2025 June issue

June 2025 // Vol. 35

ROLL. HIT. THROW.

REINVENT. Three Oregon Businesses Join Forces to Create a New Kind of League

LESS SCREEN TIME, MORE GUEST TIME Getting Employees Off Their Phones

FRESH AIR MEANS FRESH REVENUE Turning Outdoor Spaces Into Guest Hotspots

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Contents

June 2025 | Vol 35.6

Publisher’s Column

6

POWER IN THE PIVOT

BY STEPHANIE DAVIS

10

Insurance

PROTECT YOUR CENTER’S FUTURE

BY CAMERON LINDER

12

Marketing

TURN SLOW TIMES INTO BUSY ONES

BY DARIN SPINDLER

16

Food

8 FUN FOOD IDEAS THAT SCORE BIG

BY GOLD MEDAL

18

Success Story

MODERN MACHINES WITH CLASSIC VALUES

BY STEPHANIE DAVIS

20

Feature

FRESH AIR MEANS FRESH REVENUE

BY CORRIE PELC

26

Customer Service

GETTING EMPLOYEES OFF THEIR PHONES

BY DANIEL POERTNER

34 Cover

ROLL, HIT, THROW TRAVELING LEAGUE

BY RYAN VASKO

Competitive Strategies 40

16 40

USE YOUR DATA AND BOOST YOUR BUSINESS

26 48

BY BRANDON WILLEY

Proprietor’s Desk PLANNING THE EXIT

BY STEVE CIESLEWICZ

PUBLISHER & EDITOR

Stephanie Davis

stephanie@bowlingindustry.com

MARKETING MANAGER & SALES Natalie Davis-Fernandez

natalie@bowlingindustry.com

EDITORIAL Jackie Fisher

fisher@bowlingindustry.com

Patty Heath

patty@bowlingindustry.com

OFFICE MANAGER Roxanne Damask

roxanne@bowlingindustry.com 4 IBI June 2025

CONTRIBUTORS Steve Cieslewicz Stephanie Davis Patty Heath Cameron Linder Corrie Pelc Daniel Poertner Darin Spindler Carey Tosello Ryan Vasko Brandon Willey

International Bowling Industry Magazine 1850 San Marco Rd // Marco Island, FL 34145 stephanie@bowlingindustry.com

www.BowlingIndustry.com // HOTLINE: 239.235.7864

VIVID. IMMERSIVE. AMAZING.

More is coming…

BOWL EXPO 2025

Publisher’s Column

POWER IN THE PIVOT CREATIVE COLLABORATIONS AND FRESH THINKING

DRIVE BUSINESS

“A bend in the road is not the end of the road… unless you fail to make the turn.” Helen Keller

O

By Stephanie Davis

pportunity tends to shine the brightest during tough times, and this issue is packed with resourceful, budgetfriendly ideas designed to help your business thrive without draining your wallet. From real-world success stories to practical strategies, we’re here to show that staying competitive and profitable is possible, even when times are uncertain.

Sometimes, all it takes is a dash of creativity and a few likeminded neighbors to reinvent league play. In this month’s cover story, Ryan Vasko spotlights the Roll, Hit, Throw traveling league making waves at TenDown Bowling in Oregon. Proprietor Mariah Smith didn’t sit around waiting for the next big thing, she built it. By teaming up with a nearby axe-throwing venue and a golf simulator facility, she's proving that collaboration beats competition. The result? A hybrid league that keeps players engaged and coming back. It's a fresh and savvy way to boost business and create community engagement.

When traffic slows, smart marketing steps in. Darin Spindler explains how partnering with local influencers can drive new traffic, create buzz, and fill lanes on a tight budget. You don't need a big brand or a flashy new feature to make this work; you just need a willingness to tap into the power of community voices.

Don’t let sunny weather send your guests packing.

In Fresh Air Means Fresh Revenue, Corrie Pelc explores how centers are transforming patios, lawns, and unused

6 IBI June 2025

delivery zones into outdoor hot spots. Now is the perfect time to give guests more reasons to gather, relax, and stick around while boosting your revenue.

Another valuable article comes from Daniel Poertner of TrainerTainment, who tackles the common frustration of having staff members glued to their phones instead of taking care of guests. Dan offers practical tips to keep staff engaged, guest-focused, and driven by purpose.

Finally, don’t miss our exclusive online extras at www. bowlingindustry.com. This month, the experts at Player One Amusement Group break down how mixing games, attractions, and hybrids can help you maximize your space, drive repeat visits, and create unforgettable experiences that keep customers coming back for more. Another valuable read comes from our friends at Redemption Plus who explain how the right mix of redemption games, video games, and self-merchandisers can drive more revenue and repeat visits.

•

– Stephanie Davis, Publisher & Editor

stephanie@bowlingindustry.com

PS: Haven't browsed the 2025 What's Hot & Trending Product and Resource Guide yet? Scan the QR code and see how today's standout products are making waves at the center level.

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Online Only

www.bowlingindustry.com READ THESE TOP STORIES EXCLUSIVELY ONLINE

Level Up Your Venue with Competitive Socializing

Importance of Redemption in the FEC Ecosystem

BY BRUNSWICK BOWLING PRODUCTS

BY REDEMPTION PLUS

How Modern Arcades Are Mixing Games and Attractions

Proprietors Share the Top Benefits of EDGE String

BY PLAYER ONE AMUSEMENT GROUP

BY QUBICAAMF

Today’s most successful venues offer more than just food and drinks—they offer experiences. In this article, the experts at Brunswick explain how adding competitive socializing activities like Duckpin bowling, darts, and VR can boost guest engagement, increase sales, and foster customer loyalty. Learn how the right games and atmosphere can help you turn your venue into a thriving hub where customers stay longer, spend more, and keep coming back.

The line between classic arcade games and fullscale attractions is getting harder to spot—and that's excellent news for operators. From highenergy dance games to immersive racers, today's "game-tractions" combine the best of both worlds, keeping guests engaged longer and boosting revenue.

Player One Amusement Group's experts explain how mixing games, attractions, and hybrids can help you maximize your space, drive repeat visits, and create unforgettable experiences that keep customers coming back for more.

8 IBI June 2025

Running a successful arcade takes more than plugging in games and hoping for the best. In this video, the experts at Redemption Plus explain how the right mix of redemption Lisa Westerman left, with games, video games, and a Redemption Plus team member. self-merchandisers can drive more revenue and repeat visits. You'll also learn why a well-stocked, inviting prize center is critical for guest satisfaction—and how creating small winning moments can build loyalty and boost the overall value of your family entertainment center.

Bowling center operators across the industry are seeing firsthand how EDGE String pinspotters are changing their day-to-day operations. In this article, proprietors discuss how the technology has helped them streamline maintenance, improve guest satisfaction, and create a more efficient bowling experience. If you're curious about the impact of string machines beyond the hype, their insights offer a closer look at what making the switch is really like.

Insurance

PROTECT YOUR CENTER'S

FUTURE Don't Let a Claim Shut You Down

By Cameron Linder

“

You are the first person who has ever explained how that coverage really works."

That is something my team and I hear often. And frankly, we get it.

Business owners are not expected to be insurance experts. But as we all know, the devil is in the details, and a denied or penalized claim has closed the doors of far too many bowling centers. That is the exact opposite of what insurance is meant to do for you.

Right now, with the insurance market tightening yet again (for the fourth year running), the number of carriers willing to insure bowling centers is dwindling. Many of you are being forced to shop your coverage around, whether you like it or not. That is why it is critical to focus on one essential area often overlooked: business income coverage.

WHY BUSINESS INCOME COVERAGE MATTERS

Business income coverage pays for your ongoing operating expenses and lost net profit when you are shut down or partially shut down by a covered property loss. It is not a dollar-for-dollar revenue replacement. Put simply, this coverage keeps you out of bankruptcy if you cannot generate income.

COVID painfully reminded us that just because your center is closed does not mean your bills disappear. You still have debt payments, salaried employees, utilities, and insurance premiums to pay. A wellstructured business income policy can cover these costs and your missed profits until you are back up and running.

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF

2. Mind your deductibles. Many business income policies use a 72-hour deductible. Make sure the deductible does not wipe out a whole weekend's revenue.

3. Ask for a 50% coinsurance clause. This gives you a large margin of error when selecting your coverage limit.

4. Set your limit correctly. Aim for a business income limit of at least 60% of your gross annual revenues. Remember: even when closed, some operating expenses decline, but many remain.

5. Review your coverage annually. Your revenues change year to year. Make sure your coverage keeps pace.

THE RIGHT PARTNER MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE

Insurance should not be a "set it and forget it" purchase. It is a vital piece of your business's survival strategy. You do not buy insurance to brag about how cheap your policy was — you buy it to protect your livelihood when you need it most.

That is why working with an insurance partner who understands the bowling and family entertainment industry inside and out is essential.

You deserve a partner who does not just sell you a policy but takes the time to explain how your coverage actually works — before you need it.

Stay protected. Stay informed. And stay in business, no matter what comes your way.

•

Getting this coverage right is critical. Here are some key tips to help: 1. Avoid monthly limit policies. If your policy says it covers 1/6 or 1/3 of your annual amount per month, that could cap your payout during your busiest seasons.

BITS & PIECES GUATEMALA WELCOMES IMPLY®

Imply®, a leading bowling brand for over two decades with a global presence in more than 125 countries across five continents, has put its roots in Guatemala.

Plaza Vieja Bowling in Juliapa is introducing four high-tech Imply® bowling lanes. With innovative design and advanced technology, these interactive lanes transform venues into dynamic social and entertainment hubs. This is the first for Imply® in Guatemala.

10 IBI June 2025

Cameron Linder is CEO of Western Bowling Proprietors Insurance (WBPI)

WOMEN AT THE HEAD OF BROOKLYN BOWL

Brooklyn Bowl is known for bowling, jam bands, and good eats. It is also one of the few music venues run by women. Less than half of the 72,000 managers employed in the entertainment and recreation industries in the U.S. last year were women, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

However, at Brooklyn Bowl, women make up 75% of the full-time salaried staff in charge of the operation. General manager Anna Ayers leads the original Brooklyn-based Bowl, with her majority-female staff followed by Sara Barnett, general manager at Brooklyn Bowl Nashville; Alyssa Kitchen, general manager of The Capitol Theatre, where 60% of the managers are women; and the head of venue operations for the chain of Brooklyn Bowls and The Capitol Theatre is Rachel Baron.

AVS Companies provides best-in-class arcade equipment designed to enhance your center and keep your customers coming back for more!

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BOOTH #721

TRANSFORM YOUR CENTER INTO AN ENTERTAINMENT HUB

FEATURING EXCITING EQUIPMENT FROM:

Marketing

TURN SLOW TIMES

INTO BUSY ONES

By Darin Spindler

How Centers Are Driving New Business With Local Influencers

Y

ou are not alone if you feel the pinch from softening open play, arcade traffic, or holiday parties. Reports show that consumer spending is slowing down — especially in dining and family entertainment — and that was before tariffs and other economic concerns started putting even more pressure on wallets.

The good news? Bowling traditionally weathers tough times better than most businesses because it remains an affordable, high-value entertainment option. But you cannot just hope that guests will show up. Now is the time to lean in and get creative with your marketing.

One of the best and most affordable strategies is working with local influencers and content creators—real people with loyal social media followings in your community. They are already trusted voices in your market, and teaming up with them can bring new faces through your doors without breaking your budget.

REAL SUCCESS STORIES FROM CENTERS LIKE YOURS

If you wonder whether influencers can move the needle for a local center, look at what Pinheads in Fishers and Brownsburg, IN, recently accomplished. I spoke with Ryne Barr, the COO of Pinheads, who shared how they launched a promotion using a local influencer known as Keeping Up in Brownsburg. They had just completed a remodel that included a brand-new speakeasy and wanted to get the word out, but they did not want to spend a fortune doing it.

12 IBI June 2025

Instead of going the traditional advertising route, they partnered with this influencer, who created a stylish, engaging video that captured the vibe of their new space. Within the first 10 days, the influencer's post racked up over 50,000 views on Facebook and Instagram — and it is still gaining traction!

Even better? Their entire investment was just a $200 gift card.

