business plan for soft play

How to Start a Soft-Play Business: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you're passionate about creating a space where children can have fun, burn off energy, and explore their imagination, starting a soft-play business might be the perfect venture for you. 

Soft-play businesses provide safe and engaging environments often filled with colorful play structures, ball pits, and interactive games. In this step-by-step guide, we'll walk you through starting your own soft-play business, from understanding the concept to launching your exciting new venture.

What is a soft-play business?

A soft-play business is a recreational facility designed for children to enjoy interactive play experiences. It typically features soft and padded play equipment, such as climbing frames, slides, tunnels, and obstacle courses. Soft-play areas are designed to be safe and secure, allowing children to explore, socialize, and develop their physical and cognitive skills in a controlled environment.

Is a soft-play business profitable?

The demand for soft-play businesses continues to rise due to the increasing emphasis on child development and active play. Parents and caregivers recognize the importance of providing children with opportunities for physical activity and imaginative play.  By offering a unique and engaging experience, your soft-play business has the potential to attract a steady stream of customers and generate a profitable return on investment.

How much does it cost to start a soft-play business?

The cost of starting a soft-play business can vary depending on various factors such as location, size, equipment, and additional amenities. While it's challenging to provide an exact figure, conducting thorough research and creating a comprehensive budget plan will help you estimate the expenses involved.  Consider costs such as equipment purchase or rental, facility lease or purchase, insurance, staffing, marketing, and ongoing maintenance. It's crucial to allocate sufficient funds for the initial setup and ongoing operational costs.

How do I start a soft-play business?

Step 1: conduct market research.

Before diving into the planning phase, it's essential to conduct thorough market research. Identify your target audience, study the local demographics, and assess the demand for a soft-play business in your area.  Visit existing soft-play centers, talk to parents, and gather insights about their preferences, expectations, and pain points. Understanding the market landscape and potential competitors will provide valuable guidance for differentiating your business and creating a unique offering.

Step 2: Develop a business plan

Creating a comprehensive business plan will be a roadmap for your soft-play business. Outline your vision, mission, and goals, and include detailed financial projections, marketing strategies, and operational procedures. Your business plan should also incorporate your target market analysis, competitor research, and plans for ensuring the safety and security of your play area. Additionally, consider any additional services or amenities you may want to offer, such as party hosting, a café, or themed events.

Step 3: Secure financing

Starting a soft-play business typically requires a significant initial investment. Explore financing options such as personal savings, loans, or partnerships to secure the necessary funds. Present your well-developed business plan to potential investors or financial institutions to demonstrate the viability and profitability of your venture. Proper financial planning is crucial to ensure you have the resources to cover not only the startup costs and ongoing expenses until your business becomes self-sustaining.

Step 4: Find the perfect location

Choosing the right location is crucial for the success of your soft-play business. Look for areas with high foot traffic, such as shopping malls, family entertainment centers, or commercial complexes.  Consider the size requirements for your play area, allowing ample space for children to move comfortably and safely. Ensure the location has sufficient parking facilities, easy accessibility, and the necessary permits and licenses to operate a recreational business.

Step 5: Design and equip your play area

Collaborate with a professional designer to create an engaging and visually appealing play area. Ensure the design incorporates age-appropriate zones, themed play structures, and safety features like soft flooring and clear sightlines for supervision. Select high-quality play equipment that complies with safety regulations and standards. Consider creating separate areas for toddlers and older children to cater to different age groups.

Step 6: Establish safety and hygiene protocols

Safety is paramount in a soft-play business. Develop strict safety protocols and procedures to ensure the well-being of children and peace of mind for parents. Implement thorough equipment maintenance schedules, regular safety inspections, and staff training programs.  Additionally, establish hygiene protocols that include routine cleaning and sanitization of play equipment, restrooms, and common areas to maintain a clean and healthy environment.

Step 7: Launch and market your soft-play business

As your soft-play business nears completion, it's time to create buzz and generate excitement for your grand opening. Develop a comprehensive marketing strategy that includes online and offline promotion, social media campaigns, partnerships with local schools or community organizations, and targeted advertising.  Leverage digital platforms, your website, and ROLLER's comprehensive software solutions to streamline ticketing, customer management, and loyalty programs. Starting a soft-play business can be an exciting and rewarding venture. By following these step-by-step guidelines, conducting thorough research, and leveraging modern technologies like ROLLER's comprehensive software solutions, you can create an enchanting space where children can explore, play, and make lasting memories.  Remember, the key to success lies in offering a safe, engaging, and unforgettable experience that keeps families returning for more. So, take the first step and embark on your journey to bring joy and happiness to children in your community.

Ready to open your soft-play business? Get in touch to see how ROLLER can help.

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Indoor Playground Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Indoor Playground Business Plan

You’ve come to the right place to create your Indoor Playground business plan.

We have helped over 10,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans and many have used them to start or grow their indoor playground businesses.

Below is a template to help you create each section of your Indoor Playground business plan.

Executive Summary

Business overview.

Fun Space is a startup indoor playground business located in Kansas City, Missouri. The company is founded by Christine Gregory, an indoor playground manager with over ten years of managerial experience working at KC Indoor Play. Christine has garnered a reputation for being a positive role model for her employees and a dedicated leader. She is confident that her ability to effectively manage a team of employees, build rapport with customers, and maintain a fun, safe, and profitable operation will help her to quickly attract customers and employees to her new indoor playground. Christine plans on recruiting a team of highly qualified professionals to help manage the day to day complexities of running an indoor playground – marketing and sales, child supervision, party and event hosting, playground maintenance, and financial management.

Fun Space will provide a unique indoor play environment for children ages 4-12 and a quiet room for parents to enjoy some downtime. The Fun Space indoor playground will be the ultimate choice in Kansas City for parents looking for a clean, safe, and educational option for their kids.

Product Offering

The following are the products and services that Fun Space will provide:

• Open Play Sessions
• Children’s Parties
• Classes/Guided Activities
• Drop-In Daycare
• Quiet Room for Parents
• Retail: Toys and Games
• Snacks and Beverages

Customer Focus

Fun Space will target parents and caregivers of children ages 4-12 in Kansas City. The company will target parents who are looking for a fun way for their children to develop physical fitness and social skills while participating in educational activities. The company will also target parents looking for a hassle-free party venue to host their childrens’ birthday parties or other events. No matter the customer, Fun Space will deliver the best service, pricing, and peace of mind that their children will have fun in a clean, safe, and welcoming environment.

Management Team

Fun Space indoor playground will be owned and operated by Christine Gregory. She has recruited her former assistant manager, Eric Nichols, to help manage the indoor playground and operations.

Christine Gregory is a graduate of the University of Missouri with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management. She has been working at a local indoor playground company for over a decade. Christine has garnered a reputation for being a positive role model for her employees and a dedicated leader. She is confident that her ability to effectively manage a team of employees, build rapport with customers, and maintain a fun, safe, and profitable operation will help her to quickly attract customers and employees to her new indoor playground.

Eric Nichols has been Christine Gregory’s loyal assistant manager for over five years at a local indoor playground. Christine relies strongly on Eric’s reliability, organizational skills, and commitment to excellence in customer service that will be essential for the new indoor playground to run smoothly.

Success Factors

Fun Space will be able to achieve success by offering the following competitive advantages:

• Friendly and highly qualified staff of professionals trained in childcare, safety, early childhood education, and physical fitness who will supervise children and lead group activities.
• Wide range of activities and services available to exceed the expectations of both parents and children.
• Fun Space indoor playground offers the best pricing in Kansas City. The pricing structure provides the most options for parents and is more cost effective than the competition.

Financial Highlights

Fun Space indoor playground is seeking $250,000 in debt financing to launch its indoor playground. The funding will be dedicated towards securing the indoor playground space and purchasing equipment and supplies. Funding will also be dedicated towards three months of overhead costs to include payroll of the staff, rent, and marketing costs. The breakout of the funding is below:

• Indoor playground build-out: $50,000
• Equipment, supplies, and materials: $30,000
• Three months of overhead expenses (payroll, rent, utilities): $150,000
• Marketing costs: $10,000
• Working capital: $10,000

The following graph below outlines the pro forma financial projections for Fun Space indoor playground.

Company Overview

Who is fun space.

Fun Space is a newly established indoor playground in Kansas City, Missouri. Fun Space will provide the best indoor play options for children ages 4-12. The indoor playground will focus on fun, educational activities for kids that will support their physical fitness and social development. Fun Space will also offer services for parents including a quiet room that they can retreat to for a little downtime, to get some work done, or to watch their kids play. There will be guided activities for parents to do with their kids and educational classes for each age group. In addition to its daily activities, Fun Space will also host birthday parties and other events on the weekends.

The indoor playground will be staffed with professionals highly qualified and experienced in childcare, safety, education, and fitness. Fun Space staff remove all concerns of parents by providing a welcoming environment that is safe, clean, and educational. Fun Space indoor playground will be the ultimate fun choice for children and value for parents.

Fun Space indoor playground History

Fun Space is owned and operated by Christine Gregory, an indoor playground manager with over ten years of managerial experience working at KC Indoor Play. Christine is a dedicated leader with an ability to effectively manage a team of employees, build rapport with customers, and maintain a fun, safe, and profitable operation. These skills will help her to quickly attract customers and employees to her new indoor playground.

Since incorporation, Fun Space indoor playground has achieved the following milestones:

• Registered Fun Space, LLC to transact business in the state of Missouri.
• Has been approved for all required licenses and permits to run an indoor playground.
• Has a contract in place to lease a 10,000 square foot facility.
• Reached out to multiple playground equipment companies to get quotes and begin the design process.
• Began recruiting a staff of accountants, marketers, childcare providers, and other indoor playground personnel to work at Fun Space.

Fun Space indoor playground Services

• Daily Open Play Sessions

Industry Analysis

The indoor playground industry in the United States is valued at $658M with an estimated 667 establishments in operation across the nation. Major market segments include families with children ages 0-9, families with children ages 10-12, and families with children ages 13-18.

The main sources of revenue for industry operators are the entry fees and ticket sales, followed by food and beverage sales, and lastly merchandise sales. Market drivers include an increase in disposable income and fitness awareness. Indoor playground industry operators can maintain a competitive advantage by providing competitive pricing, extended hours, or activity options the competition does not offer.

Customer Analysis

Demographic profile of target market.

Fun Space will target parents and caregivers of children ages 4-12 in Kansas City. The company will target parents who are looking for a fun way for their children to develop physical fitness and social skills while participating in educational activities. The indoor playground will also target parents looking for a hassle-free party venue to host their childrens’ birthday parties or other events. No matter the customer, Fun Space will deliver the best service, pricing, and peace of mind that their children will have fun in a clean, safe, and welcoming environment.

The precise demographics for Kansas City, Missouri  are:

Customer Segmentation

Fun Space will primarily target the following customer profiles:

• Parents/caregivers of children ages 4-12
• Parents/caregivers looking for a party/event venue
• Parents/caregivers looking for a safe, clean, educational, fun place for their children to play

Competitive Analysis

Direct and indirect competitors.

Fun Space indoor playground will face competition from other companies with similar business profiles. A description of each competitor company is below.

KC Indoor Play

KC Indoor Play is a fun indoor playground for children ages 2-10. The indoor playground is conveniently located in a busy retail district in Kansas City, close to a childrens’ clothing shop and a toy store. KC Indoor Play is able to provide a wide variety of services for parents and children. The company’s offerings include educational classes for different age groups, free play, daycare, and an arcade. KC Indoor Play also hosts birthday parties and other events. KC Indoor Play’s promise is to deliver quality service that will keep both children and parents wanting to come back. KC Indoor Play’s team of experienced childcare professionals assures children are supervised by highly trained playground monitors to ensure safety and fun.

Kidz Play Place

Kidz Play Place is a Kansas City-based indoor playground conveniently located within a five- mile radius of three elementary schools. Kidz Play Place provides a unique indoor playground environment for children ages 4-13 that includes a small water park, arcade games, and trampolines. The owners of Kidz Play Place are former childcare professionals so they know what appeals to kids and parents alike. Parents can purchase open play time for their children in 2-hour time slots. Season passes are also available and will save customers 20% off their purchase.

Kary’s Kids Indoor Playground

Kary’s Kids Indoor Playground is a Kansas City indoor playground that provides educational games, classes, and events for children ages 0-10. The company is run by party-planning experts who have years of experience planning and hosting childrens’ parties. Parents can rest assured their children are well-supervised and the playground is safe and clean. Children can enjoy free-play sessions, an arcade, and educational games. Parents can also drop their children off for full-day and half-day supervision at Kary’s Kids daycare.

Competitive Advantage

Fun Space indoor playground will be able to offer the following advantages over their competition:

• Friendly, knowledgeable, and highly qualified staff to include professionals trained in childcare, safety, early childhood education, and physical fitness who will supervise children and lead group activities.
• Wide range of offerings available to exceed the expectations of both parents and children.

Marketing Plan

Brand & value proposition.

Fun Space indoor playground will offer the unique value proposition to its customers:

• Highly-qualified team of skilled employees to supervise open play sessions, lead educational activities, and host fun parties, all while ensuring the safety, security, and wellbeing of the children at all times.
• Unbeatable pricing – Fun Space indoor playground has multiple pricing options to give parents flexibility when choosing which services they want to purchase. Parents can pay per session, per week, or per season for open play sessions, daycare,  and educational programs. There is also an a la carte option for parents who want to purchase one specific activity or play area.

Promotions Strategy

The promotions strategy for Fun Space indoor playground is as follows:

Word of Mouth/Referrals

Christine Gregory has built up an extensive list of contacts over the years by providing exceptional service to her customers. Many of these contacts have communicated to Christine that they kept bringing their kids back to her previous place of employment because they were happy with the service she was providing. Once Christine advised them she was leaving to open her own indoor playground, many have expressed interest in coming to Fun Space and help spread the word of the new location to their friends and families.

Professional Associations and Networking

Fun Space indoor playground will become a member of professional associations such as the National Indoor Playground and Cafe Association and the Association of Play Industries. The company will focus networking efforts on expanding its customer base.

Print Advertising

Fun Space indoor playground will invest in professionally designed print ads to display in programs or flyers at industry networking events, and to put in magazines, newspapers, and direct mailers.

Website/SEO Marketing

Fun Space indoor playground will employ an in-house marketing director to design and maintain the company website. The website will be well organized, informative, and list all the services the indoor playground will offer. The marketing director will also manage Fun Space’s website presence with SEO marketing tactics so that when someone types in the Google or Bing search engine “Kansas City indoor playground” or “indoor playground near me”, Fun Space indoor playground will be listed at the top of the search results.

Social Media Marketing/Influencer Marketing

The company will create social media accounts on multiple platforms including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. The marketing director will manage the accounts and maintain an active presence to promote the playground. Fun Space will recruit social media influencers such as busy parents who have a loyal following on social media  to help promote the indoor playground.

The pricing of Fun Space indoor playground will be moderate and on par with competitors. However, the company will offer a wider variety of pricing packages and options to give customers flexibility so they feel they receive value when purchasing the company’s services.

Operations Plan

The following will be the operations plan for Fun Space indoor playground.

Operation Functions:

• Christine Gregory will be the Owner and Manager of the company. She will oversee all staff and customer relations. Christine has spent the past year recruiting the following staff:
• Eric Nichols – Assistant Manager who will co-manage the staff and oversee the day to day operations of the playground.
• Brandon Scott – Bookkeeper/Accountant who will provide all budgeting, accounting, tax payments, and financial reporting.
• Debra Alexander – Marketing Director who will provide all sales, marketing, and PR campaigns.
• Brian Baker – Event Coordinator who will plan and oversee all parties and events hosted by Fun Space.

Milestones:

Fun Space indoor playground will have the following milestones complete in the next six months.

9/1/2022 – Finalize contract to lease indoor playground space.

9/15/2022 – Finalize personnel and staff employment contracts for the management team.

10/1/2022 – Finalize contracts with playground equipment suppliers.

10/15/2022 – Begin build-out of the indoor playground.

11/22/2022 – Begin networking at industry events and implementing the marketing campaign.

12/1/2022 – Fun Space indoor playground opens for business.

Christine Gregory is a graduate of the University of Missouri with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management. She has been working at a local indoor playground for over a decade. Christine has garnered a reputation for being a positive role model for her employees and a dedicated leader. Christine is confident that her ability to effectively manage a team of employees, build rapport with customers, and maintain a fun, safe, and profitable operation will help her to quickly attract customers and employees to her new indoor playground.

Eric Nichols has been Christine Gregory’s loyal assistant manager for over five years at the former indoor playground. Christine relies strongly on Eric’s reliability, organizational skills, and commitment to excellence in customer service that will be essential for the new indoor playground to run smoothly.

Financial Plan

Key revenue & costs.

The revenue drivers for Fun Space indoor playground are the indoor playground fees that will be charged for open play sessions, classes, toys, snacks, and parties. Customers will be able to choose from a variety of pricing options including tiered packages, a la carte, and season passes.

The cost drivers will be the overhead costs required in order to staff an indoor playground. The expenses will be the payroll cost, rent, utilities, supplies, and marketing materials.

Funding Requirements and Use of Funds

Key assumptions.

The following outlines the key assumptions required to achieve the revenue and cost numbers in the financials and pay off the startup business loan.

• Number of 30-minute sessions per month: 6,500
• Average fees per month: $60,000
• Office lease per year: $100,000

Financial Projections

Income statement, balance sheet, cash flow statement, indoor playground business plan faqs, what is an indoor playground business plan.

An indoor playground business plan is a plan to start and/or grow your indoor playground business. Among other things, it outlines your business concept, identifies your target customers, presents your marketing plan and details your financial projections.

You can  easily complete your indoor playground business plan using our Indoor Playground Business Plan Template here .

What are the Main Types of Indoor Playgrounds?

There are a number of different kinds of indoor playgrounds, some examples include: Bouncy Structures, Trampoline Park, and Variety Entertainment.

How Do You Get Funding for Your Indoor Playground Business Plan?

Indoor playgrounds are often funded through small business loans. Personal savings, credit card financing and angel investors are also popular forms of funding. This is true for a business for an indoor playground or a play cafe business plan.

What are the Steps To Start an Indoor Playground Business?

Starting an indoor playground business can be an exciting endeavor. Having a clear roadmap of the steps to start a business will help you stay focused on your goals and get started faster.

1. Develop An Indoor Playground Business Plan - The first step in starting a business is to create a detailed indoor playground business plan that outlines all aspects of the venture. This should include potential market size and target customers, the services or products you will offer, pricing strategies and a detailed financial forecast.  

2. Choose Your Legal Structure - It's important to select an appropriate legal entity for your indoor playground business. This could be a limited liability company (LLC), corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks so it’s important to do research and choose wisely so that your indoor playground business is in compliance with local laws.

3. Register Your Indoor Playground Business - Once you have chosen a legal structure, the next step is to register your indoor playground business with the government or state where you’re operating from. This includes obtaining licenses and permits as required by federal, state, and local laws.

4. Identify Financing Options - It’s likely that you’ll need some capital to start your indoor playground business, so take some time to identify what financing options are available such as bank loans, investor funding, grants, or crowdfunding platforms. 

5. Choose a Location - Whether you plan on operating out of a physical location or not, you should always have an idea of where you’ll be based should it become necessary in the future as well as what kind of space would be suitable for your operations. 

6. Hire Employees - There are several ways to find qualified employees including job boards like LinkedIn or Indeed as well as hiring agencies if needed – depending on what type of employees you need it might also be more effective to reach out directly through networking events. 

7. Acquire Necessary Indoor Playground Equipment & Supplies - In order to start your indoor playground business, you'll need to purchase all of the necessary equipment and supplies to run a successful operation. 

