in all sorts of establishments. Many were behind unremarkable storage doors; one was in the backroom of a barbershop. We usually looked silly running around various businesses, pulling on locked doors to find the right entrance!
One thing that remained the same in each of our secret venues was an incredible combination of mixology, plating, sound, and lighting to give you that secret high-society feeling, separate from and above the public domain. It’s a feeling that people are willing to pay a premium for.
Booze and Bites
IBI March 2023 26
The primary form of marketing speakeasies is using social media influencers and word of mouth. Word of exclusive experiences spreads quickly. Going to Vegas? The Cosmopolitan has three speakeasies hidden within; no room necessary. Can you find them? Try looking into a haircut!
SAY WHEN?
Speakeasies are a byproduct of one of the darkest times in American history, the Prohibition Era. When alcohol was banned in 1920, people needed a place to relax out of the eyes of the law. Speakeasies were secret bars, traditionally in basements, cellars, attics, and storage rooms, that illegally sold alcohol. The name comes from the fact that you’ve usually got to whisper a password to enter and not let the law catch on.
Since speakeasies were already illegal and very noquestions-asked, they didn’t follow many social rules of the time. They were some of the first businesses to integrate and left behind the concept that women shouldn’t be prancing around bars but working on home and family life instead. This led to their widespread popularity, an explosion in jazz music (since the black community was more welcome to play), and normalized women grabbing drinks or even dancing at the bar.
SAY WHY?
Bowling centers often have extra rooms for parties and events, but how often are those booked up? Renovating
a small, unused room to a speakeasy can be a great way to build new traffic, and you don’t need to run it all the time. Speakeasies are often pop-ups, meaning they come and go, adding to the exclusivity of entry and not adding a ton of work to the owner. For example, having a speakeasy only available on Tuesdays and Wednesdays is a great way to increase mid-week traffic.
Anything unique is going to come with a premium, of course. The food menu is often minimal and completely unique from the rest of the business. The often-complex cocktails rely on master mixologists who use unique ingredients to craft their specialties. You can charge substantially more for everything available through the speakeasy and only run it when needed, adding more profit and diversity to your revenue streams.
All you need to do is dress up the room, dim the lights, and turn up the jazz! So, what’s the password?
and Bites
Booze
IBI March 2023 27
Mike Fernandez is a freelance contributor on all things regarding food, booze, and fun. Growing up in his family’s restaurant business fueled his passion for good eats and tasty treats. By day Mike works in business development for IBI, by night he scours south Florida for the latest trends in food, drinks, and recreation.
Simple Techniques
to MAXIMIZE MARKETING PLANS your
Marketing Monthly with Bruce Davis
Making the Most of Your Frontline Assets
GOOD marketing plans use a proper approach of selecting a target, creating a quality offer with a compelling message, and using the right media to reach the audience.
GREAT marketing plans include execution details that keep customers happy and coming back. After all, you’ve doled out time and money to entice these folks, don’t drop the ball with guests because of a sour customer experience.
Great marketing plans include properly preparing your staff so they can deliver on the promises of your marketing message. The success of your marketing partially depends on how well your staff delivers an excellent experience to guests. However, in most cases that all-important execution is in the hands of the lowest-paid and least-trained employees which is a nail-biter when you consider the costs incurred to bring these folks in.
There are several professionals out there who can assist you with techniques and training methods that will help you garner top execution from your staff. I strongly recommend that you consider hiring them to coach your team for optimal performance and the best ROI of your marketing dollars.
In the meantime, I’m offering some basic techniques you may want to include as part of your management routine. These carry little-to-no cost yet are proven to incentivize employees. These management techniques not only assist your marketing efforts, but they also can help lower your employee turnover rate!
Employees who interact with your customers control the destiny of your center and it’s wise to pay keen attention to one of the deepest human needs, which is being appreciated.
#1 Show sincere thanks for a job well done!
A major study showed the following:
• Personal thanks from a manager was very important to 58% of those surveyed.
• Those employees ranked a written note from a manager even higher, 76% positive!
• On the top of the list, at a solid 81%, hearing praise from a manager in public (in the presence of other staffers) was especially pleasing.
Praise for a job well-done costs little and goes far!
#2 Ensure that staff is “in the know.”
People like to feel like they are an important part of the team. Staff members want to be informed about what is being planned or about to happen. One great technique that is often overlooked is having front-line
Marketing
IBI March 2023 28
RESETTING THE PINSETTER CONVERSATION!