If they had gone the traditional route with a produced video and paid advertising, it would have cost thousands more and likely brought far fewer results. Plus, when the promotion comes from a real guest, even if people know they are being compensated, it feels more authentic and relatable.

And because the post stays live on the influencer's feed, new people continue discovering Pinheads week after week.

Another great example comes from Rollhouse Entertainment, which operates seven locations across Ohio. Sue Gable, the proprietor and director of sales and marketing, has been tapping into influencer marketing for several years with significant success.

During the holidays, Rollhouse launched their festive Christmas Bomb Bar and partnered with a local influencer to help spread the word. The result? A lively, authentic video that quickly captured attention and drove excitement.

Seeing how well it worked, they partnered with a second influencer to promote their Christmas bars across multiple locations, resulting in even more reach.

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Marketing Together, these posts helped Rollhouse connect with over 150,000 people — all from a small investment that is a fraction of what traditional advertising would cost. Encouraged by their success, Gable and her team now use influencers regularly, including for their newest attraction, the Gel Blaster.

HOW TO FIND AND CONNECT WITH LOCAL INFLUENCERS

You might think, "That sounds great, but how do I find people like that in my area?" It is easier than you think. You can use simple AI tools like ChatGPT to build a list fast.

Here is a sample prompt you can use with AI: "I want to connect with local influencers promoting entertainment, food, or family outings in [Your City]. Could you list the top 20 influencers with links to their accounts?"

Once you have your list, start following a few of the influencers you are interested in. Take a little time to watch their content, check how engaged their followers are, and make sure their vibe matches your center's family-friendly atmosphere.

When you are ready, reach out with a friendly direct message like this: Hi [Name], This is [Your Name] from [Center Name]. We love your content and would love to collaborate on a project highlighting fun local entertainment. Would you be open to a quick conversation?

A simple, genuine message can lead to a partnership that produces real results!

TWO EASY WAYS TO WORK WITH INFLUENCERS

Depending on what works best for you, there are two simple ways to set up your influencer partnerships.

1. Pay-for-Performance Partnerships You are sitting on a goldmine if you already have an email list of loyal customers. Invite your guests to create social media content about your center and offer to pay them only when their posts lead to actual results—like party bookings, group reservations, or event sign-ups.

Instead of paying upfront with no guarantees, you only pay when you see actual business. This low-risk, high-reward approach builds real buzz and community loyalty.

2. Pay Upfront for Content Creation Sometimes, you want a quick injection of fresh content for your social media. In that case, you can offer a small upfront payment to families or customers willing to make short videos or posts about their experience at your center.

Be sure to ask for a sample video and links to their social profiles so you can make sure their style matches your brand.

Then, you will have a team of everyday people creating fun, authentic content you can use to keep your marketing lively and relatable.

WHY INFLUENCERS WORK

Influencer marketing delivers real advantages that traditional advertising cannot match. First is the trust factor — people are far more likely to listen to recommendations from authentic voices they already follow and believe in. It is also incredibly cost-effective; you can often achieve more impact for a fraction of the price you would spend on traditional ads.

Plus, the exposure does not end after a single post. Influencer content stays live on their feed, giving your center ongoing visibility week after week. And because each influencer brings their unique creative style, you end up with fresh, authentic content that shows off everything your center offers.

And remember — you don’t need a fancy speakeasy or a big new launch to make this work. Influencers can highlight the everyday fun and memorable moments your center already offers.

I started working with influencers for our Kids Bowl Free program a few years ago. We sent an email to our customer list inviting families to create videos about bowling. We kept it simple — they needed to send a sample clip and social media links. If they were a good fit, we paid them a small amount for each video they made.

Before long, we had 60 families creating videos across dozens of different centers, giving us a steady stream of authentic, engaging content to share all season long! You can see examples here: 1. Facebook.com/KidsBowlFree 2. Instagram.com/KidsBowlFree 3. TikTok.com/@kidsbowlfree 14 IBI June 2025

Now is the perfect time to use local voices to drive local action and keep your center busy all year. If you try it, I would love to hear your success story!

Email me at darin@darinspindler.com — you might even be featured in a future issue!

Let's fill those lanes!

•

Darin has been in the bowling business his entire life. He grew up in a small town of about 300 people where his parents built an 8-lane bowling alley in 1977. After moving to Green Bay, WI, he became a partner in a 60 lane and 36 lane center using his marketing skills to grow the business with fun promotions and new league formats. Darin is the founder of Bowling Marketing Solutions and has helped introduce more than 40 million children and families to bowling through his involvement with the Kids Bowl Free program.

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Food

P

8

FUN FOOD

IDEAS

THAT SCORE BIG AT PARTIES AND EVENTS

arties and events are a big part of your business, but keeping them fresh, fun, and profitable can be challenging. Simple upgrades to your food offerings can go a long way in elevating the guest experience and creating new revenue opportunities. With the right snacks and setups, you can turn any birthday, team outing, or group celebration into something guests will rave about—and want to come back for.

To move beyond the usual pizza-and-soda combo, consider these creative, low-stress food ideas that add excitement, boost customer satisfaction, and help your bottom line.

COLORFUL POPCORN

Popcorn is no longer just buttery and salty—you can match it to party themes using custom colors and sweet glazes. Think blue popcorn for a Bluey birthday party or red and gold for a local school team celebration. It is an easy, eye-catching upgrade that gives you something special to offer without adding much extra work for your team. Gold Medal's Glaze Pop® allows you to make sweet-flavored popcorn straight from the kettle. It is simply added with your corn and oil.

UNLIMITED POPCORN WITH VENDING FUN

Provide a self-serve popcorn machine to make your guests feel like VIPs. With just the push of a button, guests enjoy hot, fresh popcorn on demand. This adds a wow factor! Plus, it keeps your staff free to focus on other tasks while providing a premier snack experience.

A ReadyPop® or ReadyServe® One popcorn vending machine is an excellent addition to your party room or behind the lanes.

BUILD-YOUR-OWN TOPPING BARS

Guests will thoroughly enjoy a build-your-own food station. This setup works well with nachos, hot dogs, or soft pretzels. Toppings can include options like chili, cheese, jalapeños, bacon bits, or pickles—you name it! You can also try sweet dessert toppings like icing or chocolate sauce for soft pretzels. This allows you to cater to all kinds of tastes in a way that is streamlined for your staff.

PREPACKAGED PARTY PACKS

There is no better solution for simplicity and convenience than prepackaged fun foods. There are options for any event, from gourmet popcorn to cotton candy, Meister Bake pretzels, nachos, and cheese cups.

These can be used as party favors or as party-time snacks. It is a low-labor option that makes your staff's job easier.

16 IBI June 2025

COTTON CANDY STATION

You cannot help but attract attention with a cotton candy machine and cart.

(We recommend the QuickSpin® cotton candy machine.) Available in a rainbow of colors and flavors (including birthday cake), you can easily serve up an entertaining treat. It takes minimal training to learn how to spin cotton candy cones. Creating a crowd-pleasing experience that leaves a lasting impression is well worth it.

SIGNATURE PARTY DRINKS

Up your party game by including fun beverages. Mocktails or themed slush drinks appeal to all ages. You can even create your own custom flavors like "Strike Strawberry Blast" or "Banana Split." Use Sno-Kone® syrups for a variety of flavors. Then, add Flossugar as a garnish to create a festive look.

BUNDLE IT

Having bundles means easy distribution and less waiting time, which helps keep costs predictable for parents and hosts.

For example: 1. The All-Star: Popcorn, hot dog, and drink 2. Sweet Snackin' Strike: cotton candy, pretzel, and juice 3. Birthday Bash Box: colored popcorn, Sno-Kone®, small toy or prize

DIY POPCORN BARS

This is a fun and interactive option that allows guests to create their own snacks. Host a popcorn station where guests can mix in toppings like chocolate chips, pretzels, gummy candies, or marshmallows.

Creative and hands-on, it is a great addition to any event.

Party guests might forget the pizza, but they will remember the experience. Fun food options make events more memorable and provide easy upsell opportunities—a win-win for your business and customers.

•

Gold Medal Products offers a variety of easy and affordable solutions to help maximize your concession's potential. Whether you want to streamline operations or add unique, high-margin snacks to your menu, their solutions make it easy to enhance your guest experience and boost your bottom line.

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Success With

Kirk Manes

MODERN MACHINES,

CLASSIC VALUES How Andy B's Slashed Labor, Parts, and Power Costs

A

By Stephanie Davis

t Andy B's Bowl Social, they are blending old-school charm with smart, modern upgrades. With five Andy B' s-branded locations and two traditional centers under their umbrella, the team stays laser-focused on improving efficiency and enhancing the guest experience. So, when it came time to retire some old pinsetters, Kirk Manes, vice president of facilities, did not hesitate.

fix a problem confidently. "I came back from lunch one day and saw our 18-year-old party hostess untangling a string in the back. She had minimal training and nailed it," Manes says proudly. If a problem arises that they cannot immediately fix, Brunswick's Pronto app is on standby. "It is on your phone and shows a video of what to do," Manes explains. "It does not get much easier than that."

"We had one center with machines that were 68 years old," Manes laughs. "The other was using a 50-year-old setup. The time and costs involved in keeping them running was enormous."

PERFORMANCE, WITH A TAP

In the fall of 2023, Andy B's swapped out their old machines for Brunswick's Boost ST string pinsetters at Springfield, MO, and Oklahoma City locations. Why Boost? It came down to numbers and common sense. The old machines were draining resources with high parts costs, constant repairs, and staffing headaches. "We ran the numbers, and it just didn't make sense to keep maintaining them," Manes says.

SAVINGS WHERE IT MATTERS

Installing Boost dramatically cut expenses. "We upgraded our electrical system, and now we're saving around $1,000 a month in electricity alone at one 32-lane center," Manes explains. "That's a serious impact on our bottom line."

Labor savings quickly followed. "We used to need three to five people just to keep the old pinsetters going. Now we don't," he says. Some staff were reassigned across departments, and one team member took over janitorial duties, allowing them to cancel an expensive janitorial service. "[Our team member] is doing a better job than the company we were paying," Manes adds. Now, the team spends more time maintaining the arcade games than it does the pinsetters.

Beyond the simplicity and savings, Manes is impressed with how Boost accommodates casual and league play. "We can switch to performance mode with just a button," he says. "It’s handled the pace and demands of both league and open play—consistently exceeding our expectations."

Manes raves about how fast and easy the installation was. In Springfield, the doors were kept open while crews swapped out machines four lanes at a time, which took four days to complete.

Oklahoma City closed temporarily, but only because they were tackling a complete remodel.

WINNING OVER THE SKEPTICS

Of course, not everyone was on board at first. "Some league bowlers resisted," Manes admits. "But it is like when we moved from pin boys to machines—people complain until they see the benefits. We have one traveling league, and this year, we had the highest average of all the centers in Springfield."

"If you are on the fence about Boost, I'm an old-school mechanic, and I say it's a no-brainer," Manes says confidently. "You are going from thousands of parts to a 250-piece machine with almost no maintenance. Financially, it just makes sense."

LESS CLUTTER, MORE CONTROL

And Manes would know—he has been in bowling his whole life. "I started at Battlefield Lanes when I was a kid, cleaning ashtrays for $1.10 an hour," he recalls. Manes has been everything from pin chaser to head mechanic to vice president of facilities.

Manes is thrilled that his team has not had to replace any strings since installation. Of course, the pins still get beat up, but overall, maintenance has been a breeze. "Honestly, it's weird not getting called to the back all the time," Manes jokes.

He even met his wife at the center when she was a waitress. Two kids later, he is still here, ensuring Andy B's runs like a machine.

Boost also brought some much-needed order to the back-of-house. "Before, we had thousands of spare parts, just shelves and bins of stuff," Manes says.

"Now all we need is one toolbox, the size of a carry-on bag. That's it!"

QUICK FIXES, CONFIDENT TEAM

One unexpected benefit of Boost is empowering staff to jump in and 18 IBI June 2025

•

MAKE YOUR SPACE PROFITABLE, NO MATTER WHAT SIZE

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Feature

FRESH AIR MEANS FRESH REVENUE Turning Outdoor Spaces Into Guest Hotspots

By Corrie Pelc

B

owling and family entertainment centers (FECs) have long been known as indoor destinations, but why stop there?