8. Market & Promote Your Business - Once you have all the necessary pieces in place, it’s time to start promoting and marketing your indoor playground business. This includes creating a website, utilizing social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter, and having an effective Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategy. You should also consider traditional marketing techniques such as radio or print advertising.

Soft Play Business: Start Your Own Soft Play Business Today!

What are the steps to starting a soft play business?

How to start a soft play business faqs.

Soft play businesses represent a fantastic opportunity for any venue looking to diversify and attract families. However, the path to starting one can be challenging to navigate. 

In this article, we will break down the process step by step, ensuring that you’re equipped with the knowledge and insights needed to embark on this exciting venture successfully. 

Step 1 – Do your research

Before you start a soft play business, it’s important to do your homework. 

First, find out if there is enough demand for a soft play business in your area by checking the local market. Next, take a look at your competition, like other play centres nearby, and figure out what they do well and where they might be lacking. Finally, understand who your customers will be – what age groups they belong to and what they like. 

Step 2 – Plan your business

By making a detailed plan, you can better understand what you need to do to make your soft play business a success. You should create a business plan that explains your goals and why you want to open this centre. 

Step 3 – Double check your legal compliance

Before opening your soft play business, it’s crucial to make sure you aren’t breaking any rules. You must also make sure to officially register your business and get any permits or licences required by the law. 

Step 4 – Choose your location

Selecting the right spot for your soft play business is crucial. Make sure it’s easy to see and get to, so lots of people can find it easily. Think about how close it is to where families live, schools, and places that families like to visit. This will help you attract more customers and make your centre a popular choice for families looking for fun.

Step 5 – Design your layout

Creating the layout for your soft play business is important. You want it to be fun and safe, so make sure to plan a layout with different play areas that are interesting. Also, when getting the equipment, choose good-quality materials that follow safety rules.

Step 6 – Implement software and hardware solutions

You can use both software applications and hardware to help you manage operations more easily and efficiently. Using these solutions makes running your play centre smoother and more organised.

Software Solutions

• Accounting:  Using accounting software can greatly assist your soft play business. It simplifies financial tasks like keeping track of income, expenses, and taxes. With this software, you can easily create reports and manage your budget, ensuring your business remains financially healthy. It saves time and reduces the chances of errors, making your financial management more efficient and reliable. Examples of this software include:  Xero  and  QuickBooks Online

• HR Software:  You can use HR software to assist your soft play business in managing employees more effectively. This software simplifies tasks like tracking work hours, processing payroll, and maintaining personnel records. It also aids in scheduling staff shifts efficiently, ensuring you have the right people at the right times to provide a great experience for your customers. Examples of this software include:  Rippling  and  BambooHR

• Venue Management Software:  This specialised software simplifies various tasks like scheduling play sessions, managing bookings, and tracking attendance. It also helps with customer relationship management and streamlining your operations. With venue management software, you can efficiently run your soft play centre, provide a better experience for your customers, and stay organised, ultimately contributing to the success of your business. Examples of this software include:  VenueSumo

• Operations Checklist and Workflow Management:  These tools help keep track of important tasks and processes. You can create checklists for daily operations, staff responsibilities, and safety checks, ensuring everything is in order. Workflow management software helps streamline tasks, making sure that each step in your business process is efficiently managed. Examples of this software include:  Operandio

• Marketing Tools:  These digital tools help you reach more people and tell them about your fun play centre. With them, you can create engaging ads, manage social media, and track how well your marketing is working. This way, you can attract more families and grow your business faster. Examples of this software include:  Monday  and  Salesforce

Hardware Solutions

• EFTPOS:  EFTPOS allows customers to make payments conveniently and securely using credit or debit cards. By having EFTPOS terminals available, you make it easy for parents and guardians to pay for admission, snacks, and other services, enhancing their overall experience. This not only streamlines transactions but also increases the chances of customers spending more during their visit, ultimately boosting your soft play centre’s revenue. Examples of this hardware include:  VenueSmart ,  Tyro  and  Smartpay

• Portability (Mobile, Laptops and Tablets):  Mobile hardware, like tablets and smartphones, can be incredibly useful for your soft play business. You can use them to streamline operations by taking reservations and payments on the go. Additionally, mobile devices can help you keep track of attendance and monitor safety measures more effectively, ensuring that parents and children have a hassle-free and secure experience at your soft play centre. Examples of this hardware include:  Apple  or  Samsung  

• Barcode Scanning:  You can make your soft play business more efficient by using barcode scanning devices. These tools can quickly scan tickets or wristbands, helping you keep track of the number of visitors and ensuring smooth entry. It also reduces the chance of errors, making the experience better for both customers and staff. Barcode scanning hardware is a smart addition that simplifies operations in your soft play centre.

Examples of this hardware include:  ScanSKU  and  Barcodes

• Ticketing Kiosks:  Ticketing kiosks make it easier for customers to buy tickets and access your play centre without waiting in long lines. They also reduce the workload on your staff, allowing them to focus on providing excellent customer service. Ticketing kiosks can be set up to accept various payment methods, making it convenient for all your customers.

Examples of this hardware include:  Kiosk  and  Meridian

Step 7 – Hire and train staff

Hiring and training a dedicated team of staff is essential. Prioritise recruiting individuals who are not only friendly but also attentive, as they play a crucial role in ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for the children and parents who visit you. 

Step 8 – Market, market, market!

Marketing is an indispensable aspect of running a successful soft play centre. Start by crafting a compelling brand identity and logo that resonates with your audience. Next, devise a comprehensive marketing plan that seamlessly combines both online and offline strategies, effectively reaching your target demographic. 

A user-friendly website, rich in information about your centre, serves as your digital storefront, offering parents and guardians an insight into what you offer. Leveraging the power of social media and online advertising, you can captivate your audience and keep them engaged. 

Step 9 – Have your grand opening

Now that you’ve done all of the necessary prep work, it’s time to open your business to the public. 

To generate excitement and attract the community, plan a memorable launch event filled with fun activities and entertainment for children and families. Consider offering free trials or discounts during this initial period to encourage visits and build a loyal customer base. 

Throughout this phase, actively seek customer feedback and reviews to gain valuable insights into your centre’s performance. Be responsive to customer suggestions and concerns, demonstrating your commitment to providing the best possible experience.

What trends are there in the soft play business industry that you should be aware of?

The soft-play industry, much like any industry, sees the emergence of constant trends that shape the landscape. Staying attuned to these trends is crucial for soft play businesses to remain competitive and meet the evolving demands of their customers.

• There is a growing emphasis on  eco-friendliness , with businesses incorporating sustainable and environmentally conscious materials into play equipment and facility design. 
• Personalisation  is another trend, with soft play centres offering customisable play structures and themed play areas to create unique and memorable experiences for children. 
• Technology integration  is on the rise, with interactive screens, augmented reality games, and mobile apps enhancing the play experience. 
• The industry is seeing a shift towards offering  more inclusive play spaces  to accommodate children with disabilities, promoting diversity and accessibility. 

How much does it cost to start a soft play business?

The cost of starting a soft play business can vary significantly depending on several factors, including: 

• The location
• The size of the facility
• The quality of play equipment 

In general, the initial startup costs for a small to medium-sized soft play business can range from $50,000 to $250,000 or more. This is due to expenses such as rent or building purchase, interior design and theming, purchase of play equipment, safety measures and inspections, insurance, staffing, marketing, and initial operating expenses. 

It’s essential to create a comprehensive business plan and budget to determine the specific costs for your unique venture. Additionally, exploring potential funding sources and financing options can help make the investment more manageable.

What are the best practices for maintaining a safe and secure environment in a soft play centre?

With the following practices, soft play centres can create an environment that prioritises safety, giving parents peace of mind while children enjoy their playtime:

• Regular Equipment Inspections:  Conduct routine inspections of play equipment to identify and address any potential hazards promptly.
• Staff Training:  Ensure all staff members are well-trained in first aid, emergency response, and safety protocols. They should also understand the importance of attentive supervision.
• Safety Regulations:  Adhere to safety regulations specific to soft play centres, and stay updated on any changes in safety standards.
• Incident Reporting:  Implement an incident reporting system to document and address any accidents or safety concerns. This helps in preventing future incidents.
• Hygiene and Cleanliness:  Maintain a rigorous cleaning schedule to ensure that play areas, restrooms, and common areas are clean and sanitary.
• Childproofing:  Childproof the facility by securing all electrical outlets, sharp edges, and other potential hazards.
• Adequate Signage:  Use clear signage to communicate rules, age restrictions, and safety guidelines to parents and children.
• Proper Supervision:  Ensure that there is adequate supervision in all play areas to prevent unsafe behaviour and provide assistance when needed.
• Secure Entry and Exit:  Control access to the play centre with secure entry and exit points to prevent unauthorised access.
• Liability Insurance:  Obtain liability insurance to protect the business and its customers in case of accidents or injuries.

What types of play activities are popular among different age groups in soft play centres?

Different age groups have varying preferences, and soft play centres often create designated play zones with age-appropriate activities to ensure everyone has a fun and safe experience.

An example of this could be:

Toddlers (Ages 1-3)

• Sensory Play:  Soft textures, colourful balls, and touch-and-feel panels engage their senses.
• Mini Slides:  Small slides that are low to the ground and easy for little ones to climb and slide down.
• Soft Building Blocks:  Soft, stackable blocks for building and knocking down.

Preschoolers (Ages 3-5)

• Ball Pits:  Children love jumping into a pool of soft, colourful balls.
• Mini Climbing Structures:  Low-level structures with gentle slopes for climbing and exploring.
• Role-Play Areas:  Mini kitchens, shops, or houses for imaginative play.

School-Aged Children (Ages 6-12)

• Large Slides:  Taller slides with twists and turns that provide an exhilarating experience.
• Obstacle Courses:  Challenging courses with climbing walls, tunnels, and balance beams.
• Interactive Games:  Augmented reality games, digital scavenger hunts, and interactive screens.

How do soft play businesses engage with their local communities, and what are the benefits for these communities?

Soft play businesses connect with their local communities by organising events, workshops, and charity activities. This strengthens the bond with the community, offering families a safe and enjoyable place to spend time together. The benefits for the community include having a secure and fun place for kids to play, encouraging families to socialise and supporting local businesses and schools.

What marketing strategies and promotions have been most successful in attracting customers to soft play facilities?

Successful marketing strategies and promotions that have proven effective in attracting customers to soft play facilities include:

• Online Presence:  Maintaining an engaging website and active social media profiles to promote the facility and connect with potential customers.
• Partnerships:  Collaborating with local schools, daycare centres, and family-oriented businesses to attract group bookings and referrals.
• Loyalty Programs:  Offering loyalty cards, membership discounts, and special promotions for repeat visitors.
• Community Engagement:  Hosting community events, themed parties, and charity activities to foster a strong local presence and encourage families to visit.
• Online Advertising:  Using online advertising tools to reach a wider audience and increase visibility.
• Effective SEO:  Optimising online content for search engines to appear in relevant search results.
• Referral Programs:  Implementing referral incentives for customers who bring in new business.

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Introduction

The definition of indoor playground, what makes an indoor playground business plan necessary, indoor playground industry statistics, how can your indoor playground business plan use market research, is indoor playground profitable, what general themes do indoor playgrounds have, what is required to begin creating your indoor playground business plan.

How to Ensure Your Indoor Playground’s Safety?

Indoor Playground Rules and Regulations

Ways to maintain your playground.

Ways to Improve Your Indoor Playground

The Ultimate Guide to Your Indoor Playground Business Plan

This is the complete manual for creating a business plan for your indoor amusement park.

 If you are a newbie in the indoor playground industry and are wanna start your indoor playground business plan but don’t know how to start. Then why not start with the advice in this guide to provide you with a better foundation to enter the indoor playground industry? This guide introduces you to the indoor playground business plan from multiple dimensions and aims to provide a comprehensive content guide.

What is an indoor playground? An indoor playground  is a recreational space that provides recreation and entertainment for children, and its customizability and playability have made it increasingly popular in the entertainment industry. Children can have a fun and educational experience in an indoor playground and gradually build their knowledge of their surroundings while playing.

Indoor playgrounds are a lucrative business. It satisfies children's play needs while allowing the business owner to return a profit. Additionally, for the business owner, its benefits include bringing in a steady customer base, ancillary revenue opportunities, increased employment opportunities, community building, and the ability to operate year-round.

According to the data, the indoor playground market size is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.79% from 2021 to 2028 to reach USD 42.64 billion. This means that the indoor playground industry is growing at a rapid pace. Hence starting an indoor playground business plan is an up-and-coming option.

After you decide to launch an indoor playground business plan, you can conduct market research to gather and examine data regarding your target market, clients, and rival businesses. Specifically, it can include the local consumption level and population density, relevant data about other indoor playgrounds in the neighborhood, and so on. It is beneficial for you to lay a good foundation for the stages that follow, such as choosing a location and determining the park's target audience.

When it comes to indoor playground profits, it is indeed a crucial concern. The answer is positive – indoor playgrounds are a profitable business. Research indicates that the indoor entertainment market reached $24.35 billion in 2020, with an expected annual growth rate of 10.3% through 2028. This signals a rising demand in the indoor playground market. Revenue primarily comes from tickets, merchandise, food and beverages, and advertising.

Generally, the most common themes for indoor playgrounds include forest, ocean, candy, pirate ship, macaron, circus, space, sports, and more. Each theme will differ in the main colors, style of attractions, and choice of stickers. For additional inspiration, you can refer to our Themed Playground Equipment . If you have other creative ideas, feel free to communicate with us. We offer professional customization services to turn your imaginative ideas into reality.

1.Find a Location

Choose areas with large passenger flow, convenient transportation, and a high density of children to ensure that your indoor playground can have enough audiences. This can be family entertainment centers, shopping centers, child care centers, restaurants, community centers, churches， fitness centers, etc. And of course, it's related to the cost of your venue.

2.Identify target customers

Who is the intended audience for your indoor playground? Smaller toddlers or kids who enjoy taking on new challenges? That's something you have to think about. The target audience of your indoor playground also determines the type of indoor playground equipment and indoor layout you need to buy.

3.Planning your budget

On average, costs range from $50,000 to $500,000. This depends on many factors, including your site costs, indoor playground equipment costs, transportation costs, installation costs, insurance costs, operating costs, and labor costs. You can refer to our budget list for specific figures: https://www.dreamlandplayground.com/starting-an-indoor-playground-business

4.Design Your Indoor Playground

This must begin after you have determined your exact venue. Send your site dimensions to the designer, who will plan the appropriate interior layout based on your actual site size. The design process involves choosing the overall style and theme of the indoor playground and selecting the right indoor playground attractions， materials used, and placement. You need to be involved in the design process so that the designer can better design the best solution according to your wishes.

5.Buy indoor playground equipment

What are the indoor playground attractions divided into? According to the function, the attractions of indoor playgrounds are usually divided into:

Play Structure:  The most common type of indoor playground, consisting of frames. Contains steps, tunnels, some soft obstacles, etc. It is also the attraction with the most space for creativity. Numerous options exist based on your requirements and circumstances.

Slide: The Indoor Playground's most thrilling feature. It is also possible to modify the slide's style to fit the theme.

Ball Pit:  Consists of a large number of plastic balls. Often combined with a slide to make a more interesting attraction.

Climbing Structure:  Curious children find it hard to resist the thrill of climbing. Children's coordination abilities can be greatly improved by using this attraction.

Soft Play Area:  A play area more suitable for younger children. The facilities included are soft obstacles. Children can burrow around in a castle made of soft blocks.

The specific choice of attractions also needs to be adjusted according to the ages of your indoor playground audience, indoor playground layout, theme, cost, and other factors.

6.Obtain business licenses 

To operate in a state, the majority of small enterprises simply require one or two licenses. However, since indoor playgrounds involve children, your business may require multiple state-specific licenses. To safeguard children from poor quality operations, licensing standards for firms that relate to children are frequently more specific and detailed.

7.Install the indoor playground

After starting your indoor playground business plan, it is very important to find a reliable supplier. You can either get the installation drawings from your equipment supplier and install it yourself, or the supplier can arrange for workers to come to your venue to install it. The latter might provide your indoor playground business with a great deal of convenience.

Get in touch with us if you're stumped about creating an indoor playground and don't know where to begin. Dreamland Playground can provide you with a full range of services, such as design, manufacture, installation, and post-purchase assistance.

8.Recruit staff

An indoor playground can't afford to be without employees. Their jobs include charging at the entrance, instructing children alongside certain programs, cleaning and inspecting the indoor park regularly, and so on.

9.Marketing and Branding Your Indoor Playground

Everything is in place, but don't forget that you still need to market your indoor playground, customers won't automatically come just because you're sitting at home. Your indoor playground needs to be attractive and well-known enough to attract a steady stream of visitors. There are many ways to advertise, such as:

①Design a logo for your indoor playground to make it more representative

②Establish a website, regularly update indoor playground activities and promotions on the website, and set up a convenient online ticket purchase system

③Establish social media accounts and publish content related to indoor playgrounds. It can be daily play, cleaning and maintenance videos, reminders of promotional activities, etc.

④Online advertising marketing

⑤Send flyers or post advertisements around the indoor playground to attract potential customers nearby.

How to Ensure Your Indoor Playground’s Safety?

Your indoor playground business plan should take safety into account while designing. After all, your customers are children, and children are more likely to get hurt during play than adults with self-control. This requires:

1.Post safety tips and precautions in the park

2.Arrange staff to maintain order and ensure the safety of children

3.Routine inspection

4.Install the equipment under professional guidance

5.Emergency Preparedness

6.Ensure the use of age-appropriate equipment

7.Exit and entrance instructions

8.Buy amusement equipment that meets standards

In addition to the things that your indoor park does for itself. Don't forget to make player rules and regulations for your indoor playground, which will help the indoor playground stay alive for a long time.

1.Players are advised to wear appropriate clothing and avoid carrying sharp decorations

2.For health and safety reasons, please remove your shoes before entering the playing area. All participants are required to wear socks.

3.Please follow staff instructions to ensure safe and proper use of playground equipment.

4.Some programs may have age or height restrictions. For everyone's safety, kindly abide by these limitations.

5.Restrictions on children's age and height

6.Maintain a distinction between play and recreation areas. Keep play areas clean and safe by prohibiting snacks and beverages.

7.No climbing on walls or nets in non-climbing areas

8.It is recommended that young children play with an adult watching over them to make sure they are safe and happy.

9.Please keep all toys in the designated play areas and do not take toys out of these areas.

10.Smoking is strictly prohibited in the indoor playground.

11.Please make sure your child does not have any illnesses that could infect other children.

1.Examine all play equipment frequently for indications of corrosion, deterioration, or loose parts.

2.Sanitize the indoor environment, play equipment, and toys regularly to maintain environmental hygiene. Deep clean play equipment that tends to harbor dirt, especially items such as ball pits, tunnels, and crawl spaces.

3.Repair and replace broken parts to avoid safety problems due to damaged parts

4.look out for edges of any equipment to avoid injury.

5.Keep the humidity and temperature in your indoor playground at ideal levels.

6.Record every cleaning and repair for easy verification later.

Ways to Improve Your Indoor Playground

1.Provide party services such as birthday parties to expand the business of involving customers in the indoor playground.

2.Add a café or snack bar to provide a space for customers to rest and increase revenue simultaneously.

3.Sell related theme peripherals to strengthen the brand memory of the indoor playground.

4.Holiday seasonal events to drive traffic

5.Referral program, old customers recommend new customers to spend, and can provide discounts and gifts. Increase customer retention rate while also attracting more new customers.

6.Appropriately add or adjust attractions and themes. Avoid a static environment leading to customer boredom.

7.Establish a customer feedback mechanism to improve the existing content of the park on time based on real customer feedback.

