Are you ready to bounce into a new business venture? Opening a trampoline park can be a thrilling opportunity, but it requires careful planning and execution.

Trampoline parks have become increasingly popular in recent years, offering a fun and exciting activity for people of all ages. If you’re interested in opening a trampoline park, it’s important to understand the various factors that go into making this type of business successful. In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know to open a trampoline park, from market research to equipment selection and safety considerations.

 

Step 1: Conduct Market Research

If you’re thinking of starting a trampoline park business, or if you already have one and are looking to expand, it’s essential to conduct thorough market research to ensure your success. Market research can provide you with valuable insights into your target market, competition, and industry trends, which can help you make informed decisions about your business strategy.

• • Identify Your Target Audience

The first step in conducting market research is to identify your target audience. Who do you want to attract to your trampoline park? Is it families with young children, teenagers, or adults? You’ll need to tailor your marketing and offerings to your target audience, so it’s important to understand who they are and what they want.

• • Analyze Your Competition

Next, you’ll want to analyze your competition. Are there other trampoline parks in your area? How do they differ from your concept? What do they offer that you don’t, and vice versa? You can also look at other types of entertainment venues in your area, such as indoor playgrounds or laser tag facilities, to see how they are attracting customers.

• • Determine Demand

Once you’ve identified your target audience and analyzed your competition, you’ll need to determine if there is enough demand for a trampoline park in your area. You can start by looking at population demographics, such as age and income, to see if your target audience is well-represented. You can also conduct surveys or focus groups to gauge interest in your concept.

• • Look at Location

Location is key when it comes to a trampoline park. You’ll want to find a space that is easily accessible and has plenty of parking. You’ll also want to consider the surrounding area, such as other entertainment venues, shopping centers, or restaurants. Is there a demand for this type of attraction in this location?

• • Determine Pricing

Finally, you’ll want to determine pricing for your trampoline park. Look at your competition to see what they are charging, and consider your target audience and the amenities you’ll be offering. Will you charge per hour, per session, or by the day? Will you offer special discounts for groups or birthday parties? You’ll need to find the right balance between affordability and profitability.

 

Step 2: Develop a Business Plan

Opening a trampoline park can be an exciting and lucrative business opportunity. However, before you start investing your time and money, it’s essential to create a comprehensive business plan.

With your market research and concept in place, it’s time to create a business plan. Your business plan should include:

 

• • Executive Summary:

A brief summary of your park’s concept, target market, and financial projections.

• • Company Description:

An overview of your company, including its history, mission, and goals.

• • Market Analysis:

A detailed analysis of your target market, competition, and industry trends.

• • Products and Services:

A description of your park’s features and amenities.

• • Marketing and Sales:

Your marketing and sales strategy to attract and retain customers.

• • Management and Organization:

A description of your management team and organizational structure.

• • Financial Projections:

A detailed financial plan, including startup costs, revenue projections, and cash flow analysis.

 

Step 3: Secure Financing

If you’re passionate about starting a trampoline park but don’t have the funds to get it off the ground, you may be wondering how to secure funding. Fortunately, there are several ways to raise money for your trampoline park, and with some effort and planning, you can make your dream a reality. Here are some tips to help you secure funding for your trampoline park:

• • Seek out investors:

One of the most common ways to secure funding for a new business is to find investors who are willing to put money into your venture in exchange for a share of ownership. You can look for investors among your personal and professional networks, or you can use online platforms that connect entrepreneurs with potential investors. Be prepared to present your business plan and make a persuasive pitch to win over investors.

• • Apply for loans:

If you don’t want to give up any ownership in your trampoline park, you can apply for loans from banks or other financial institutions. You’ll need to have a good credit score and a solid business plan to convince lenders that you’re a good risk. Be prepared to provide collateral for the loan, such as property or equipment, and to pay interest on the borrowed money.

• • Consider crowdfunding:

Crowdfunding is a relatively new way to raise money for a business. With crowdfunding, you create a campaign on a platform such as Kickstarter or Indiegogo and ask people to donate money to help you reach your funding goal. In exchange for their support, you can offer rewards such as discounted admissions to your trampoline park or other perks. Crowdfunding can be a great way to build buzz for your business and attract early customers.

• • Look for grants:

There are many grants available to entrepreneurs who are starting new businesses. These grants may be offered by government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private foundations. Look for grants that are specific to your industry or location, and be prepared to submit a detailed application outlining your business concept and why you deserve the grant.

 

Step 4: Choose a Location

One of the most critical decisions you will make when opening a trampoline park is choosing the right location. A successful trampoline park requires a location that is accessible, visible, and appealing to your target market.

• • Look for high-traffic areas

The first thing to consider when choosing a location for your trampoline park is the level of foot traffic in the area. You want your park to be in a place where it will attract a lot of people. This could be near shopping malls, schools, colleges, or other popular places in the community. You should also look for areas with high vehicle traffic to ensure that your facility is easily visible and accessible.