Outdoor spaces, whether large or small, offer incredible opportunities to expand your guest experience, drive more traffic, and extend visitors' time (and money) spent with you.

From cozy patios to full-scale entertainment yards, operators across the country are proving that a little fresh air can lead to big business. I spoke with several centers that have successfully added outdoor options to find out what works — and how you can make it work for you.

A WINNING COMBINATION: ACTIVITIES, FOOD, AND FUN

At Lanes Bowl & Bistro in Mashpee, MA, outdoor entertainment has been a cornerstone since the center opened in 2013. Jeffrey Moore, president of Bobby Byrne Management Corp., knew the weather could slow down traditional bowling traffic, and he wasn't about to let Cape Cod's summer sun steal his business. "We're in a resort area, so in the nice weather, we are up against the beaches and waterfront restaurants and places that have outdoor seating, so it's essential to have outdoor seating," Moore explained.

The center is housed in a building that used to be a supermarket, so they repurposed the building's delivery zone and created a vibrant outdoor area complete with a bar, café, bocce court, and space for cornhole leagues. Their popular bocce-cornhole leagues run April through November, welcoming players without a fee - just a contribution

20 IBI June 2025

to the prize pool. Many bowlers seamlessly cross into the outdoor leagues, creating a symbiotic relationship that keeps guests engaged all year.

The Lanes Bowl does not stop at leagues. They set out oversized Jenga games and shuffleboard tables to give families and groups more reasons to stick around. Moore emphasizes that adding interactive elements keeps the atmosphere lively and invites repeat visits.

Pro Tip: Moore advises offering multiple activities and consistently delivering great food and drinks to keep guests returning, rain or shine. "Good food and casual fun are a combination that works every time," he adds.

MORE SPACE, MORE EVENTS, MORE MEMORIES Creating expansive patios at Bowlounge in Dallas and Fort Worth, TX, has opened up a new world of events and revenue streams. "Our Dallas patio can host up to 120 people," says Elba Guzman, event manager and operations lead. "We added seating, games like cornhole and Connect Four, TVs for sports fans, steel-tip dart boards, and even a stage for live music."

With half the patio shaded and outfitted with heaters and fire pits, Bowlounge ensures guests stay comfortable year-round. At night, twinkling string lights and illuminated cornhole boards set the scene for a vibrant social atmosphere.

KONGQUERING THE PINBALL WORLD

KING KONG MYTH OF TERROR ISLAND™ TM & © 2025 STERN PINBALL, INC.

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Feature Bowlounge's outdoor area is not just an add-on but a draw for diverse events — from bridal and baby showers to corporate outings and birthday parties.

"Outdoor spaces give guests options," Guzman notes. "Some people want fresh air, a more casual vibe, or just a different experience than what's inside. Having that flexibility makes our center a go-to choice for more occasions."

Even when health concerns led some guests to prefer outdoor gatherings, Bowlounge could meet their needs. Staff appreciate the open-air environment as much as guests do. "Some of our team members prefer working outside—it gives them a sense of freedom and fun," Guzman shares.

Pro Tip: Think about flexible seating, shaded areas, and lighting enhancements to keep your space attractive and functional day and night.

OUTDOOR APPEAL, YEAR-ROUND SUCCESS

In Oakland, CA, Plank has fully embraced outdoor entertainment with a beer garden that has become a community magnet.

"Oakland's climate makes it easy to offer outdoor experiences almost year-round," says Pat Shroll, senior vice president of operations for Trifecta Management Group. "Our 100-foot-long outdoor bar with 49 taps is a major attraction."

The beer garden also features shaded seating, fire pits, yard games like bocce, cornhole, Giant Jenga, ping pong, and large TVs for watching local teams. In the evenings, live DJs and bands create a high-energy environment that draws foot traffic from nearby Jack London Square.

"People walking by hear the music and see the activity — it's magnetic," Shroll says.

Plank's outdoor space is not just about lounging and playing; it is a critical part of their brand. Shroll emphasizes that careful attention to landscaping, lighting, and guest comfort (with Adirondack chairs, picnic tables, and canopies) ensures the outdoor area looks and feels inviting.

Pro Tip: First impressions matter! Create an inviting ambiance by investing in landscaping, stylish furniture, and lighting to create a space that is as photogenic as it is functional."Lighting and landscaping are very important," Schroll continues. Using LED fixtures and accent lighting to make the space appealing at night showcases it and brings people towards it. Landscaping like greenery, turf, even pavers really enhances the area."

THINKING ABOUT YOUR OWN OUTDOOR EXPANSION?

Whether you have a large unused space or a small patio area, you can transform it into something special. Here are key considerations: Start Small, Think Big: Even a few outdoor tables, string lights, and a couple of yard games can make a big difference. Begin with what you can manage and expand as you learn what your guests enjoy most.

Food and Beverage is Key: Ensure outdoor guests have access to high-quality food and drink service. A dedicated outdoor bar or even a mobile service cart can dramatically enhance the guest experience.

Create a Year-Round Space: Invest in heaters, fire pits, and shaded areas. You will maximize the days your outdoor space can be used, making it more profitable overall.

Lean Into Entertainment: Offer yard games, outdoor TVs, live music, DJs, or movie nights. Give people a reason to choose your center over a typical restaurant or bar.

Staff Comfort Matters: Encourage staff buy-in by making outdoor shifts fun and relaxed. Comfortable uniforms and a positive atmosphere can make a big difference.

Promote Your New Space: Use social media, email newsletters, and on-site signage to showcase your outdoor options. Create themed events to draw attention, like "Bocce and Brews Night" or "Sunday Funday with Live Music." Visual storytelling is powerful—make sure guests can easily picture themselves having fun there.

Adding an outdoor area isn't just about aesthetics — it's about strategically extending your brand. Fresh air, fun activities, good food, and an inviting atmosphere can set you apart from competitors and make your center the "must-visit" spot in your community.

•

Think beyond the lanes. Fresh opportunities are just outside your door.

Corrie Pelc is a journalist and freelance writer covering the business of recreation and entertainment.

22 IBI June 2025

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IBI June 2025 23

Shorts

EXPANSIONS, OPENINGS & NEW BEGINNINGS CALIFORNIA Long Beach city officials have given the go-ahead for former Orchard Supply Hardware near the Long Beach Airport and Lakewood Golf Course to be turned into a bowling and entertainment center. The vacant storefront will be reimagined into a 40,000-square-foot Lucky Strike Bowling. In addition to 34 bowling lanes, the location will have three arcade sections, a full bar, and a restaurant. Renovations will include remodeling the outside building and enclosing the 6,760-square-foot outdoor garden center.

FLORIDA Disney World's Swan & Dolphin Hotel has closed its Picabu restaurant, a buffeteria that offered an assortment of grab-andgo items and made-to-order foods. In its place will come an innovative game room. Branded Lagoon Games, Lanes, and Eats, the new site will have arcade games, a bowling lane, and food. Of course, as per Disney, it will be bigger and better.

MINNESOTA

MISSISSIPPI

Skyline Social & Games, a longtime, family-owned bowling business in Duluth, is preparing to open its second location in Apple Valley. The new FEC is set to span over 97,000 square feet across an indoor and outdoor facility with 20 bowling lanes, a dozen duckpin bowling lanes, five axe-throwing bays, a 60game arcade, nine sand volleyball courts, a dozen cornhole courts, and four bocce courts. Certainly, there will be a fit for everyone.

Vicksburg residents have been missing hitting the lanes after River City's lone bowling center closed in 2024. That has now been remedied with the opening of Fun Lanes Bowling Alley in Vicksburg Mall. The business mission is to offer a family-friendly, non-alcoholic environment.

NEW YORK Niagara Falls has welcomed Falls Brewery. This new brewery does more than ferment malt and hops. There are a wide range of things to do all under the roof, from sports simulators to cornhole to bowling. A brewery, yes, but the indoor games are the main draw. The Full Swing simulators also have baseball, hockey, football, soccer, and zombie dodgeball games. There are also two mini duckpin bowling lanes, NBA Hoops games, and dart boards. A large room in the back of the brewery is set up for three games of cornhole. Yes, there is beer. The first run of beers will include a porter and an East Coast IPA. If you don't like beer, there are non-alcoholic drinks and a full bar.

TEXAS Austin is in for a treat! Nostalgic entertainment venue Pins Mechanical has set roots. The expansive site houses 20 duckpin bowling lanes, 25-plus pinball machines, 29-plus classic arcade games, foosball, ping pong, and giant yard game versions of Lite Brite, Jenga, and Connect Four. In addition to all the games, three bars will serve craft cocktails, local and regional craft beers, low- and no-proof beverages, and THC seltzers and cocktails. The guest capacity is 1,399. The Ohio-based company currently has nine locations across the U.S.

24 IBI June 2025

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“The UBA has been a tremendous asset to our center—bringing in new guests, increasing off-peak revenue, and growing our league base. Their events run smoothly, boost food and beverage sales, and generate amazing word-of-mouth buzz.”

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“The UBA bowlers come ready to bowl, eat and drink. Even though they are extremely competitive and have large prize funds, their philosophy is bowl and party, which equals excellent food and bar sales during UBA events. I highly recommend building a strong relationship with the UBA.” Kathy Kubinak, General Manager, Laurel Lanes, Maple Shade, New Jersey

Customer Service

STRATEGIES FOR

EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT

By Daniel Poertner

Getting Employees Off Their Phones and Into Your Business

L

et's face it: smartphones are not the problem for our staff. They are a symptom of something more profound: disengagement. When employees are more interested in TikTok than talking to guests, it is less about policy, and more about purpose.

2. Empowerment and Decision-Making Trust your team to make good decisions. Empowering employees to handle common guest issues without always waiting for a manager will help them become confident and grow their skills.

So, how do you, as a leader, create a team plugged into your business goals and not just glued to their phones? How do you build a workplace where employees want to engage?

Would you rather have a frustrated guest waiting at the counter for a manager to talk to them or have a confident team member solve the issue right there? Empowerment boosts morale, guest satisfaction, and employee pride while giving your team a real sense of ownership over their work.

Let's break it down: the real issue is not the phone.

Employees need more than pay to do their jobs; research tells us they crave purpose, growth, and recognition. Engaged employees understand their work matters, feel part of something bigger and are empowered to make decisions.

Leadership is not just about setting rules. It is about setting the tone to create a team connected to your business and less distracted by screens.

FIVE STRATEGIES FOR REAL ENGAGEMENT 1. Training and Development Invest in your people from the very beginning. Use the interview and onboarding process to introduce your center's Values, Mission, and Vision (VMV). Reinforce them through continuous, engaging training — not just one-and-done sessions: role-play guest scenarios; tell real-world stories; make training hands-on and fun so your team feels ready and confident.

Pro Tip: Development is not just for new hires. Keep growing your team through regular learning opportunities that keep your VMV alive and relevant.

26 IBI June 2025

3. Team Building and Collaboration A connected team is a stronger team. Plan regular teambuilding activities like department scavenger hunts, friendly competitions, and inter-location meetups. Anything that builds trust and camaraderie will pay off in better teamwork on the floor. When team members like and trust each other, they are naturally more engaged at work.

4. Recognition and Rewards Recognition does not have to be expensive to be meaningful. Sometimes, a simple $5 gift card, a shoutout at the morning huddle, or a handwritten thank-you note can have a more significant impact than an elaborate award program.

Pro Tip: Skip the old-school "Employee of the Month."

Instead, recognize individuals or teams whenever they hit their goals and celebrate wins publicly and often.

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Customer Service Why does recognition matter so much? Because when an employee goes home and proudly tells their family, "I got recognized at work today," that emotional connection lasts, and it can even inspire friends and family members to want to work for you, too.

5. Feedback and Communication If you want employees who care, you have to listen. Create real opportunities for feedback, both formal and informal.

Open-door policies are great, but back them up with actions like anonymous surveys, quick one-on-one checkins, or even casual "What's Working / What's Challenging?" sessions.

You can even use creative ideas like:

28 IBI June 2025

1. Text contests: "Text in your best guest service idea by midnight!"

2. Private Facebook groups for internal communication.

3. Apps that make two-way conversations easy and fun.

Pro Tip: If you want less phone use in guest areas, start by modeling the right behavior. Be clear about your cellphone policy: if no phones are allowed in front of guests, that rule applies to everyone, including managers. If a manager sneaks a quick text or email in guest view, the team will think it is okay for them to do it, too. Your staff is always watching. Be intentional. Be consistent.

