Growing Your Family Entertainment Center Through Strategic Corporate Bookings

Corporate bookings present a unique revenue stream for FECs. Typically, these involve hosting team-building exercises, company celebrations, or small-scale conferences. 

The corporate world is continuously on the lookout for new, engaging venues where they can also integrate fun into their serious agendas. Recognizing this potential requires FECs to tailor experiences that align with corporate objectives while providing a refreshing break from the conventional.

Identifying client needs and preferences

Corporate clients often look for venues that offer entertainment as well as facilities that support professional networking and team cohesion. They value privacy, exclusive services, and customizable options that reflect the company's brand and culture. Understanding these preferences is crucial for designing appealing corporate packages.

Tailoring packages for corporate events

Designing targeted entertainment packages that cater to corporate needs is key. This might include:

• Team-building activities: Games and challenges that foster teamwork and communication.
• Conferences and meetings: Providing equipped meeting rooms that cater to technology needs and comfort.
• Celebratory events: Unique themes and festive environments for company milestones or holiday parties.

Accommodations for corporate clients

To truly appeal to the corporate market, FECs must ensure their facilities can seamlessly integrate professional and entertainment elements. This includes:

• Meeting rooms: Well-equipped spaces conducive to discussions and presentations.
• Catering options: Varied menus that can be tailored to different dietary preferences and event styles. For operators who do not have advanced F&B offerings, this could be a valuable partnership opportunity with a local restaurant.
• Audio-visual equipment: High-quality AV support for presentations and entertainment.

Marketing to corporate clients

To successfully reach corporate clients and increase bookings for your Family Entertainment Center (FEC), it's crucial to develop and execute a well-thought-out marketing strategy. Here’s how you can tailor your approach to attract and engage this valuable clientele effectively:

Tailored marketing materials

• Customized proposals and brochures: Develop high-quality, professional brochures and proposals specifically designed to catch the eye of corporate decision-makers. These materials should clearly articulate your FEC's value proposition, highlighting features like unique team-building activities, cutting-edge facilities, and customizable event packages that cater specifically to corporate needs.
• Case studies and testimonials: Include success stories and testimonials from previous corporate events that showcase the effectiveness and enjoyment of your offerings. Detailed case studies can be particularly persuasive by demonstrating how your FEC meets various corporate objectives such as team cohesion, rewarding high-performing teams, or hosting annual meetings in a unique environment.

Digital marketing strategies

• SEO and content marketing: Optimize your website and blog posts with keywords such as "corporate event venues," "corporate retreat locations," and "team-building activities," which are likely to be used by corporate event planners. Providing valuable content that addresses corporate event planning challenges can position your FEC as a thought leader in the industry.
• Social media marketing: Utilize platforms like LinkedIn for B2B marketing. Share images and videos from past corporate events, post client testimonials, and promote special corporate packages. Engaging directly with businesses on social media can increase visibility and brand awareness among your corporate audience.
• Email marketing: Send targeted email campaigns to a list of corporate contacts. These emails can highlight special promotions, new activities, or updates to your facilities that are relevant to corporate event planners.

Traditional marketing channels

• Direct mail: Although digital channels are crucial, traditional methods like direct mail can still be very effective, especially for reaching local businesses. Sending well-designed flyers or postcards to local businesses can help capture the attention of decision-makers who might not be as active online.
• Networking and partnerships: Participate in local business events, trade shows, and chambers of commerce meetings to network with business owners and corporate event planners. Building relationships through these channels can lead to more referrals and bookings.
• Advertising: Consider placing ads in business magazines, local business newsletters, or industry-specific publications that cater to business leaders and corporate event planners.

Employee training for corporate events

Employees should be trained to handle the nuances of corporate events, focusing on:

• Professional customer service: Ensuring every interaction meets high corporate standards.
• Flexibility and detail orientation: Being able to adapt to last-minute changes and specific requests.

Building corporate partnerships

Developing long-term relationships with corporations can lead to repeat bookings and referrals. Consider:

• Exclusive offers: Creating loyalty programs or special rates for frequent clients.
• Partnership benefits: Offering benefits that extend beyond the event, like discounts on future bookings.

Leveraging technology for bookings

An efficient online booking system is essential for catering to the corporate sector, simplifying:

• Reservation process: Making it easy and fast for corporate clients to book events. Have a look at how ROLLER’s Progressive Checkout helps drive more bookings and increase spend per head.
• Payment solutions: Offering hassle-free payment options.

Implementing these strategies can help FEC operators unlock new revenue streams, enhance their market presence, and build lasting relationships with the corporate sector. 

To learn more about how ROLLER can help, get in touch.