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staffers in on the creative meeting that develops your marketing plans. Not only will they buy into execution better if they feel they have a hand in the planning, but many times their experiences allow them to contribute ideas that make the plan better.
Creative meetings with staffers should also be followed up with short shift meetings just prior to the actual rollout of the execution to customers. Making sure everyone is up to date and on the same page will do wonders for your team’s attitude and can result in a team approach to delivering a happy, memorable experience.
There are at least six major things that customers don’t forget about after they have given you some of their time and money in trade for an experience.
1. The staff members’ attitudes they encounter… the good, the bad, the ugly!
2. The delivery on your marketing promises… does your staff know all the promises?
3. The extras you provide… toss-ins, things beyond your promises!
4. The condition of your center… doing an inspection is key!
5. How your staff handles complaints… empower and train staff to solve problems fast!
6. The consistency of the experience… reliably great service every visit!
Employees may not become exact clones of you, but they will surely execute better if they are made to feel important. Great marketing leaders gain solid payoffs from delivering little acts of kindness and by making sure those on the front line are consulted to some degree about marketing efforts when they are in the planning stages.
“Cool The Complaint” is a method that I like to suggest. In most cases, an employee who is empowered to save a customer on the spot will cost your business less than you might end up spending if the customer has to wait to hear from you.
1. Acknowledge the person is upset
SHOW EMPATHY
“I understand you’re upset, I would be, too.”
2. Make a sad, glad statement
DO NOT MAKE EXCUSES
“I’m sorry you had this problem, I’m glad you called it to our attention.”
3. Make a positive statement
USE AN UPBEAT TONE
“I will take action to make you happy.”
5. Ask them this question
MAKE SURE YOU LISTEN TO THEIR ANSWER
“What can we do to make you happy?”
6. Make the settlement
BASED ON WHAT THEY WANT, DO IT OR SEE THAT IT GETS DONE Tossing something a little bit extra will sweeten the deal, and be sure to follow up to make sure all is well.
A good management procedure might be to set a goal that you make at least one employee (or more) feel important every day by thanking them for positive actions and asking for their input.
Not all executions go perfectly and not all customers expect perfection, but sometimes things go bad and customer retention is in the balance. Employees should be armed with information on how best to cool complaints and save customers.
Until you can put a formal coaching and training program in place, I strongly encourage you to involve your staff in your marketing plans, train them on what you want them to do specifically, and recognize good performances for jobs well done. Marketing isn’t cheap, so don’t let a rogue employee, or an uninformed, untrained one derail your marketing investment. To maximize your marketing dollars and energy make the most of your frontline key assets.•
Marketing
IBI March 2023 30
Bruce Davis is President of Bowling Business Builders International (BBBI) whose flagship program Kids Bowl Free has registered over 35 million children for participating centers.
FOUNDED BY BOWLERS. FUNDED BY BOWLERS. SERVING VETERANS. BVL (Bowlers to Veterans Link) is a national nonprofit 501 (c) (3) charity that has been recognized as one of “America’s Best Charities” by Independent Charities of America, earned a “Top-Rated” Nonprofit distinction from Great Nonprofits, and is also a member of the Combined Federal Campaign (#93325). DONATE NOW AT BVL.ORG SUPPORTING RECREATIONAL THERAPY FOR THOSE WHO HAVE SERVED.
STRING PIN MACHINES BEAT INFLATION
Consumers and businesses are all feeling the pressure of inflation gouging their pocketbooks. This is especially true for bowling center operators, who are seeing profits erode due to soaring costs. As you would expect, savvy operators are looking for any opportunity to conquer these challenges.
Proprietors are learning firsthand how to adjust their operations to overcome these challenges.
Centers that have installed string machines are experiencing significantly lower operating costs while concurrently stimulating revenue growth.
From 2021 to 2022, 40 states have experienced energy cost increases by at least 5%, with half of those seeing cost increases of over 10%. The U.S. Energy Information Administration projects that we’ll have to endure at least two more years of higher-than-normal energy cost inflation. Given that older free-fall pinsetters use eight to ten times more electricity than string machines, the savings by converting from free-fall to string are significant.