Boosting engagement is not just about cutting down distractions. It is about enhancing guest service, building a stronger, more loyal team, and transforming your center's culture. Ultimately, it's about giving your employees something better to focus on: a guest-centered mission, professional growth, and a shared sense of success.

•

Daniel Poertner is a seasoned sales, management, and operations professional with experience across staffing, engineering, amusement, and entertainment industries. Now a sales and training specialist at TrainerTainment, Daniel applies his proven expertise in revenue growth, operations management, and customer service to support the amusement industry.

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Clever Ways Centers Are Getting More From Their Investments This month, the IBI team highlights Ravalli Fun Center in Hamilton, MT

CREATIVITY ON THE BIG SCREEN

L

et's hear it for the operators who are not afraid to break the mold or think beyond the pins. Ravalli Fun Center in Hamilton, MT, is doing just that by turning its investment in a next-gen bowling entertainment platform into a new crowdpleaser.

What was designed as a bowling entertainment system, QubicaAMF's Neoverse is now doubling as the ultimate smalltown cinema, and the results are winning over guests who might never have come in otherwise.

"There is no longer a movie theater in our town, and people have to drive an hour away, so I wanted to provide this type of entertainment to our community," said Knut Hoelstad, the owner of Ravalli Fun Center. "Neoverse felt like the perfect way to do that."

FROM DOWNTIME TO A NEW REVENUE STREAM

The concept is simple but brilliant. The center shows familyfriendly films on Saturdays during a midday time slot before they open the doors for bowling. Monday evenings are reserved for adult favorites and date nights.

These dayparts are typically slow for the center, so the team saw an opportunity to bring more of the community through the doors. It proved ideal for generating new revenue, expanding their local presence, and building stronger connections with area residents. Looking ahead, they plan to open additional movie time slots during the usual summer slowdown and pair them with their Kids Bowl Free program.

"There are restrictions that come with certain types of licensing.

We can not charge admission or advertise it on public social media platforms, among other things," Hoelstad explained. "So, we created a private Facebook group and found alternative ways to share details and gather feedback from the community on what films they would like to see."

Admission is free, making it an easy draw for families and community members. Seating is capped at 60; guests can reserve 30 IBI June 2025

in advance or try their luck with walk-in availability. While there is no bowling during the show, food and beverages are still flowing strong, creating significant revenue even when the lanes go quiet.

"It's been absolutely amazing for us," Hoelstad said. "We put 60 people in the center during our slowest times and have increased our food and beverage tenfold. As you walk through the center, you can see there's food on every table."

"We also encourage kids to bring their pillows and blankets and lay on the approach or the floor," Hoelstad added. "It's become this cozy, family-friendly experience."

Hoelstad's Neoverse system is installed across all 12 lanes. It displays movies in full color and motion and delivers theaterlevel sound courtesy of speakers salvaged from a local shuttered movie theater. It has been so successful that Ravalli Fun Center has sacrificed an hour of open play to keep the programming going.

Movie nights are just the beginning. The Ravalli crew also uses Neoverse to pump up their atmosphere with eye-catching visuals, music, and shoutouts to local sponsors. It’s a great reminder that systems like this are flexible tools that can boost creativity, bring in extra revenue, and keep guests engaged from the moment they walk in.

LEADING BY EXAMPLE

Ravalli Fun Center is setting the bar for operators who want to squeeze every drop of value from their investments.

By pushing the boundaries of what a bowling or family entertainment center can be, they have managed to attract a wider audience, create engagement in their town, and show that thinking beyond the lane can pay off in spades.

Here is to the innovators who turn good ideas into great experiences—and keep their centers the most exciting places in town, no matter what is playing on the screen.

•

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Cover Story

ROLL. HIT. THROW.

REINVENT. Three Oregon Businesses Work Together To Make A New Kind Of League

T

By Ryan Vasko

he familiar sounds of league night ring out across a wet, chilly January evening in Roseburg, OR. The crash of balls striking pins is met with the unmistakable combo of cheering a strike and laughing at a terrible victory dance. The pour of a pitcher into a pint glass. The THUD of an axe into thick wood. The off-key but on-point chorus of a classic rock song. The satisfying pop of a perfectly flushed seven iron.

You know, just your average night bowling, axe throwing, and simulator golfing with your friends and neighbors.

of The Blade, along with Shea Wheeler, who first envisioned the league. "Once we saw the potential in doing something as a group, we brought in TenDown and came together to come up with the format." "It was a really quick and easy decision," admitted Mariah Smith, owner of TenDown. "And it's gone so well so far."

th Mariah Smi

A CROSS-INDUSTRY COLLABORATION

The Roll Hit Throw League, which recently wrapped its second season, is a clever collaborative venture between TenDown Bowling & Entertainment, The Blade Axe House, and Cattle Dogs Golf Center.

On paper, joining forces with what could be seen as competitors in a small town seems risky. Still, these business owners saw it as a creative opportunity to grow something new by working together, not apart.

BUILDING A LEAGUE FROM THE GROUND UP

"I had met with the owner of Cattle Dogs a few doors down and talked with a few food truck owners," said Bob Ferguson, co-owner 34 IBI June 2025

THREE VENUES, ONE ROVING LEAGUE

The 10-week league rotates between the businesses. Each week brings something new: 1. Bowling at TenDown—alternate-frame, no-tap, or Baker-style 2. Axe throwing at The Blade—10-toss games with a twist: throw order matters 3. Simulator golf at Cattle Dogs—9 holes, scramble style

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Cover Story Each venue gets three hosting weeks, with a special Week 10 Showcase where every league member brings a guest for a mini-event at all three businesses. This finale has doubled as a brilliant word-of-mouth marketing tool, bringing in new faces who often convert into paying customers.

SERIOUS FUN = SERIOUS GROWTH

Each team in the league has three people, and while the intention has been a loose get-together meant to grow something new in the area, it has made an immediate impact, and they have already seen the number of teams doubled from season one to season two.

"It is a 'fun' league," Ferguson said with a chuckle. "But we are all naturally competitive, so pretty soon, you start to see people thinking about how you can lean on who does what best and put together a pretty strong team."

UNEXPECTED WINS (AND AXE SALES)

The crosspollination between venues has created some delightful surprises: 1. League bowlers set up a birthday party at The Blade and started coming back for open throw sessions.

2. Axe throwers are buying their own bowling balls.

3. Personal axe sales are up for people who want something more customized than the house axes, and The Blade's coaches are helping them throw better.

4. All three businesses are seeing a solid uptick in repeat visits.

The league’s short-format design keeps the time commitment low, making it easy for busy people to say yes—and even easier to return. By removing the overwhelm, more participants are inclined to join without sacrificing their other priorities.

The goal is to expand the league so each business can host multiple teams weekly, rather than rotating between locations throughout the season. The intentionally shorter season makes participation manageable and appealing, especially in a town like Roseburg, where fishing, rafting, hiking, and other outdoor activities already fill up the calendar. It’s a way for locals to stay connected to their community without giving up what they love.

That flexibility, sense of experimentation, and sense of fun were big parts of Smith's approach, who also participates in the league with her husband. She learned a lot from bringing the Rum Bucket League to TenDown and saw a similar way of using an adaptive format and innovative point system that has kept people invested in Roll Hit Throw.

"We're getting so much more organic interest out of it," said Smith.

"Folks who weren't there before are now interested in league play, and we're seeing more new faces in the center because of the added exposure."

36 IBI June 2025

"We have all benefited above and beyond the league," said Ferguson. "People are engaged and genuinely enjoying these sports."

MARKETING WITH A PERSONAL TOUCH

Smith and Ferguson have flexed their marketing chops—using social media, a video board at TenDown, and radio ads to promote the league. They even kicked off a recap newsletter and a group chat to keep the vibe going between games.

Still, nothing beats local buzz. "Word of mouth has been our biggest driver," said Ferguson. "People are excited to talk about it. That is gold."

NEXT SEASON? EVEN BIGGER

The team is already dreaming up ways to expand. They have spoken with a local billiards hall about joining in. The Blade recently remodeled their outdoor space to include cabanas, firepits, cornhole, and live music to make their space even more enticing. And regular food truck appearances add flavor to the fun—complementing TenDown's Splitz bar and grill.

This cross-industry collaboration paints a picture of what can happen if you stretch your imagination and break outside established norms.

"We wanted to do something that builds up a true community, not just a night out," Wheeler said. "We're really proud to see where it's gone."

This is not just a league. It is a playbook for collaboration, creative thinking, and community engagement. It is a clear message for other bowling centers and FECs: your next growth move might be down the street, throwing axes and sipping beer with a former competitor.

•

Ryan Vasko is a writer based in Portland, OR, with 20 years of experience as a journalist, speechwriter, and marketer. Growing up in his family’s bowling center, Ryan spent significant time bowling with his dad and grandpa and working at the center. His dog is a good boy.

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Competitive Strategies

USE YOUR DATA AND

BOOST YOUR BUSINESS! Making Better Decisions With The Info You Already Have By Brandon Willey

A

s a bowling center or FEC operator, you are sitting on something incredibly valuable — your data.

From foot traffic patterns and guest demographics to sales numbers and behavior trends, you have a goldmine at your fingertips. The real magic? Figuring out how to use it to fine-tune operations, boost revenue, and give guests experiences they cannot wait to come back for.

WHY DATA-DRIVEN DECISIONS MATTER

Sure, data-driven management is not new. But today's tools are more powerful and easier to use than ever before. POS and scoring systems, cashless cards, marketing platforms, Bluetooth tracking, Wi-Fi tracking, and digital booking platforms all give you insights you can actually act on.

Imagine quickly answering questions like: 1. Which parts of your center bring in the most guests, and when?

2. What food and drinks are hot sellers at various times of the day?

40 IBI June 2025

3. How do different age groups spend their money across your attractions?

4. Which promotions or ads are making you money?

With answers to questions like these, you can make smarter staffing, marketing, and menu planning decisions.

You name it!

MAKE YOUR CENTER FLOW (AND YOUR STAFF) WORK SMARTER

Understanding how guests move through your center is essential for operational efficiency and guest experience design. Have you ever noticed how guests naturally bunch up around certain spots, like rental counters or food stands?

Bluetooth-enabled technologies and Wi-Fi tracking allow you to visualize and map foot traffic patterns in real-time or over a period of time so you can adjust.

Say your game floor gets packed between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. on weekends. Now you know when to put extra staff on duty.

Or, if you spot bottlenecks by concessions, you can tweak your setup or add better signage to improve guest flow.

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Competitive Strategies Insights into dwell time can also influence decisions around seating, lighting, attraction mix, promotional displays, etc.

Foot traffic data becomes a blueprint for optimizing layout, staffing, and capital investment priorities.

PLANNING WITH CONFIDENCE

MAXIMIZING REVENUE PER GUEST

1. Forecasting sales: Predict foot traffic for holiday weekends, seasonal slumps, or school breaks to ensure appropriate staffing and inventory levels.

POS and cashless card system data offer treasure troves of information about what guests buy and when. This analysis uncovers revenue gaps, high-margin opportunities, and underperforming elements within the venue.

Here are a few ways to put this data into action: 1. Refine menu offerings: Identify top sellers and streamline menus to focus on high-performing, highmargin items.

2. Test dynamic pricing: Analyze demand curves and experiment with price adjustments during peak versus off-peak days and hours.

3. Create upsell strategies: Track bundling behaviors and offer targeted upsells at the right moment, such as bundling certain attractions or upgrading a party package.

When you roll out a new game or a limited-time deal, you will be able to track exactly how it's performing compared to before—no guessing needed.

PERSONALIZING THE GUEST EXPERIENCE

One of the most powerful applications of data analytics lies in personalization. Guests frequently expect experiences tailored to their preferences, and the data collected through rewards platforms, online bookings, surveys, and digital interactions can make this a reality.

Imagine a family that frequently visits your center on Saturday afternoons and receives an email promotion for a discounted pizza and bowling combo that is valid that same day. Or a parent who just booked a birthday party for their child gets a follow-up email with a curated list of add-on experiences based on past arcade spend.

Personalization can extend to: 1. Marketing communications: Segment your email list based on behavior, age group, spending history, or favorite attractions.