After reading this ultimate guide, you should already have an idea of how to start your indoor playground business plan. Processes include finding a location, identifying target consumers, planning a budget, designing the site and purchasing equipment, installing, recruiting staff, and advertising the indoor playground.

Still looking for a professional playground supplier ? Contact us and let us provide you with professional one-on-one service to turn your indoor park dream into reality. Dreamland Playground is committed to providing you with a full range of services, from consulting to design to production and installation, we will be your reliable partner. Through careful market research, a well-planned indoor layout, and selected play equipment, we help you refine your indoor playground business plan. Your indoor playground will become a happy place for children to grow up.

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Indoor Playground Business Plan Template [Updated 2024]

Indoor Playground Business Plan

If you want to start a indoor playground business or expand your current business, you need a business plan.

The following business plan template and example gives you the key elements to include in a winning business plan for your indoor playground business.

You can download our Business Plan Template (including a full, customizable financial model) to your computer here.

Below are links to each of the key sections of your indoor play area business plan: I. Executive Summary II. Company Overview III. Industry Analysis IV. Customer Analysis V. Competitive Analysis VI. Marketing Plan VII. Operations Plan VIII. Management Team IX. Financial Plan

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Indoor Playground Business Plan Home I. Executive Summary II. Company Overview III. Industry Analysis IV. Customer Analysis V. Competitive Analysis VI. Marketing Plan VII. Operations Plan VIII. Management Team IX. Financial Plan

How To Start A Soft Play Business

Starting a soft play business involves identifying your target market, securing adequate funding, finding an optimal location, investing in quality play equipment, hiring trained staff, and implementing effective marketing strategies.

• Last Update: November 23, 2023

• Steps in this Guide: 11

Are you passionate about creating a fun and safe environment for children? Do you dream of owning your own business in the leisure industry? Starting a soft play business could be the perfect venture for you. As the demand for indoor play areas continues to grow, now is the ideal time to dive into this exciting industry. In this blog post, we will guide you through the essential steps to successfully launch and run your own soft play business. From market research and location selection to designing a captivating play space and ensuring safety regulations are met, we will provide you with all the information you need to turn your dream into a fruitful reality. So, let’s get started on this thrilling journey of becoming a soft play business owner.

How To Start A Soft Play Business: Step-by-Step

Step 1: identify your target market.

Once you identify your target audience, such as families with children of a specific age group, conduct thorough market research in your local area to ensure there is a genuine demand for a soft play area. This will help you make informed decisions throughout your business planning process.

Step 2: Prepare a Business Plan

A well-structured business plan not only defines your soft play business concept, operational and marketing strategies, and financial projections, but also serves as a roadmap for business expansion and facilitates attracting financial support from potential investors.

Step 3: Secure Funding

In addition to the cost of equipment, venue leasing or purchasing, maintenance, and staff salary, explore financial sources like personal savings, business loans, or investments to cover the startup expenses for your soft-play business.

Step 4: Find the Right Location

When selecting a location for a business, consider safety, family-friendliness, ample parking, and easy accessibility. Additionally, ensure enough space for play area, dining, and restrooms, as these are key factors for success.

Step 5: Procure Equipment

Additionally, it is crucial to regularly inspect and maintain the soft play equipment to ensure its safety and longevity. This includes checking for any damages, cleaning surfaces thoroughly, and replacing any worn-out or broken parts promptly.

Step 6: Design the Layout

Collaborate with a designer or architect to create an efficient layout that optimizes space, integrates essential elements like reception, seating, and play areas, while ensuring a seamless and organized flow for visitors.

Step 7: Hire Staff

In order to ensure smooth operations, hiring experienced, reliable and child-friendly staff is essential. The staff should be responsible for overseeing play areas, managing reception, providing refreshments, and maintaining cleanliness.

Step 8: Obtain Necessary Permits and Licenses

In addition, specific health and safety certifications may also be necessary, such as approval from the fire department or inspections from the local health department. Ensuring compliance with all relevant licenses and permits is crucial for the legal operation of a soft play business.

Step 9: Develop Policies and Procedures

In addition to establishing rules for the play area to ensure children’s safety, it is essential to regularly inspect equipment for potential hazards, maintain a clean and sanitized environment, and have trained staff members supervise and assist children to further enhance their overall safety and well-being.

Step 10: Market Your Business

Consider implementing a mix of marketing tactics such as engaging social media campaigns, eye-catching flyers, active participation in local events, and forming partnerships with nearby schools. Also, entice potential customers with enticing opening day specials or attractive membership packages.

Step 11: Open for Business

Once all the necessary preparations for your soft play business are done, schedule a date for the soft opening. Pay close attention to details to ensure a smooth start, making adjustments as needed for the grand opening event.

Starting a soft play business can be a rewarding and profitable venture if you approach it with careful planning and consideration. We have discussed the key steps involved in launching a soft play business, from conducting market research to securing the right location, obtaining necessary permits, and designing a safe and engaging play area. By focusing on providing a high-quality experience for children and their families, as well as offering additional services like party packages and food options, you can differentiate yourself from competitors and attract a loyal customer base. Remember to create a solid business plan, establish sound financial management practices, and continually evolve your offerings to stay relevant in the market. With determination, creativity, and a passion for providing a fun and stimulating environment for children, you can successfully establish and run your own soft play business.

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Setting up an Indoor Soft Play Business!

Diary of a new operator.

The "How To Set Up An Indoor Play Area - A Diary of a New Operator" article was first published in 2010 in the Indoor Play Magazine  and followed one of Soft Brick's customers, Carol White, as she set up her indoor play business. More than 10 years on and we still have customers contact us and reference this excellent resource. With the Indoor Play Magazine's permission, we are reproducing it as part of our Soft Brick blog - and including some photos along the way too!

So here we go...

Introduction

Rather than listing or telling you how to set up an indoor play centre we thought it would be more useful to see how Surrey business woman Carol White embarked on a life-changing new venture by opening an indoor play area in Farnham.

This month I’ve decided to do something that can definitely be described as life changing and this diary is my way of recording the process for posterity.

My name’s Carol White and – in agreement with my husband Jason – I’ve taken the decision to give up my job at the local anaesthetists and open a soft play area in Farnham, Surrey. Jason has his own construction business and we’ve decided to invest all our savings into this new venture, which I will run. Obviously we discussed it at length and we recognise that there are risks involved, but I’ve put a lot of thought into this and I am sure I can make a success of it.

I have my 4-year old granddaughter Isabel to thank for the inspiration. Soon after Isabel was born, my daughter went back to work and I reduced my working days from three to two in order to look after her. About 18 months ago, I began to take her to one of the four indoor play centres within a 10-mile radius of Farnham. Very quickly, I realised that although I was achieving the primary objective of giving Isabel the chance to play, have fun and get some healthy exercise, our local centres, in my view could make improvements in some areas. I intend to address those issues and implement the improvements in my centre.

Before I seriously considered the option of doing something myself, I had already begun the research process – taking notes while I was in the centres, picking up on the things that I felt I could do better, counting the numbers of children that came into the centre while Isabel was playing etc...

I am convinced that the customer base is out there and this will work. Farnham is an affluent town and there are several private schools around. We’ll be totally self-funded, with no borrowings and I’ve already started drafting the business plan – the next stage is to find premises and get the ball rolling.

I started to look for premises at the beginning of this month. I looked on the internet for agents in Farnham that let commercial properties, found four and went straight in to see them.

I told them what I was trying to achieve and at first they tended to show me large industrial units on the edge of town. The properties were big enough, but parking was always an issue and I don’t really want children coming out of my centre into an industrial estate. Eventually Ian Steele at Park Steele struck gold. He had a town centre retail unit, which had been empty for a year. It is in the East Street precinct, next to Sainsbury’s. It was the supermarket’s off license until they moved that in-store in mid-2009 and at 2,301 square feet, it’s the perfect size and height for a reception area, two-storey play frame, café and toilets and an office.

I said yes straight away. The rent is £35,000 a year, which is a lot higher than in an industrial estate, but the location makes it worth it. Not only is it next to Sainsbury’s, which generates a lot of passing custom, on the other side of Sainsbury’s is a children's bed shop and opposite, planning permission has just been granted for a 300 - apartment development. If only half of the people have children, that would be a huge boost for my business.

It will take a few weeks to sort out the heads of agreement with Sainsbury’s, which is sub-letting the premises to me, but I really feel like we’re onto a winner. We need to get our change of use application passed, of course, but what a perfect location.

Despite the fact that I’m not looking for funding at this stage, I went to meet the bank manager at Barclays and I have to say, he was brilliant. I showed him my budget and business plan and he said it knocked spots off most business plans people bring to him when they are looking for a loan. He offered a few helpful suggestions and also gave me the option of a free consultation with the business manager and marketing manager. I don’t feel like I need that right now, but it’s good to know it’s available.

One thing I have rapidly learnt is – if you need something, you have to ask for it. Sainsbury’s agreed to everything I asked for in the terms and that is a big help. It gives me an additional three parking spaces for staff and a deferment in rent payments until we open, as well as some concessions because we will be redeveloping the building. At the moment, it’s a shell and the old tills, shelves and shopping trolleys are in it.

In terms of the application for change of use, I spoke to the agent and he looked into all of that for us. The premises have an A1 Retail licence at the moment, and we needed to apply for an Class E (used to be D2)  Leisure licence. Jason has used a surveyor for his business for years and we got him involved to apply to the council, ensure we complied with building regulations and liaise with all the relevant parties. That process will take a while, as local businesses and residents’ associations have to be consulted as well as council planners, but fingers crossed we’ll sail through.

We put in the planning application to brand the outside of the unit the name as a limited company. We’re going to be called Stay & Play and I spent a few hours with a designer to come up with the logo. We have time to tweak that before we open – hopefully in April, but it’s exciting to see the identity of my centre begin to take shape. Again this is a process that takes a while, but it’s pretty much a formality, once we have permission to change the use of the premises. I also got a quote for insurance through Morton Michel. I was expecting to compare and contrast two or three insurance providers, but they came up first on the internet search (insurance for soft play) and Janet Hooper was so thorough, helpful and professional during our phone call I decided there and then that this was the broker I wanted to work with. Their policy also came in a fair way below what I had budgeted for, which was another bonus!

Another big decision to make – when should I hand my notice in? If everything goes to plan and our application is granted by February, our aim is to open in time for the Easter school holidays. Because of the nature of the business where I have worked for the last seven years, I have to give three months notice, which leaves me with a dilemma. We decided that I will hand in my notice on January 1 and leave on March 31, which leaves me with the minimum amount of time I could have to make the final preparations to open Stay & Play. If things don’t happen in the time frame we want them too, then it could prove an expensive move, but weighing everything up, I don’t think we have any other choice really.

My view, based very much on my own experiences, is that first and foremost, I want to look after the parents and grandparents. We have ordered nine lovely leather sofas and comfortable tables and chairs for the café, and we’ll be putting in a big screen to show terrestrial channels. There will be a heavy emphasis on home-made food in the café, with a wide selection of paninis, baguettes and sandwiches as well as oven-baked dishes and the full range of coffees and teas from an all-singing, all dancing espresso machine. For the children, we’ll have things like breaded chicken fillets, not nuggets, and oven baked chips, rather than fried. I’ll also be making mashed potato, and for dessert, a range of homemade cakes and puddings. There will be plenty of healthy options. I want to give parents a choice that they just don’t have elsewhere in this area - if they are happy, the kids will play anywhere and when I combine that with a high-quality playframe, my offer will definitely stand out from the rest.

We got the letter on February 16 telling us that our application for change of use had been granted – fantastic news! We received some very positive feedback on our plans from some of the groups who were consulted.

It was generally agreed that we will be contributing to the re-invigoration of the local business community, and to have that sort of support means a lot. Now we need to find out when we can get the keys and Jason can get in there and begin the construction job. My hunt for an equipment supplier, which as always began on the internet, ended with me placing an order with Soft Brick Company. I dealt with Nicole Warriner and she was so helpful. I gave them the dimensions of the site and my own design ideas, and once I had chosen the equipment that I wanted to buy, they sent me a computer-generated 3D drawing of what it would look like. I’ve paid the 30 per cent deposit and now they will send me the swatches and themes, so I can colour match and get a precise idea of what we’ll end up with. It’s starting to feel very real now – the next few weeks will be hectic, but I can’t wait to get cracking.

Please note: Our design team would like to highlight that our 3D images are infinitely better now compared with 2010!

• 4th - I spent this morning on the phone to Waverley Borough Council, checking that I am complying with environmental health standards. Silly things like whether the music we play at parties will breach any licensing or noise pollution laws or whether the flat screen TV that will play CBeebies all day for the toddlers is legal. I’m learning new stuff every time I make a phone call, and even when you are 99% certain that you know you’re within the law, it’s worth making sure – a fine after you’ve opened could be a crippling blow. I also checked about the need for CRB checks for my staff and was surprised to find out that, due to the nature of their duties, there is no legal obligation for them to be CRB registered. I’ve decided, however, that whether it’s a legal obligation or not, ethically I think it’s better to pay for them to get CRB clearance. It will give us protection when a parent inevitably asks the question at some point and as with inspections, I feel it is a small price to pay for my own peace of mind, as well as that of the parents. I’ve included it in the contracts of employment, which I have now completed. I pieced them together over time, as I thought about things, rather than going for the standard downloadable contract off the internet, as I feel this is a very specific sector and needs well-thought out clauses. I’ve met with the accountant that Jason uses and he’s sorted out all the National Insurance and PAYE details for me, so we’re pretty much ready to go staff-wise.
• 8th - I’ve been formulating plans in my head for some of the key aspects of Stay & Play for months; now, with opening day approaching quickly, it’s been time to put them into action. This is a key month for us. The marketing plan seems pretty straightforward to me. I’ve had another couple of meetings with the printer and he’s come up with a great flyer that details everything about us and what we offer as a soft play centre and also features a competition that we hope will attract more people through the doors in the early weeks. Anyone who comes in with the flyer will be entered into a prize draw, with the chance to win a free party for up to 12 children. That’s worth around £150 to the winning parents, but obviously won’t cost me as much as that. The flyer also includes details of how people can pre-book a party from April 15th (our expected opening date) onwards, so hopefully we’ll be able to open with some orders already on the books.
• 14th - I’ve had 5,000 flyers printed and they will be distributed in a number of ways. My daughter has a large circle of friends who are mums and that will be a good starting point. I’ve also been contacting the local primary schools to ask about promoting the centre to parents and the sheer weight of the word of mouth in Farnham will undoubtedly be useful. Because we haven’t got the keys yet – we should have had them at the end of February and its now mid-March – I have had to hedge our bets a bit on an opening date, although we still want to open before Easter. On top of that, I’m also going to put leaflets in the Farnham Herald and I’m considering a £300 half-page advert in the local free newspaper, which goes out to 33,000 readers. There will be a voucher in there for a free cup of coffee and a slice of cake for the parents. I’ll also put leaflets next door in Sainsbury’s, where a big portion of my target customer base shop.
• 17th - I’ve considered long and hard the subject of age profile and entrance prices and this is what I’ve ended up with: - There will be no charge for adults or children between 0-12 months. As I’ve said before, I want parents to feel comfortable in my environment and I’d rather benefit from the spend in the café from a contented adult than annoy them before they have even stepped foot in Stay & Play - Children will be charged on a sliding scale, depending on their age. Between 1-3, they will pay £3.80, that will rise to £4.20 for 3-5 year olds, and then again to £4.80 for over 5s. We have designed the centre so that it is suitable for children up to the age of 10, but I’m conscious that children grow at different speeds and we may put a height restriction in if bigger children become an issue. Basically, my view is that it’s volume of people through the door that I’m looking for and I don’t want to introduce anything that jeopardises that. If you have happy people coming through the door and then give them what they want once they’re inside, you’re going to do alright. I’m also going to pay staff to run the place for eight hours, so I want it to be busy for as much of that time as possible. I’ve got most of the staff in place already. I’m going to be running four separate part-time shifts. Opening hours will be 9.30-6 and two people will do the 9.30-2.30 shift each weekday and two more will do the 12-6 shift. I’ll be there obviously and my daughter is also going to put in some shifts and help out more when I’m away for any reason. We’ll put together the rota on a monthly basis. As long as we always have three people available, we’ll be able to run the reception, the play area and the café smoothly, as well as keep up a rigid cleaning regime for the equipment and the loos.
• 21st - Hygiene and cleanliness are right at the top of my priority list and I’m going on a hygiene course to get a few more pointers before I start. It’s not just about our cleanliness either, I’ve also bought miniature stainless steel swing bins for each table and there will be a packet of baby wipes on every table too. It’s the small touches that make the difference and I’m going on my own experience to select things that I would like to see if I was a customer (or that I would want Isabel to have access to as a child).
• 23rd - I’ve booked and paid for a Play Inspection Company inspection before we open. I’ve got no real worries – the equipment is being supplied by a very reputable manufacturer, we’ve got no sharp edges, no glass and we’ve gone for a full fitted carpet, rather than tiles. Although the parents are ultimately responsible for their children when they are in the centre, we will leave no stone un-turned to fulfil our obligations. An inspection costs £450 a year, why wouldn’t you do that? It’s a tiny price to pay for the safety of so many children. We’ve also decided that we’re going to move our food sourcing from Costco, where we are members, to Booker’s. We hadn’t been to Booker’s before, but when we went in this month, we realised how good it is and it’s a lot closer than the closest Costco. The quality of what we buy is most important, of course, but the price and lack of travel costs also worked in Booker’s favour.
• 25th - I’ve set up Stay & Play as a limited company, on the advice of my accountant and registered myself as the sole director. Barclays has also given me 18-months free banking. I do feel that I’ve received some excellent advice and that is allowing me to go into this adventure with my eyes very much wide open.
• 27th – Still no keys, which is putting us in a very tight position. It’s all down to the solicitors – one of Sainsbury’s solicitors has been ill and no-one else would look at the file – amazing. There are no problems, but a few clauses that need inserting before we can get final sign off. Very frustrating, but these things are sent to try us!