• • Check for zoning requirements

Before you choose a location for your trampoline park, make sure you check with the local zoning department to ensure that the area is zoned for commercial use. You should also find out about any restrictions or regulations that could affect your business operations, such as noise ordinances or safety requirements.

• • Consider the size of the space

The size of the space you choose for your trampoline park is crucial. You will need a facility that is large enough to accommodate all the trampolines and other equipment you plan to use. You should also ensure that there is ample space for customers to move around comfortably and safely. Additionally, you need to consider the parking space, restrooms, and other amenities that your customers will need.

• • Evaluate the competition

It’s essential to evaluate the competition in the area before choosing a location for your trampoline park. Look for areas with no or limited competition. You should also consider the types of services your competitors offer, their pricing, and their marketing strategies. This information will help you determine the best location for your business.

• • Research the demographics

You should research the demographics of the area you are considering for your trampoline park. Understanding the age, income, and interests of the local population will help you determine if your business will be successful in the area. You can gather this information by checking census data, conducting surveys, and analyzing social media trends.

 

Step 5: Design Your Facility

If you are interested in designing your own trampoline park, here are some things to consider.

• • Location:

The first thing to consider when designing a trampoline park is the location. Look for a space that is large enough to accommodate the trampolines, but also has room for other activities such as dodgeball, basketball, and foam pits. It should also be easily accessible to your target audience, such as families with children.

• • Safety:

 Safety is a top priority when it comes to designing a trampoline park. It is important to choose high-quality trampolines and other equipment that are designed for commercial use. The trampolines should also be placed at a safe distance from each other to prevent collisions, and there should be padding and safety nets in place to prevent injuries.

• • Layout:

 The layout of your trampoline park is also important. You should design the space in a way that encourages movement and activity. Consider incorporating different zones for different activities, such as a foam pit, a dodgeball court, and a basketball court. This will help keep your guests engaged and active.

• • Lighting:

 Lighting is an often-overlooked aspect of trampoline park design, but it can have a significant impact on the overall experience. Consider using colorful LED lighting to create a fun and engaging atmosphere. You can also use lighting to highlight different areas of the park and create a sense of excitement.

• • Amenities:

 In addition to trampolines and other equipment, consider adding other amenities to your trampoline park. This could include a café or snack bar, party rooms for birthdays and events, and even a small retail area. These additional amenities can help generate additional revenue and make your trampoline park a more appealing destination for guests.

 

Step 6: Purchase Equipment

If you’re planning to open a trampoline park, one of the most important decisions you’ll need to make is what equipment to purchase. Here are some things to consider when selecting equipment for your trampoline park.

• • Safety is Key

Safety should be your top priority when selecting trampoline park equipment. Look for equipment that meets or exceeds industry safety standards. This includes items such as safety nets, padding, and springs. You’ll also want to make sure that your equipment is regularly inspected and maintained to ensure it remains in good condition.

• • Size and Capacity

Consider the size of your trampoline park and the number of people you expect to accommodate at any given time. This will help you determine how many trampolines, foam pits, and other equipment you’ll need to purchase. Make sure you have enough equipment to meet demand during peak times while still allowing enough space for people to safely use the equipment.

• • Variety

Offering a variety of equipment can help attract a broader range of customers and keep them coming back for more. Consider including trampolines of different shapes and sizes, foam pits, dodgeball courts, and obstacle courses. Offering a range of activities can help keep customers engaged and interested in returning.

• • Durability

Trampoline park equipment gets a lot of use, so it’s important to invest in equipment that is durable and built to last. Look for equipment that is made from high-quality materials and designed to withstand the wear and tear of regular use.

• • Brand Reputation

When selecting equipment for your trampoline park, consider the reputation of the brand you’re considering. Look for brands with a proven track record of producing high-quality, safe equipment that lasts. You can also reach out to other trampoline park owners for recommendations and to learn about their experiences with different brands.

• • Budget

Finally, consider your budget when selecting trampoline park equipment. While it’s important to invest in high-quality, safe equipment, you also need to make sure that you can afford it. Consider the long-term cost of ownership, including maintenance and replacement costs, when making your decision.

 

Step 7: Hire and Train Staff

The experience at a trampoline park would be nothing without an energetic and conscientious staff. To ensure you are picking the most qualified candidates you may want to consider the following:

• • Start with clear job descriptions:

Before you start advertising for positions, make sure you have a clear idea of what each job entails. Develop job descriptions that outline the roles and responsibilities of each position. This will help you attract candidates who have the right skills and experience for the job.

• • Look for enthusiastic and energetic candidates:

Working at a trampoline park can be physically demanding, so it’s important to look for candidates who are enthusiastic and energetic. Look for people who enjoy physical activity and are comfortable working with people of all ages and abilities.

• • Conduct thorough interviews:

During the interview process, ask open-ended questions that will help you understand the candidate’s experience and qualifications. Be sure to ask questions that relate specifically to working at a trampoline park, such as whether they have experience working with children or in a fast-paced environment.