2. Frequency rewards: To encourage return visits, offer customized rewards based on the frequency of visits or total spending.

3. Surprise and delight experiences: Equip staff with tools to recognize repeat customers or high-value guests and deliver a personalized welcome or enhanced experience.

Quick stat: According to McKinsey, companies that personalize customer experiences can increase their revenue by 5%–15% and improve marketing efficiency by 10%–30%. This could mean increased party bookings, repeat visits, and viral word-of-mouth referrals.

42 IBI June 2025

Want to stay ahead of the game? Enter predictive analytics.

By looking at your past data, you can start forecasting future trends, like:

2. Predicting peak group event seasons: Deploy early-bird promotions to fill the calendar.

3. Identifying at-risk customers: If visit frequency drops, re-engage with personalized promotions.

With predictive analytics, planning becomes proactive rather than reactive, enabling smoother operations and more strategic growth initiatives. Instead of reacting to slow days or missed opportunities, you will plan confidently.

START SMALL, THINK BIG

If this sounds overwhelming, do not stress. You do not have to become a data wizard overnight.

Here are a few tips to get started: 1. Centralize your data: Ensure all your systems (e.g., POS, booking platform, if different, and cashless card system) are integrated into one central dashboard or reporting platform.

2. Pick a few key metrics: Focus on easy-to-track numbers like revenue per guest, arcade spend per capita, or attraction usage.

3. Train your team: Equip managers with tools and training to interpret data and make informed decisions.

4. Act on insights: Based on your data, prioritize a few high-impact, low-effort changes and measure the results before scaling into higher-effort opportunities.

Over time, you can use more powerful tools like guest flow mapping or predictive modeling. Before you know it, you will use data to make smarter decisions faster and see the impact on your revenue and guest satisfaction.

In today's competitive entertainment industry, relying on guesswork does not cut it. Your data is more than numbers; it is a powerful tool that can guide your business. When you commit to using data strategically, even minor adjustments can drive remarkable results.

Data does not just tell you what happened—it informs you what to do next!

•

Brandon Willey, ICAE, is co-founder of the LBX Collective and Premier LBX Group, co-host of The LBX Daily Show, and founder and CEO of Hownd.

Brandon has an intense passion for the attractions industry and extensive knowledge of locationbased entertainment. Brandon is the former chair of IAAPA’s FEC Committee and now sits on the North American Manufacturers and Suppliers Committee. You can connect with him at LinkedIn.com/in/bwilley.

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Sc or in g Project Deta ils  Cal led 248-375-2751 and talked to Gle nn Har tsh orn-th e OW NER . U.S .company.

Gre at rating wit h the BBB .  Provided a quote during our converatio ns/ up wit h an invoice wit hin

foll owe d hou rs. No run aro und .

 Poi nt of Sale options: inventory contro l, rem ote orderin g option s, kio sks, kitc hen /ba r order screen s, third par ty cre dit card inte gration and mo re for a lot less tha n oth er system s.  Wil l work aro und our bowler’s schedu les and pro vide tra inin g.

People

D E D I CAT I ON, H AR D WO R K , AND A DEEP LOVE FOR THE SPORT

Two Executive Directors Honored With USBC Hall Of Fame Induction

By Stephanie Davis

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xecutive directors across the country work tirelessly behind the scenes to grow and strengthen bowling at the state level. Their dedication fuels everything from organizing tournaments and youth programs to advocating for bowling centers and building strong community ties.

Through countless hours of hard work, passion, and leadership, these individuals ensure the sport continues to thrive for future generations, supporting proprietors and centers nationwide.

This month, we celebrate two executive directors whose extraordinary contributions have earned them Hall of Fame honors: Bill Duff, inducted into the Illinois USBC Hall of Fame, and Keith Hamilton, selected for induction into the USBC National Hall of Fame.

BILL DUFF - ILLINOIS USBC HALL OF FAME

After shaping Illinois' bowling landscape for over 30 years, R. William "Bill" Duff, Jr., has received the recognition he deserves. Bill was officially inducted into the Illinois USBC Hall of Fame during the State Convention held at the Sheraton in Naperville this March.

events like Pins-Over-Average and Baker Blast.

Bill also co-founded the Mid America Bowl Fest, strengthened member communication through the ISBPA Newsletter, and helped establish the Kegel/ISBPA Midwest Collegiate Classic, now a prestigious USBC Tier 1 collegiate event attracting 140 teams. His leadership during the pandemic, particularly his work with lobbyists to reopen bowling centers, left a lasting mark on the industry.

KEITH HAMILTON - USBC HALL OF FAME (CLASS OF 2025) Keith Hamilton, a legendary figure in the bowling world, has been named to the USBC Hall of Fame's Class of 2025. Over a 40-year career, Hamilton's influence on the sport and its media landscape has been profound.

As president and co-owner of Luby Publishing Inc., Hamilton played a central role in shaping how bowling was covered and celebrated.

His leadership extended beyond publishing—he served as president and chairman of the International Bowling Museum and Hall of Fame. He held the presidency of the International Bowling Media Association (IBMA) for four years.

Bill's journey began in 1989 when he joined both the Illinois State Bowling Proprietors' Association (ISBPA) and the Chicagoland Bowling Proprietors Association (CBPA) under the mentorship of industry icon Pat Bosco. After Bosco's retirement, Duff stepped into the role of ISBPA's fourth executive director, a position he proudly held for 27 years until his retirement in July 2023.

Hamilton played a key role in preserving the sport's legacy by helping to establish the new museum and Hall of Fame at the International Bowling Campus. He also worked with the city of Reno to launch bowling's first satellite museum at the National Bowling Stadium. At the IBMA, he gave the Chuck Pezzano Scholarship a new life, creating a corporate partnership program that significantly increased its funding and secured its future.

Duff's impact includes launching a statewide marketing fund in 2000 to support ISBPA's In-School Bowling Program, introducing thousands of children across Illinois to the sport.

He expanded tournaments like Beat the Champs (which drew 20,000 annual entries), added a youth division, and grew

Today, Hamilton remains deeply committed to bowling. Keith serves as executive director of the Illinois State Bowling Proprietors Association, Treasurer of the Bowlers to Veterans Link (BVL), and publisher of the BBIA Consumer Catalog, continuing to champion the sport he loves.

44 IBI June 2025

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FREE QUOTES, RENTAL PROGRAMS & FINANCING OPTIONS VISIT BOOTH # 1627

USBC-Approved STRING PINSETTER No Modes. No Mess.

(No toggles. No tricks. No switching for “approved play.”)

24V System. Built for Safety & Simplicity.

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From the Proprietor’s Desk

PART II:

PLANNING THE EXIT How To Sell Your Center The Smart Way with Steve Cieslewicz

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here is rarely one dramatic moment that makes a proprietor hang up their shoes—it is more like a slow simmer. A string of rough weeks stretches into draining months, and suddenly, you are fantasizing about family dinners, faraway beaches, or dusting off that model train set you abandoned back in 2009.

Whatever your motivation, the smartest play is to plan ahead—way ahead. Otherwise, you might walk away with less than your center is worth. Last year, my good friend Pete Riopelle sold his center, Village Bowl, in Menomonee Falls, WI. Pete's been through the process, start to finish, and he was kind enough to share some lessons learned—the kind you only get after living it.

Spoiler alert: he will tell you preparation is everything, and he wishes he had started sooner.

This article is part two of a series on selling your center. Last month, we covered the foundational prep work—your financials, operations, documents, and buyer readiness​. Now, let's discuss the common mistakes that can kill a deal or cost you serious money and how to avoid them.

When selling your center, real-world experience beats theory every time. That is where Pete's insight comes in. Pete has a firsthand perspective on what matters and what mistakes can cost you big. Here is a breakdown of the lessons he learned the hard way and what he wishes every seller knew before starting the process.

46 IBI June 2025

PREPARATION

Start by taking a brutally honest look at your center through the eyes of a potential buyer. Assess everything from the curb appeal to the financial records. Walk through the property yourself and identify any issues before the appraiser does. Fix them now or be ready to drop your price. Unresolved problems can be deal breakers. And if you think hiding them will save you money, think again. You will likely pay for it after the sale.

What accounting software are you using? Your financial records must be accurate, current, and aligned with your income tax returns.

These records form the foundation of your sale.

Most buyers will not have the cash to purchase your center outright. Banks and/or the SBA (Small Business Administration) will likely get involved, and their appraisal process is thorough. Expect physical inspections, three years of profit and loss statements, reviewing your balance sheet and tax returns, and comparisons with similar center sales. The appraiser will split business and real estate values to determine worth. This appraisal process will cost the buyer thousands of dollars.

Know your market value. It is listed on your real estate documents and can be estimated at three to five times your EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization). Your past three years of profitability are critical, so make sure every dollar you earn is documented. Transparency now ensures maximum return later.

EASIER LEAGUE MANAGEMENT BETTER EXPERIENCE LaneTalk’s new league platform saves centers from tedious league administration while giving bowlers a more engaging experience of league play.

We provide:

Automated league management

Less time wasted doing manual reporting

Real-time scoring and live standings In-depth stats and a fuller experience

Contact us and we’ll help you say goodbye to manual management and delayed standings.

Bowl Expo Booth #429

Limited Rollout 2025

Scan to learn more or contact sales@lanetalk.com

From the Proprietor’s Desk Selling a smaller center is often more challenging because buyers will likely need to operate it themselves. Larger centers may attract investment groups. Most owners avoid putting up a "For Sale" sign to prevent panic among customers who might assume financial trouble or jump ship.

Instead, find buyers discreetly. Contact national brokers specializing in bowling centers, local real estate brokers, and your state bowling association—just be clear that your intent to sell should remain confidential. Then, decide who you will move ahead with based on their experience and what is a comfortable fit for you.

Finding the right buyer can take months or years. Stay patient and continue running your center like you are in it for the long haul. Your customers, employees, and potential buyers will notice if you stop marketing, maintaining, or showing up with energy. Most are not looking for a fixerupper. Cleaning, decluttering, and organizing every corner of your building offers a real return on investment.

DOCUMENTS NEEDED

Get your paperwork in order because buyers will ask for the following:

inspections—mechanicals, roof, environmental, pinsetters, and more. Any issues uncovered here will likely lower the final price. Be upfront.

This is also the time to loop in key employees so the sudden influx of inspectors does not blindside them. The buyer then seeks financing, often through a bank and the SBA. They might request seller financing to help with the down payment. This is common and can help seal the deal.

You will move to closing once due diligence is complete and financing is secured. The buyer's attorney drafts the final purchase agreement; your attorney reviews it. Once signed, the parties coordinate with the lender, and funds are typically held in escrow until closing is finalized.

AFTER CLOSING

After closing, there is still a lot to do. The buyer must present the necessary documents to the municipality to transfer the liquor license. You may be asked to stay on temporarily to assist with the transition; if not, you are still responsible for handling several important wrap-up tasks.

These include:

1. Employee list with start dates, positions, weekly hours, wages, and benefits

1. Closing all business accounts

2. Depreciation schedule

3. Collecting outstanding receivables and paying debts

3. Vendor list with contact info and payment methods (ACH, check, credit card)

4. Filing final payroll and sales tax

4. Inventory including food, beverage, operating supplies, tools, and pinsetter parts (with par levels) 5. An itemized list of major purchases or repairs not listed on the depreciation schedule (include dates) 6. All lease agreements/contracts (e.g., alarm companies, pro shop, suppliers, vending, ATM, POS, credit card processors) 7. Cost control spreadsheets for food and beverage (ensure pricing aligns with industry standards) 8. Customer database with email addresses

2. Notifying the state to dissolve the business

5. Submitting final income tax return 6. Canceling business licenses, retirement plans, and your EIN Selling a bowling center is a marathon, not a sprint. It is complex, expensive, and emotionally draining but also rewarding. Done right, it sets both parties up for success.

•

Congratulations on making it to the finish line! You did it!

Yours in bowling,

–Steve

9. Software and hardware list with updated usernames and passwords for all systems

THE SALE

Once you have a serious buyer, you need a real estate attorney to help with the transaction stages. Negotiate a purchase price including the land, building, contents, and business.

The buyer will submit a letter of intent (LOI). This is not binding but shows they are serious and outlines agreed-upon terms. Also, contact your municipality early to understand what is required to transfer the liquor license, which can be a sticking point if not addressed early.