• 1st – It might be April Fool’s Day, but I’m sure they weren’t pulling my leg when they said we could have the keys. We were pacing up and down in the facility, with seven eager Soft Brick Co. employees who had come down to install the equipment on the 2nd when we finally got the yes. What a huge relief, but on the other hand, the really hard work starts here and we now have 12 days to do what we expected was six weeks work to turn this shell of a building into a play centre. We have signed a 15-year lease, with two five-year get out clauses, when we could pull out and retrieve our deposit money. One thing we didn’t expect was that there is stamp duty on leasing a commercial property – how much money does the government want from us all? Well, in our case, it’s £2,900. You can’t buck the system though, we just have to grin and bear it.
• 2nd – Well, the play-frame is now installed and it looks great. It wasn’t the way round we wanted it of course, as now we have to build around the frame and we’ll have to get a team of cleaners in to clear away the dust afterwards, but I suppose we can at least now see the first impressions of what the centre will be based around. Trying to be excited, but it’s getting a bit stressful!
• 6th – I completed my health and safety and hygiene certificates, both level 2. A local lady named Pauline Murdoch was kind enough to carry the courses out at home, due to the time constraints. It was fairly straightforward, which I was advised to look into by the environmental health guy, Jamie Tomlinson. You don’t have to do it, but safer food, better business is their philosophy and I couldn’t agree more.
• 8th – Jason has been working on the centre for the last few days and we are making progress. We’re still hoping to open on Friday 14th, but at this stage it’s beginning to look like we’ll be opening on Saturday or Sunday – we really can’t afford to open before we are totally ready.
• 14th – The decision has been made for us – we will be opening on Sunday, as there physically wasn’t the time to get everything done and – pardon the pun – dusted before today. We have shelved plans for a full-on opening party and will instead have a group of family and friends with their children to share a few bottles of champagne and nibbles with us on Sunday. It’s disappointing not to hit our opening date, but so many things have been thrown at us, I don’t think we can be too hard on ourselves. Jason has been working non-stop and he is absolutely exhausted. I feel like I’ve pushed and pushed him, but he’s been brilliant. He’s also done all this work, which he estimates would have cost around £20,000, for nothing and has also paid for the plumbers and electricians. He sees it as part of the overall investment and it is certainly going to be a huge help over the first few months, giving us a bit more financial leeway when we might need it.
• 15th – The play-frame was inspected today and the Play Inspection Company could not find anything to quibble with, so we passed with flying colours. That’s another important hurdle crossed – still quite a bit more work to do, but we’re going to get there, however long it takes us into the night.
• 16th – Opening Day!! Would you believe it, the weather has turned and our opening day was “blessed” with the unheard of temperature for Farnham in April of 27°C. We hardly noticed all that of course, having been here til midnight last night putting chairs together. The kitchen ceiling only went in yesterday, so it does feel a little like we’re flying by the seats of our pants, but there has been so much meticulous preparation, that certainly isn’t the case. We had a lovely get together and the kids loved the play area, so despite the fact there were maybe not as many paying customers as we had hoped for (45), it was a good day.
• 23rd – The end of the first week as a fully-fledged indoor play area operator and I have to say, it’s not been ideal. The sun shone throughout the week and the numbers of people through the door were low as a result. It’s sod’s law of course that the weather breaks when you want rain, but that’s not stopping me having sleepless nights and walking into work every morning filled with dread that we might have another quiet day.
• 30th – Week two has been no better really. The numbers through the door have not gone up, even though we have been getting great feedback from everyone who has come in. They seem to really appreciate the little touches, like free biscuits with the coffee, the wipes etc… and already we’ve had some return visits. I’m getting here at 7 every morning to clean the loos, hoover, do the Sainsbury’s shop and generally prepare for the day, and leaving at 7 in the evening and I must admit, it’s tiring. There are four of us in the team, myself and Siobhan, who is also full time, another girl who covers the two days when Siobhan is off and my daughter Carly, who works on the 3-4 busiest lunchtimes of the week. I’m beginning to question myself and whether I’ve done the right thing. It’s easy to blame the low numbers on the weather, but have I made a big mistake?
• May 7th – Well, I feel a bit better now. After falling well shot of our targets in weeks 1 and 2, we hit our target on week 3 and had a very encouraging 86 children through the door on Saturday, as well as a party for 10. I have budgeted so that we could get by on 30 children a day, but to make a profit, which we would obviously prefer, we need to average around 40 children a day. We were also above the daily average on Friday and Sunday, so revenue wise, hopefully we are off and running. We have had nearly 100 flyers returned to enter into our competition to win a free children’s party and also started to see the first vouchers coming in from our promo in the Herald. And the repeat visits are picking up – we are beginning to attract a following and hopefully every bit of marketing we do will pay dividends over the next few weeks and months. How could we have legislated for the hottest April on record when we were planning? It’s just got to be put down to sheer bad luck. With hindsight, we would have taken the fact that keys were so delayed arriving with us and used that delay to open later I suppose. But hindsight is a wonderful thing.  I’ve been working every day now for five weeks, which I expected – I just didn’t quite expect the levels of anxiety that came with it!
• 13th – I’ve had some really nice calls from operators in other parts of the country. They’d all read the last issue of Indoor Play and wanted to tell me not to be too despondent. They reassured me that my experiences were not outside the norm – one said that she has 100 people through the door most days, but it is not unusual for that to drop to 20 or 30 when it’s really hot. It was a real boost to know that there is a supportive community out there and it has really cheered me up to realise I am far from alone.
• 20th – Since the end of May, the weather has deteriorated and apart from the odd quiet day, we have had very consistent footfall through the centre. Where we were getting 25-30 children a day coming through, our ‘normal’ day will now see 60-80 children coming through the door, and that’s before we get into the school holidays! Our weekends are generally the busiest days – with the average numbers for a Saturday between 80 and 90, but the busiest day we have had so far was a Friday in June, when we counted 114 kids in – and counted them all out again as happy customers.
• 21st – It’s not just the change in the weather that’s made a difference – I’ve come to realise that people just had to get to know that we were here. There has been a gradual rise in awareness. Parents who have brought their children to parties here have then either come back to play at a later date or even booked another party for their own son or daughter. With hindsight, it was bound to take a while for the word to spread. We have a licence for up to 60 children playing here at any given time and until now we have not had to turn anyone away. I’m not looking forward to a time when we might have to do that, but it’s quite likely to happen at some stage. If it does, I’ll be ready with a drink voucher or a free entry offer though, as I know it can be a hassle just getting here, parking and getting the kids in and out of the car, and I would hate for people to be upset.
• 25th – We are doing really well with parties – I’ve got at least 2-3 booked in every weekend until the end of August and what I’m finding is that parents tend to book 6-8 weeks in advance, so I’m hoping that trend will continue. I had initially projected that we would have 2- 5 parties a week and, as well as the weekend parties, we’ve also had quite a few booked in during the week, so all in all, we’ve probably exceeded that target slightly as well.
• 28th – The equipment is brilliant and I can’t say a bad word about the Soft Brick Company and everything they’ve done for me. The kids love it and Soft Brick have been so helpful, to the point that when a few tags got lost of our little tag game, they replaced them for free even though I was prepared to pay for them. As I’ve said before, it’s the little things that make all the difference.
• 30th – One of the more pleasing aspects so far has been the response from the parents. We have such a lot of people taking the time to comment on how much they like Stay and Play, particularly on the little extra touches like free biscuits and baby wipes. That vindicates my vision – it takes 16p off my profit every time I give a free biscuit away and I don’t have to do that, but it genuinely makes a difference to people’s experience. I know from my own experience that it is relatively unusual for people to take the time to make positive comments, but I’ve lost count of the number of times when people have asked me if I was the owner/manager, then thanked me and told me what a lovely time they’ve had here.

• 4th – The first quarter ends on July 16 and, against all the odds, we’ve made enough money for me to give all the staff a small bonus. I’m planning to give the full timers £150 and the part-timers £50 or £60 each. OK, they are not going to be able to go to Las Vegas on it, but they’ll be able to have a spend-up at the shops, and it’s my way of telling them how much I appreciate them. They really do work non-stop.
• 7th – I’ve had some new thoughts about the menu in the café. I always thought it would be updated as we gauged the customers. The food has been going really well and it has been appreciated that we don’t have any fried food. Our chicken fillets and fish fillets, with oven baked chunky chips are very popular. The best sellers are our sandwiches though, which are thick cut and served with a fresh salad and a generous serving of Kettle chips. They are £3.50 and sell very well. I’ve also introduced a lunch bag for the kids, which costs £3.95 for five items – sandwich, crisps, fairy cake, bag of fresh-cut fruit and a juice. We sell 10-15 of those a day on average. Everything is individually wrapped, so people know that they can take it home with them if it doesn’t get finished and I think that has been a big plus point too. I budgeted to take around £100 a day in the café, and already we are taking upwards of £250 on our busiest days. Even an average day will bring in £120-£130, so that suggests we’re definitely hitting the spot with our offer. I’m very choosy with what I eat and I am the same with what I buy for other people, so the margin on our food and drink is not as high as it perhaps could be. I buy all the big stuff at Booker’s, which is very competitive and a lot closer than Costco, but I buy most things fresh from Sainsbury’s every morning and I’ll go for Taste the Difference wherever possible. I know I could squeeze some more profit out of it if I bought cheaper food, but to my mind, there is just as much value in getting parents back through the doors because they like to eat here.
• 14th – We’ve already had all of the balls out of the ball pit for a good clean – it took hours for Siobhan to do that! – and showed us that it’s not just the balls but what’s underneath them that need careful monitoring. Once we have been operating a bit longer, we’ll take up Soft Brick on their offer of a maintenance contract I expect – I certainly wouldn’t go anywhere else.
• 17th – Carley has said to me more than once that until we have gone through our first winter, we will not know exactly what we have got on our hands here. We haven’t even been through our first summer yet, but I know she’s right. Soft play areas can get so busy in the winter – and based on what we have experienced so far, I’ve already got plans in place to employ another full-time member of staff before we get to the winter peak. That will take us to 6 in total, but we’re already finding that it’s not just the obvious things that need more hands, it’s things like maintaining the cleanliness throughout the day and clearing up behind customers when they leave, so the next set of customers can enjoy the same experience.
• 21st – I suppose the best way to sum up how well it has gone recently is that Jason and I are going away for 10 days in October. We’re off to our favourite place in the world, Las Vegas, but I think I’ll stay away from the tables - I’ve done enough gambling this year! I could not have dreamt of that two months ago, when I was honestly wondering how I could ever have a holiday again – but I have people I can totally trust working for me. We booked it last week and it has taken a big weight off my shoulders. I’ve still not had a day off since we opened and while things have got so much better, it has still been hard. I lost over a stone in six weeks, some people would pay a fortune for that, but the holiday is the light at the end of the tunnel and I’ve felt so much better since it was booked. Carley will be in charge while I’m away, with Siobhan as her wing-woman (!) and the other part-time girls will also be here. Both Carley and Siobhan have been fantastic assets for me. Siobhan came to us from a job with a catering company in Farnborough and had wanted to do a job like this for years. She is brilliant with the parents and the children and her commitment has been amazing. Carley has been tremendously supportive too and I know if she didn’t have Isabel, she’d be working here full time. All in all, it’s impossible to be anything but pleased with the way the last couple of months have gone. I wouldn’t change anything, I wanted to give the parents of Farnham an alternative indoor play venue and I’ve done everything that I wanted to do. So far, it appears to be working, the next step is to maintain and then build on the momentum we’ve got going.
• 24th – Touch wood, we have hardly had any issues at all. Two minor accidents have been logged in our accident book – one little boy tripped while he was running and had a small carpet burn on his chin and another got a cut above his eye when he ran into a chair another customer was moving. Thankfully neither incident was serious or anything we could have foreseen or avoided, but it does keep you vigilant. We are getting a sign made to tell people they must wait for us to let them out of the doors when they leave, because there have been a couple of occasions when the door has been left open for a short while – again thankfully without any problem. You have to be aware of all sorts of things obviously, but sometimes it takes something to happen before you realise you weren’t aware in the first place. I had a full oven the other day for instance and all the electric went off in the kitchen. I had absolutely no idea what to do – there’s a wall of switches to flick but I didn’t know which one was which. Fortunately, one of the electricians who contracts for Jason was working nearby and he popped in to sort it out, but it was panic stations for a while! Now, we have a book with numbers for an electrician, plumber etc… and when I go away in October, I’m also going to pay the lady who gave me my health and safety training to be on hand in case the girls have any questions that need answering. Most probably, nothing will come up, but you can’t be too careful.
• 3rd – We have a credit card machine on rental, but increasingly it’s become obvious that it’s not really worth setting it up. We’ve only had two people asking us if they can pay on their cards so far and we politely said no. It didn’t cause a problem and people are well aware that we take cash now.
• 5th - Our self-designed check-in-system works really well – I based it largely on the one I used for the 7 years I worked at the doctor’s. We record the age of the children, how much they were charged, the time they arrived and then log them out. We therefore have a very simple check list that shows us in seconds precisely the number of children in the centre at any one time. We’ve got up to capacity three times so far, but never turned anyone away yet. But I’m not worried about having to turn people away, as we’re finding that most people understand if you do things in the right way.
• 9th - What a mad day that was – easily the busiest we have had to date. The rain poured and we were rewarded with 160 children through the course of the day and we also had a pre-booked party of 18 this afternoon. They were fairly evenly spread out I suppose and at no time did we need to consider turning people away, although we were at capacity once. I’m really pleased that, even though we were rushed off our feet, we coped really well and it’s days like this that show we are properly equipped to do this.
• 18th – Our play equipment has certainly been tested out on the busiest days and it has stood up to those tests very well. Even when we have been full and had kids of 7, 8 and 9 jumping all over it, we have never yet had anyone complaining that there is not enough to keep them happy. We’re very stringent on cleaning – I get in early every morning and hoover and clean everything before anyone else gets in. Then, whenever we get a quiet spell, one of the girls will run the hoover around and clean everything with antibacterial spray.
• 22nd – I suppose we should have expected something like this, but today we had our first minor incident with a naughty boy! It was actually the second time the same boy had turned all the taps on in the toilet and caused a problem, but this time it was worse, because the tank overflowed and flooded the office, tripping all the electrics and soaking all my paperwork. As if that wasn’t bad enough, the coffee maker broke at exactly the same time. We got the plumber straight in and he’s going to fit a restrictor valve to the taps so this shouldn’t happen again. I’ve also decided to get a spare coffee maker and latte maker, so we don’t get caught out there again either.
• 26th – I’m doing all of my own admin and also still doing the admin for Jason’s business. So far it has not caused me too much of a headache – I get back home at 6.30, throw something in the oven for dinner and then do it all on a daily basis if I can. I hope I can continue like that, but it may be that we look for some help with the cleaning if it becomes an issue.
• 29th – I’ve now got six staff and that means there are three of us here all the time when no-one is on holiday. We can manage with two if necessary, but three makes everything that bit easier. The only time when it got a bit manic was yesterday, when I had eight orders for food and the oven was full, all the salad bags had gone and we’d run out of bread! There was no point panicking, so I got Carley to explain to people who were waiting that they would have to wait for 20 minutes to order while I cleared the backlog. We gave everyone a free cup of tea or coffee and Carley then went out to take their orders with a pad. Once again, we found that people understood and because we made the effort to treat them right and explain the situation, there were no complaints at all.
• 1st – I’ve booked an advert in Surrey Living magazine, which is distributed free to all GU9 and GU10 postcodes. To be honest, I don’t think we need to spend fortunes on adverts at this point, as we are attracting a lot of custom through word of mouth and have already built up a strong regular following. But there’s no point assuming that will last forever and a couple of Carley’s friends who are customers knew the editor and got her to come down. She loved it and has written a double page article for the October issue, so we’re going to advertise with our details. I’ve also done a deal with the army’s Families magazine, which is an annual publication that is given to all existing army families and any new army families who move into the area. There is a really big army influence around this part of Surrey and I know they really appreciate and use this magazine when they move in.
• 5th - I think now the holidays are over, I can say they were up and down but reasonably steady overall. We had some crazy days, but there were also some very quiet days during the six weeks when we had as few as 18 or 20 kids in. More than ever before, we have been aware of the difference that the weather makes to the business. We knew of course that we’d be busier when it rains, but it has to rain consistently for it to make a major difference to our day. If it’s cloudy with the odd shower, mums wait until it stops and might still go to the park. If it pours and the grass is wet, they head our way in their droves. There are also parents around here who have annual passes for places like Birdland, Chessington or Thorpe Park and although they cost a fair amount when they buy them (£95 for a family pass at Birdland for instance), once they’ve paid that one-off fee, going for a day out seems relatively cheap and it’s understandable on a nice day if you’d put the children in the car and go to these outdoor places. Everyone is trying to entertain their kids every day and it has to be affordable. When it rains, they need an indoor alternative and in Farnham, we’re top of the list.
• 8th – The letting agent popped in to see how we are doing and also to let me know that he had another unit available next door if we want to expand. Not yet, but you never know a few more months down the line, I told him.
• 9th – We’ve just taken our 52nd party booking in less than four months and at £9.50 a head for a minimum of 10 children, they are proving extremely successful for us. We’ve got one next Sunday for 38 children and when that happens, anything else on that day is a bonus. Every day we get either an enquiry or a booking and many of the parties lead to another parent booking, so it’s a big boost to the cash flow.
• 12th – We continue to get really good comments about our food, but we’re still looking at a couple of options for the winter months. People like our menu and we hear constantly that the food is very reasonably priced. Our most expensive adult option is lasagne, salad and chips and that is just £4.95, and the health-oriented kids menu seems to be going down a storm. We are thinking of investing in a jacket potato oven, which would add some nice variety to our hot offer and maybe even some soup options. Carley has suggested both and, as a young mum herself, I have to admit she’s been right on most things so far. It might also take some pressure off the rest of the hot menu.
• 17th – I’ve always been a fairly realistic person, but with the benefit of hindsight, maybe in the first few weeks after opening, I was expecting a bit too much. Four months in, I get far less disappointed when we have a quiet day, because I understand what is driving customer behaviour and can be confident that the reason they are not coming through the doors on any given day is not something we have done wrong.
• 22nd - I can’t really believe how well things have been going. My business plan suggested we should be paid back on our investment in five years. On the good days though, we’re banking a fair amount more than I budgeted for and if things continue to go as well as they have in the first quarter, I’m already revising that down to three years. That is a lot of money we have to find and there is plenty of water to pass under the bridge, but so far, I have to be really, really pleased with things. I’m keen not to get ahead of myself of course, and to enjoy the good days and accept the bad, but the first priority will be to look at salaries, which I had originally planned to do at the end of year one. We have paid out well deserved bonuses to the girls in the last couple of months and they have continued to be absolutely fantastic for me. Fingers crossed, we have a good end to this calendar year and we will re-evaluate the salary situation in the New Year.
• 27th – Not that I’ve been counting down the days or anything, but we’re going on holiday in two weeks and my bag has already been packed on the spare bed for over a month!! We are really looking forward to some time off together and I will be going confident in the fact that the centre is in good hands while I’m away, which is testament to the amazing support I’ve received from all of my staff.
• 30th – It’s far too early to say that Stay and Play is going to be a long-term success, but up to this point, we’ve done ourselves proud. There is no doubt it’s the hardest thing I’ve ever done, but already it is the most rewarding for me personally. It also feels like I’m laying some foundations for my daughter, granddaughter and the whole family and shows that at the age of 57, if you have the right idea and the right amount of energy, you really can follow your dreams.

"My hunt for an equipment supplier, which as always began on the internet, ended with me placing an order with Soft Brick Company. I dealt with Nicole Warriner and she was so helpful." - Carol White, Stay & Play

• 4th - We've had our first review - in the October issue of the local NCT newsletter. Overall it was extremely positive and complementary, but there was a comment that non party goers could feel a bit overwhelmed when a party is going on around them in the centre. We've hopefully turned that into a positive though, because I have pinned the article on the notice board and thanked the anonymous mother who wrote it for her kind words, while acknowledging the small complaint and offering any parents who are in the centre when a party is ongoing something free from the café.
• 6th - I think things are developing as I saw in the initial plans. I always wanted Stay & Play to be the best indoor destination for the children of Farnham, but knew that would depend on making the mums and dads happy too. We really do seem to be becoming a regular part of the social calendar for the parents round here and our coffee sales have been really strong because of that. We definitely sell more lattes than anything, with cappuccinos next behind I think. It doesn't really make much difference which one we sell, but it's interesting to see the trends.
• 11th - It's the day before my holiday and I can honestly say I'm very calm about the whole thing. Pauline, who did all of my health and safety and hygiene training has been in for a meeting and I've paid her a retainer in case any of the girls are faced with something they need advising on in the next 10 days. Other than that, I know they'll be OK; I've got four on each shift, so they will have enough hands on deck however busy it gets and they have all been absolutely brilliant so far. Las Vegas here I come!
• 17th - I have not been worried at all, but I'd be lying if I said I haven't been thinking about work a lot while I've been here. I suppose, as I've only had two days off a month since we opened in April, it's pretty inevitable that it's the first thing my mind wanders to in the morning. I called Carley today to make sure everything is running smoothly and she assured me it was. We've had good numbers through the door, no incidents have happened and they haven't had to call Pauline - back to the cocktails then.
• 23rd - Well, now I know that it's possible to go on holiday and leave other people in charge, I'm sure it will be less of a daunting prospect next time. Pauline wasn't needed, but I'm glad that in my head, I'd put all the things in place that covered every eventuality. I'd stocked up on everything but fresh food and left a float for any extra expenses that might have been incurred. They all did very well and everything is exactly the same as before we left. I won't have any qualms doing it again, that's for sure.
• 25th - I thought long and hard about things to do for Halloween and for Bonfire Night and I've decide that we'll mark it, but we won't be going to town. I don't want to hang things around the place, as I'd be terrified that something would fall, or more likely be pulled down and one of the children would be hurt in some way. I'm going to get a drum of some kind and we'll fill it with sweets for the kids. There are no shortage of reminders that it's Halloween everywhere else in their lives and I'm sure no-one is going to miss it.
• 29th - I got a call from a man who had been given my details by Soft Brick Company as someone who had set up a new soft play operation recently. I won't say exactly where he was from, but he's looking to open a new centre in the north and we talked about a lot of things. One of the main things I suggested though was not to make a decision on an out-of-town site purely because it's cheaper. He was debating whether to go for a town centre location, but felt that it was too expensive, but my experience is that being in this location has helped me attract a large amount of passing trade that I may never have seen if I'd gone for an industrial estate outside Farnham. Of course each centre is different, but I think the difference in costs would be about one third annually, in terms of lease and rates - and I'm pretty certain that I've covered that by being in the right location.