The most significant advantage of installing string machines is that any staff member can operate the machines via their mobile phone by downloading an app. Additionally, due to fewer stoppages, mechanics can be repurposed to other areas of the business, thus reducing labor costs. “While
many of our customers have seen their labor costs reduced by an average of nearly 70%, one EDGE String owner, Woodlawn Bowl Family Fun Center in Guelph, Ontario, Canada, reported operational cost savings of 95%!”
In addition, bowling centers can reduce maintenance and parts costs by switching to string machines. Instead of allocating an entire storage room filled from floor to ceiling with pinspotter replacement parts, the spare parts needed for a string pin machine will fit neatly in a small location like a designated tool bench.
Because string machines require significantly fewer parts than their free-fall counterpart, there is significantly less downtime due to mechanical problems. Additionally, as the pins are attached to a durable string, there are no “dead wood” issues, lengthy lane closures, or pins missing from the rack upon setting. This phenomenon has led to more lineage and happier bowlers.
Happier bowlers and reliable machine performance make your staff’s lives easier. Rather than spending all their time dealing with machine breakdowns, service delays, and appeasing unhappy customers, staff can focus on increasing sales and providing the optimal bowling experience.•
Expert Alley
Joel Forbes QubicaAMF
with
IBI March 2023 32
8 400 7,300 33 largest bowling chains
world bowling centers lanes countries
EDGE String is the next generation in string pinspotter technology allowing you to deliver the fun of bowling with peace of mind—and a very low operating cost. It’s no wonder EDGE String is #1 selling string machine on the market.
THE AMAZINGLY SIMPLE WAY TO OFFER BOWLING In more than On over In over Chosen by the
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By Mark Miller
SOLID Stream Revenue A of Not To Overlook
Fundraisers Done Right Have Earning Power
hat doesn’t depend on the weather, is far less expensive and labor intensive than many other activities, and requires little promotion? If you answered fundraisers, mark yourself down for a strike!
Rainbow Family Fun Center in Clayton, NC, and Mount Airy Lanes, west of Baltimore, MD, are two centers owned by families who connect with their communities by hosting fundraisers. Both see community engagement as essential to their longterm success. And best of all, many organizations and groups seeking to conduct fundraisers now contact the centers for help.
“I don’t have to go searching for things,” said Melanie Campbell, who co-owns Rainbow with parents Eddie and Pondra Byrd. Their center, located about 15 minutes southeast of Raleigh, features 45,000 square feet, including 32 lanes, a large game room, a billiards room, and a large concourse. “I have a list of PTAs and other groups to work in. Word of mouth has helped; we’ll have someone in the [organization] talk about it.”
Feature
Melanie Campbell and her parents from Rainbow Family Fun Center
IBI March 2023 34
INTERNATIONAL BOWLING INDUSTRY MAGAZINE IS GIVING AWAY $30,000 TO BOWLING OPERATORS… & Writing Checks to Our Advertisers!
As Part Of IBI’s 30-Year Anniversary, We’re Rewarding Our Readers And Advertisers With A Big Money Giveaway
$30,000 GIVEAWAY TO CENTER OPERATORS
Beginning October 1, 2022, IBI will be giving away $1,000 a month for 30 months which can be applied toward goods or services from one of IBI’s qualifying vendors.
Each month, operators enter the contest at www.BowlingIndustry.com for their chance to win in that month’s drawing. Once the winner decides on a purchase from an IBI qualified advertiser, IBI will send a check to cover that portion of their purchase.
A winner will be selected on the last day of each month. Once the winner is notified, IBI will give them a list of qualifying vendors to choose from.
Details and Rules are available at www.BowlingIndustry.com
As a thank you to our consistent marketing partners, we’re including you in our milestone anniversary celebration.
If one of our winners chooses your company as their selected vendor, we’ll cut you a check on their behalf.
IBI’s Preferred Vendors receive a ton of exposure yearround, have exclusive marketing perks, and are included in special promotions like the $30,000 giveaway.
For more information on all the benefits of becoming an I BI Preferred Vendor, contact Natalie@BowlingIndustry.com or call 239.821.2534
IT PAYS TO BE A READER AND ADVERTISER OF IBI...
ATTN: ADVERTISERS…. IF YOUR COMPANY IS AN IBI PREFERRED VENDOR, WE MAY BE SENDING YOU $$$$$
Sponsored in part by Bowling Business Builders International
“It depends on the needs of the customer,” said Alyson Rineer, whose parents Joe and Kay, have owned Mount Airy Lanes with 12 duckpin lanes since 1976. “People tell us they want a fundraiser, and we base the package on their needs. Most of the time, it’s a Rock and Bowl format.” Mount Airy charges a single facility price for some events or discounts their Rock and Bowl fees per person as part of the offer.
