How to Increase Revenue Per Guest Without Raising Prices

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In the competitive world of family entertainment centers and activity venues, increasing revenue without raising prices is a crucial strategy. Guests are price-sensitive, but that doesn’t mean you can’t boost your per-guest revenue in creative and value-driven ways. Here are some key strategies to maximize spending while keeping customers happy.

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1. Bundling and Packages

One of the most effective ways to increase revenue per guest is through bundling activities and services. By offering packages that include multiple activities, food, or beverages, venues can encourage guests to spend more while feeling like they’re getting a deal.

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How to Implement:

• Bundle core activities with food and drink (e.g., bowling + pizza + arcade credits).
• Offer slight discounts for bundled experiences to create perceived value.
• Design targeted packages for different audiences (e.g., birthdays, corporate outings, bachelor parties).

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2. Anchor Pricing Strategy

A smart pricing approach involves setting an anchor price for a core experience and building on it with upgrades.

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Example:

• A bowling alley keeps an affordable per-game rate but offers premium packages that include drinks, arcade credits, or reserved lanes.
• A golf simulation venue offers an hourly rate but also has a VIP section with premium seating and faster service.

This way, guests have a base price they find reasonable, but they’re incentivized to opt for add-ons.

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3. Upsells & Add-Ons

Encouraging guests to upgrade their experience with upsells is an easy way to boost spending without raising base prices.

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Popular Upsell Ideas:

• Special event extras (e.g., a signed bowling pin for birthdays, a bottle of champagne for adult parties).
• VIP lane/bay upgrades with plush seating and priority service.
• Custom experiences, like personalized digital signage for special events.

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4. Memberships & Loyalty Programs

Memberships introduce a new revenue stream and incentivize frequent visits.

Benefits of Memberships:

• Exclusive booking times or priority reservations.
• Discounts on food, beverages, and activities.
• Free play during off-peak hours.
• Lesson or instructor perks for skill-based activities.

These programs not only generate predictable revenue but also encourage guests to spend more during each visit.

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5. Food & Beverage Optimization

A well-executed food and beverage (F&B) program can turn a venue from a one-hour visit into a full evening out.

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Ways to Boost F&B Revenue:

• High-quality menu: A well-crafted menu encourages guests to stay longer.
• Premium beverage options: Signature cocktails, craft beers, and trendy canned drinks attract spending.
• Frictionless service: Mobile ordering, table-side service, or self-serve beer walls reduce wait times and increase orders.

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6. Merchandise Sales

Offering branded merchandise creates an additional revenue stream and increases brand visibility.

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Key Considerations for Merch:

• Focus on trendy, high-quality apparel rather than basic logo t-shirts.
• Offer limited-edition or exclusive designs.
• Sell online and include merch as an optional add-on during the booking process.

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7. Social & Corporate Events

Large group events, such as corporate outings and private parties, can significantly boost per-guest revenue.

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How to Leverage Events:

• Offer special event packages that cater to different groups.
• Allow guests to book high-end experiences like private DJs or VIP sections.
• List premium options on the booking page (even if they require a direct inquiry).

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8. Frictionless Payments & Ordering

Making it easier to spend money naturally increases revenue per guest.

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Tech Solutions to Reduce Friction:

• Mobile-friendly ordering with QR codes.
• Saved payment methods for faster checkout.
• Open tabs that allow for continuous ordering without multiple transactions.

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9. Expanding Venue Attractions

Offering multiple activities encourages guests to stay longer and spend more.

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Ideas for Expansion:

• Adding arcade games or VR experiences to a bowling alley.
• Introducing themed nights or rotating events.
• Cross-promoting activities to encourage exploration of the entire venue.

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Final Thoughts

By focusing on bundling, upsells, memberships, optimized F&B, and frictionless transactions, venues can significantly increase revenue per guest without raising prices. These strategies not only improve the guest experience but also create long-term customer loyalty and higher spending per visit.

Try testing a few of these strategies and see how they impact your revenue – and most importantly, guest satisfaction!

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