• 5th - We brought the team some jewellery from Pandora's when we cam back from Vegas, to thanks them all for their hard work. But they've all been asking us what it's lie out there, so we've decided to give them a flavour of Las Vegas lifestyle for their Christmas party. We've booked a table for 12 at a Christmas do at a casino in Reading and we're also going to give them all £50 to play on the tables. We're already very excited!
• 7th - No-one said a word about the lack of Halloween or Bonfire Night stuff and the kids are always happy with sweets. So that helps with a few decisions for Christmas too. I'll obviously put banners up and make it as Christmas-y as possible, but I don't think a tree or loads of hanging decorations are going to be all that practical. Instead, Jason's going to find me a nice big tub and we'll spend some money on buying a nice gift for every child who comes into the centre in Christmas week.
• 12th - We got a new coffee machine today, after the last one broke. We tried to get an engineer out, but they only do calls for industrial machines, so we had to buy another one. It's a Krups latté, cappuccino and espresso maker and it makes lovely coffee. At £600 plus, it's certainly not a cheap acquisition, but I wouldn't scrimp on quality and as I've mentioned before, a good cup of coffee is very high on the priority list for a lot of the parents who come through our doors.
• 18th - The longer we're doing this, the more we realise that there isn't really going to be a set pattern to things. We tend to get a bit of a rush first thing, at 9.30am, when mums come in with the little ones when after they've dropped the older brothers and sisters off at school. But today for instance, no-one came in at 9.30 and then we had the rush at 10. One good thing is that once it starts it does seem to reasonably steady until a lull after lunchtime. Then it generally picks up towards the end of the day again, after school finishes. You can't necessarily rely on it, but you have to be prepared for it and I'm glad to say we haven't been caught out yet!
• 23rd - Our party bookings continue to be very steady - 4-5 a week minimum. We always have two on a Saturday and two on a Sunday and there is a good mix of ages and numbers. We've had two parties for twins of 1 and parties for children as old as seven. We can cater for a maximum of 24 sat down in the party room, but if people hire the whole place out, we've got a capacity of 45, although health and safety says we can go as high as 60 and we had a party for 53 on Sunday. It was my day off, so I had to change that and, although I could do with a day off at the moment, financially it was worth it and I would have only had to ask Carley to come in her day off if I didn't do it myself.
• 28th - Christmas is definitely looming large, now that half term has long been and gone. We stayed really busy after the summer holidays ended and have managed to maintain it pretty consistently throughout October and November. Within that time, there have been two or three bumper weeks and that will give me the leeway I need to close for three or four days over the festive period knowing my costs are still covered. I reckon on needing £350 a day to break even, which obviously includes the days we're closed. So we're going to close at 4pm on Christmas Eve, then re-open on the 27th and we'll be closed on New Year's Day. I'm sure there will be plenty of parents looking for an outlet for their kids energy on the other days and we're here to please, now I just need to get volunteers to work on those days.
• 3rd – What a great Christmas party we had last night – eight of us at the casino in Reading. We had an excellent meal and then everyone had free chips from us to play the tables – no-one won unfortunately, but all the girls managed to play for a long time with their money and we had a lovely night. We are pretty close-knit here, but it is so nice to be able to get out and let our hair down together once in a while.
• 6th – We haven’t seen it yet, and maybe I’m being a bit pessimistic, but I’m expecting a bit of a drop-off in numbers in the run up to Christmas, as people do their shopping and everything else that goes with it, but as this is our first bash at a festive period, it’s hard to predict. I suppose it could depend on the weather a bit, as the more dry and bright days we get, the less likely we are to see good numbers through the door.
• 11th – We’re not going to go to town on Christmas decorations or anything, but we are going to have a tub of presents for children to take when they come in before the 24th. I’ve bought a load of princess pencil and rubber sets for the girls and for the boys, I’ve got them the Cars version. There will also be a big tub of sweets on the reception, so no-one needs to go away empty handed.
• 14th – The pattern that I touched on last month does seem to be establishing itself now. The mornings are busy from 9.30 until we have a quieter period after lunch. Then it picks up again when the schools close. I don’t know if it will remain like that, but it helps to have some idea how the day will pan out. We’re also getting quite a lot of business from childminders, who we give a 20% discount and also a receipt so they can reclaim the money from the parents.
• 21st – I thought the TV monitor would get used more than it does. It sits above the tables in the café and I’m glad it’s there as it accompanies my first couple of solitary hours every morning! It is on from time to time, sometimes for CBeebies when parents want something to distract children into eating their lunch and sometimes for dads to catch up on the sports news. It’s pleasantly surprising that it’s not a constant though, as it suggests that customers are more than engaged with the alternative parts of our offer.
• 23rd – I was right about being a bit pessimistic after all – we’ve had a really good run-up to Christmas with no fall at all in numbers. You’d have thought there would be a lull somewhere along the line, but we have consistently been getting 70-plus in. Having decided not to do it, we did talk again a few days ago about getting one of the men to dress up as Father Christmas on Christmas Eve. But it has been so busy and the time has flown so quickly, that we just haven’t got round to doing it this year. Christmas Eve is on us before we expected.
• 27th – Well, we had a lovely Christmas and I had two days in a row off, which doesn’t happen very often! We opened from 10am to 4pm today and it was very busy. More than 90 people came in, which was a lot more than we expected. We had a bit of a debate over whether we should open at 10 or 11 o’clock, but Carley convinced me 10 was the right way to go and sure enough, we had people in as soon as we opened. We made sure from the beginning of December that we displayed the opening times prominently outside and inside the centre, both on our notice board and on reception, and we also posted them on Facebook, which is beginning to be a very useful tool. So, while there were admittedly a few people who were unaware, we had definitely done everything we could do to communicate the festive changes.
• 30th - Every day between the 27th and New Year went a bit nuts – we had a party each day and also more than 90 people, all of whom were obviously looking for somewhere to expend some energy after Christmas at home. I must admit, I thought more people would be happy for their kids to stay at home and play with their new toys, but we’re definitely not complaining and we even had to get a third person in to help out. There were plenty of parents happy to pay the entrance fee at 3.15, even though they knew they would get less than an hour of play. These few days have given us a great deal of food for thought for next Christmas – and just the fact that we are already thinking about being here next Christmas is a boost in itself.
• 3rd – I haven’t got a New Year’s Resolution for Stay & Play. I would just be happy for everything to continue in the same vein as the last six months and I’m not looking for any more than that right now. Long term, the vision is the same - if we can remain on this course, we will be able to pay the money back on our investment with plenty of time left on the lease, which would enable me to take more of a back seat and perhaps have a few more days off. I know that’s some way in the distance yet though and I’m enjoying myself, so why wish the time away?
• 10th – I took the review down that we had on the notice board for nearly two months. It got a lot of positive comments while it was up and I really hope the lady who wrote it came in during that time, so she could see that we acted on her advice.
• 16th - Parties have gone through the roof lately – I’m not really sure where people get all their money from sometimes! Over the weekend just gone, we had two parties each day, three of which were exclusive hires. When we get weekends like that, everything else is a bonus and we had plenty of time on both days for other customers to come in. We generally only take party bookings in the afternoons, although we did have one in the morning yesterday and it doesn’t seem to deter parents from bringing their children at different times. Again, we are very careful to communicate what’s happening to other customers. It’s inevitable that the odd parent will turn up anyway, but we can only say sorry when that happens and ask them to come back later.
• 18th – I’ve had some new leaflets done for Stay & Play and I used a different supplier. I didn’t exactly shop around the first time, as I was in a rush and there was so much else going on as we prepared to open up. That is totally reflected in the quality of job and the price I have go this time. The first guy made a lot of mistakes, even after the leaflets were proof-read by us, and because we were up against it, we had to go with them and it ended up costing me nearly £3,000. I found out soon enough that I could have got them far more cheaply, and this time it’s been quick and easy, we’ve got what we wanted and also saved a substantial amount of money in comparison. You live and learn.
• 23rd – Like every one of Indoor Play’s readers I’m sure, I would be lying if I said I hadn’t worried about the effects of the recession. I’m still managing to squirrel away the money I want to have as a buffer should we have a quieter time – in the summer, for instance – and I will always believe in that course of action. I know my costs pretty well now, although the heating and electricity charges are a bit higher than I envisaged in the winter, but for indoor play centres, it’s important that we have some money set aside for a sunny day! There is no point looking too far ahead or taking things for granted; who knows what is round the corner? I know there is still talk of a double dip, but three weeks into the new year, I can only say if this is the trend, then we should be fine.
• 29th – I asked Siobhan today how many of our customers she believes are regulars and it’s somewhere in the region of 60-70% - based on them coming in at least once a week. I obviously know a lot of them, but Siobhan spends more time on the front desk and playing with the children, while I’m in the kitchen, so she’s a better judge of that for sure. She’s playing in there so much sometimes I have to tell her to come out! I think that is a very healthy number of regulars though – if we can keep it at that level we won’t go too far wrong.

A year in play!

In our final peak at Carol White’s diary, we find out what shape Stay & Play is in as it nears its first anniversary and crosses the threshold from ‘New’ to ‘Nearly New’ operator.

• 5th - As a town, Farnham doesn’t seem to have been too badly hit by the recession. It is a reasonably wealthy town, so in economic terms, it had a bit of a buffer compared to other places. The high street has survived mostly, although a lovely couple who owned a kitchen store across the road had to shut down recently because they just couldn’t compete with the prices of chains like B&Q. It’s a sad fact of business at the moment, but it does bring it home to you that you can’t lose focus.
• 9th - Ten months into its use, the equipment has been extremely robust. We still regularly give it a deep clean, as well as the every day clean that keeps it pristine. The balls are taken out of the ball pit every six weeks maximum and Jason gets the mats out and gives everything a thorough wash down with anti-bacterial spray. One of us also sprays 2-3 times a day, to ensure that no customer has a bad experience. I have a great relationship with Nicole at Soft Brick Company and I know that if anything does go wrong, I can get straight on the phone for a replacement. Cost is not the major issue where the equipment is concerned, as nothing in the centre is more important than the standard of our kit really.
• 11th – It’s interesting to note that we seem to be getting more dads in at weekends than mums, although it is obviously skewed far more towards mums in the week. The dads seem to love letting their kids loose while they take a chance to read the paper and have a coffee, or occasionally loiter around the TV if there’s some sport on.
• 14th – It’s the day of love, so we bought some Lindt chocolates and offered them to the mums instead of biscuits. The mums loved it, but Carley wasn’t sure about handing them out!
• 16th – The half-term holidays have been absolutely amazing. We had 80-100 in every day, helped by the fact that it was wet and miserable outside for most of them. It’s easily the busiest half term we have had to date, as the weather was fine for every one last year. We didn’t do anything different, except for getting an extra person in where necessary, but the hours flew by.
• 23rd - I was extremely glad of my own fastidious financial planning today when I got a bill for more than £12,000 from Waverley Borough Council, for a whole year of business rates. I knew when I set up Stay & Play that I would have to pay rates, of course, and contacted the council in March last year to ask them to come and assess me. I went back to them two or three times, but it wasn’t until September that they came out. I had saved what I thought was roughly the right amount every month, so I wasn’t particularly worried, but the bill I got today needs paying by the end of March. It really is a good job I’m experienced enough to have that money available – I can imagine lots of businesses wouldn’t be able to pay with such a short notice period. You have to be on the ball with things like this, otherwise you’ll get some nasty shocks.
• 27th - The Soft Brick Company asked me if I’d mind a group looking to set up a similar sized play area in London come down and look at the play-frame at Stay & Play. I must admit, it was nice to be held up as a good example by Soft Brick, and the three guys who came down – I won’t be too descriptive as they haven’t set up yet – absolutely loved it. They had been to several and said this was the most relaxing. They also loved the equipment and the little touches we have put around the place to make it a more attractive environment to visit. It was manic when they turned up, so I couldn’t give them quite as much time as I would have liked. But it was good that they saw a busy centre and we had a good chat and I think they went away happy.

• 4th – I’ve talked about trends before, but Carley has picked up on a new one that, when I traced it backwards, appears to happen every month. Towards the end of the month, we have a few quieter days, before we see a pick up in numbers again as the new month begins. It happened again in February, when the 28th and 29th were quiet and then the start of March was noticeably busier. I record every day’s figures, but it hadn’t really clicked before. It’s interesting that even in a relatively affluent town like Farnham, things get tight as pay day approaches. I suppose it’s fair to say that going to a play area is one of the things that can be cut out when you’re counting the pennies.
• 9th – After 11 months, we still have only three minor incidents in the accident book. One grazed chin, two heads knocked together and the other day, one girl who banged her head climbing up the slide. We were not culpable in any of the incidents and there is a well-displayed sign asking parents not to let their children climb up the slide, but I still think it’s better to be safe and record it, than sorry.
• 13th – We are starting to create a real children's’ community in this little row of shops at the back of Sainsbury’s. A party store, which supplies costumes for kids and adults, as well as a full range of stuff for children's’ parties opened next door yesterday and next door to that is a great toys and games shop, which opened last month. We have gone out of our way to be helpful, by offering advice and helping the new stores market themselves, which appears to have been very well received. It can only help us to have two neighbours with a similar target audience – hopefully we will build off the backs of each other.
• 20th - I have to pinch myself when I think that we have been open nearly a year, but April 16th will be 366 days (including the leap day) since we officially introduced ourselves to the Farnham public. We’re going to mark the occasion by taking the girls across to the hotel on the other side of the road and give them a glass of champagne and then an afternoon tea. It’ll make a nice change for them to be the ones being serving tea and cakes and it’s extremely fitting after all their help in making this a successful first year that we should all celebrate together.
• 25th – We’ve decided it’s time for another break, so Jason and I are going to the Aphrodite Hills in Cyprus for a week. He’s a keen golfer and bid for the villa in an auction. It looks lovely there and, as it’s the second holiday I’ll have had while running Stay & Play, I am much more relaxed about going away. I’ve already got everything in place, with a senior member of staff in every day and Pauline on stand by for any health and safety requirements. We didn’t need her last time, but it’s amazing how much better you can sleep at night when you know she’s there if you need her.
• 29th – We’re going to have a staff meeting to evaluate our performance in the first year in operation and make some decisions about things we could change or perhaps improve on in year two. I think one thing that will happen is a price rise. We set the prices right at the beginning and I knew then that whatever happened, we would not make any changes until we had experienced a whole year. I don’t intend to increase anything drastically – maybe 20-30p here and there, but we need to reflect inflation and also take account for the impact VAT has on my food sales. When I put the budget together, I thought of the café as secondary to the play area in terms of income, but as it transpires, it has been anything but that. But, as everyone knows, you can’t charge VAT on food, but you do pay VAT on food sales to the government and I think I might need to adjust prices to ensure that my food offer is profitable as well as popular. We’ll still be exceptional value for money, but having negotiated my rent agreement to rise on a sliding scale over the first five years, I need to be sure that I’m getting the necessary value too.
• 31st – As this is my last entry for Indoor Play readers, I thought I’d take a look back at the year that’s just flown by and ahead to year two of Stay &Play. Since you first encountered me, in September 2010, my life has been like a whirlwind. So much has happened, mostly good, and I’m sure when I get some time in years to come, I’ll look back over my diary jottings and be amazed with the amount of things I have dealt with to get where we are. All things considered, it’s been a great year and I have to be happy with where we are as a business. I think, with experience behind us, we can go into another year with a slightly different mindset, certainly without the same level of worry as I inevitably had as I started out last year. I’m still apprehensive about the summer, but my budgets are now based on real experience rather than educated guesswork. As I’ve said more than once before, as long as I can pay my bills, everything else is a bonus.

- The Soft Brick Team

Contact us today to begin setting up your own Indoor Soft Play centre - Call on +44 (0)1925 837733 or click here to enquire now!

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Indoor Playground Business Plan Sample

OCT.09, 2014

Indoor Playground Business Plan for Starting Your Own Business

Do you want to open up a child recreational center such as an indoor playground? Providing an opportunity for children to play and grow in a healthy and safe environment is no doubt a business which being profitable is interesting too. Though the business doesn’t require any specific knowledge or skillset, however, the importance of having good management skills can’t be disregarded. If you think you responsible enough to run a challenging business like this, you must start making your kids indoor playground business plan . To help you we are providing here a sample business plan indoor playground for a child recreational center startup named, PlayLand.

Executive Summary

2.1 the business.

PlayLand will be a modern indoor center for children to enjoy different activities. The center will be based in Dallas and will be owned by a lady, Kate Dench. PlayLand will be providing several opportunities to children and teens to enhance their mental and physical capability under the supervision of highly trained staff.

2.2 Management of Indoor Playground

Managing a child playing center is no doubt a time-consuming job, that’s why Kate has decided to hire a general manager to help her in running the business. Following a stepwise approach, she has decided to make a business plan first before jumping in the preparations. Though many business plans for indoor playgrounds are available on the web, Kate will seek the services of experts to help her in making a modern indoor playground business plan .

2.3 Customers of Indoor Playground

Instead of thinking about how to start indoor playground business , researching on who will be your customers can be a much better idea. Knowing your customers can help you in deciding many things related to your startup such as your services, your product pricing, and your advertisement strategy for business plan . As for PlayLand, the customers will mostly be the parents. But, since the center will be providing some games for teens too, we expect that some youngsters will also be coming to our place.

2.4 Business Target

Defining targets can help one in thriving in the business area with even more enthusiasm. In this sample spreadsheet for indoor playground business plan we are mentioning a few business targets of PlayLand. The center aims at balancing the startup costs with the profits earned by the end of the two years of the launch while earning a profit margin of $10k per month by the end of the startup year.

Company Summary

3.1 company owner.

Kate Dench will be the owner of PlayLand. Kate has done bachelors in Sociology from Stanford University and has been teaching in a high school for a year. Kate is a hardworking person and strongly believes that loyalty with the customers and work is the only way that can lead her business to the topmost position.

3.2 Why the indoor playground business is being started

Kate wanted to secure her future by investing her money in establishing a business that can benefit her for a long time. So, following her graduation, she thought upon all her interests and decided to start an indoor playground business . She has several ideas about how to make a kids play area that’s why she can do this in a much better way than anybody else.

3.3 How the indoor playground business will be started

Following a stepwise approach, Kate has decided to hire a business plan writer to make a business plan for her. She has already rented a building with 4 rooms and a large lounge along with a playing field. Now, she will have to convert it in a modern indoor play area by installing different games and playthings.

