If history repeats itself, we can anticipate a modern-day version of the Roaring 20s, a period in Western society that saw rapid industrial and economic growth fueled by mass consumerism. In the aftermath of the Spanish flu or the 1918 influenza pandemic, America detached itself from the past and re-invented film, radio, automobiles, and other technologies that have shaped the modern era.
As we reflect on 2021, the Amusement industry has experienced a resurgence in demand, supply chain challenges, and staffing shortages. Despite the external forces affecting location-based venues and route operators, more and more businesses are adapting to the rapidly changing consumer behavior.
What consumers want and value creates trends that open new opportunities for our industry. To help you capitalize on the shifts in consumer behavior, here are five industry trends to take your business to the next level in 2022:
1. Entertaining short-form videos
Did you know TikTok was the most downloaded non-game app in the first six months of 2021? The popular social media app also gained over 3 billion downloads in less than four years. As a frame of reference, it took Facebook and Instagram almost ten years to get that many downloads.
After spending the past two years glued to mobile devices tuning into negative and grim news stories, consumers want something more positive and uplifting short-form videos. Leaning into this trend can give you more exposure in 2022.
Take this example of this TikTok video featuring the Omni Arena that has 15.2 million views to date.
@lacubana85virtual paranormal activity 😂😂😂😂
For ideas on what to post and which platforms to use, check out this blog post.
2. Improving operational efficiencies
Imagine if you could make your process of running collections or hosting birthday parties two or three times more efficient? With the persistent labor shortage, many business leaders are looking to streamline processes to improve efficiency.
If you don’t have a budget for an industry consultant, you can make improvements to processes with the following steps:
Step 1: Identify an inefficiency you’d like to improve. The first step is to clarify what you’re optimizing for: Is it controlling cash? or improving the customer experience?
Step 2: Map your current process. In this step, the goal is to understand the steps in the process, how they’re triggered, how long it takes, and how many people are involved.
Step 3: Identify waste. Once you have a deeper understanding of the current state, you can now identify where time and resources are wasted.
Step 4: Redesign your system to be as efficient as possible. This step involves testing and documenting your new processes in the form of a Standard Operating Procedure so everyone is on the same page.
For a more in-depth look into improving and measuring efficiency for your business, here’s a beginner’s guide.
3. Providing self-service options
Today’s consumers are accustomed to getting what they want—whenever they want. The good news is that providing self-service options reduces time and labor for your staff while improving the customer experience.
Whether it’s providing self-service payment kiosks to buy and reload game cards or offering the option for customers to check availability and book birthday parties online, we’re seeing increased adoption for many self-service technologies.
Remember, consumer values drive trends, so if you’re still on the fence about investing in the future, now’s the time to upgrade your technology. Our team of experts is happy to help guide you through the process.
4. Getting all your card systems under one umbrella.
This year, we’ve seen a trend of route operators and multi-location venues bringing their card system under one umbrella. Some of the reasons cited include having one phone number to call for technical support, access to spare parts, and ease of rotating games.
The best part is managing and controlling your arcades with one user-friendly Operator’s Dashboard. If you’ve noticed old card systems for sale on Facebook Groups, you know why.
Make 2022 the best year yet.
Our industry has been complacent until the chaos of the pandemic. It’s encouraging to see how owners and route operators adapt and leverage consumer trends to their advantage.
By leveraging consumer trends and continuing to innovate, we can let go of the old ways of doing things and usher in a new era of prosperity. If the Roaring 20s are any indication of what’s possible this decade, we’re in for a wild ride.
Amusement Connect is a game card system that combines the latest technology with business intelligence to optimize the player experience.
We are powered by people and our collective mission to bring innovation, value, and the best possible experience to our customers and their players.