Both centers work with various religious, civic, and non-profit organizations, charging a negotiated lineage fee, plus shoe rental, and sometimes including a food package. The organizations set their own prices for attendees, earning what is left after paying the center.
Rainbow also schedules spirit nights for school and sports groups. The center donates $1.50 for each ticket purchased on their Himalaya ride, a small, carnival-type ride. “The community is great at providing donations,” Campbell said. “We’ll throw in some gift certificates. We’ll do a raffle and tell the organization to seek things to raffle off – gift certificates or meals through 50-50 raffles – half to the winner, half to the organization.”
Both centers employ variable pricing depending on the day and time of the week and the number of people attending. They often assign specific months to specific organizations. For example, in November, Rainbow’s charity was Her Haven of Life which helps abused women. Last July, a raffle raised nearly $3,000 celebrating the 25th anniversary of Harbor House, a shelter that takes in women in abusive relationships.
Mount Airy supports Strike Out Cancer in league play. If a league bowler throws three straight strikes – which is very tough to do in duckpins – the center donates $25 to the designated organization at the end of the month. It also donates a percentage of a featured alcoholic beverage during the time of the event.
Earlier this year, Rainbow hosted a political fundraiser for the Republican Women’s Group. “Political groups are great to have in your back pocket,” Campbell said. “It’s a success for them. They sold sponsored lanes.” Rainbow’s most successful fundraisers are Stop Soldier Suicide, which raised $6,000 last year, and Clayton Bowl for the Cure, supporting breast cancer research.
Last year at Thanksgiving, Mount Airy had an online dinner sale of prepurchased Thanksgiving
meals made and packaged at the center and delivered to local needy families and first responders. “We had so many dinners purchased — a couple hundred — that we had a challenge distributing them,” Rineer said.
There are times when Campbell finds it challenging to find spots for groups wanting to engage in bowling as their fundraising activity. So, she schedules them during slower times when leagues are not in session, especially on Monday nights. With leagues taking up the lanes most weeknights, including double shifts on Mondays and Wednesdays, Mount Airy fits in school groups after school and others on weekends.
Word of mouth and social media marketing have resulted in more than 20 fundraisers annually at Rainbow and close to a dozen at Mount Airy. The centers provide the venue and let the groups run the event. “We try to guide them as much as we can. For most of these, we don’t run them ourselves,” Campbell said. “We give them the tools for whatever they need to make it successful.”
Fundraisers often spur additional business by helping their communities, including birthday and corporate parties. If fundraisers are not something your center actively promotes, why are you waiting?•
Feature
Mark Miller is a freelance writer, editor, and public relations specialist from Flower Mound, TX. He’s the author of Bowling: American’s Greatest Indoor Pastime available at Amazon.com or directly from him at markmywordstexas@gmail.com.
Breast Cancer fundraiser at Mt Airy Lanes
IBI March 2023 36
All decked out for the breast cancer fundraiser at Mt Airy Lanes
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Apparel
Architecture
& Consulting –Architecture – Theme Design –
Betson
a multi-branch, full-service distribution network serving the amusement,
Automatic
Equipment/Supplies
Attractions NEO TAC www.neotac.com Frank Bernabei 585.798.6400 300@neotac.com Lane Conditioners and
Lane
PREFERRED VENDOR
EXPERT HOSIERY www.funtimefootwear.com Customer Service 919.799.7707 support@experthosiery.com
LIST
DYNAMIC DESIGNS www.dynamicdesignsinc.net Howard Ellman 248.644.7275 Info@dynamicdesignsinc.net Interior & Exterior Design
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. Design CREATIVE WORKS www.thewoweffect.com Russ Van Natta 317.834.4770 sales@thewoweffect.com
– New Concept Development – Planning
Re-imagining of Existing Facilities
Cleaners.
BRUNSWICK BOWLING PRODUCTS www.brunswickbowling.com Michael Postema 231.343.2043 Info@brunswickbowling.com
We create powerful emotions through immersive attractions like laser tag, mini golf, escape rooms, VR, and more. We help you get customers off the couch and into your venue with experiences they can’t get anywhere else.
