Bowling Centers Industry Overview

Excerpt from Bowling Centers Report

Companies in this industry operate bowling facilities. Major US companies include AMF Bowling Worldwide, Bowl America, and Brunswick Corporation.

Competitive Landscape

Demographics, personal income, and leisure time drive demand. The profitability of individual companies depends on the ability to drive traffic and provide a superior customer experience. Large companies have advantages in purchasing, finance, and marketing. Small companies can compete effectively by serving a local market or offering a unique experience. The industry is fragmented: the top 50 companies generate about 30 percent of sales.

Products, Operations & Technology

Bowling centers generate over 60 percent of revenue from lane usage fees and over 30 percent from food and beverage sales. The remainder of revenue includes equipment rental, bowling merchandise, and receipts from video games, slot machines, and billiard tables. Bowling centers may have on-site snack bars, restaurants, or cocktail lounges. Larger centers may provide child-care, as well as meeting and party rooms. Most centers offer organized competitive bowling through leagues as well as recreational bowling or open play.