Bowling Alley Business Plan

Thinking about opening a bowling alley but feeling unsure where to start? This sample business plan will walk you through the essential sections, helping you to shape your ideas and draft an investor-ready plan. Plus, you’ll find a free template to ease your process.

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Table of Contents

Bowling is one of those rare things that never go out of style. Kids love it. Adults love it. Leagues pack the lanes.

So, if you’re thinking about starting a bowling alley, it can be a great business idea. But before you begin, you need a clear plan to manage your costs, attract customers, and grow your business.

Not sure how to create one?

This bowling alley business plan example will help you get started in the right direction.

Bowling Alley Business Plan Sample

Let’s take a look at the Strikora Lanes business plan sample to better understand the important details and key sections you should include in your own plan.

This example will guide you through each part of a strong, well-structured plan.

1. Executive Summary

Business Overview

Strikora Lanes is a next-generation bowling and entertainment center located at 7431 Riverbend Boulevard, Kansas City, Missouri.

Structured as an LLC, Strikora is designed to serve a diverse range of guests, from families and young adults to league bowlers and corporate clients. The concept fills a growing gap in the local market for tech-forward, all-ages entertainment venues.

Vision Statement

To become Kansas City’s top destination for bowling and modern social entertainment by combining innovation, hospitality, and community engagement.

Target Market

Strikora Lanes will attract a broad and well-defined audience, including:

  • Families and kids seeking weekend fun and celebrations
  • Students and young adults looking for group outings and nightlife
  • Corporate teams booking events and team-building activities
  • League and competitive bowlers needing quality lanes
  • Schools and community groups hosting fundraisers and trips

Competitive Advantage

Strikora Lanes differentiates itself from traditional bowling alleys by offering:

  • Immersive lighting and digital scoring systems across 20 themed lanes
  • VR gaming pods and a modern arcade integrated with loyalty rewards
  • A full-service restaurant and craft cocktail bar with gourmet offerings
  • Dedicated event spaces for rentals, tournaments, and celebrations
  • A loyalty-driven membership model and engaging community partnerships

Sales and Marketing Strategy

Strikora will launch with a high-impact, multi-channel marketing plan focused on brand awareness and long-term retention. Key strategies include:

  • Grand opening with promotions and influencer support
  • Targeted digital ads (SEO, social media, Google Maps)
  • Weekly themed events and in-house promotions
  • Loyalty app with rewards and member perks
  • Local partnerships and school fundraisers

Financial Outlook

Below is a snapshot of Strikora’s first three years of projected financial performance:

Financial Snapshot Year 1 Year 2 Year 3
Total Revenue $880,000 $1,240,000 $1,520,000
Gross Profit $645,000 $930,000 $1,150,000
Net Profit $21,000 $205,800 $329,000
Cash Balance (Year-End) $146,000 $408,800 $792,800
Break-even Revenue Target $723,000 Achieved Sustained
Profitability Status Building Profitable Strong

Also, Strikora Lanes is seeking $350,000 in startup funding to support business operations, including venue construction, acquisition of bowling and gaming equipment (VR and arcade), interior design, signage, and brand development.

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2. Business Description

Company Overview

Strikora Lanes is a next-generation bowling and entertainment venue located at 7431 Riverbend Boulevard, Kansas City, Missouri. Designed to transform the traditional bowling experience, Strikora blends cutting-edge technology, immersive entertainment, and full-service hospitality into one unified space.

The business operates as a Limited Liability Company (LLC) and aims to become the city’s go-to destination for families, young adults, and corporate groups.

Business Concept

Strikora Lanes is more than just a bowling alley—it’s a multi-experience social hub offering:

  • Classic, cosmic, and VIP bowling lanes with digital scoring and themed lighting
  • A high-energy arcade and VR gaming zone
  • A gourmet restaurant and full-service bar featuring elevated casual fare and craft beverages
  • Private event spaces for birthday parties, team-building sessions, and group rentals
  • Weekly bowling leagues for children, adults, and seniors
  • On-site pro shop and merchandise store

This model is built to serve a broad demographic while maximizing revenue across multiple service lines.

Mission Statement

To bring people together through unforgettable bowling, food, and fun in an exciting and inclusive environment.