Bowling Ball Cleaners And Polishes.
The leader in the bowling industry for over 130 years, Brunswick Bowling provides products, services, and industry expertise for new and existing bowling centers.
Scoring NEW CENTER CONSULTING www.newcenterconsulting.com Glenn Hartshorn 248.375.2751 ghartsho@yahoo.com Touch Score
STELTRONIC SCORING www.steltronicscoring.com Sales Department 800.942.5939 Info@steltronicscoring.com
Arcade Distributor BETSON ENTERPRISES www.betson.com/bowling Sales Department 800.524.2343 Sales@betson.com
AVS COMPANIES www.avscompanies.com Sales Department 847.439.9400 sales@avscompanies.com AVS Companies is
gaming and vending
38 IBI March 2023
Capital
– A truly revolutionary scoring upgrade for legacy systems.
The
world’s leading independent automatic scoring manufacturer since 1980.
offers a full assortment of arcade and vending equipment and has the largest inventory selection of new & used games and parts.
industries.
PREFERRED VENDOR LIST
Capital Equipment/Supplies
QUBICAAMF www.qubicaamf.com
Sales Department
804.569.1000
info@qubicaamf.com
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.
SWITCH BOWLING
John Fatigati
Cashless Technology
201.694.7985
www.switchbowling.com
john@switchbowlingusa.com
Offering a full line of equipment, furniture and scoring for everything from modernization to new center builds since 2006, Switch Bowling features Italian designed style built into products with uncompromising quality and value.
INTERCARD
Sales Department
www.intercardinc.com
800.732.3770 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 www.semnox.com
Sales Department
610.400.8901 Sales@semnox.com
Semnox’s online cashless payment systems – a one stop solution for your entire bowling center operations.
Consulting, Management and Marketing
TRIFECTA MANAGEMENT GROUP www.trifecta-mg.com
Bruce Nussbaum
818.879.7100
Inquiries@trifecta-mg.com
TMG works closely with stakeholders to create and manage innovative concepts through customized value added and consulting services including operations, team development, marketing/advertising, culinary and technical. With the goal of creating memorable experiences, customized for local markets, TMG can help take your concept from idea to operational, or anything in-between.
Food & Beverage
VIRTUAL DINING CONCEPTS
Kelly Grogan
Insurance
www.virtualdiningconcepts.com
508.351.2556 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.
TILTON,
W. Tyler Compton
866.233.0266 tcompton@ttminsurance.com
Tilton, Thomas & Morgan Insurance Professionals has been insuring bowling and family entertainment centers for over 40 years. We support many state and national organizations, including many state bowling associations and the BPAA. Through our years of experience and working with hundreds of proprietors across the country, we have developed a specialized program to ensure our clients have the correct coverages at a competitive price. We love insuring FUN, so call us today to see how we can help you!
WESTERN BOWLING PROPRIETORS INSURANCE www.wbpiprogram.com
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!
THOMAS & MORGAN INSURANCE PROFESSIONALS
www.ttminsurance.com
39 IBI March 2023
Lighting/Sound
PREFERRED VENDOR LIST
DECIBEL STUDIOS www.decibel-studios.com
Guy O’Hazza
310.693.5165 guy@decibel-studios.com
Decibel Studios is an innovative global technology solutions company that designs, engineer, installs, and maintains custom controlled audio, video, lighting, show control and special effects systems, including augmented and virtual reality, 3D and 4D interactive theaters, for various entertainment, corporate, hospitality, retail and institutional groups.
DFX SOUND VISION www.dfxsoundvision.com
Mike Bovino
800.555.5280 info@dfxsoundvision.com
Your FEC specialists creating extraordinary experiences by providing dynamic audio, video, lighting and automation services and integration that elevate communication and give your entertainment center that WOW factor.
Marketing
BBBI/KIDS BOWL FREE www.kidsbowlfree.com
Andy Vasko 877.841.4590 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 www.bowlingleads.com
Zach Boulanger 844.468.4144 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 www.eBowl.biz
Carey Tosello 541.549.0999 Carey@eBowl.biz
Digital marketing for bowling: BowlRx websites, Facebook for bowling, and more.
THE KAPLOE GROUP www.kaploegroup.com
Fred Kaplowitz 516.359.4874 fredkaplowitz@gmail.com
The ultimate marketing and management company for your leisure, entertainment, or recreation business. Professional consulting and coaching available.