The LOI sets a timeframe for due diligence when the buyer's team will review financials and legal documents and perform 48 IBI June 2025

Steve Cieslewicz owns Whitetail Lanes in Amherst Junction, WI, and regularly contributes to IBI magazine.

WASHINGTON D.C.

GAYLORD NATIONAL RESORT & CONVENTION CENTER

June 29 - July 3

201 Waterfront St, Oxon Hill, MD 20745

$159

$22 resort fee + 16.07% tax

VISIT THE HOTEL & TRAVEL PAGE ON

bowlexpo.com TO BOOK

REGISTER NOW BOWLEXPO.COM

What NOT To Miss At The Trade Show YOUR INDUSTRY PARTNERS ARE RARING TO GO!

It’s trade show time at Bowl Expo and these dedicated industry partners want to connect with you and help your business.

Check out their new products and services, show specials, & more!

TOP PICKS:

WHILE IN D.C.

From IBI’s favorite foodie & travel connoisseur, industry expert Carey Tosello of ebowl.biz.

B

owl Expo lands in the nation's capital this year, just in time to celebrate the 249th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence—which you can view in person at the National Archives Museum!

While the show will be packed with activity, Washington, D.C., is also ready to party during the week of July 4th. To help make your visit to our capital city memorable, I have rounded up some top dining spots and exciting events outside the Gaylord Hotel. Many attractions are free but make dining reservations in advance—this town fills up fast!

Mason's Famous Lobster Rolls masonslobster.com Looking for something casual and quick? This spot is known for its rave-worthy lobster rolls—do not expect much seating. (And yes, you should eat lobster while you are in Maryland.)

Bobby McKey's Dueling Piano Bar bobbymckeys.com If you're in the mood for fun, this lively piano bar has a pub-style menu, reasonably priced drinks, and a small cover charge—a great way to cap off the evening.

DINING AT THE GAYLORD

Looking for something truly exclusive?

Old Hickory – Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a menu featuring Wagyu beef and fresh Maryland seafood.

D.C. is home to more than 25 Michelin-starred restaurants. A quick Google search will open the doors to unforgettable dining experiences—bring your appetite (and credit card).

Potomac District Café – Perfect for grab-and-go meals if you are in a hurry or prefer to eat in your room.

WALKING DISTANCE FROM THE GAYLORD The Walrus Oyster & Ale House walrusoysterandale.com Seafood lovers will enjoy dishes like Cioppino and Shrimp Ducky.

Do not miss the weekday happy hour from 4–6 p.m. featuring $10 cocktails and appetizer specials.

Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse fogodechao.com Not in the mood for seafood? Watch gaucho chefs at the open-air churrasco grill while enjoying a wide selection of meats and sides.

50 IBI Bowl Expo Sneak Peek // June 2025

Travel Tip: Stay organized with a trip planning app like TripIt. It helps you keep track of everything in one place. It is free and easy to use— just search for it in your app store.

Stop by my booth #1637 and let me know how your dining and entertainment adventures went—I always love to swap travel notes!

•

Bon Appetit!

Carey Tosello is a former managing partner of two high volume bowling centers, and the founder of eBowl.biz, a leading provider of digital marketing services to the bowling industry.

He can be reached at 541-549-0999 or go to eBowl.biz.

Bowl Expo Sneak Peek Sneak Peek Alleytrak

Are you looking to improve the management and bookings of your bowling center? AlleyTrak is the ultimate lane reservation and management system! Simplify the management of open play, recurring events, leagues, parties, and packages while boosting revenue with convenient online reservations available 24/7.

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AlleyTrak's intuitive admin panel ensures effortless management for your staff, guaranteeing time-saving efficiency. AlleyTrak is a highly customizable booking engine that empowers you to offer event bookings according to YOUR business model. Enjoy the flexibility of setting pricing options per event type, customizable payment policies, and implementing dynamic pricing based on peak times and availability.

Join the many satisfied bowling centers benefiting from AlleyTrak's comprehensive features. Visit AlleyTrak.com today to discover how you can streamline operations and maximize profits easily!

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AVS Companies

AVS Companies, the premier nationwide distributor of amusement equipment, is excited to announce our participation in this year’s Bowl Expo. As a trusted leader in amusement and vending solutions, we are committed to helping bowling centers elevate their entertainment offerings and drive new revenue.

This year, we’re bringing a dynamic lineup of equipment designed to captivate guests of all ages. Attendees can experience the Pac-Man Pixel Bash Bistro from Bandai Namco, a nostalgic classic that combines arcade gaming with a cocktailstyle table design perfect for social spaces.

We’ll also feature Candy Monster from Sweet Robo – a vibrant, customizable robotic candy vendor that’s as fun to watch as it is profitable. Finally, we’re showcasing Missile Command: Recharged from Alan-1, a reimagined arcade classic that brings a modern twist and new gameplay to a beloved title.

Whether you're looking to refresh your game room or introduce new attractions to your venue, these titles are sure to boost guest engagement and revenue. Stop by Booth #721 to see these exciting games in action and connect with our expert team. AVS Companies is proud to be your partner in driving success in the bowling entertainment industry.

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Betson

Designed to appeal to players of all ages, The Wizard of Oz challenges arcade-goers to collect iconic redeemable and reusable character cards — featuring Dorothy, Toto, Tin Man, Scarecrow, Cowardly Lion, Glinda, the Wizard, and the Wicked Witch of the West! Spin the gigantic magical crystal ball to enter the land of Oz. Travel down the Yellow Brick Road to unlock special bonuses, and experience the stunning interactive adventures of Oz. Original Technicolor movie clips and state-ofthe-art CGI animations fill the vibrant, massively immersive 110” vertical screen display!

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Brunswick

Visit booth #1709 at Bowl Expo 2025 to see how Brunswick is redefining the bowling experience. Explore Boost ST® String Pinsetter, the industry's leading USBC-certified dualpurpose string machine, powered by future-ready innovation like the 360 Controller and Pronto® Mobile App. Drive smarter operations with Sync® Omnis, the intelligent platform for POS, scoring, marketing, and management—now with an upgraded Sync Service Kiosk featuring game card dispensing and video advertising. Be among the first to experience Sync® Pay, our new seamless payment solution, and LED Wall Solutions, delivering immersive entertainment and dynamic visual impact.

Strengthen customer connections with the OpenLane® mobile app, and create unforgettable experiences with Spark® Augmented Reality Bowling and Nitro® LED Lighting. Complete your center with Center Stage® Furniture—engineered for performance, comfort, and style. See what’s next at Bowl Expo 2025 — Booth #1709!

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BMI

Make a splash this summer with our absolutely adorable Disney Vinyl Duckies! We are thrilled to offer exclusive, officially licensed rubber duckies in these iconic characters. Only at BMI, these fan favorites are a unique “must-stock” merch pick that will drive game play and revenue amongst players of all ages. With assorted crane kits and assortment options, you’ll be sure to find the right bundle for your center. Cute and collectible, your customers will love finding their favorite characters, and will come back again and again to complete their collection.

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As a trusted redemption merchandise provider, BMI Merchandise delivers products that keep your prize room exciting and on-trend. Bring these one-of-akind Disney duckies into your inventory and watch customer satisfaction soar.

Let us help you make your redemption center the ultimate destination for Disney fans and collectors! Contact us today to place your order. Call 1-800-272-6375.

BBBI/Kids Bowl Free

There’s still time to have a solid summer season utilizing the Kids Bowl Free program—yes, even with the economic ups and downs.

Here’s more good news: if your center wasn’t part of KBF last year, you can jump in right now—for free! Thanks to Storm Bowling, your 2025 membership is completely covered.

And even better, the KBF team will activate your program right from the trade show floor. That means by the time you’re back home, families in your area will already be signed up to bowl at your center—guaranteed.

Already enrolled in KBF? Swing by the booth for a cold beverage and quick-win strategies to boost your results this season.

Visit us at Booth #1334 or call BBBI at 1-877-841-4590 to get started fast!

IBI Bowl Expo Sneak Peek // June 2025 51

Bowl Expo Sneak Peek Sneak Peek IBI Magazine

Decibel Studios

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Early AV planning saves time, money, and headaches. Whether you're building a new bowling center or upgrading an existing FEC, one of the most overlooked (and most important) steps is planning your audio/visual systems early in the process.

Bringing in your AV partner during the design phase can prevent costly rework, avoid infrastructure surprises, and ensure your technology is seamlessly integrated—not squeezed in after the fact. From LED walls and lighting to audio zones, security cameras, and data cabling, AV affects more of your guest experience than you might think.

That’s where Decibel Studios comes in. With over 30 years of experience in the entertainment industry, we specialize in custom AV design, engineering, installation, and ongoing support—all with a focus on creating immersive environments that stay on budget and on schedule.

Start smart. Plan early. Partner with a team that knows your business.

Visit us at Booth #1641 during Bowl Expo 2025 Learn more: www.decibel-studios.com

eBowl.biz

Reach thousands of prospects daily thru targeted digital ads including birthdays and retargeting of your website visitors.

Gain more great reviews and easily respond to them thru our app. Targeted Bowling Marketing will drive more traffic thru your doors!

Call 541-549-0999 or visit targetedbowlingmarketing.com

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Be the next big story in IBI Magazine.

Hey, bowling center friends! Heading to Bowl Expo this month? Be sure to stop by the IBI Magazine booth and say hi to Stephanie and Natalie!

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We’re on the lookout for standout stories from operators like you to feature in upcoming issues. Have a clever way to boost revenue? A smart strategy for staffing or cutting costs? Or a heartwarming way your center connects with the community? Our readers love real stories from people who live the lane life every day.

If you’ve got something worth sharing, we’ve got a fun prize waiting for you! Come see us at Booth #1234—we’d love to hear what makes your center special. Let’s celebrate your wins and inspire others in the industry!

ICE

Smash N Win is ICE’s latest instant redemption merchandiser.

Players use their skill to time their shot by attempting to knock a ball off the revolving playfield and into the hole. This game can be operated solely as a merchandiser or even a merchandiser with a redemption component. The redemption component comes into play when the player does not successfully get the ball in the hole, they can still be awarded tickets based on where the ball lands around the hole area.

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A standard game holds around 55 balls at a time.

The game can also be purchased with an additional hopper which will allow for another 60 balls in the cabinet.

Smash N Win is available in two different versions: a monster ball version and an NBA ball version.

Smash N Win is a great addition to any arcade due to its small footprint. It is a skill-based game that allows players to win merchandise in a nontraditional game play setting.

Intercard’s Award-winning iQ System

BOWL EXPO

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At the 2025 Bowl Expo Intercard will feature its latest iQ readers and kiosks that read QR codes, setting the new standard for unattended arcade payment technology. It’s a big step into the future for bowling operators.

Intercard received a Best New Product Award at IAAPA Expo 2024 for the innovative iQ system, which was recognized in the category of Technology Applied to Amusements- Product or Service used by Facilities. The judges praised the iQ system as a “QR code reader for games allowing easy way to play. Can sell online or at kiosk on-site. Easy way to get to the fun.”

Intercard is part of Smart Buy, BPAA’s endorsement program, and has been chosen by the Smart Buy committee as the best cashless technology system for BPAA members. Smart Buy provides BPAA Members with national account pricing and tremendous discounts they cannot get on their own.

Visit Intercard at Booth #929 at Bowl Expo July 1-2. More info at www. intercardinc.com/products

52 IBI Bowl Expo Sneak Peek // June 2025

Bowl Expo Sneak Peek Sneak Peek LaneTalk

LaneTalk is changing the game, bringing bowling into the digital era with real-time scoring, advanced stats, pro-level insights, and global contests, delivered straight to your phone. Trusted by the PBA, PWBA, and USBC, we power the next generation of connected bowlers and centers.

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QuibcaAMF

Get ready to immerse your guests in a vivid, multisensory on-lane experience with Neoverse—the unique and immersive bowling entertainment universe from QubicaAMF. Neoverse's next-level design delivers new dimensions of sight, sound, and sensations that promise to captivate and attract both new and existing guests.

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Now, we’re taking leagues to the next level!

We’re proud to introduce our next-generation league platform, featuring live league results and real-time standings for bowlers, along with automated, simplified league management for centers.