Kate wants to get each and everything settled on time that’s why she has started to invest her several hours on work from now. She has even contacted the store owners from whom she will be purchasing the required equipment. Kate will also be hiring the required staff one week before the launch. In this sample business plan on how to start indoor playground business , we’ll later be listing the exact number of employees with their job descriptions.

The costs for of startup are as follows:

The startup requirements are as follows:

Services for Customers

If you are thinking about how to open a kids indoor playground , you must first decide which services you will be able to provide. Because if you don’t have enough capital to support basic activities in your playhouse, you won’t be able to earn a big name. So, before starting your own childrens indoor playhouse , it is wise to think whether you can provide the desired services or not.

Though Kate is not starting her business at a very large scale, she has decided to provide the following services:

• Active Play: There will be playrooms for children of ages 3 to 10. The rooms will be beautifully decorated and will contain various toys, books and things like tricycles to be used by the children.
• Art Classes: Children will be provided simple art classes in which they could enjoy music, learn to sing and dance, learn drawing, learn to paint and enjoy playing the musical instruments.
• Craft Hour: In craft hour children will be asked to complete a given project such as weaving a butterfly. This class will serve for two purposes – to engage children in a healthy activity and to enhance their creativity.
• Group Activities: Under strict supervision, children will be given a chance to enjoy group activities such as racing tricycles, playing carrom board, playing badminton or play on the see-saw with each other.
• Activities for Teens: Teens will be allowed to play table tennis and badminton in the center. Moreover, they will be given a well-decorated area to celebrate their birthdays or to hold any parties.
• Eatables: There will be a snack bar from where the children could get sandwiches, snacks, juices, and tea.

Marketing Analysis of Indoor Playground Business

Before taking an indoor playground startup , you must search for a market which has the potential to bear this type of startup. Exploring different markets before starting your business is essential because no one will acquire your services if they have already been availing the services of a similar and more stable business. So, it is very important to carry out a research on the market in which you will be going to serve. Reading several business plans for indoor playground can help you in knowing about different markets as well as to know what others are doing in this business.

In the case of PlayLand, Kate has leased a building which has almost no other child recreational center in the vicinity, so she can attract a wider audience easily.

5.1 Market Trends

The indoor playgrounds have a high demand at the places where the population of children is high. If you are selecting the location for your business wisely, you will not be at loss as opening a child recreational center provides many opportunities to grow.

5.2 Marketing Segmentation

Knowing your customers and their demands is the first step to take if you want to succeed in any domain. The market segmentation done for PlayLand is general and is given here for anyone who wants to get a notion of which sort of people they will have to face.

The detailed marketing segmentation of our target audience is as follows:

5.2.1 Working Class

The first group of our customers will be the parents who have to go to their jobs or have to do certain works in the evening. We are sure that the parents if getting satisfied with our performance, will come to us again and again. And we expect their children to say themselves that they want to stay with us and play and enjoy with their age-mates.

5.2.2 Children of ages 10-14

The children of this age group will also be our target customers as they will be coming to us to play physical and mental games with their friends. They will also be availing our services to held parties.

5.2.3 Teens

The last category includes teens who will come to our center either with a sibling or to celebrate some event with their friends. We will soon be providing more physical activities for teens so that they have very much tasks awaiting them in PlayLand.

5.3 Business Target

Kate’s target is to make her indoor PlayLand, the best playground in her vicinity. While providing reliable and honest service, Kate wants to set up her business and all matters in the first year so that she can move forward to make her children play center’s name a brand name. She also wants to add activities for children by the end of the first year. And she also aims at renting out a neighboring building to provide a similar facility for teens who will need a greater space and proper ground to enjoy themselves.

The financial targets, however, are as follows:

• Balancing startup costs and investments within the first year of launch
• Earning a profit margin of $10k by the end of the second year and increasing the profit margin by almost 200 percent by the end of the third year

5.4 Product Pricing

The prices of PlayLand will neither be very low nor too high. Kate has decided to take reasonable charges in exchange for her services because she thought that if one has to compromise on money – one will automatically be compromising somewhere on quality. As Kate has a great competitive aspect due to her location, she doesn’t need to keep her prices low to attract the customers.

After you have explored various indoor playground business ideas and have succeeded in planning and creating play spaces , you have almost done what was required to start your indoor playhouse. Now the next step is a little difficult and includes the implementation of wise techniques to bring your customers to your doorstep. In this business development plan for an indoor playground , the ways adopted by Kate to be different and popular are given here.

6.1 Competitive Analysis

PlayLand will be just one of its type in the neighboring vicinity, which makes it easier for us to attract the target customers. Our biggest competitive advantage is our reliable service. We will be treating your kids like our kids. We will offer just physical games because parents usually don’t want their kids to associate their enjoyment with television and the internet. Moreover, children will be under a kind but strict supervision, and they will never get a chance to fight or quarrel with each other.

High Quality Business Plan and Professional Support

It was amazing to work with OGS Capital for our business plan. They promptly responded our enquires and delivered document on time.The document was well organized high quality and content.We succeded with Alex and his team support. We thank you guys again for professional approach and easy communication.

Lastly, we will be having exceptional customer service, Kate herself will be interacting and coordinating with parents to satisfy them that their kids are treated under love and care.

6.2 Sales Strategy

To advertise our services, we will:

• Share the pictures of our services on our center’s website and social sites
• Distribute our pamphlets in our neighboring areas
• Provide 20% discount for the first month of our launch
• Provide 15% discount to our regular customers
• Provide free eatables to children for the first week of our launch

6.3 Sales Monthly

6.4 Sales Yearly

6.5 Sales Forecast

If you are planning to open an indoor baby play area but are worried about the costs of playroom equipment, be at ease.

Personnel plan

As child recreational center is a sort of business which can be started without a huge investment, you can start it with limited indoor playground equipment . You will require children soft play equipment as the kids of ages between 3 to 7 are more inclined towards gaming with soft indoor play equipment .

However, for teens and for children of the age group 8 to 12, you will have to buy somewhat sports material like rackets, balls and an indoor playground net .

7.1 Company Staff

To meet the standards, Kate has set for her business, she herself will be coordinating with the parents. However, she will be hiring the following people for other tasks:

• 1 General Manager to manage the overall operations
• 2 Accountants to maintain financial records
• 1 Sales Executive responsible for marketing
• 5 Female Workers to supervise the children
• 2 Cleaners to ensure a hygienic environment
• 1 General Assistant for day-to-day work
• 1 Manager to operate the store
• 2 Security Guards
• 1 Web Developer to manage the center’s websites

7.2 Average Salary of Employees

Financial plan.

The last thing which you must have to do is to get written a proper financial plan that can demonstrate how much do playgrounds cost and how you will be able to afford that. If you are worried about how much does playground equipment cost or how much do indoor playgrounds make , just seek help from a financial advisor. A financial expert can help you figure out where to invest and how to earn a profit despite providing discounts and packages to the customers. A financial expert also provides you a plan to recover loss if you somehow get your business stuck in a crisis or if you are failed in making desired profits.

In case, you have a little know-how of a financial plan and you want to make it by yourself, you must first read other’s business plans available on the web. The <strong>sample startup budget for child care center<strong> and a recreational lot that is PlayLand is given here totally free for your help.

8.1 Important Assumptions

8.2 brake-even analysis.

8.3 Projected Profit and Loss

8.3.1 profit monthly.

8.3.2 Profit Yearly

8.3.3 Gross Margin Monthly

8.3.4 Gross Margin Yearly

8.4 Projected Cash Flow

8.5 Projected Balance Sheet

8.6 business ratios.

Download Indoor Playground Business Plan Sample in pdf

Professional writers OGS capital specialized also on the theme such as baby boutique store business plan , babysitting business strategy plan , bouncy castle business plan , professional daycare business plan , summer camp business plan model , business plan toy store and etc.

OGSCapital’s team has assisted thousands of entrepreneurs with top-rate business plan development, consultancy and analysis. They’ve helped thousands of SME owners secure more than $1.5 billion in funding, and they can do the same for you.

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How to Start A Soft Play Business

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Starting a soft play business can be a rewarding and profitable venture, but it requires careful planning and preparation. The soft play business is a great way to get into the entertainment industry. Here are some steps to consider how to open an indoor playground.

Research the market

Before starting any indoor play business, it’s important to research the market to understand the soft play industry demand, competition, and trends. Identifying your mission and vision. What experience do you want to provide? What ages will you accommodate? Look for other soft play centers in your area and research their pricing, services, and indoor playground review from customers. This will help you understand what works and what doesn’t, and give you a sense of what you can offer that’s unique equipment for indoor playgrounds.

Develop a soft play business plan

A business plan is a roadmap that outlines your goals, strategies, and financial projections. It’s essential for securing funding and guiding your business decisions. Your business plan for custom indoor playground should include details on your target market, marketing strategies, operational costs, and revenue projections.

Choose a location

The location of your soft play center is critical to your success. Look for a location that is easily accessible, has ample parking, and is visible to potential customers. Consider the size of the space you need, the layout of the facility, and the availability of utilities and other services.

Design your soft playground space

Work with professionals to design a creative, age-appropriate layout. Include structured play equipment, open spaces, adult seating, varying levels, interactive components, etc.

Obtain necessary licenses and permits

Depending on your location and the type of soft play center you’re opening, you may need to obtain indoor playground licenses and permits from local and state authorities. This may include permits for building, health, safety, and zoning.

Purchase indoor soft play equipment

Soft play equipment can be expensive, but it’s essential for creating a fun and safe environment for children. Research vendors and suppliers to find quality equipment that meets safety standards and fits within your budget. Some equipment you may need includes foam blocks, tunnels, slides, and climbing structures.

Hire and train staff

Your staff will be responsible for supervising children, maintaining the facility, and providing customer service. Hire qualified staff members who have experience working with children and who are trained in CPR and first aid. Develop training programs to ensure that your staff understands your policies and procedures, and can provide a safe and positive experience for your customers.

Develop a marketing plan

How will you spread the word about your new business and attract customers? Once you’ve opened your soft play center, you’ll need to attract customers. Develop a marketing plan with indoor playground industry statistics that includes advertising, social media, and promotions to reach your target market. Consider offering discounts or special events to attract new customers and encourage repeat business.

Starting a soft play business can be challenging. Still, with careful planning, hard work, and dedication, there is a lot of potential for growth in this industry, you can create a successful and profitable business that provides children with a safe and fun environment to play and learn. Contact JULE for more soft play business ideas and support.

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How to Start a Soft Play Rental Business [Mobile Service] 2024

Do you love kids playing with soft toys? Do you have a passion for entrepreneurship? Starting a soft play rental business can be a profitable opportunity.

Providing a soft play rental service for profit and an enjoyable and interactive experience with children, which is safe, healthy, and satisfying.

Many parents seek soft play rental services for their 1-5-year-old children, especially for birthday parties, celebrations, and festivals. Not only in festivals, but also soft play equipment provides a safe playing environment for children.

Soft play rental services also benefit parents by making it easier for them to care for their children. So, if you’re a beginner and unsure where and how to start, read our guide.

We’ll discuss in this post the following:

• The best idea to start the business
• The process to set up from scratch
• Guide for equipment, supplies, and other needs
• Marketing and promotion plan to grow

Table Of Contents

How to start a soft play rental business

You can run a mobile soft play equipment rental business, delivering soft play equipment and items to the customer location for a set period, according to your customer needs.

Mobile delivery service does not require a physical storefront; however, some space is required to manage inventory and store the soft play items.

You can deliver the soft play supplies to the customer’s location with a vehicle.

Making the process easier, having a small team can be helpful.

Here, we discuss the fundamental process (mobile soft play rental business) :

• Buy different soft play equipment for different age groups, focusing on style, colors, shape, material, and size. For example, climbers, slides, ball pits, mats, tunnels, and sensory toys.
• Inventory setup: Choose a suitable space for storing those supplies; depending on the scale of your business, you need a warehouse or dedicated storage facility. Focus on cleaning the equipment or items regularly for safety and hygiene. Important is – to develop a transportation facility (buying a vehicle and a small team).
• Develop a package: Prepare a rental package focusing on different party sizes, age groups, and event duration. Then, set the pricing, fees, rental agreement, and service terms accordingly.
• Booking setup: Develop a user-friendly online booking system for customers to reserve equipment and choose preferred packages easily.
• Pick-up and cleaning: Prepare to collect and disassemble the equipment after the rental period. For the next use, cleaning is important.

Pros and cons of mobile soft play rental business :

• Lower overhead cost
• Unique selling point
• Higher profit margin
• Can attract more customer
• Greater flexibility
• No physical space needed
• Can sell additional play items
• Higher costs- invest in a vehicle
• Transportation challenges
• Storage and maintenance
• Weather dependence

Hopefully, you have understood the fundamentals of the soft play rental service.

So, let’s discuss the other essential steps.

1. Market research and analysis

Market research and consumer demand analysis are the most important steps.

Study your potential customers, competitors, and local market where you want to provide service, and primarily research the service facility (setup process).

Gather essential information on market trends and local market behavior to understand whether launching a rental service in this area is right.

To identify target customers, consider demographics and look for an area where people often celebrate parties, events celebrations, birthday parties, and weddings frequently.

You should conduct a SWOT and demographic analysis to understand potential customers better.

SWOT analysis:  A SWOT helps to determine the (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) of the business. Demographic research:  Demographic research is the primary step for studying according to (age, gender, income, education, occupation, ethnicity, location, lifestyle, interest, attitude), etc.

Identifying target customers:  Analyze the popularity and demand of potential customers; your target customers can be children (2-5 years), teenagers (10-15 years), young adults, etc.

Knowing market competition:  Understanding the market competition, analyzing competitors, pricing models, and service facilities.

Research on service:  Unique facility in your Soft Play accessories, marketing process.

You can check out online and offline sources to gather market-related information. 

Online sources include: 

Google Trends:  Google trends is a popular tool to find the trend of a specific search term, service, topic, and industry. Here is an example.

You can select a specific location, category, and time (years); as you can see, we have selected the United States for the last 5 years’ data, the growth trend in front of you.

It is constantly growing.

Social media: Social media is another great platform to analyze and track real-time data and trends; you can use Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

Government data: Many government agencies often publish information related to markets, businesses, economic trends, industry performance, etc; you can also collect useful information from them.

Offline sources:

Only online reports, government data, and market trends are not enough to launch a business.

Consider offline sources (local businesses, trade shows, conferences, consumer surveys), which are more effective and can provide accurate information about the market situation.

So, talk with event planners, childcare centers, and preschools, and know their needs and preferences.

Try to survey some potential customers to understand what they want and how a soft play service can help them; ask everything.

2. Develop a soft play rental business plan.

Consider the market demand, customer intent, your thoughts, strategy, and business goals; by following them, create a comprehensive business plan to establish your Business.

Importance of a plan: it helps you reach goals and objectives and provides a roadmap for making strategies, plans, and other activities.

A thoroughly researched plan for your soft play business can help you achieve your intended goals and succeed.

A business plan should include:

• Business Summary:  A one-page overview of your entire plan you can include (target, goals, about your service, and establishment plan).
• Research:  Describe your researched information about Industry research, identifying target customers, competition, and competitive analysis.
• Define your Business : Include what type of services, facilities, infrastructure, and playing environment you want to provide.
• Business model:  Mobile rental service – deliver soft play items to customer locations.
• Marketing plan:  social media, word-of-mouth, paid promotion, local advertising, etc.
• Financial plan:  Initial startup cost (Leasing space, purchasing equipment, marketing cost), fund rising, pricing chart, balance sheets, cash flow, and ongoing expenses. 

This is just the overview of writing a business plan.

Search online for more useful information (Small business administration, Bplans, LivePlan, BizPlanBuilder) are the best sources to find pre-made templates. 

3. Name, registration, structure, and licensing

A business name is important for marketing, branding, and promotion for a company.

Choose a name by following a systematic approach to ensure that the name reflects the brand and resonates with your target audience.

Also, buy a domain name. A good domain name can help build credibility and increase your online visibility, making it easier for potential customers to discover your Business.

You can register domains at (Namecheap, GoDaddy, or Hover).

Select a user-friendly business name by considering the points:

• You can use a business name generator tool.
• Create a logo for your brand under the same name.
• Avoid using (numbers, underscores, hyphens, and symbols) in a name.
• The name should be (web-friendly, memorable, unique, and easy to spell or pronounce).
• A domain should be available (for creating a website).
• Research and follow the legal rules (don’t use copyrighted names).

Register your business

Establishing a clear business entity is very important for company registration.

Carefully choose a structure that aligns with your budget and goals.

You need to register as per the requirement of the state, local, and federal levels,

Choose a business structure (sole proprietorship, LLC, partnership, or corporation), and decide what fits your business goals and needs.

Consult a legal advisor or attorney for guidance on completing the necessary legal formalities. Also, they guide you in selecting the best legal structure.

Get a license and permits.

Obtain the proper licenses and permits according to state and local regulations.

Research to identify and acquire the various legal requirements, including licenses, permits, and certifications.

However, some general permits and licenses, including business licenses, sales tax, fire department permits, child care licenses, safety regulations, etc.

Advise: Readers should research specific regulations in their area.

Resources to comply with those formalities: SBA, State and local website, IRS EIN assistant tool, and state secretary of state website.

Business Insurance

Business insurance is important for any liability losses or accidental injuries of your customers; it provides a facility to recover from every loss.

Business insurance is not necessarily expensive, but you need to invest a few hundred dollars per year, depending on the location, business size, and level of coverage you need.

Coverage included (General Liability, Equipment, and Workers’ compensation insurance).

Consult a local insurance agent for more detailed information; you can find more information here – Rental business insurance guide .

4. Procuring soft play equipment and supplies

The most important part of the soft play business is choosing the right equipment and suppliers and buying from a trusted supplier at an affordable price.

It would be best if you had safe, durable, and fun equipment for kids of all ages.

Estimate your budget – how much you want to invest- and research and compare different suppliers (their pricing, quality, terms).

Create a list of different types of soft play kits that are needed to provide a better service.

List of commercial soft play equipment :

• Indoor Play Structures:  Jungle Gyms, Adventure Playgrounds, Climbing Walls, Obstacle Courses, Play Tunnels, Ball Pits, Rope Bridges.
• Soft Play Shapes and Blocks:  Foam Building Blocks, Cubes, Mats, Foam Climbing Shapes, Balance Beams, Wedge Mats.
• Slides and Chutes:  Spiral Slides, Straight Slides, Wavy Slides, Tube Slides, Toddler Slides.
• Ball Pool Equipment:  Ball Pit Balls, Ball Pit Enclosures, Ball Pool Air Blowers, and Ball Pool Cleaning Equipment.
• Climbing Equipment:  Climbing Holds, Bouldering Walls, Climbing Mats, Climbing Nets.
• Toddler Play Equipment:  Soft Play Rockers, Toddler Swings, Cars, Toddler Play Houses, Sensory Equipment.
• Sensory Play Equipment:  Soft Play Mirrors, Tactile Panels, Sensory Play Mats, Fiber Optic Lights, Bubble Tubes.
• Themed Play Equipment:  Pirate Ship Playgrounds, Castle Play Structures, Underwater-themed Play Areas, Space Adventure Soft Play.
• Inflatable Play Equipment:  Inflatable Bounce Houses, Inflatable Slides, Obstacle Courses, Inflatable Ball Pits.
• Soft Play Accessories:  Padding, Safety Mats, Foam Pit Cubes, and Replacement Balls for Ball Pits.

This is only the basic list; depending on your target market, you can consider additional supplies; before buying anything, conduct proper research.

How much does soft play equipment cost?

The equipment cost depends on (material quality, size, manufacturer, quantity, company brand, and complexity). To learn about pricing, check out online stores.