Online Reservations
ALLEYTRAK www.alleytrak.com
Chris Behling 815.519.9843 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.
PARTYWIRKS www.partywirks.com
Sales Department
877.345.4012 sales@partywirks.com
Partywirks is more than an online booking software company for parties, events, lane reservations and leagues for your bowling entertainment center. Our easy-to-use, easy-to-manage multi-function system encourages upselling, helps generate future interest, and also allows your visitors to inquire, invite, share, learn, sign waivers, and shop online.
40 IBI March 2023
PREFERRED VENDOR LIST TRAINERTAINMENT www.Trainertainment.net Beth Standlee 817.886.4840 Beth@trainertainment.net Fun Training – Serious Results. Training VRCAVE www.vrcave.ca/ibi Alex Rossol 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. Virtual Reality REDEMPTION PLUS www.redemptionplus.com Mike Tipton 888.564.7587 Smile@redemptionplus.com Products that perform. Services that simplify. BMI MERCHANDISE www.bmimerchandise.com Sales Department 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 Supplies Congratulations! It’s a SALE for VANTAGE BOWLING CENTERS Tucson, AZ // 4 Centers We wish Robert, Jill, and the rest of their organizations all the best in the future. We congratulate Robert Spigner and Triple Shift Entertainment on the purchase of these fine centers and thank Jill Theis and the Wes Becker family for trusting Ken & Marty Mischel to facilitate the sale. IBI March 2023 41
ODDS & ENDS
CYNTHIA WINTERHALTER BIDES ADIEU TO SWITCH®
For years, the entertainment sector working with Switch® worked with Cynthia Winterhalter, the company’s long-time COO. Recently, she announced her resignation. She expressed that leaving Switch® was probably the most difficult decision she has ever made. However, after lengthy deliberation, “I feel the need to branch out independently and explore new avenues. I look forward to the opportunities in front of me,” she said.
During her career with Switch®, Winterhalter focused on driving growth and championing their innovative products and installations. With a background in international business and communication, she has been a key player in helping to raise the profile of Switch®. A talented linguist and communicator, her key interests are in brand promotion and customer liaison. Her plans? Cynthia is moving to the U.S. in the spring. She said that she is looking forward to experiencing the full range of novelty and excitement the entertainment sector here has to offer. Those of us in the bowling world look forward to seeing her!
EXPANSIONS, OPENINGS, & NEW BEGINNINGS
BOWLERO CORP. ADDS TO ITS COUNT
Bowlero Corp., a global leader in bowling entertainment, has completed the acquisition of Great Escape in Iowa. This is the company’s 15th completed acquisition, bringing the total center count to 326. Located in Pleasant Hill, a suburb of Des Moines, Great Escape is a 24-lane bowling center featuring laser tag, over 50 arcade games, virtual reality, and a full-service restaurant. This is Bowlero’s second acquisition in Iowa.
THE PARK AT RVA IS VIRGINIA’S NEW FEC
In 2023, Richmond, VA, will be the new home of The Park at RVA, a multi-entertainment venue guaranteed to be a gathering place for fun. The $8 million project features a 55,000-square-foot space complete with bowling, virtual golf, karaoke, and a comedy club. As soon as guests walk through the entryway, they’re greeted by a 60-foot-long bar, billed as the largest in Virginia. At the back of the main bar, there are 18 lanes of duckpin bowling. Orcun Turkay, managing partner, said, “We wanted to design a space that was relevant, engaging, and above all, fun. What we’ve created is an indoor wonderland that caters to guests from all walks of life.”
CREATIVE WORKS WELCOMES KIDS
Escape Rooms are trendy, lucrative, fun, and invite a plethora of participants: families; friends; business associates; teams; strangers. Working together for a united outcome has elevated escape rooms to must-have offering for FECs and bowling centers. Everyone is welcome! However, Creative Works, the manufacturer of the WOW Effect, known for VR, laser tag, and escape rooms, realized that there were participants who had “escaped” them. Kids 12 and under weren’t wowed. Often the puzzles puzzled them and while playing with family and other older friends, they were left out—observers at best. That’s where Slime Works came in. What would be better than concocting a vibrant-colored gooey slime that could be taken home. This new offering from Creative Works gives kids whacky puzzles to find three ingredients to make slime and escape the room. Amy Palmer, general manager of Booby Trap Escape Rooms in Delton, WI, shared: “I absolutely would recommend this room for any FEC. Kids love slime. It gives them a chance to get messy. The fact that they’re able to solve all these puzzles with very little parent help, it’s just really a great time for kids.”