• • Conduct background checks:

When you have identified a promising candidate, conduct a background check to verify their employment history and to ensure they don’t have any criminal record that could put your customers or your business at risk.

• • Provide comprehensive training:

Once you have hired your staff, it’s important to provide comprehensive training to ensure they are prepared for their roles. Make sure your staff is trained on all of your park’s equipment, safety procedures, and customer service expectations.

• • Emphasize safety:

Safety should always be a top priority in a trampoline park. Make sure your staff is trained to monitor the park and enforce safety rules. Train your staff to respond to emergencies, such as injuries or medical incidents.

• • Foster a positive work environment:

Working at a trampoline park can be a lot of fun, but it can also be challenging. Make sure you create a positive work environment that encourages teamwork and collaboration. Be sure to provide your staff with regular feedback and recognition for their hard work.

Check out our guide to training your trampoline park staff.

Step 8: Obtain Insurance and Permits

As the owner of a trampoline park, it is important to ensure that you have the necessary insurance and permits to protect your business and your customers.

• • Obtain General Liability Insurance

The first step in obtaining insurance for your trampoline park is to obtain trampoline park general liability insurance. This type of insurance will protect your business from claims related to bodily injury or property damage caused by your park. It is important to find an insurance provider that specializes in trampoline park insurance to ensure that you are adequately covered.

• • Obtain Workers’ Compensation Insurance

In addition to general liability insurance, you will also need to obtain trampoline park workers’ compensation insurance. This type of insurance will protect your employees in the event that they are injured while working at your trampoline park. Depending on the state in which you operate, workers’ compensation insurance may be mandatory.

• • Obtain Permits and Licenses

Before you can open your trampoline park, you will need to obtain the necessary permits and licenses. The specific permits and licenses required will vary depending on the state and local laws in your area. Some common permits and licenses that you may need to obtain include:

• • • Business license
    • Building permit
    • Fire safety permit
    • Health department permit
    • Zoning permit

It is important to research the requirements in your area and obtain all necessary permits and licenses before opening your trampoline park.

• • Comply with Safety Regulations

Trampoline parks are subject to safety regulations to protect customers from injury. These regulations may include requirements for padding, netting, and other safety features. It is important to comply with all safety regulations in your area to ensure the safety of your customers and protect your business from liability.

• • Conduct Regular Safety Inspections

To ensure that your trampoline park remains safe for customers, it is important to conduct regular safety inspections. This can include inspecting equipment, checking padding and netting, and ensuring that all safety features are functioning properly. Regular safety inspections can help you identify potential safety hazards and take action to prevent accidents before they occur. Here are some safety tips and strategies for trampoline park owners.

To learn a lot more, read our post about the importance of insurance coverage for your trampoline park.

Step 9: Market Your Trampoline Park

Marketing your trampoline park is one of the most important steps in the process of opening a successful business. Without effective marketing, it will be difficult to attract customers and generate revenue. Here are some key strategies to consider when developing your marketing plan:

• • Build a Strong Online Presence:

In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is crucial for any business. This means having a website that is easy to navigate and provides all the necessary information about your trampoline park, including hours of operation, pricing, and attractions. You should also establish a presence on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, and regularly post engaging content to keep your followers interested and informed.

• • Leverage Online Advertising:

In addition to building a strong online presence, you should also consider leveraging online advertising to drive traffic to your website and attract customers to your trampoline park. This could include paid search ads on Google, social media advertising on platforms like Facebook and Instagram, or display ads on relevant websites and blogs.

• • Partner with Local Businesses:

Partnering with other businesses in your local community can be a great way to generate buzz and attract new customers. Consider teaming up with local schools, sports teams, or community organizations to offer special discounts or promotions for their members. You could also collaborate with nearby restaurants or retailers to cross-promote each other’s businesses.

• • Host Special Events:

Hosting special events at your trampoline park is a great way to attract new customers and keep existing ones coming back. Consider hosting birthday parties, corporate team-building events, or themed nights (e.g. “Glow in the Dark” night) to keep things fresh and exciting. You could also offer special discounts or promotions for customers who bring a friend or refer a new customer.

• • Encourage Customer Reviews:

Encouraging your customers to leave reviews on sites like Yelp or Google can be a powerful marketing tool. Positive reviews can help build trust and credibility with potential customers, while negative reviews can provide valuable feedback for improving your business. Consider offering incentives (e.g. a free hour of jumping) for customers who leave a review on your website or social media channels.

 

Opening a trampoline park can be an exciting and rewarding venture for those who have the passion and determination to see it through. By following the steps outlined in this guide and conducting thorough research and planning, you can set your trampoline park up for success. Remember to prioritize safety, create a fun and engaging atmosphere, and market your park effectively to attract customers. With hard work and dedication, your trampoline park can become a thriving business that provides a fun and unique experience for your community.

Good luck on your trampoline park journey!