LBX Collective

Sponsored by Intercard ! Sponsored by Alan-1! On this week's episode, we unpack a fast-moving month for leading up to IAAPA: from our hidden speakeasy on the show floor to Give Kids the World charity runs to Meow Wolf’s digital twin strategy, a Dungeons and Dragons immersive quest, and the trade-offs between giant single-format builds and mixed-use venues. We close with practical marketing ma...

In this second part, the IAAPA Expo Europe 2025 highlighted key trends shaping the entertainment industry, notably the rapid growth of immersive XR technologies like projection mapping and body tracking, with active entertainment platforms expanding across FECs, hotels, and venues. The show underscored the gamification of racing, socializing, and active play, alongside innovations in social darts,...

Leading investors should note that the European amusement sector’s latest trade events highlight significant shifts toward XR, VR, and immersive media, despite slowing consumer VR adoption. Innovations like Hero Zone’s Terminator VR, SEGA’s interactive ride systems, and VEX’s non-headset XR platforms reflect a move toward longer-term, revenue-driven immersive experiences. The sector is also witnes...

Sponsored by Intercard ! Sponsored by Alan-1! On this week's episode we discuss the idea that amusement and location-based entertainment must think like transmedia businesses, using brand collaborations, smart memberships, and flexible programming to drive visits and resilience. Then, as we continue to dive into trends from tariff shocks to XR’s next act, we break down what actually works on...

Sponsored by Intercard ! Sponsored by Alan-1! On this week's episode, Clint Novak joins for a Guest Gab to discuss how to turn a “slow” season into a growth window with early Black Friday planning, smarter inventory, and signature events that bring families back. Along the way, we track market shifts, new attractions, and arcade releases, and honor the legacy of Paul Williams. • IAAPA Expo pl...

Leading investors should note a dynamic shift in the international leisure entertainment sector, marked by increased M&A activity, notably GENDA’s expansion into Western markets and strategic partnerships in Japan, alongside a resurgence of touchscreen game terminals and new immersive formats like dual- and screen-deluxe cabinets. The industry faces geopolitical trade restrictions impacting As...

Leading investors should note a shifting landscape in XR, with Samsung advancing a high-priced MR headset targeting prosumers, alongside AR glasses leveraging Qualcomm and Google tech. Consumer VR faces slowdown, with delays and uncertain releases for Valve’s Deckard and Pimax’s headset, amid waning interest from AAA studios. Conversely, the location-based entertainment (LBE) sector is invigoratin...

Sponsored by Intercard ! Sponsored by Alan-1! On this week's episode we explore how “legacy” can be leverage, not a limit, and why nostalgia only works when it fuels the next wave of experiences. From Disney’s soft attendance to Netflix House pricing, we break down what’s hype, what’s working, and what operators should adjust now. • leveraging legacy IP without getting stuck in the past • nos...

Sponsored by Intercard ! Sponsored by Alan-1! On this week's episode BW lays out the FEC Education opportunities at IAAPA Expo in Orlando and joins John Keys from Centeredge as they discuss how memberships become revenue engines. Then we scan global openings, preview new arcade releases, and share a simple, repeatable promo system that keeps guests coming back. • rundown of IAAPA FEC educatio...

The September XR consumer landscape showcased a mixed outlook, with Apple notably absent of significant advancements in its Spatial Computing platform, disappointing supporters and causing a market dip post-event amid no new hardware announcements or substantial app support, signaling a slow start for their Vision Pro system. Meanwhile, Meta’s CONNECT 2025 highlighted ongoing struggles within the...

Sponsored by Intercard ! Sponsored by Alan-1! On this week's episode we challenge the LBE industry to build real education and standards while tracking major shifts—from Orlando softness and capital moves to AR sports, IP consolidation, and the line between tech promise and operational reality. Practical lessons emerge on spectatorship, repeatability, and mapping the right tech to the right u...

As autumn approaches, investors are eyeing the resurgence of Location-Based Entertainment (LBE), yet echoes of the 1990s boom and bust are unmistakable. Historically, large-scale urban entertainment centers and immersive attractions—ranging from early digital arcades to blockbuster branded venues—faced cyclical overinvestment and market saturation. Today, the sector is experiencing a similar patte...

