THE ISSUE AT HAND
Blood is Thicker than Lane Oil How many proprietor-parents have dreamed that one day their children would take control of the family bowling business? How many children hoped and aspired to learn the family trade and work with mom and dad? It used to be a lot more common than today. Taking over the family bowling business was an almost expected course of action. The plan may have been spoken, or unspoken, but at an early age kids worked everywhere at the center. Their first job may have been as a porter, then behind the counter, perhaps in the restaurant or even as a mechanic. Then, one day Junior grew to be the general manager while ma and pa retired. For many, this was the business plan, entrance and exit strategy all rolled into one. Then, in the 90s a fundamental shift occurred in the industry. Business got a little tougher. Centers were at a precipice in time where major upgrades were coming due not only for
the equipment inside but also for the box itself. There were easier, less capital-intensive ways to make money. Plus, life had changed. The Generation X lifestyle didn’t quite mesh with bowling. Xers didn’t want a career that required 12-hour days, seven days a week. However, this month, we’re excited to feature several successful examples of thriving, multi-generational bowling businesses. Through thick and thin, these families have worked hard to keep their legacy businesses going while maintaining a tight family bond. My three kids are a little young to call their future yet, and I’m not one to really predetermine their destiny. However, I can say for sure that I’ve gently and casually planted the seeds. If they are interested, and I have the good fortune to remain in this fabulous business, I will always make sure there’s space for three extra desks and chairs right by mine. Now, back to the question at hand, would you want your kids to continue your work in the bowling business? – SCOTT FRAGER, PUBLISHER AND EDITOR frager@bowlingindustry.com
THIS MONTH AT www.BowlingIndustry.com Membership number 2,000 is right around the corner! 2,000 online IBI members will be just in time for the 20th Anniversary of the first, trade-only, bowling publication. November is voting month; let’s make it joining month. If you are not yet a member, join now at www.bowlingindustry.com. It is SIMPLE and FREE. Once a member, then invite your industry friends to become members too; just click the INVITE button once you are online and follow the prompts. Being part of IBI’s online family is just one more way to stay in touch, give voice to your ideas, learn from others and energize this wonderful industry BOWLING! Number 2,000 could be yours along with a gift certificate and your photo here! Your center and you, Number 2,000, for all to see!
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IBI
November 2012