The cost can vary anywhere from $100 to $1,000 per square foot or piece of items.

The best sources where you can buy soft play equipment:

• Online retailers: Amazon, eBay, Walmart, Target, Best Buy
• Brick-and-mortar stores,
• Find wholesalers and manufacturers.

Search on Google “soft play equipment supplier.” You can use words like “near me, wholesaler, manufacturer, retailer, etc.

For example, the results arrived when we searched for suppliers (the location, company name, website link, directories, rating, and offering).

5. Organize your finances and secure Funding

Soft play rental business requires a significant amount of investment, in which the cost of inventory, equipment, supplies, vehicle cost, ongoing expenses, legal, marketing, and other types of budget are Included.

Calculate the startup costs :

• A suitable space
• Legal and accounting fees
• Registration and licensing fees
• Insurance costs
• Staffing expenses
• Equipment, supplies, and inventory
• Website creation cost
• Marketing and advertising
• For buying new equipment (find the best supplier for discounts).
• Start from small and add more facilities as you grow.

The budget depends on various factors, so the thing is to calculate all properly.

Securing funding

Funds to launch your soft play business can be arranged through different channels.

But, having a detailed business plan to provide insights about your goals and strategy is important.

Explore different funding options:

• Self-funding
• Friends and Family
• Government Grants
• Crowdfunding

6. Marketing and promotion

Soft play is a great way to keep kids entertained and active, and for your Business to succeed, you need to make sure people know about your service.

This means you must invest your time, money, efforts, and dedication in marketing and promotion.

With a well-crafted marketing strategy, you can reach more potential customers and increase your profits.

Your strategy should include identifying and targeting new customers and attracting them with a strategic marketing plan: social media marketing, SEO, word-of-mouth, digital ads, influence marketing, etc.

This is the simple way to reach potential customers of your service.

Promote your service through effective online and offline marketing strategies, focusing on high-quality service, pricing, and safety.

Online: Social media, SEO, Email marketing, PPC advertising, Online directories. Offline: Networking, Partnerships, Direct mail, Print advertising

Create a safe and fun environment with high-quality soft play kits.

Final thought

The demand for soft play rental services continues to grow, and it is a popular rental service in most cities. However, with the increasing demand comes increased competition.

Entering this field requires a substantial investment, hard work, consistency, research, and planning to build trust with customers and establish a strong brand.

Hopefully, this post is helpful and provides in-depth information about the Business. If you have other doubts about the soft play business, let me know in the comments.

You might also like: Badminton court business. Start a flower wall business. Start a rug tufting business. Start a tumbler business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some people’s questions, so the short answer is here.

Is Soft Play Rental A Good Business?

Yes, the Business is a profitable idea to start. Soft play rental is booming as parents increasingly look for safe and fun ways for their children to play.

Do I need insurance for soft play?

Yes, It is recommended to obtain insurance for your soft play business. Insurance protects against various risks, such as public liability claims, employer’s liability claims, product liability claims, and business interruption claims.

What is Soft Play?

Soft play equipment and gadgets are designed to be safe for children.

How Much Does It Cost To Start A Soft Play Rental Business?

Starting a soft play rental business requires a rough investment of $5,000-$20,000, depending on various factors. Potential costs (vehicle, inventory, insurance, marketing, etc.)

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How to attract more customers to your soft play area?

Now, many indoor soft play area operators feel confused: why another playground business is so prosperous, but my play area is fewer customers?  I invest a lot of money in the new indoor playground equipment , but why my business is not good? This is a headache for many kids playground operators. Today, we will tell you how to attract more customers and increase the popularity of your indoor soft play.

Decoration style and color theme of soft play area

Nowadays, people get your first impression from the outward appearance, indoor soft play area environment is no exception. A distinctive decoration style, innovative features, colorful kid indoor playground will attract the eye for the first time. With a strong visual impact children play area, why not love it?

However, indoor soft play area features are not imitated, it should learn + innovation + breakthrough. Operators learn from excellent children’s playground and draw on its essence. They can combine with their own space size, equipment features, adding new elements, to create a unique decoration style, which can form a brand and retain customers.

Color is of great significance to children’s mental health and personality development. soft play area colors should be bright, relaxed, pleasant, it is better with more color contrast, to distinguish between the different functions. The transitional colors are generally white. Large animal elements will attract some active boys, candy color design easier to attract some girls and younger boys. Colorful children’s space is for the innocence of children,  to attract their attention at first sight. And bright colors be filled with hope and vitality, make the soft play area look more healthy.

Enhance management ability of soft play area

As a qualified and even excellent indoor playground, how to improve themselves?

1.Major planning decision-making ability.

Although it is now a more democratic era, there are many things that need to be taken with the overall situation. This requires independent decision-making by playground operators, including dispatch work, manpower coordination, employee dispute resolution, which test the soft play area operators decision ability.

2.Operating capacity.

Different from the ordinary soft play area, the operation of children’s playground is not a simple matter. It includes equipment updating, planning activities, promotion programs, the establishment of membership files, interactive cooperation, daily management, crisis response and so on. For some special cases, the children encountered in the exercise, the handling of these operations, good and bad skills, directly affect the effectiveness of the store.

3.Communication ability with children.

Due to the special nature of the soft play area, children are required to have an understanding of the equipment prior to the play to ensure safety.  Although parents are present, staff members need to communicate with children, to eliminate the child’s insecurity and give them the courage to participate in expansion. The child’s thinking is often different from adults, if not patient enough, and do not have excellent communication ability, will certainly bring obstacles to the operation. During communication, simple, easy-understanding language, eyes contact are particularly important for children.

4. Control ability.

The essential prerequisite for one operator is to have the ability to establish a team, can further develop the elite team. Therefore, in the course of business running, it is very important to control the work of staff members, to master the situation of children’s play and to grasp the overall situation.

5.Overall data calculation summary ability.

Regularly organize sales, and draw conclusions from the analysis; at the same time, make a brief analysis and records of typical customers.

To deal with running problems in a timely manner, to analyze the running condition effectively, which will help to make your soft play area go further.

Make good publicity to enhance the popularity of soft play area

Popularity is the most important factor in the soft play area. If we own popularity, the revenue will naturally go up. But how to enhance the popularity of the playground? This is closely related to our publicity.

On the opening day to do enough publicity. If you have enough budget, it is better to invite the local song and dance troupes to perform in front of your playground. Besides, you can invite your friends and relatives to help out on an opening day, it looks very bustling, which will increase popularity.  It is best to open your own relatives and friends to help out the day, increasing popularity, bustling like the opening of the way. When the publicity is carrying out,  nearby people and people passing will be attracted and stopped here.

Handing out leaflets near the high-traffic streets and shopping centers is the other effective way to make publicity. You need to let customers know there is a kid indoor playground open and has activities during the opening.

Put advertisements on local TV media, newspaper, so more people will know your soft play and will come to play here.

Kindergarten and daycare centers are very important target place to make publicity. You let them play for free in a limited time, if the children do not enjoy the full time, they will ask their parents to bring them back to your playground.

Co-operation with children products shops, let them introduce more customers to you. For example, if their customers consume in their shops, they will get one ticket of your playground with 20% discount. It is a win-win solution.

Lock customer attention, precision marketing

It is internet time now, advertising information appears everywhere; people are bored with them. So, it is crucial to lock the customer’s attention and make precision marketing. If you can advertise in the following manner, people will easily remember and accept it.

1.Related to the self-interest of the target customer

In an advertisement, what you see and what you can not see,  not depends on the vision itself, but on what the observer wants to see, and not want to see. For example, if you put bread and toys in front of a hungry child and a rich child. The hungry child will focus on bread, but the rich child shows more interest in toys. Therefore, only ads that touched customer’s interests are more appealing.

2.Follow the consumer’s interest

Instead of hard ads, you can adopt scene ads, in which people will not disgust and forget its marketing feature. Unconsciously, they will immerse in it and become a marketing group.

3.Take advantage of the big events

Do a good job in service of soft play area

1.prominent features..

the soft play area size is not large, the installation of soft play equipment is more intensive. without unique advantages, you can not attract the attention of children. And many indoor playground structures are few combination of play games, it may not be able to meet the more demanding child’s play needs.So, prominent features are the assurance of your indoor playground business .

2.Quality guarantee of soft play equipment

Investors must control soft play equipment quality so that children can play in a safe place. Besides, they also need to keep good business quality, maintenance of play center order, remain clean environment and so on, which with high quality to win the trust of parents and children.

3.Promotion

Promotion is the most effective way to improve  the  popularity , but the premise is that we must know how to promote, otherwise it may be counterproductive. To make soft play area continue to attract children, we need to start from many aspects, all focus on children,  consider the issue from the perspective of children, we have no worries about customers source.

4.Staff’s grooming

Usually, the staff’s grooming, behavior, and conversation will leave the first impression to parents. So, parents also get the image of the soft play area from employees. A good playground image will be able to attract  Customer’s visit again. Therefore, the soft play staff should try their best to be tidy, good temperament, elegant and nice.

5.Clear and separate roles and duties

The operators should have a clear division of labors. For example, from the perspective of the management, the guide should do a good job of terminal sales, maintenance of safety and atmosphere;  from the perspective of parents,  guide well of the child play services.  Besides, the director should do a good job distribution and management; reception staff should be warm and polite; the cashier is rigorous and clear; players guide is intimate and so on. Only customers are satisfied, sales performance will be gratifying.

6.Treat customers as friends

Understand that customers are a source of hot sales for a soft play area, so staff needs to treat customers as friends. The child is a unique treasure for each family.The most effective way to establish good relations with parents, to care for their children from the heart. In addition, you can exchange child rearing knowledge parents.

7.flexible handling of unexpected incident

During the course business, if you encounter unexpected incidents, customer complaints should be fast-moving, quick response, verbal care express. Staff should apologize in time if the customers are dissatisfied or angry. incalculable incidents should be immediately reflected the higher level of leadership. Clerk to be the flexible handling of cases, calm thinking, careful parenting and child psychology, safeguarding the interests of customers in order to ensure the soft play area reputation, to avoid losing uncommon to create better performance.

8.Everything in good order and well arranged

Keep the store clean, hygienic, beautiful; to remind customers to keep their belongings; take good care of customer items. More detail in the service allows customers to feel soft play care, so as to achieve good reputation!

9.Safety first

Investors need to provide safe, reliable, innovative and interesting soft play area equipment to children, and make safety measures; regular disinfection and maintenance work of kids equipment to ensure the health and safety of children; to recruit staff who knows how to help children and bring more fun to them. After doing well in all these matters, the soft play area will naturally attract “repeat customers” and cultivate a group of loyal customers.

10.Parental  Area in soft play area

Many of indoor soft play plans and considers very well for children, but they usually forget the needs of parents.When children are enjoying their fun in the playground, parents have nothing to do and will feel boring for a long time. If the operator provides a cafe room for parents, you can imagine how happy the parents. They will find their own fun by enjoying coffee, playing games or watching cinemas with free wifi. It will attract them to come back again and stay a long time in your playground.

Hold interactive activities in soft play area

How to make the playground continue to have high popularity? Holding activities is a trend now. Good activities will make your soft play area famous and attract more customers. Many of indoor soft play will hold interactive activities, like birthday party,parent-child games, and children friendly games, which will increase the popularity of playground. Children friendly game is a good way for children to communicate with each other. Today, we will take the Music Chair game for example.

Site layout:

1.use balloon to make an arch or pillar decoration, creat happy atmosphere

2.background music, chair

Rules of the game:

If there are 6 players, prepare 5 chairs for the game purpose.  All participants stand outside the chair in a circle, when the music starts, participants begin to run along a circular clockwise or counterclockwise. when the music stops, participants quickly grab a chair to sit down, for who did not grab the chair, he will be out of the game and then come up with a chair. After several rounds, the final winner will be selected. The winner will a gift and all other participants will also get a gift.

Through the above analysis, Wonka Playground believes that you will find why your soft play business is not good. Money invest is the first start, but it does not determinate your business is good or not. What you can do is to create a unique decoration, enhance your management ability, make good publicity, precise marketing, provide good service and hold activities. If you do well in the above aspects, without a doubt, your indoor soft play area business will boom!

Wonka Playground

2 thoughts on “ how to attract more customers to your soft play area ”.

Hello. We are planning to open indoor playground. Looking for the space now. Can you please give us the quote for 130-200 sq meters space for kids 6 months -11 years old. Do you assembly? We locate in south California.

Thanks for your comment. Our colleague will contact you.

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How to Start a Soft Play Rental Business: A Complete Guide

Are you eager to learn how to start a soft play rental business? If you’ve ever dreamt of creating a space where children can have fun, expend their boundless energy, and let their imaginations run wild, then starting a soft play rental business could be your perfect venture. Soft play businesses offer children a safe and engaging environment with colorful play structures, ball pits, and interactive games.

In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process of launching your soft play rental business , from understanding what soft play is to successfully launching your exciting new venture. So, let’s dive in and explore how to turn your dream into reality!

What is Soft Play?

Before delving into the steps on how to start a soft play rental business , let’s begin by understanding what “soft play” entails. Soft play is a recreational concept primarily designed for children to enjoy interactive play experiences. It typically features soft and padded play equipment, including climbing frames, slides, tunnels, and obstacle courses. These play areas are meticulously designed to be safe and secure, allowing children to explore, socialize, and develop their physical and cognitive skills in a controlled environment.

Now, let’s dive into the 15 crucial steps to embark on your journey of establishing a successful soft play rental business.

How to Start a Soft Play Rental Business in 15 Steps

Starting a soft play rental business requires careful planning and execution. Here are the essential steps to guide you on your journey:

Step 1: Conduct Comprehensive Market Research

The first step in starting any business is conducting thorough market research. This helps you understand the landscape and opportunities in your area. Identify your target audience, study local demographics, and assess the demand for a soft play business in your vicinity. Visit existing soft play centers, talk to parents, and gather insights about their preferences, expectations, and pain points. This information is invaluable for differentiating your business and creating a unique offering.

Step 2: Develop a Comprehensive Business Plan

Creating a well-structured business plan is your roadmap to success. Outline your vision, mission, and goals, and include detailed financial projections, marketing strategies, and operational procedures. Your business plan should also incorporate your target market analysis, competitor research, and plans for ensuring the safety and security of your play area. Additionally, consider any additional services or amenities you may want to offer, such as party hosting, a café, or themed events.

Step 3: Explore Financing Options

Starting a soft play rental business typically requires a significant initial investment. Explore various financing options, such as personal savings, loans, or partnerships, to secure the necessary funds. To attract potential investors or financial institutions, present your well-developed business plan to demonstrate the viability and profitability of your venture. Proper financial planning is crucial to ensure you have the resources to cover the startup costs and ongoing expenses until your business becomes self-sustaining.

Step 4: Find the Perfect Location

Choosing the right location is crucial for the success of your soft play rental business. Look for areas with high foot traffic, such as shopping malls, family entertainment centers, or commercial complexes. Ensure the location has sufficient space for your play area, allowing children to move comfortably and safely. Check for adequate parking facilities, easy accessibility, and the necessary permits and licenses to operate a recreational business.

Step 5: Collaborate with a Professional Designer

Creating an engaging and visually appealing play area is key to attracting customers. Collaborate with a professional designer who specializes in children’s play spaces. Ensure the design incorporates age-appropriate zones, themed play structures, and safety features like soft flooring and clear sightlines for supervision.

Step 6: Select High-Quality Soft Play Equipment

Invest in high-quality soft play equipment that complies with safety regulations and standards. The safety and durability of your equipment are paramount. Consider creating separate areas for toddlers and older children to cater to different age groups.

Step 7: Prioritize Safety

Safety is paramount in a soft play business. Develop strict safety protocols and procedures to ensure the well-being of children and peace of mind for parents. Implement thorough equipment maintenance schedules, regular safety inspections, and staff training programs.

Step 8: Maintain Hygiene Standards

In addition to safety, maintain high hygiene standards. Establish protocols that include routine cleaning and sanitization of play equipment, restrooms, and common areas to maintain a clean and healthy environment.

Step 9: Develop a Comprehensive Marketing Strategy

As your soft play business nears completion, it’s time to create buzz and generate excitement for your grand opening. Develop a comprehensive marketing strategy that includes online and offline promotion, social media campaigns, partnerships with local schools or community organizations, and targeted advertising. Leverage digital platforms, your website, and comprehensive software solutions for ticketing, customer management, and loyalty programs.

Step 10: Determine Competitive Pricing

Determine competitive yet profitable pricing for your soft play rental business. Consider offering pricing tiers or packages to cater to various customer segments. Explore options for discounts or memberships to incentivize repeat customers. Continuously monitor pricing effectiveness and be ready to adjust as needed.

Step 11: Register and Obtain Licenses

Ensure your soft play rental business operates within legal boundaries. Register your business, obtain the necessary licenses and permits, and comply with safety and health regulations. Consider liability insurance to protect your business from unforeseen incidents.

Step 12: Source Reliable Suppliers

Build strong relationships with reliable suppliers of soft play equipment. Negotiate favorable terms and pricing, ensuring prompt and efficient equipment delivery. Establish ongoing supplier relationships to secure a steady supply of equipment.

Step 13: Recruit and Train Qualified Staff

Recruit and hire qualified staff who are passionate about child safety and enjoyment. Provide comprehensive training on safety and customer service. Clearly define roles and responsibilities and foster a positive and child-friendly work environment.

Step 14: Prioritize Excellent Customer Service

Prioritize excellent customer service to build trust and loyalty among your clients. Collect feedback from customers to gain insights into their experiences and expectations. Address any concerns promptly and consider creating a loyalty program or rewards system for repeat customers.

Step 15: Keep Detailed Financial Records

Effective financial management is crucial for your soft play rental business. Keep detailed financial records, track revenue and expenses, and manage cash flow effectively. Consider hiring an accountant or using accounting software to ensure financial stability.

By following these steps diligently, you’ll be well-prepared to launch your soft play rental business successfully. Remember that providing a safe, engaging, and memorable experience for children and families is key to your long-term success.

The Cost of Starting a Soft Play Rental Business

Starting a soft play rental business requires a minimum investment, with costs ranging from $10,000 to $20,000, although these expenses can fluctuate based on several factors. Let’s delve deeper into the specific costs associated with launching a soft play rental business:

1. Soft Play Equipment: The heart of your soft play rental business is the equipment itself. The cost of acquiring or renting soft play equipment varies significantly based on the type, quality, and quantity of equipment you decide to offer. High-quality and larger play structures will naturally incur higher expenses.

2. Transportation: You’ll need a suitable vehicle to transport the soft play equipment to and from events. The cost of this vehicle can range from purchasing a new one, which can be a substantial investment, to leasing a vehicle, which offers more flexibility in terms of budget.

3. Insurance: Ensuring your business is adequately covered in accidents or injuries is vital. Liability insurance is a must for soft play rental businesses. The insurance cost can vary significantly depending on your selected coverage level, business location, and other factors.

4. Marketing and Advertising: Promoting your soft play rental business is essential for attracting customers. Marketing expenses include advertising, website development, social media campaigns, and promotional materials. The costs associated with marketing can vary based on the channels and strategies you choose to employ.

5. Legal and Licensing Fees: Registering your business and obtaining the necessary licenses and permits are part of the legal requirements. Your business’s location influences the cost of these fees, the type of business structure you select (e.g., sole proprietorship, LLC), and local regulations.

Note that these costs are estimates and can fluctuate significantly based on your unique circumstances, such as your location, the specific equipment you choose, and your marketing strategy. Therefore, conducting thorough research and creating a detailed business plan is highly recommended to accurately assess the costs associated with starting your soft play rental business.