An interconnected ecosystem of technologies, the Neoverse includes a center-wide LED Video Wall—unlike any other on the market—that is fully integrated into our products, including the BES X Bowler Entertainment System, HyperBowling, Intelligent Lighting and promises to transform your lanes with captivating animations thrilling guests at every throw of the ball.

Rolling out in limited release during 2025, your center has the chance to be among the first to offer a truly modernized league experience.

Customization is key to Neoverse's appeal. Backed by a cloud-based entertainment library with routine content updates, Neoverse ensures an unforgettable experience on every visit.

Visit us at Booth #429 to see how LaneTalk can transform your leagues making them faster and easier to manage, and creating an even more exciting experience for bowlers! We look forward to seeing you!

Operators can access a rich library of exclusive content or upload their own videos, photos, and music to tailor the experience to their audience.

Laymon Hughes

Sock sales that stand for quality – and let your profits soar. Looking for a reliable, high-margin retail item that sells? Look no further than Laymon Hughes Hosiery. Proudly made in the USA, these socks are a smart addition to any pro shop, redemption center, or boutique retail space.

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With prices starting at just 42¢ and no minimum order, Laymon Hughes offers unbeatable flexibility—and they’ve been a trusted partner in the industry since 1975.

As a BPAA Smart Buy partner, members can take advantage of exclusive savings and reorder with ease. Want to get started? Stop by Booth #1522 at Bowl Expo!

New Center Consulting

Welcome to New Center Consulting, Inc.!

Whether you're dreaming of launching a new bowling or family entertainment center or looking to refresh your current venue with a modern twist, we've got you covered.

With complete modernization packages to choose from, we’re a one-stop shop for all your needs at budget-friendly prices. Explore our wide range of updates, from scoring systems and lane equipment to atmospheric enhancements like glow carpets, advanced lighting, sound systems, and more.

Transform your space today and create an unforgettable experience for your guests. Stop by and visit the NCC team at Booth #936.

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Neoverse transforms your center into a must-visit destination, buzzing with excitement and innovation. By captivating guests of all ages, Neoverse drives repeat visits and sparks word-of-mouth buzz, keeping your center thriving.

Are you ready to redefine your guest experience and elevate your center’s appeal? Learn more about Neoverse at www.qubicaamf.com/neoverse.

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Raw Thrills and Play Mechanix, in partnership with Paramount Pictures, are cleared for takeoff and prepared to buzz the tower with TOP GUN: MAVERICK – an adrenaline-fueled, gravity-defying flying experience based on the classic film franchise! I feel the need… the need to play Top Gun: Maverick!

As the newest recruit of the prestigious Top Gun program, players must race elite pilots, such as Rooster, Hangman and Phoenix, through the dangerous skies of six heart-pounding levels to be the first to destroy the menacing mission objectives. While navigating through perilous volcanoes, hurricanes and avalanches, players will shoot down waves of formidable enemy aircraft, vehicles and boats to earn valuable Destruction Boosts and increase their score. To become “the best of the best”, strategic power-ups like Afterburner, Heat-Seeking Missiles and Multi-Missiles will help players reach hypersonic speed and eliminate threatening bogies.

P1AG

P1AG is your one stop shop for creating the perfect arcade space with the perfect games for your business. Whether you are looking to build a new games room, modify an existing space or add an ancillary revenue stream, we have you covered. We offer the full spectrum of arcade games from leading manufacturers. P1AG provides expert consultation and best practices for planning a game room, selecting the most profitable game mix, and keeping it up to date. Our ongoing support includes game rotation, parts, service, merchandising, prize recommendations, and real time reporting. With no up front cost our Revenue Share program makes it easy to upgrade an arcade or add one to any business. You provide the space, we provide the games, together we share the profits.

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Visit our website P1-AG.com or email us at GetAnswers@P1-AG.com to see how our Total Solution will work for you.

Raw Thrills

Redemption Plus

Where do you turn when you're looking to build an incredible arcade and redemption program? From designing your redemption room to providing continuous merchandising and inventory support and an incredible prize mix, Redemption Plus is your go-to partner. Why? Because this is our sole focus! For 30 years, we've been helping FEC owners and operators develop winning prize programs. We can’t wait to meet you at Booth 831! Swing by to chat with our expert merchandising and sales team and discover the variety of services we offer to every Redemption Plus customer. And don’t forget to ask about our show special!

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IBI Bowl Expo Sneak Peek // June 2025 53

Bowl Expo Sneak Peek Sneak Peek Steltronic

In a bold move of innovation and practicality, Steltronic introduces a new way to save space and enhance the bowler’s experience—our compact ball storage rack with a 24” cocktail tabletop. Designed to hold up to 12 bowling balls, this smart unit helps keep the settee area clean and organized while doubling as a convenient surface for food, drinks, and more.

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But that’s not all—this tabletop can be customized with an optional Steltronic keypad or touchscreen, allowing bowlers to control two lanes from a single location. Whether it’s a competitive game or a casual night out, bowlers can stay focused on the fun without sacrificing comfort or control.

For more information, (800) 942-5939, info@steltronicscoring.com

Storm Products, Inc.

Are you ready for exclusive giveaways, sneak peeks, and unbeatable energy? Swing by the Storm booth at this year’s International Bowl Expo for your chance to win limited edition prizes you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you're a pro shop owner, or a bowling center proprietor, there's something for everyone — but only if you stop by! Meet the team, enter to win, and be part of the action that only Storm can deliver.

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While you're there, check out what’s new from Storm, Roto Grip, 900 Global, 3G, and Master. From cutting-edge bowling ball technology to the latest in footwear, bags, and accessories, our brands continue to set the standard for innovation and performance in the bowling world. Don’t miss your chance to see, feel, and experience the future of bowling — all in one place. See you at the booth!

Stern Pinball

King Kong has been a leading force in cultural media since his first appearance in 1932 and has influenced every medium of entertainment through films, television, books, art, comics, video games, and more. Stern Pinball takes players on an all-new journey through the fabled King Kong original story, creatively re-invented specifically for pinball. King Kong: Myth of Terror Island pinball games are available in Pro, Premium, and Limited Edition (LE) models.

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In Stern Pinball’s King Kong: Myth of Terror Island pinball games, players join Ann Darrow, Jack Driscoll, and Karl Denham on their journey to the mysterious Terror Island, which results in King Kong traveling back to New York City with disastrous (and fun) consequences.

Featuring innovative playfield design and iconic mechanisms from the creative team that brought players pinball mega hits such as JAWS, Godzilla, and Jurassic Park, players will experience King Kong in a whole new way.

Watch King Kong come to life while playing King Kong: Myth of Terror Island. A custom-sculpted King Kong will react to player action through a new animatronic animation system, swinging his arms and torso to assert his dominance. Summon him by hitting the custom sculpted Gong bash target, but beware, when pinballs are locked into a New York City train car, an agitated King Kong will destroy and flip it over to start King Kong multiball.

Encounter and escape danger as players enter “The Pit” on Terror Island.

Guarded by a custom-sculpted giant spider, this area magnetically grabs and attacks the ball, so be prepared. Travel through dangerous terrain by exploring the thrilling helix-shaped Biplane ramp featuring a custom sculpted biplane toy in addition to a secret river ball path and river log diverter.

Thrilling gameplay features and challenges await players on this four-flipper adventure. Unlock the secrets of the Lost Temple four bank drop targets with a hidden standup target and navigate into the Kong Cave scoop and vertical up kicker. Survive Kong’s punch-back kicking target, which launches balls back at the player. This pinball adventure highlights original animations, music, sounds, and speech, with original art brought to life by legendary pinball illustrators Kevin O’Connor, Greg Freres, and Jeremy Packer aka Zombie Yeti. Custom speech is provided by comedy legend Brian “Q” Quinn from Impractical Jokers fame, along with Rick Zieff, Peter Mackenzie, and Scott Mosenson.

54 IBI Bowl Expo Sneak Peek // June 2025

US Bowling

Join US Bowling at Booth #1627 at this year's Bowl Expo to experience the cutting-edge 24V String Pinsetter, recognized by the USBC for scoring precision equal to traditional freefall pinsetters. Elevate your venue with our PULSE Scoring Entertainment System, which offers a dynamic and engaging bowling experience for all ages. Don't miss our flexible rental programs designed to fit your business needs, along with our diverse range of mini-bowling options, perfect for adding variety and maximizing space. Whether you're looking to upgrade your equipment or enhance your entertainment offerings, US Bowling provides tailored solutions to boost your business. Visit us to see our latest innovations and learn how we can help you succeed.

1627

Western Bowling Proprietors Insurance

We can quote your insurance at the show! As a second generation, closely held family business, we gain our purpose and motivation from serving bowling proprietors. YOU are what make Monday our favorite day of the week and have helped us become the largest and longest standing insurance provider to bowling centers in the nation, insuring 550 bowling centers in 40+ states. In today's challenging insurance market where carriers are dropping like flies, we've remained strong without cutting corners on coverage. Bring your policy to the show and we can quote your center right at the booth! Visit www.WBPIprogram. com to learn more about WBPI's unrivaled commitment to the bowling industry!

1037

BOWL EXPO

Conqueror plus Square Restaurants POS Center-wide POS technology for bowling entertainment centers QubicaAMF and Square have introduced the next evolution in their partnership with the integration of Conqueror plus Square Restaurants POS. These combined technologies allow centers to work within one unified ecosystem for all operations— bowling, reservations, food and beverage, order management, kitchen operations, transactions, receipts, reports and more!

With the Square Restaurants POS, payment processing, table management, and inventory management are just the beginning. It gives you the power to connect the front and back of house and your back office while freeing you up to focus on the customer experience, delivering exceptional business and operational advantages for bowling and entertainment centers.

To learn more visit:

PREFERRED VENDOR LIST Apparel EXPERT HOSIERY

Customer Service

919.799.7707

www.funtimefootwear.com support@experthosiery.com

Expert Hosiery is a premiere supplier of high-quality socks to bowling centers and FECs. We pride ourselves in lifetime relationships. Socks variety includes white bowling socks, glow socks, theme socks, and custom logo socks. Our customers are our best testimonials! For orders, call, email or order online 24/7.

LAYMON HUGHES HOSIERY

Sharon Hughes

256.845.1034

www.laymonhugheshosiery.com laymonhughes@bellsouth.net

We supply socks to all types of family entertainment centers. Custom logos are available, and there is no minimum required.

Arcade Distributor AVS COMPANIES

Sales Department

847.439.9400

www.avscompanies.com sales@avscompanies.com

Providing best-in-class arcade and vending equipment with decades of unparalleled service. AVS Companies is the trusted choice for world-class amusement solutions.

BETSON ENTERPRISES

Sales Department

800.524.2343

www.betson.com/bowling Sales@betson.com

Betson Enterprises is the leading worldwide distributor of arcade equipment, parts, and service. A family-owned business offering revenue-generating solutions to its clients since 1934, Betson offers concept-to-completion solutions that maximize the profitability of our clients’ investments.

PLAYER ONE AMUSEMENT GROUP

Sales Department

416.251.2122

www.p1-ag.com GetAnswers@P1-AG.com

At Player One Amusement Group, we specialize in the sourcing and distribution of quality amusement and vending equipment for both commercial and retail customers. We provide end-to-end Total Solutions, from the design and planning of the space, to equipment selection, to best practices for merchandise and redemption counters. Each business is unique so P1AG customizes the appropriate services to meet your business needs.

Architecture Design DYNAMIC DESIGNS

Howard Ellman

248.644.7275

www.dynamicdesignsinc.net Info@dynamicdesignsinc.net

Interior & Exterior Design – New Concept Development – Planning & Consulting – Architecture – Theme Design – Re-imagining of Existing Facilities

Attractions CREATIVE WORKS

Russ Van Natta

317.834.4770

www.wearecreativeworks.com sales@wearecreativeworks.com

We create powerful emotions through immersive attractions like laser tag, mini golf, escape rooms, VR, and more. We help you get customers off the couch and into your venue with experiences they can’t get anywhere else.

FUNOVATION

Sales Department

303.996.0294

www.funovation.com sales@funovation.com

The experts in small footprint booster attractions! Since 2007, we have been committed to providing best-in-class fun through our attractions, our friendly customer service, and our quick return on investment.

