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

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!