Business Goals

Our goals at Strikora Lanes focus on steady growth, strong community ties, and long-term success. We aim to:

  • Successfully launch operations within 6 months of funding approval
  • Reach break-even by the end of Year 1
  • Achieve profitability by Year 2
  • Build a recurring customer base through leagues, events, and loyalty programs
  • Expand community presence through local sponsorships and school partnerships

Legal Compliance

The business will comply with all federal, state, and local regulations relevant to its operations in the food, entertainment, and hospitality sectors.

Key areas of compliance include:

  • Business licenses and permits
  • Health and safety regulations
  • Alcohol licensing
  • Employee regulations
  • Fire, building, and accessibility codes
  • Insurance coverage

Strikora Lanes will also engage legal counsel and a licensed business advisor to ensure all operating practices remain compliant as the business scales.

3. Market Analysis

Industry Overview

The U.S. bowling and entertainment industry is shifting from traditional alleys to all-in-one centers that blend bowling, dining, and digital experiences. Consumer demand for experiential entertainment has rebounded strongly, especially in growing markets like Kansas City.

The bowling industry generates over $3.7 billion annually, with growth driven by venues offering added value such as arcade gaming, VR, upscale food, and group event services. Customers now prefer venues offering multiple activities, giving Strikora Lanes a strong advantage in the entertainment market.

Target Market

Strikora Lanes serves a diverse customer base segmented by lifestyle and occasion. The business is designed to attract:

  • Families with children seeking weekend fun and party experiences
  • Students and young professionals looking for social and nightlife options
  • Corporate groups hosting team-building and private events
  • League and competitive bowlers needing quality lanes and regular play
  • Schools and organizations planning field trips and fundraisers

Market Needs and Trends

Today’s bowling market is driven by key trends such as:

  • Demand for experiential entertainment: Guests expect more than just bowling; they want immersive lighting, modern scoring, music, and digital integration.
  • Food & beverage integration: Venues with high-quality menus and bar service experience longer stays and higher per-visit spending.
  • Group and event bookings: Families, schools, and businesses are actively seeking well-equipped venues for private events.
  • Digital and mobile engagement: Loyalty apps, mobile booking, and gamified interactions are increasingly important to Gen Z and millennial audiences.

Competitor Analysis

Strikora Lanes enters a competitive market with several established players, including:

Competitor Strengths Gaps / Opportunities for Strikora
Main Event (Kansas City) Large space, variety of games, brand recognition Can feel generic, less focused on bowling
AMF Pro Bowl Lanes League-focused, strong legacy customer base Outdated facilities, limited F&B options
Summit Lanes (Lee’s Summit) Local reputation, affordable Limited tech, not centrally located
Pinstripes (Overland Park) Upscale bowling + dining Higher price point, adult-centric experience
Ward Parkway Lanes Budget-friendly, community-based Lacks premium features and modern upgrades

SWOT Analysis

bowling alley business plan swot analysis

4. Products and Services

Strikora Lanes delivers a dynamic mix of entertainment, recreation, and dining experiences personalized for a broad customer base.

Bowling Experiences

Strikora offers 20 high-tech bowling lanes with digital scoring and immersive lighting, divided into three core formats:

  • Classic lanes: For traditional gameplay with a social feel.
  • Cosmic lanes: Featuring black lights, neon visuals, and music for an upbeat, party-like vibe.
  • VIP lanes: Premium seating and exclusive lanes for private groups and corporate clients.

Private Event Rentals

The facility includes customizable event spaces perfect for:

  • Birthday parties
  • Office gatherings and team-building events
  • Tournaments and fundraising events
  • School field trips and youth group outings

All event packages are supported by catering options and dedicated host services.

Arcade & Virtual Reality Gaming Zone

The entertainment zone includes:

  • Popular arcade games for kids and adults
  • VR pods offering immersive, multi-sensory gaming experiences
  • Digital ticket redemption system and player loyalty integration

Strikora Kitchen & Bar

The in-house restaurant and bar provide:

  • A gourmet menu featuring burgers, flatbreads, wings, and shareable plates
  • A full-service bar with craft cocktails, local beers, and non-alcoholic options
  • Themed food nights and drink specials to complement entertainment events

On-Site Pro Shop

Strikora’s Pro Shop provides:

  • Professional-grade bowling balls, shoes, and gear
  • Custom ball drilling and repairs
  • League bowler packages and equipment consultations

Merchandise Store

An in-venue retail section offers branded merchandise such as:

  • Strikora Lane's apparel (T-shirts, hats, hoodies)
  • Collectibles, gift items, and seasonal promotions
  • Gift cards for use on games, food, and events

Unique Selling Points (USPs)

What makes Strikora Lanes stand out:

  • An immersive tech-driven bowling experience not found in traditional alleys
  • All-in-one entertainment, dining, and event space
  • VIP lane rentals and private room packages
  • Community-first approach through leagues, fundraisers, and local partnerships

5. Organization and Management

Legal Structure

Strikora Lanes is registered as a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in the state of Missouri. This structure provides flexibility in operations while offering personal liability protection for the business owner.