56 IBI June 2025

PREFERRED VENDOR LIST Automatic Scoring NEW CENTER CONSULTING

Glenn Hartshorn

248.375.2751

www.newcenterconsulting.com ghartsho@yahoo.com

Touch Score – A truly revolutionary scoring upgrade for legacy systems.

STELTRONIC SCORING

Sales Department

800.942.5939

www.steltronicscoring.com Info@steltronicscoring.com

The world’s leading independent automatic scoring manufacturer since 1980.

Capital Equipment/Supplies BRUNSWICK BOWLING PRODUCTS

Michael Postema

231.343.2043

www.brunswickbowling.com Info@brunswickbowling.com

The leader in the bowling industry for over 130 years, Brunswick Bowling provides products, services, and industry expertise for new and existing bowling centers.

QUBICAAMF Sales Department 804.569.1000

www.qubicaamf.com info@qubicaamf.com

QubicaAMF is the world’s largest manufacturer of bowling and mini bowling products. With our innovative products, we will help our customers fully unleash that potential to extend the bowling population, to reach the younger generations, to increase their spending, frequency of visits—and your revenue.

Cashless Technology INTERCARD Sales Department 800.732.3770

www.intercardinc.com Sales@intercardinc.com

Intercard introduced cashless technology to the amusement industry and has been leading the way for 30+ years. Cashless systems from Intercard increase customer spending and satisfaction and boost revenues by up to 30% at entertainment centers worldwide.

Consulting and Management FIRST FRAME BOWLING

Mike Monroe

515.289.6125

www.firstframebowling.com mikebowl44@gmail.com

First Frame Bowling was born out of a need for banks looking for someone to manage centers that they were forced to take over but has evolved over time to be the full-service consulting firm that it is today.

TRIFECTA MANAGEMENT GROUP

Bruce Nussbaum

818.879.7100

www.trifecta-mg.com Inquiries@trifecta-mg.com

TMG helps operators and new business entrepreneurs bring their business to the next level. We have best-in-class professionals in operations, team development, sales and marketing, culinary, and technical, with expertise sharpened in our own operations. So, whatever your opportunity or challenge, we can help.

Entertainment ORANGE DOOR MUSIC

Chet Littlefield

978.590.8708

www.orangedoormusic.com chet@orangedoormusic.com

Orange Door provides an entertainment and marketing platform that centers can integrate with their existing TVs to display highly engaging music videos, pub games, and digital advertising.

IBI June 2025 57

PREFERRED VENDOR LIST Food/Beverage SLIGHTLY ELEVATED

Nick Zavakos

shop.knownaturals.com nick@knownaturals.com

843.475.5604

At Slightly Elevated, we are pioneering the future of bar culture with our premium hemp-infused drinks and gummies. Call us today to elevate your bar's offerings and unlock new revenue opportunities.

Insurance BOWLING CENTER INSURANCE

Bob Langley

864.527.1145

www.bowlingcenterinsurance.com robert.langley@bbrown.com

Helping You Is What We Do Best!

With 30 years of experience and over 300 centers nationwide, we’ve mastered the art of insuring entertainment venues from bowling centers and movie theaters to axe throwing, roller skating, go-karts, mini golf, and more. Comprehensive policies include property, general liability, liquor liability, wind/hail protection, and Workers’ Compensation. As part of the sixth-largest (Independent Insurance) Broker in the U.S., we offer competitive quotes tailored to your needs. Contact us today and let’s get your coverage started!

TILTON, THOMAS & MORGAN INSURANCE PROFESSIONALS

W. Tyler Compton

866.233.0266

www.ttminsurance.com tcompton@ttminsurance.com

Tilton, Thomas & Morgan Insurance Professionals has been insuring bowling and family entertainment centers for over 40 years. We support state and national organizations, including many state bowling associations and the BPAA. Through our years of experience and working with hundreds of proprietors across the country, we have developed a specialized program to ensure our clients have the correct coverages at a competitive price. We love insuring FUN, so call us today to see how we can help you!

WESTERN BOWLING PROPRIETORS INSURANCE

Cameron Linder

800.200.9998

www.wbpiprogram.com contact@wbpiprogram.com

WBPI is the largest bowling center insurance program in the nation with more than 35 years of experience and 400 insured centers. Exclusively endorsed by eight state bowling proprietors associations, our staff of insurance partners and professional bowlers provide staff training, insurance education, advocacy, and business advice. No one fights harder for you! Contact us today for a competitive insurance quote!

Lighting/Sound DECIBEL STUDIOS

Guy O’Hazza Ravi Shankar

310.693.5165 310.693.5165 ext. 1

www.decibel-studios.com guy@decibel-studios.com ravi@decibel-studios.com

Decibel Studios is an innovative global technology solutions company that designs, engineer, installs, and maintains custom controlled audio, video, lighting, show control and special effects systems, including augmented and virtual reality, 3D and 4D interactive theaters, for various entertainment, corporate, hospitality, retail and institutional groups.

DFX SOUND VISION

Mike Bovino

800.555.5280

www.dfxsoundvision.com info@dfxsoundvision.com

Your FEC specialists creating extraordinary experiences by providing dynamic audio, video, lighting and automation services, and integration that elevate communication and give your entertainment center that WOW factor.

58 IBI June 2025

PREFERRED VENDOR LIST Marketing BBBI/KIDS BOWL FREE

Andy Vasko

877.841.4590

www.kidsbowlfree.com Andy.Vasko@kidsbowlfree.com

At BBBI our goal is to create new customers and profits for bowling centers through our time tested Kids Bowl Free Summer Bowing Program and our new League Development System featuring Fun Bowling Leagues for all ages.

BOWLING LEADS

Zach Boulanger

844.468.4144

www.bowlingleads.com Zach@bowlingleads.com

We help bowling centers find new leads and turn them into raving repeat customers with our automated marketing system.

EBOWL.BIZ & BOWLRX.COM

Carey Tosello

541.549.0999

www.eBowl.biz Carey@eBowl.biz

Digital marketing for bowling: BowlRx websites, Facebook for bowling, and more.

THE KAPLOE GROUP

Fred Kaplowitz

516.359.4874

www.kaploegroup.com fredkaplowitz@gmail.com

The ultimate marketing and management company for your leisure, entertainment, or recreation business. Professional consulting and coaching available.

TRIFECTA MANAGEMENT GROUP

Bruce Nussbaum

818.879.7100

www.trifecta-mg.com Inquiries@trifecta-mg.com

TMG helps operators and new business entrepreneurs bring their business to the next level. We have best-in-class professionals in operations, team development, sales and marketing, culinary, and technical, with expertise sharpened in our own operations. So, whatever your opportunity or challenge, we can help.

Online Reservations ALLEYTRAK

Chris Behling

815.519.9843

www.alleytrak.com Chris@alleytrak.com

AlleyTrak is the complete lane reservation and management system designed specifically for bowling alleys. Manage your recurring events, leagues, parties, packages, along with many other features AlleyTrak has to offer. Save time by allowing guests to make reservations online 24/7.

Party Supplies and Novelty Products SIERRA PRODUCTS

Shelly Berry

800.900.7695

www.noveltybowlingstuff.com sales@noveltybowlingstuff.com

Sierra Products is your exclusive source for bowling parties, including party favors, supplies and novelties. Bowling birthday party supplies include bowling pin sipper bottles, mini bowling pin candy containers, bowling coin banks, bowling party cups, napkins, novelty souvenir cups and much more. Most of our items can be personalized with your company’s logo, phone, website, etc.

Promotional Products FEC PROMO TOOLS

Sales Department

239.389.9583

www.fecpromotools.com FECpromotools@gmail.com

Bringing marketing and guest experience tools to life! Choose from our selection of predesigned products or work with our team to customize a product line for your business.

IBI June 2025 59

PREFERRED VENDOR LIST Redemption Supplies

A&A GLOBAL INDUSTRIES

Sales Department

800.638.6000

www.aaglobal.com Sales@aaglobal.com

A&A Global is the premier distributor of novelty toys, candy, plush, and merchandiser kits for the bulk vending and amusement industries. We take pride in producing fabulous products that keep our customers – and their customers – coming back. With hundreds of new items added to our inventory every week, we have something for everyone.

BMI MERCHANDISE

Sales Department

800.272.6375

www.bmimerchandise.com Sales@bmimerchandise.com

BMI’s extensive product line features the trending themes, licenses and brands driving amusement play. We bring our customers a constantly changing mix of the finest electronics, novelties and toys – priced right.

SURESHOT REDEMPTION

Corporate Sales

888.887.8738

www.sureshot-redemption.com Sales@sureshot-redemption.com

Sureshot is your ultimate destination for retail merchandise and redemption prizes. We feature a comprehensive assortment across all major categories, coupled with exceptional customer service, competitive pricing, and premium quality products. Discover our ongoing additions of unique items year-round. We also offer custom logo programs, automatic merchandise replenishment, assortment planning, and planogramming services. Trust Sureshot Redemption to consistently meet your needs with precision and reliability, especially with our Free Freight program. Call or email us for details!

REDEMPTION PLUS

Michael Nowak

888.564.7587

www.redemptionplus.com Smile@redemptionplus.com

Redemption Plus is your go-to partner for all things redemption! From designing and merchandising exciting redemption centers to offering expertly crafted training resources and a broad selection of trend-worthy prizes, we’ve got you covered.

With a fresh approach and top-tier service, we simplify your operations so you can focus on wowing your customers with unforgettable experiences!

Training

TRAINERTAINMENT

Beth Standlee

817.886.4840

www.Trainertainment.net Beth@trainertainment.net

Fun Training – Serious Results.

Virtual Reality VRCAVE Alex Rossol

780.577.9655

www.vrcave.ca/ibi sales@vrcave.ca

vrCAVE produces premium VR escape room products suited for any bowling alley or FEC looking to add VR as an option to their establishment. We work with companies of all sizes providing services from headset installation to software and technical support.

60 IBI June 2025

Classifieds

WANT MORE BUSINESS? Drive More Traffic to Your Center with Targeted Bowling Marketing!

FACT: Most people in your market don’t know you exist or think about you often enough.

SOLUTION: Reach thousands daily with Targeted Bowling Marketing and stay top of mind. See and feel the difference with real results!

� Reach the 7 out of 10 adults using Facebook & Instagram with content designed to draw them in.

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� Collect more 4 & 5-star reviews, share them across your social media and website, and watch Google push you up the rankings!

www.TargetedBowlingMarketing.com or call 541.549.0999

200

$

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IBI is on the lookout for stories to share with our readers.

Email stephanie@bowlingindustry.com for potential story ideas and features. // Hotline: 855-415-7517 IBI June 2025 61

Classifieds

EDUCATION & TRAINING PRO SHOP TRAINING. Classes always forming. Jayhawk Bowling Supply (800) 255-6436 or jayhawkbowling.com.

215 N. Harris St, Tulia, Tx 79088 Call (806) 995-4018 Fax (806) 425-3771

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE NEW & USED Pro Shop Equipment. Jayhawk Bowling Supply.

(800) 255-6436 or jayhawkbowling.com.

SERVICES AVAILABLE Drill Bit Sharpening and Measure Ball Repair. J ayhawk Bowling Supply. ( 800) 255-6436 or jayhawkbowling.com

AMF and some BRUNSWICK PC board repair/exchange.

6 month warranty, fast turnaround. Call or write: WB8YJF Service 5586 Babbitt Road, New Albany, Ohio 43054 Toll Free: 888-902-BOWL (2695) Ph./Fax: (614) 855-3022 (Jon) E-mail: wb8yjf@sbcglobal.net

62 IBI June 2025

Call (239) 821-2534 or E-mail your ad to:

Natalie@bowlingindustry.com

Thhe’s Still Time To

MAKE THIS SUMMER STRONGER!

Join Kids Bowl Free

®

Connect With New Customers and Introduce Them To The Fun of Bowling!

Develop a valuable database of families, many new to the sport, for year-round marketing

Don’t Wait!

Families in your community are looking for a center to sign up with today!

1-877-841-4590 • Andy.Vasko@KidsBowlFree.com

SPECIAL OFFER: Not a 2024 participant?

Storm Bowling will cover your 2025 KBF membership!

VIVID. IMMERSIVE. AMAZING. More is coming…

BOWL EXPO 2025