Sponsored by Intercard ! Sponsored by Alan-1! On this week's episode, we cover the deadline for IAAPA's Brass Ring Award submissions for the top FEC and LBE of the year award, a court decision that rattles waivers for minors, and why brand clarity matters more than ever for LBEs and FECs. We also call out a launch-day website miss, spotlight a smart bakery + mini golf combo, and analyze...

Sponsored by Intercard ! Sponsored by Alan-1! Do the Beach introduces a brand new indoor beach-themed inflatable adventure park concept where giant sandcastle slides meet wipeout-style attractions in an immersive environment. Mike Whincup, COO of Do the Beach Franchising, takes us on a behind-the-scenes tour of their first location in North Port, Florida, showcasing how they've created an imm...

In our second part, this report highlights key trends in retailtainment, focusing on immersive and social experiences within retail spaces. Notable developments include Immersive Gamebox’s expansion across the GCC via a franchise deal, and large-scale venues like Texas’s upcoming 150,000 sq. ft. entertainment center, opening in 2026. Growth is driven by repurposing retail spaces for attractions li...

Sponsored by Intercard ! Sponsored by Alan-1! On this week's episode we debate the value of exhibiting at trade shows, highlighting how companies must carefully evaluate their exhibition strategy and clear objectives before investing in booth space. • Making smart decisions about trade show participation based on what you want to achieve • H1B visa changes causing confusion and concern for co...

In our first part, this report highlights the rapid growth of retailtainment, with major players like Frasers Group investing in leisure experiences such as VR, social gaming, and active entertainment to revitalize mall spaces and attract Gen Z customers. Abandoned department stores are being repurposed into entertainment hubs like indoor theme parks, arcade centers, and “Mixed Use Leisure Enterta...

Sponsored by Intercard ! Sponsored by Alan-1! On this week's episode we dive into the major news and developments from IAAPA Expo Europe 2025, explore LEGO's $270 million acquisition of all LEGOLAND Discovery Centers, and provide essential Q4 holiday promotion strategies. • LEGO acquires all 29 LEGOLAND Discovery Centers from Merlin Entertainment for $270 million, signaling a major shift...

In this second part, investors note London's evolving social entertainment scene, especially within Westfield malls like Stratford City. Key developments include innovative venues such as the sports-focused Bat and Ball, Gravity MAX’s multi-level theme park with VR and karting, and the new F1 BOX racing simulators targeting casual players. These offerings demonstrate a shift toward integrated...

Sponsored by Intercard ! The location-based entertainment industry evolves as venues adapt to changing consumer preferences and adopt new technologies. Karting experiences shift from high-speed racing to slower, more accessible gamified attractions without helmets. • Traditional karting transforms with digital elements and e-karts to create more social, accessible experiences • Dave & Buster&a...

In this first part, we look at London emerging as a hub for competitive socializing and social entertainment, targeting Millennials and Gen Z. Key developments include the integration of entertainment such as bowling, mini-golf, VR, and sports-themed venues within major malls like Westfield London. Notable concepts include All Star Lanes, PuttShack, and the partnership between Sandbox VR and TOCA...

Sponsored by Intercard ! On this week's LBX Show, BW and friends discuss how the location-based entertainment industry shows signs of recalibration with a slowdown in new openings while established brands pursue ambitious expansion plans and technology integrations reshape arcade experiences. We review industry developments including Sega's leadership change, F1 Arcade's Vegas debut...

This second report highlights the rapid growth of retro social entertainment venues globally, including new "BarCades" and arcades across North America, Europe, and Australia. Key trends include a surge in diverse operators, the challenge of sourcing vintage hardware, and legal issues surrounding IP and emulation. Hospitality venues are integrating retro gaming with food and beverage off...

Sponsored by Intercard !  On this week's Sound Off with Kevin Williams we examine the evolving landscape of location-based entertainment, from terminology debates to financial challenges and technological innovations. The episode explores how traditional experiences are being reimagined through gamification, VR evolution, and the resurgence of mall arcades. • Debate over industry terminology:...

 Sponsored by Intercard !  On this week's LBX Show, BW starts with News You Should Know and shares his experience at the International Adventure and Trampoline Park Association Annual Convention and IntelliPlay's reception of the Innovation Excellence Award. Then Kevin Williams dives into the latest openings and closings in the industry. • FastTrax opens Florida's largest indoor go-...