Upgrades That Deliver

The thing about progress is it's always progressing. Our job is to keep up. Technology advances and enters the market at lightning speed, and today's consumers expect the businesses they frequent to be players in that game. With consumers having access to many entertainment options at home and other location-based entertainment facilities, offering an outdated experience risks losing relevance and, subsequently, customers. 

Experiences Sell! 

Welcome to the experience economy, where memories are the currency of choice. Especially for Millennials, who currently comprise America's largest generation and heads of household. A 2023 survey conducted by Harris and Eventbrite found that 78% of Millennials prefer experiences over products. And for these consumers, if it's worth doing, it's worth posting about – but more on that later. 

Whether incorporating cutting-edge technology, revamping attractions, upping your customer service game, or enhancing existing amenities, improving the experience for guests while streamlining operations is a smart business approach. 

Let's look at a few innovative products making waves in the bowling entertainment arena because they deliver what guests want — a unique and exhilarating experience. Think of something like Neoverse, the new vivid, multisensory experience offered by QubicaAMF. It's a fully overhauled environment that uses sights, sounds, and sensations, anchored by a center-wide LED wall and smartly integrated systems for a captivating trip your guests will want to come back for. Or consider what Brunswick has brought to its partners with its immersive Spark bowling system: a mesmerizing, augmented reality approach that brings animations, ball-trail effects, user photos, and fan-loved IP to your lanes. It provides a unique visit with new surprises whenever the guest returns. 

But upgrading isn't just about flashy gadgets. Your staff can make or break the experience. A positive interaction can spark a 5-star review, while a negative one might become an online saga. The good news? Training your team has never been easier, thanks to online coaching and programs tailored to the industry. Whether you're looking to grow a positive company culture to retain more staff or educate your employees on insurance, redemption, marketing, and more topics, it's all conveniently available online to you and your staff. It can have a significant impact on guest satisfaction. 

Where Should You Start? 

Upgrading means different strokes for different folks. The right upgrades are the ones that fit your specific needs and keep you at the forefront of change. They not only pay big dividends, but they can also change people's perspective of your center. As customer interests and wants constantly evolve, progressive operators will benefit from keeping their eyes on trends that will keep guests coming through their doors repeatedly while spending more and more. 

Embracing Technology 

The most direct way to modernize your business is to invest in technology that elevates you into the sort of current-day enterprise that customers expect to find everywhere, from fast food restaurants to airport check-ins. These can be dramatic, complete overhauls or more targeted, specific approaches that better cater to your available space and budget. 

Streamlining ways to make doing business with you easiest is a surefire way to make guests happier while adding more to your bank account. From offering online reservations to ordering and payment options, you'll drive more to the bottom line without additional labor. Today's guests appreciate being in control of their experience; from booking to payment to ordering onsite, the world revolves around self-sufficiency. 

Captivating Younger Crowds 

But it's not just about tech—it's about creating moments worth sharing. Creating moments worthy of social media posts is a big driver for guest engagement. Even a tiny, forgotten space in your center can be retrofitted into a photo op. Bars, in particular, have learned in recent years that a few pieces of unique, contemporary furniture or a neon sign message to pose with can be a draw solely for social clout. It may not seem like much, but if you get enough traction online, you'll be surprised how many people will come in to snap a picture with their friends on a chaise under a neon sign. 

Social listening sites have also noted the rise of themed parties in the younger Millennial and Gen Z crowds. Western Goth, Coastal Grandma, Garden Disco, the Masters Golf Tournament—all of these and more have trended recently on X, Instagram, and elsewhere as go-to party themes for these demographics. And for people who don't have the space or ability to throw the event themselves, your center could serve as host. 

Gamify Everything! 

If you're looking for something a bit more out of the box, the best upgrades might be the ones that bring competitive social play to just about anything you offer. From pinball tournaments to watch parties, turn every moment into a chance to compete and connect. Because in the age of endless options, experiences leave a lasting impression. Centers around the country are having success with competitive special events surrounding billiards, shuffleboard, trivia, cornhole, pinball, darts, horseshoes, giant Jenga, and more, drawing crowds of varying ages. Whatever you can do to expand your definition of being an entertainment center only adds new dimensions to your identity and creates opportunities to establish new loyal, regular customers. 

Eyes Forward 

In the world of entertainment, standing still isn't an option. Keep evolving, keep learning, and keep delighting your guests. From tech upgrades to creative staffing solutions, the only limit is your imagination. 

IBI connected with the industry's trailblazers to discover the latest innovations revolutionizing guest experiences and operational efficiency. Dive into the following pages for inspiration and learn how to transform your center into the ultimate entertainment destination in town.