Article contributed by Danielle Fantasia, Sales & Marketing, for Motion Technology Inc.
Family Entertainment Centers (FECs) are designed to provide all-day fun for guests of all ages, offering everything from arcade games and bowling to laser tag, mini-golf, and more.
However, a crucial element of a successful FEC that is sometimes overlooked is the foodservice program. Today’s customers expect more than just games—they want great food, too.
This has led many FECs to embrace the concept of “fun and food” as a powerful combination that enhances the overall guest experience and boosts revenue.
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Why Foodservice is Essential for FECs
Foodservice not only satisfies guests but also keeps them engaged longer. Hungry families are more likely to cut their visit short, but a well-thought-out food menu encourages them to stay, dine, and continue enjoying activities.
Offering a variety of food options allows FECs to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences, making it easier for everyone to find something they love.
The right foodservice program can transform an FEC into a full-day destination, where families come not just to play but to eat together.
The convenience of dining on-site encourages guests to extend their stay, increasing the likelihood of repeat visits.
Additionally, a strong food and beverage program can create a secondary revenue stream, complementing entertainment profits.
Enter AutoFry: The Perfect Frying Solution for FECs
When setting up a foodservice program, FECs face several challenges. Space limitations, the high costs of ventilation systems, and the need for quick, efficient food preparation are all key considerations.
This is where ventless kitchen equipment, like the AutoFry, can be a game-changer.
AutoFry is a fully contained, ventless deep-fryer that provides a safe, simple, and cost-effective solution for FEC kitchens.
It eliminates the need for expensive hood installations, making it ideal for smaller kitchen spaces or locations that lack adequate ventilation.
Here’s how FECs can benefit from the AutoFry:
1. Ventless Technology
- No costly hood systems: Ventless operation eliminates the need for a traditional hood and ventilation system, saving thousands in installation costs.
- Flexibility in kitchen setup: Without the need for vents, AutoFry can be placed almost anywhere, offering flexibility for FECs with limited kitchen space.
2. Safety and Ease of Use
- Fully enclosed system: AutoFry’s design ensures safe frying, as all operations are contained within the machine, reducing the risk of burns or accidents.
- Multiple oil filtration: AutoFry offers different oil filtration options, including the Miroil System, OFS, and AutoFilter, providing users with versatile choices for efficient oil maintenance and extending oil life while ensuring optimal frying quality.
3. Increased Efficiency
- High-volume output: Certain AutoFry models can handle large quantities of food, making them ideal for FECs with heavy traffic, especially during peak times like weekends and holidays.
- Faster food prep: With AutoFry’s built in heat/time compensation known as SimpliFry, FECs can prepare food more efficiently, ensuring guests spend less time waiting and more time enjoying the fun.
4. Versatility in Menu Offerings
- Wide range of fried foods: From traditional favorites like French fries and chicken tenders to specialty items like fried pickles and mini corn dogs, AutoFry allows FECs to offer a diverse menu.
- Customization options: AutoFry enables operators to experiment with seasonal or themed fried items, adding variety to the menu and keeping guests intrigued.
Sample Menu Ideas for FECs Using AutoFry
A well-crafted menu can elevate the foodservice experience in FECs. Here are some menu examples that FECs can easily prepare using AutoFry:
Classic Crowd-Pleasers:
- French fries
- Mozzarella sticks
- Chicken tenders
Fun Finger Foods:
- Mini corn dogs
- Fried pickles
- Loaded tater tots
Sweet Treats:
- Funnel cake fries
- Churros
- Donut holes
These items not only appeal to kids but also satisfy adult guests. By offering a variety of both savory and sweet options, FECs can ensure there’s something for everyone.
The Financial Benefits of Fun & Food
A strong foodservice program doesn’t just enhance the guest experience—it also contributes significantly to an FEC’s bottom line. Here’s how:
1. Higher Per Capita Spending
Offering food and beverages increases the average spend per customer. Families are more likely to stay longer and spend more when they can have a meal or snacks without leaving the venue.
2. Increased Dwell Time
Providing food options keeps guests on-site longer, leading to more opportunities for additional spending on games, attractions, and other activities.
3. Repeat Business
Great food gives customers another reason to come back. If guests enjoy both the entertainment and the dining experience, they’re more likely to return with friends or family in tow.
4. Group Events and Parties
FECs often host birthday parties, corporate events, or group outings, where food is a major component. A reliable fryer like AutoFry allows for quick preparation of food orders, making it easier to accommodate parties and increase catering revenue.
The Future of Foodservice in FECs
As the FEC industry continues to evolve, integrating fun and food will remain a key strategy for success. Offering quality food helps to differentiate an FEC from its competitors, transforming it from a simple play destination into a complete family outing experience.
By leveraging innovative kitchen equipment like AutoFry, FECs can create a dynamic foodservice program that is safe, efficient, and capable of handling high-volume demand.
To learn more about how ventless kitchen equipment can benefit your business, visit mtiproducts website today!
