Tourist Attractions & Parks Magazine, along with Foundations Entertainment University, in mid-March announced the winners of the first annual Excellence in Family Entertainment Center Awards. Ten FECs, and a children’s museum for its website, were recognized for setting new standards for excellence in the industry. Award winners were announced during the 2012 Amusement Expo in ...
Read more...A new form of public-space entertainment that builds on the foundation started by video amusement some 40 years ago has taken hold. As we all take a close look at our respective entertainment facilities business, we awaken to the reality that we work in a sector undergoing transition. While some benefit from the “stay-cation” bounce ...
Read more...With the economy now in “recovery” mode, party rental companies are seeing steady interest in food service equipment rentals to accompany such staples as inflatables, tables, chairs and tents. Popcorn machines and “standard” food preparation equipment, like coffee makers and chafing dishes, continue to rank at the top of consumers’ rental lists. However, for at ...
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Zoos are going the extra distance to make their facilities more welcoming to adults. Mixers and after-hours special events are attracting adults to zoos and helping to build memberships, and during the day many zoos are now offering beer, wine and other alcoholic beverages in their restaurants and cafes. The Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago, ...
Read more...Follow children into restaurants, schools, family entertainment centers and while they wait for parents and you’ll see what’s hot in vending machines for 2012. And while you’re at it, don’t stop in the vestibule if you want to build new revenue. As the folks did at Vendomatic, Inc., based in Frederick, Md., the bulk vending ...
Read more...Snacks remain an important part of the American diet, and operators of snack and beverage vending machines continue to capitalize on this trend. Here is a peek at the businesses of, and success practices employed by, four different operators in various parts of the United States. Serving Orlando, Orange, Seminole and surrounding counties, Gator Vending, ...
Read more...In a country where food is plentiful and cheap, we tend to snack on the go and during our time spent being entertained. “Since everyone is always rushing around in a hurry these days, there’s often no time for three square meals. So grazing, or snacking on mini-meals, becomes important,” said Marilyn Stephenson, a registered ...
Read more...Whatever you do, just don’t call it junk food. For many fun centers around the country that specialize in go-kart racing and mini golf, fast food is among the most popular options for kids of all ages. That doesn’t mean you’ll find McDonald’s or other giant chains at these venues. Instead, hard-working kitchens are producing ...
Read more...Invest in a colorful menu. Showcase the foods with full-color photos. And if the venue or restaurant has a theme, match the menu graphics and style with that theme. For example, a tropical restaurant might feature a brightly colored menu, while a retro or even diner-themed eatery might play off of 1950s Americana. Include a ...
Read more...THE GRILL. Today, grills can be used to cook up everything from hot sandwiches to fresh meats to top salads and other specialties. Many cooks at fun centers are finding creative ways to introduce healthier food alternatives using grills, especially for picky kids. THE PIZZA OVEN. Whether the pizza is frozen or made from scratch, ...
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