Ownership

Strikora Lanes is wholly owned by Derek Malvin, who also serves as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

Management Team

The business is led by a diverse and experienced leadership group with defined roles:

Derek Malvin – Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Oversees business strategy, investor relations, and brand development. Brings leadership in hospitality and business growth.

Lara Vance – Chief Operating Officer (COO) / General Manager
Manages daily operations, hiring, staff training, scheduling, and customer service. Brings experience in multi-unit entertainment and food service management.

Marcus Reid – Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
Responsible for budgeting, cash flow monitoring, financial forecasting, and vendor management. Oversees compliance and reporting.

Nina Castillo – Administrative Manager / Receptionist
Manages front-desk operations, bookings, guest services, and administrative coordination.

Organizational Structure

Below is an organizational hierarchy of Strikora Lanes:

bowling alley business plan organization chart

6. Operational Plan

Location and Facility

Strikora Lanes will operate from a leased 20,000–25,000 sq. ft. venue at 7431 Riverbend Boulevard, Kansas City, Missouri. The facility will be outfitted with:

  • 20 state-of-the-art bowling lanes (classic, cosmic, and VIP)
  • An arcade and VR gaming zone
  • Private party rooms
  • A full-service restaurant and bar
  • On-site pro shop and merchandise store

The layout is designed for smooth traffic flow, clear zoning, and operational efficiency between departments.

Operating Hours

Extended hours may apply for league nights, special events, or holiday promotions.

Day Hours of Operation
Monday–Thursday 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Friday 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM (midnight)
Saturday 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM (midnight)
Sunday 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Systems and Technology

Strikora Lanes runs on connected systems that keep operations smooth and guests engaged:

  • Point-of-sale (POS): Integrated system across bowling lanes, food & beverage, and retail.
  • Online booking platform: Real-time reservations for lanes and event spaces.
  • Loyalty & rewards app: Tracks customer points, offers, and promotions.
  • Digital signage & scoring: Touchscreen scoring systems, lane customization, and automated player stats.
  • Inventory & supply chain management: Real-time tracking of food and beverage (F&B) inventory, arcade ticket stock, and merchandise.

Health, Safety, and Compliance

We prioritize a safe, compliant environment for every guest and employee:

  • Full adherence to the Missouri Department of Health guidelines for food service.
  • Alcohol is served only by certified staff under an active liquor license.
  • Staff trained in Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) compliance, emergency evacuation, and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR).
  • COVID-safe practices are maintained when required: sanitation stations, contactless menus, and cleaning schedules.

Vendor & Supply Chain Relationships

Our success relies on reliable partners across every facet of the operation:

  • Bowling equipment: Brunswick or QubicaAMF lane systems and scoring technology.
  • Arcade & VR systems: Leased or purchased via specialty suppliers with maintenance agreements.
  • Food & beverage suppliers: Local vendors for produce, beverages, and dry goods; national distributors for bar supplies and specialty items.
  • Merchandise & retail: Branded apparel and accessories sourced from custom print vendors.
  • Maintenance & cleaning supplies: Procured from commercial supply providers with monthly replenishment.

7. Financial Projections

The following financial projections outline the anticipated performance of Strikora Lanes over its first three years of operation.

Assumptions

  • Total startup funding required: $350,000
  • Startup timeline: 6 months (pre-revenue)
  • Break-even point: 18–24 months

Income Statement

The income statement below reflects a steadily growing revenue base supported by multiple income streams: bowling lanes, food and beverage, events, gaming, and retail.

