How to Choose the Right Attraction to Add to Your Roller Rink

Looking for ways to increase revenue at your family entertainment center (FEC), excite existing customers, get new people through the door, and optimize the use of your facility? Adding a small attraction to your skating rink might be just what you need to take your business to the next level. The right small attraction can produce $400,000 or more annually, allowing you to convert unused square footage into revenue-earning space. Sound good? Check out these tips to help you decide which small attractions are right for your FEC. 

Adding Excitement to FECs with Small Attractions

Your first step should be evaluating where to add your attraction and how much space you have to work with. Are there any “dead” areas around your facility that don’t have any way to engage customers? Look for places where people wait for their kids/dates/etc.—outside your laser tag arena, near the lockers, or by the redemption counter. By placing  a small attraction in one of these locations, you’re making full use of the square footage you’re paying rent on, and you can keep people waiting for other attractions happy by giving them something to do. Happier customers will stay longer and spend more money. Mission accomplished! 

How to Choose an Attraction for Your Skating Rink

• Make sure you have room. Choose an attraction that requires under 1200 square feet. Between 600 and 1200 square feet is ideal. The attraction should be located in what is currently “
• Do your homework. Ask the attraction vendor for proof of ROI (return on investment). They should be able to show that the attraction provides a return in under 18 months. 
• Know your competition. What attractions are offered by other FECs in your area? How do they make use of their space? Which attractions are drawing the biggest crowds? 
• Choose an attraction that provides an experience customers can only get at your FEC. Don’t try to compete with in-home entertainment options—your attraction should be bold, enticing, and novel. VR (virtual reality) experiences like “roller coasters” and cooperative arena games are hot right now and can fit in surprisingly small areas. 
• Ask your customers what they want to see! Your customers are a great source of information, and who doesn’t love sharing their opinion? Get them to help you decide via a poll on social media, a voting box at your cashier desk, or a contest . For instance, you could post a photo of each attraction and whichever one gets shared the most is the winner. 

Whatever you choose to do, remember that Southeastern Skate Supply is here to help with the Roller Skating Business Resource Manual, rink equipment, and novelties you need to succeed.