Wow lots of questions and great responses. Please feel free to poke flaws and ask questions. I am very much interested to hear your opinions. I sincerely appreciate your time.
What is your target clientele
Basic idea is a Family Entertainment Center. This encompasses bowling, arcade, food/bar service, and other interactive entertainment.
Bowling is a large part of this business. It is also the most frequently requested activity in the local area. While an FEC has multiple facets bowling is a fundamental pillar to our success.
Is it a competitive center for bowlers?
Yes. We anticipate having leagues. Part of the reason I am querying here to gain insight from competitive bowlers. We want competitive bowlers to come practice, to compete, and to have fun. I enjoy an occasional pickup game but nothing on the level that you folks bowl.
How are the lanes?
24 lanes, all new construction. Most likely built with Brunswick Pro-Anvilane surfaces.
Do you plan to support bowlers on all levels with fun and competitive leagues?
Most definitely. We will have open bowl, pick-up/adhoc organized games, organized amateur leagues & events. From toddlers to seniors everyone is welcome to play.
Will you have a pro shop with a knowledgeable staff and products more than just a bunch of cute plastic balls?
Yes, there will still be cute plastic balls maybe even with rainbows and unicorns just for fun.
Yes, we will have an actual pro shop geared to helping bowlers improve their game as well as making the latest in bowling equipment available.
Will you host tournaments?
Yes, of course.
Are you committed to the bowling world, or is this just a revenue stream in your business?
First, we are a business people. Revenue drives business. It is the life blood of the business. No one goes into business to lose money.
While revenue is important, our guests are the primary reason we exist. Our business is based on making the best experience for families and bowlers that we can.
Whether that is a family of 10 visiting us for a family night of fun and games or a formal USBC/PBA sanctioned tournament - we will strive to render the best possible experience.
Bowling is fun and I do enjoy a game despite having a nearly perfect average at placing the balls into the gutters. Only nearly perfect because occasionally I do get lucky and nick a pin or two. The area we are targeting has no bowling centers locally.
The commitment to the bowling world comes from this aspect. If people enjoy the experience they will want to experience it more. They will want to become better and eventually compete. This is what grows the sport. It was a lesson I learned from the competitive BBQ circuit.
How many lanes do you have?
24 lanes initially.
Do you have the proper equipment to maintain your lanes?
Yes we will. Plus we will have the proper training from the manufacturer and operators will all be qualified prior to operating the equipment. We will be incorporating programs we used during our military service (Navy PQS) to qualify employees so we know that maintenance (Navy PMS) is performed correctly on time.
Are the lanes competitive by their construction?
Our current design is Brunswick bowling lanes with Brunswick Pro-Anvilane surfaces and Brunswick equipment for the oiling.
Do you have coaches available for bowlers looking to improve?
Our intention to to have coaches available. There is additional potential for the local schools to host bowling teams as well. In this area "select" teams are also very popular across all the sports.
Are you entrenched in the bowling community more than just supplying lanes?
Not yet.
How will you recognize bowlers and their accomplishments?
Off hand = Wall of fame, social media.
How would you like to be recognized for your accomplishments?
Q) What is your opinion on Brunswick lanes and equipment?