Income Statement Year 1 Year 2 Year 3
Total Revenue $880,000 $1,240,000 $1,520,000
Cost of Goods Sold (COGS) $235,000 $310,000 $370,000
Gross Profit $645,000 $930,000 $1,150,000
Salaries & Wages $320,000 $340,000 $360,000
Rent & Utilities $80,000 $82,000 $85,000
Marketing & Advertising $60,000 $45,000 $50,000
Admin, Insurance, Misc. $75,000 $84,000 $95,000
Operating Expenses $535,000 $551,000 $590,000
Operating Profit (EBIT) $110,000 $379,000 $560,000
Depreciation $80,000 $85,000 $90,000
Pre-Tax Income $30,000 $294,000 $470,000
Income Tax (30%) $9,000 $88,200 $141,000
Net Income $21,000 $205,800 $329,000

Cash Flow Statement

The following table outlines projected cash inflows and outflows to ensure liquidity across operations and investments:

Cash Flow Items Year 1 Year 2 Year 3
Beginning Cash Balance $350,000 $112,000 $287,000
Cash Inflows
Cash Sales $880,000 $1,240,000 $1,520,000
Owner Investment / Equity $0 $0 $0
Total Cash Inflows $880,000 $1,240,000 $1,520,000
Cash Outflows
COGS $235,000 $310,000 $370,000
Operating Expenses $545,000 $555,000 $592,000
Capital Expenditures (equipment, etc.) $290,000 $20,000 $25,000
Taxes Paid $6,000 $87,000 $140,400
Total Cash Outflows $1,076,000 $972,000 $1,127,400
Net Cash Flow -$196,000 $268,000 $392,600
Ending Cash Balance $154,000 $287,000 $679,600

Balance Sheet

A snapshot of Strikora Lanes’ financial health, showing strong growth in equity and cash reserves:

Balance Sheet Year 1 Year 2 Year 3
Assets
Cash $146,000 $408,800 $792,800
Accounts Receivable $10,000 $15,000 $20,000
Equipment (Net) $285,000 $255,000 $230,000
Inventory $20,000 $25,000 $30,000
Total Assets $461,000 $703,800 $1,072,800
Liabilities & Equity
Accounts Payable $10,000 $15,000 $18,000
Equity (Owner + Retained) $451,000 $688,800 $1,054,800
Total Liabilities & Equity $461,000 $703,800 $1,072,800

8. Funding Request

Strikora Lanes is seeking $350,000 in startup capital to support the launch and initial operations of a modern, full-service bowling and entertainment center in Kansas City, Missouri.

Use of Funds

Category Estimated Cost
Bowling Equipment (lanes, scoring) $150,000
Arcade & VR Gaming Systems $65,000
Kitchen Setup & Bar Equipment $20,000
Furniture, Fixtures & POS Systems $30,000
Interior Buildout & Design $40,000
Branding, Signage & Marketing $15,000
Hiring, Training & Uniforms $10,000
Working Capital Reserve $20,000
Legal, Licensing & Insurance $5,000
Total Required Funding $355,000

Funding Purpose & Impact

This capital will directly support:

  • A 6-month development and buildout timeline, leading to a soft and grand opening
  • Deployment of high-impact launch marketing and community partnerships
  • Hiring and training of a professional operations team
  • Delivery of a next-generation bowling and entertainment experience
  • Establishment of positive initial cash flow and liquidity reserve for the first quarter

Funding Structure (If Applicable)

Strikora Lanes is open to structured funding in the form of:

  • Equity investment (preferred shares or strategic partnership)
  • Convertible notes
  • Revenue-based financing or term loan (if lender-based)

Download Free Bowling Alley Business Plan Template

Ready to create your bowling alley business plan but not sure where to start? We’ve made it easy for you! Download our free bowling alley business plan template (PDF) and start planning with confidence.

This step-by-step template is simple to use and fully customizable. It helps you write each section of your plan clearly, from your business idea to your marketing and finances. Further, you can customize it to fit your business-specific needs.

Conclusion

We hope this sample business plan gives you a clear idea of how to draft your bowling alley business plan.

However, if you want to make the process even easier, try using Bizplanr—an AI business plan generator that helps you build a complete and professional plan in just a few minutes.

Just enter some basic details about your bowling alley, and your plan will be ready to go!

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Kaylee Philbrick-Theuerkauf
Kaylee Philbrick-Theuerkauf

Kaylee Philbrick-Theuerkauf helps entrepreneurs create clear business plans. With over 8 years of experience at The Exceptional Plan, she has helped many business owners with their planning needs.