BEAVERCREEK FEC IS ON PAR
On Par in Beavercreek, OH, is offering lots of fun. Games and activities featured in the center will include five private karaoke rooms that can be rented hourly; 12 duckpin bowling lanes; three to nine-hole high-tech mini-golf courses; giant Jenga; shuffle boards; and ping pong tables. There will also be three bars with 102 self-pour taps featuring craft and domestic beer. With the self-pour offer, guests will be able to try a variety of drinks. On Par will serve mostly Ohio products focusing on brands in the Dayton, Cincinnati, and Columbus areas.
Shorts
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Classifieds IBI March 2023 43
EXPERIENCED MECHANIC NEEDED FOR 32 LANE CENTER
Great opportunity in the Tampa Bay area 8270 AMF Pinsetters // Salary and benefits determined by experience // E-Mail resume to manager@oakfieldlanes.com or Call Tammy Jacobs @ (813)681-4783
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.
BOWLING, RESTAURANT & LOUNGE FOR SALE
Owners retiring. Over 14,000 square feet in pristine condition with state of the art bowling lanes and equipment and well appointed kitchen. Seating capacity of over 200. The ‘Fred’s Team’ has grown the business to be well established with excellent cash flow. A popular night spot for locals and tourists alike. Located in the Heart of Northern Michigan near Forest Dunes Golf Course and the popular Higgins and Houghton Lakes. For details email RuthAClemens@gmail.com or call 989-429-3100. Coldwell Banker SCHMIDT Realtors.
MANAGEMENT AND MECHANIC POSITIONS AVAILABLE
Multi-unit family-owned business in New Jersey is looking for senior management and mechanic team members. Email resume to sgroce@nationwidebowling.com
MECHANIC RETIRING
HIGH Level mechanic retiring – willing to train next hire for our 26 lane center with restaurant. Only the third mechanic since 1959 for our very stable, family business. Great opportunity in beautiful northwest NJ/PA border town. Salary and benefits commensurate with experience. Email resume to rob.plenge@comcast.net or call Rob 908-763-1192.
SERVICES AVAILABLE
Drill Bit Sharpening and Measure Ball Repair. Jayhawk Bowling Supply. (800)255-6436 or jayhawkbowling.com
IBI
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VISIT
Online
AMF and some BRUNSWICK PC board repair/exchange. 6 month warranty, fast turnaround. Call or write: WB8YJF Service 5586 Babbitt Road, New Albany, Ohio 43054Toll 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/ Call (239) 821-2534 E-mail your ad to: Natalie@bowlingindustry.com or SIGN UP FOR IBI’S NEWLY REBRANDED DIGITAL NEWSLETTER www.BowlingIndustry.com Classifieds IBI March 2023 45
Remember When 1962 W
e haven’t had a good cigarette ad in “Remember When” since October, 2012, with a “Winston tastes good...” 1965 ad. Lots of beer and booze but smoking ads have been in the not-so PC corner.
Smoking and bowling always went together... until they didn’t. What better way to squink yourself to a strike than with a dual filter Tareyton?
1962 and our nice-looking bowler, one of 4,275,000 ABC members, is making the most of his night out at one of 11,476 certified centers. I bet he drove up in a silver Corvette. During that year, we lost Marilyn Monroe and gained Tom Cruise. We were occupied by the Cuban missile crisis and enthralled with Sean Connery as 007 in Dr. No. Well, women were. The Day of the Triffids , you will have to research on your own.
Most importantly, do you still have your Match Box car collection?•
-Patty Heath
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CONQUEROR EXPERIENCE RELATIONSIHIP MANAGER
ONE SYSTEM FOR THE ULTIMATE CONSUMER JOURNEY
CONSISTENT. SIMPLE. SERVICE.
Make Conqueror Kiosk the first touchpoint for your customers when they arrive and get ready to deliver! Check in for reservations, explore offers, pay for bowling and extras, order food and beverage. The Kiosk is the perfect way to upsell your customers to play and spend more at each visit. Plus, it provides an easy self-service experience that customers want.
qubicaamf.com/conquerorkiosk
learn more visit:
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