The Official Magazine of IAAPA
FOR OPERATORS WHO HAVE OPERATED their family entertainment centers (FECs) for a while, the last couple of years have posed new challenges. Revenue is tighter, families are more deliberate in how they spend, and a growing number of entertainment options compete for their attention. These factors can feel frustrating, especially for those working hard to create a place that brings purpose and joy to their communities.
Yet, this season is more than just a challenge—it’s an opportunity. It’s a chance to focus on what you can control, streamline operations in the areas that matter most, and emerge even stronger.
Many in the industry have seen similar circumstances before. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when FECs faced shutdowns, capacity limits, and uncertainty, many owners learned to sharpen their operations in a way they’d never needed to before. They gained experience in managing labor efficiently, adjusting purchasing, training staff more intentionally, and creating meaningful guest experiences under difficult conditions. Those lessons remain relevant today.
Here are the key areas that make the biggest difference.
Guest Experience
Families are more attentive to value than ever. They want their time and money to feel well spent. This doesn’t require perfection; it requires consistency: a warm welcome, clean spaces, functioning attractions, and parties that feel special. When guests feel genuinely cared for, they return—even in a tighter economy.
Smart Product Cost Awareness
Taking a closer look at food and beverage costs, attraction margins, and inventory isn’t about cutting quality. It’s about making sure what’s offered still supports the desired guest experience. Even small menu adjustments or vendor changes can protect the bottom line without diminishing the experience for guests.
Labor That Supports, Not Strains
Labor is one of the largest expenses for any center. Effective labor management goes beyond reducing hours. It involves scheduling based on real guest demand, cross-training staff, and giving frontline leaders the tools to lead, not just supervise. A well-trained, empowered team performs better and delivers a stronger guest experience.
Marketing That Feels Local and Real
People support businesses they feel connected to. A massive advertising budget isn’t required—authenticity is. Highlight the team, the guests, and community involvement. Share real moments and let the FEC’s personality show. Authentic messaging matters more than polished perfection.
The family entertainment center industry isn’t shrinking—it’s evolving. These transitional seasons are when stronger, more resilient businesses are built. Operators don’t need to overhaul everything or chase trends; they simply need to refocus on what they do best.
A new year marks a moment to steady operations, strengthen the team, and remind the community why the facility matters. Operators have overcome difficult challenges before. This is just the next chapter in building something lasting.