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Skills and Experience Need to Start a Soft Play Rental Business

Starting a soft play rental business requires a specific set of skills and experiences to ensure your venture’s success. While you don’t need a formal education, acquiring the right skills and knowledge will be crucial. Here’s a breakdown of the skills and experience you’ll need:

Creativity and Imagination: Soft play rental businesses are all about creating a magical and engaging experience for children. You need to have a creative mind to design fun and innovative play areas that captivate kids’ imaginations.

Knowledge of Child Development: Understanding child development milestones is essential. It helps you design play areas that promote physical, cognitive, and social development, ensuring that children have a valuable and enriching experience.

Safety Awareness: Safety is paramount in the soft play industry. You must have a strong commitment to safety standards and a keen eye for detail. Regular safety inspections, maintenance, and risk management should be part of your routine.

Business Management: Basic business management skills are vital. You’ll need to handle finances, marketing, customer service, and day-to-day operations efficiently. Consider taking a business management course or seeking guidance from mentors.

Customer Service: Excellent customer service is key to a successful soft play rental business. You should be friendly, approachable, and responsive to customer inquiries and concerns. Happy customers are more likely to become repeat clients and refer others.

Marketing and Promotion: Promoting your business effectively is essential to attract customers. You’ll need skills in online and offline marketing, including social media, SEO, and traditional advertising.

Event Planning: If you plan to offer services for parties and events, event planning skills can be valuable. This includes coordinating schedules, managing bookings, and ensuring a smooth event experience.

Financial Management: Managing your finances wisely is crucial. You’ll need to budget, handle income and expenses, and plan for long-term financial sustainability.

Networking: Building a network within the industry can help you learn from others’ experiences and potentially collaborate for mutual benefit. Attend industry events and join relevant associations.

Patience and Adaptability: Like any business, you’ll face challenges and setbacks. Patience and adaptability will help you navigate these obstacles and continuously improve your services.

Experience:

While you can learn many of these skills, having some relevant experience can be extremely beneficial. Consider gaining experience by:

• Volunteering or working at existing soft play centers or similar businesses.
• Organizing and hosting children’s events or parties.
• Participating in workshops or courses related to child development, safety, and business management.

Remember, your passion for providing children with a safe and enjoyable environment is a driving force. With the right skills and experiences, you can successfully start and manage a soft play rental business that delights both children and their parents.

The Future of the Soft Play Rental Industry

The future of the soft play rental industry is poised for exciting developments and transformations. Several key trends and changes are expected to shape the industry in the coming years:

Enhanced Safety Measures: Safety will continue to be a top priority in the soft play rental industry. Businesses will invest in advanced safety features and practices to ensure children’s well-being, giving parents peace of mind.

Technological Integration: The industry will see increased integration of technology to improve customer experiences and streamline operations. This may include digital check-in systems, online booking platforms, and interactive play elements.

Diversification of Services: To attract a broader customer base, soft play rental businesses will diversify their offerings. This could involve hosting themed parties, educational programs, and special events beyond basic play equipment.

Sustainability: There will be a growing emphasis on sustainability and eco-friendly practices. Businesses may adopt environmentally responsible materials and energy-efficient designs in their play structures.

Health and Wellness Focus: As awareness of childhood health and wellness grows, soft play businesses will incorporate more physical fitness and mental well-being components into their offerings. This could include exercise programs, mindfulness activities, and nutritional education.

Customization: Personalized experiences will become a significant trend. Soft play businesses may offer customization options for parties and events, allowing customers to tailor their experiences to specific themes or preferences.

Digital Marketing Expansion: Businesses will expand their digital marketing efforts to reach a wider audience. This may include social media campaigns, online promotions, and influencer partnerships.

Mobile Soft Play Units: Convenience and flexibility will drive the popularity of mobile soft play units that can be easily transported to various locations, such as schools, community centers, and private events.

Collaborative Partnerships: Collaborations with schools, daycare centers, and event planners will increase market reach and provide opportunities for joint ventures and promotions.

Increased Competition: As the soft play rental industry grows, competition will intensify. Businesses will need to differentiate themselves through innovation, unique offerings, and exceptional customer service.

Regulatory Compliance: Adherence to local and industry-specific regulations and safety standards will be essential for legal operation. Businesses will prioritize compliance to build trust with customers.

Global Expansion: Some businesses may explore international markets to meet the rising global demand for soft play experiences. This expansion may involve franchising or licensing their concepts.

Virtual Reality (VR) Integration: Virtual reality technology may enhance play experiences, offering children immersive and interactive adventures within soft play environments.

Parental Involvement: Encouraging parental involvement will be a focus, fostering family togetherness and bonding during play sessions.

Continuous Innovation : To thrive in a competitive landscape, the soft play rental industry will need to prioritize ongoing innovation, adapting to changing customer preferences and emerging trends.

These trends reflect the industry’s potential for growth, diversification, and adaptation to evolving customer needs and expectations. Soft play rental businesses that embrace these changes are likely to thrive in the dynamic market.

Starting a soft play rental business can be an exciting and rewarding venture. By following these 15 steps diligently, you can navigate the process of starting and growing your business successfully. Remember that consistent dedication to safety, customer satisfaction, and business management will be crucial to your long-term success. Staying updated on trends and innovations, maintaining safety and hygiene standards, and continuously striving for excellence will set your business apart in this dynamic industry. With the right approach, you can create a space where children can explore, play, and make lasting memories.

Now, it’s time to embark on your journey and bring joy and happiness to children in your community through your soft play rental business.

How do I market my soft play rental business?

You can market your soft play rental business through social media, flyers, word-of-mouth, and partnerships with event planners and venues.

What legal and licensing requirements do I need to start a soft play rental business?

You must register your business and obtain any necessary licenses and permits. The cost of legal and licensing fees can vary depending on your location and the business structure you choose.

How do I ensure the safety and maintenance of my soft play equipment?

Regularly inspect and clean your soft play equipment to ensure its safety and longevity. It would help to have liability insurance to protect your business in case of accidents or injuries.

How do I expand my soft play rental business?

You can expand your soft play rental business by adding new equipment, offering additional services such as party planning, and expanding your marketing efforts.

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Teacher-turned online blogger, Shirley is a full-time backyard homesteader based in Virginia. When she doesn't have her face buried in a book or striding in her garden, she's busy blogging about simple life hacks of the daily life. Shirley hold's a BA in commerce from University of California.

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How to Start a Play Cafe

Home Blog Play Areas How to Start a Play Cafe

Cafes no longer have to only serve coffee and tea drinks to draw people in. A variety of additional services attract customers to new coffee shops. One of these options is a play cafe that includes an indoor play area for kids to use while adults supervise nearby and enjoy the cafe’s food and drinks.

Before diving into creating your own play cafe, you need to create a business plan and choose equipment options for the play area. With careful planning, you can see the opening day for your play cafe!

Table of Contents

What Is a Play Cafe?

• Benefits of Play Cafes

Examples of Playgrounds for Play Cafes

Steps for starting a play cafe business, what kind of playground equipment do you need.

• How Soft Play® Can Help You Start Your Play Cafe

A play cafe gives caregivers and their kids a place to socialize, enjoy tasty food and drinks, relax, and meet new friends. Outdoor playgrounds are often a place for caregivers to bring their kids to play, but these sites are not available during rainy, very cold or very hot weather. Play cafes provide a solution for adults with kids to meet other caretakers and have a climate-controlled place for their kids to play throughout the year and in any weather.

While traditional cafes typically cater to adults without kids, play cafes welcome kids and the adults who care for them. Cafes for all ages welcome the energy kids bring to a play area. So, caretakers who visit will feel comfortable bringing their kids to these family-friendly destinations.

In a play cafe, you will find all the elements of a cafe plus an indoor playground for kids to enjoy. When creating one of these businesses, you will need to first focus on all the elements of having an attractive cafe with food and drinks. Then, you can design a play area that meets the needs of the ages of kids who come to the site. For example, if you want a toddler-focused cafe, advertise as such and offer play elements for younger kids. If you want to cater to kids over 5, you will need equipment designed for the play needs of those older kids.

While a play cafe has multiple factors to consider when building, the reward will be a location where kids and caretakers in the community can come together.

Benefits of Play Cafes & Indoor Playground Equipment

Play cafes provide several benefits over traditional cafes or outdoor playgrounds. Combining a play area for kids with food and drinks for their caregivers can net you the following perks:

1. Gain Year-Round Clientele

Outdoor playgrounds can get too hot during the summer, too cold in winter or too wet to play during rain or snow events. Your indoor play cafe will give you a place to provide kids in the area with a place to play all year long. During cold weather, kids and adults can enjoy hot chocolate or other warm beverages, and they can get lemonade or other cooling drinks during the summer from your cafe.

2. Offer Food and Fun in One Spot

Restaurants frequently have indoor playgrounds because they combine the convenience of a place to eat and relax with the fun of an indoor play area. Attract customers with your delicious offerings and encourage them to come back with an enticing play space. Or, use the playground as a way to attract visitors who will then purchase drinks and snacks.

3. Encourage Active Lifestyles for Kids

Indoor play keeps kids active all year long. Your play cafe encourages kids to see activity as a fun way to spend time. They can become more physically fit and develop mind-space coordination when they engage in active play.

With an indoor play area, kids and their caretakers can learn that just because weather conditions may keep them indoors does not mean that they have to stay on their phones or play video games all day. Your play cafe can serve as a healthier alternative to screen time that keeps kids active.

4. Create Social Connections

Kids and their caregivers should have places to go where they can form social connections. When kids visit your play cafe, they can make friendships with people outside their typical social circle. This widening of friendships can boost their ability to communicate with others and build their social skills.

Caregivers, too, can find others with kids to talk to while they supervise their youngsters in your play space. With the casual atmosphere of a cafe, adults have the chance to also relax and build friendships.

5. Have a Standout Business That Offers Something Different

Play cafes exist around the world, but they are not in every community. By opening one, you will likely offer your neighborhood something it does not have. With such a unique cafe offering, you will stand out from your competition as both a play destination for kids and a cafe for the community.

Several play cafes have successfully opened across the United States. The following are some ideas from existing play cafes that encourage kids to come and play for you to take business inspiration from:

Separate Toddlers and Older Kids With Dedicated Play Areas

Daycare centers and schools keep kids 4 and younger in a separate group from their older peers. Some play cafes do the same to protect both groups of kids and encourage each age set to have more fun.

One example of a play cafe creating different spaces for younger and older kids is the Bumblebee Play Cafe in Elgin, Illinois. This play cafe provides visitors with  different play spaces for babies, toddlers and older kids. Separating the kids into different play spaces lets smaller kids use play structures suited better to their smaller sizes. Older kids don’t have to worry about younger kids getting in the way of their play session, either.

Provide Stations for Quieter Play

Not all kids will want to immediately engage in active play on a playground structure. While your indoor play area will serve as a major attraction for your play cafe, remember to include places for kids to relax and have quiet fun. At Kidcadia Play Cafe in Dearborn, Michigan, the attractions include toddler and older kid play structures  plus imagination stations . These stations feature a board with neon-colored markers, sensory boards along a wall, a giant light board with colored pins to arrange and tables for drawing.

Host Parties

Don’t forget that your play area will attract kids. Offer birthday parties to reach more kids and their caregivers. This is one strategy that The Village Play Cafe in Chatham, New Jersey, uses. They offer  birthday party packages  to make planning a party easier for caretakers. These packages provide food and drinks from the cafe and playtime on the indoor playground. The Village Play Cafe has extra party hosts for each event, so if you choose this option, include staff members to handle the booking and hosting of parties.

Use Wristbands for Adults

Depending on the size of your indoor play area, you may need to plan how to keep track of adults who come with kids. One site, Cafe O’Play in Stow, Ohio, regulates who can enter the play area by  giving caregivers a wristband  to show that they are accompanying a child into the play zone. Kids without an adult cannot enter the play area, and adults without a wristband can’t go into the play space. This regulation ensures each child has a responsible adult to supervise them while in the play area.

Some indoor play locations also give kids and their caregivers corresponding wristbands with a matching code on them. You can then have a staff member check that a caregiver and a child leaving your location have matching wristbands.

Add Seating Next to the Play Area

Be sure to require adult supervision of all kids in the play area — caregivers should keep a close eye on their kids as they play. To make supervising kids easier on adults, the Outlets at Tejon in California uses  stools and counters surrounding the play area .

This outlet center placed its play area next to the food court, creating a similar arrangement to that found in a play cafe. The counters offer adults a place to enjoy their food and drinks while keeping their kids on the indoor playground within sight.

If you feel ready to open a play cafe, you need to do a lot of planning before you can open the doors. With good planning, you can increase the chances of success for your business by meeting the specific demands of kids and their caregivers in your community for a place to socialize, dine and play.

1. Begin With Market Research

Start market research to find out whether a play cafe will work in your community. You need to know who lives in the area and the existing cafes where you want to open because your success depends on it. For example, if you want to open in an area with a large demographic of single, childless adults, you may not have as much success as opening in a suburb filled with families. Similarly, don’t open a play cafe near another play cafe.

2. Put Together a Business Plan

Decide how you want to run your business. This involves  creating a business plan  and thinking through some other aspects of your business, like:

• Target audience:  First, choose the ages you want to target. For instance, do you want to focus on playtime for toddlers and their caregivers or school-aged kids up to 12?
• Theme and branding:  You can also pick a theme for your play cafe. The theme could be a topic, such as fantasy, or a color scheme. Since you will use this design throughout your play cafe to unify the different areas of the site, choose it carefully.
• The menu:  You may change menu offerings over time, but you should choose your initial offerings because they will determine the type of equipment you need. For example, if your play cafe will serve ice cream, you need freezers to store the ice cream safely. Do you want to have espresso drinks and a variety of teas? Include an espresso machine in your business plan.
• Funding and financial projections:  How will you fund your play cafe? Do you have personal savings to take care of all the costs? If not, you may need to get a small business loan to help you start your operation. You’ll need a description of how you’ll use those funds and your projections for your cafe.
• Location:  You’ll also want to know where your business will be. Choose a site to purchase or lease for your play cafe. Leasing may have a lower upfront cost, but you will continue to pay throughout your tenure. Make sure to have space for both food and drink preparation and a play area. The site should also be easy to access to encourage more people to come.
• Legal logistics:  Other factors of your business plan include purchasing insurance and finding out about local permits you need to serve food and drinks or have kids playing on your property.

3. Purchase Your Equipment

Once you’ve finalized your plan, you need to purchase equipment to run your operation. Because your play cafe will have both indoor playground equipment and a kitchen for serving customers, you will need to include all these components in your supplies. The kitchen equipment will depend on your menu.

Source a provider for your food and drinks at this stage. Do you want to sell locally-produced teas and coffees? Find a company willing to work with you, and you may benefit each other through mutual marketing. What about snacks? Do you want to serve chef-prepared foods or simple dishes that most employees can quickly make?

More complex menus will require more equipment in the kitchen such as ovens and stoves for cooking. Simple foods, such as sandwiches, may only require toaster ovens to prep.

Don’t forget about serving ware. Will you serve on reusable dishes? If so, you may need to invest in a larger dishwasher to handle the extra utensils and dishes. If you choose disposable serving ware, consider the investment in the products you will need to make each month.

We’ll go over the play equipment you may need for your cafe in more detail shortly.

4. Hire Your Employees

Staff your play cafe with trustworthy employees who know how to give kids and their caregivers excellent customer service. If you will have parties, consider having host positions on staff for the events. You may need a cashier to handle play area fees and food orders, cooks for preparing foods, and drink makers for preparing coffee and tea orders. You should train all staff to handle working with kids and in their respective roles before you open your shop and conduct the appropriate background checks.

5. Open the Shop

Host an opening day for your play cafe. You may want to offer discounts on opening day to encourage people to try your venue and spread the word. Ideally, they will market your play cafe to their friends through recommendations and the money that you lose through opening day discounts will come back through increased visitors over time.

Be sure to advertise opening day through local businesses, local media outlets and social media to get the word out.

6. Market Your Business

Keep marketing your business. You will constantly have new people move into the area or travel through as tourists who may not know about your play cafe. Promotional events, ads with local publications and television stations, a quality website and a regularly updated social media presence can help you build your play cafe business.

The type of playground equipment you use for your play cafe is up to you. Find equipment to fit into the amount of space you have and meet the needs of the ages you serve. The following are common types of indoor play equipment you can choose from for your cafe’s play area.

Small Play Areas

Many play cafes start out as small businesses that don’t have as much real estate as larger facilities. Feel free to start your cafe with a small play area. These  small footprint structures  provide you with a budget-friendly option that doesn’t require a lot of space.

Customizing your small play area gives you the greatest control over the features. One type of popular small structure to customize is the ATOM. While small,  the ATOM packs multiple ways to play  into the space it uses. Features on the ATOM include musical drums, a diamond obstacle course to the second level, slides, a hammock, a sit-and-spin, ripple platform and a scoop climber.

Wonderscapes  offer another way to include both play structures and sculpted foam in a compact space. With four themes available, options include Safari Adventure, Garden Discover, Nautical Quest and Woodland Escape. Each theme includes a specific color palette and animals in its prepared design. Choosing Wonderscapes is one of the fastest ways to pick out a playground for your play cafe.

Soft Sculpted Foam

To make your playground fun and colorful, consider the perks of  soft sculpted foam . These pieces appeal to the eye by coming in a variety of designs. You have choices from whimsical animals and characters to abstract designs and semi-realistic sculptures. Adding these pieces gives kids places to climb on while sparking their imaginations. They are ideal additions to toddler play areas because their size works well with smaller kids.

Traditional Playgrounds

Traditional indoor playgrounds  are another option you can choose for your play cafe. These play structures have sizes that can fit almost any space you may have.

As with small play areas, classic playgrounds come in a variety of prerendered designs. The difference is the sizes of these traditional indoor play structures. They are larger than small play areas, with two or three levels for kids to play on. Choose from one of the prerendered options for your play cafe’s structure or get inspiration from the designs to customize your own.

Large Play Structures

If you have the space and funds to dedicate to a large play structure, choose from one of  the large attractions  available. These structures have multiple layers and immediately draw the eye to their size and features.

This type of structure could even be an upgrade after you experience some success and profits with your play cafe after opening. Upgrading to a large play structure lets you allow more kids in the play area at a time, expanding your cafe’s overall capacity.

Customize your large play structure to fit into your cafe. You can choose a long, low design that has a rectangular structure for use along a wall. Alternatively, you may choose a tall structure with a smaller footprint to fit into a corner.

Themed Playgrounds

If your play cafe will have a theme, include a  themed playground  to match. When it comes to themes, you have several options of prepared choices. Plus, you can customize your own.  Existing themed playgrounds include candy land , medieval, kid’s clubhouse, train station, clock tower, ski resort, airport, fruit town, farmland and under the sea.

Install a themed playground in your play cafe to let kids’ imaginations run wild and create a design background to build on for your cafe’s marketing.

How Soft Play ®  Can Help You Start Your Play Cafe

Make your play cafe stand out with colorful indoor playground options that fit your space and budget limitations. With Soft Play, you get a free design consultation to help you find the right equipment for your new play cafe. Since 1984, we’ve worked to innovate the indoor playground. Today, Soft Play playgrounds are in  60 countries around the world  and restaurants across the United States.

Build your indoor playground and cafe experience today with us at Soft Play. Contact us for a design consultation  or  request a quote if you know the products you want for your playground in your coffee shop.

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How To Start A Soft Play Rental Business? [An Ultimate Guide]

Starting a soft play rental business can be a great way to make some extra money while providing a service that is in high demand. Whether you are looking to start a full-time business or just looking for a way to supplement your income, the right soft play rental business can give you the flexibility and freedom to do what you love. But before you launch your business, there’s a lot of planning and preparation that needs to go into it. In this blog post, we will discuss how to start a soft play rental business and provide tips and tricks on how to make your venture successful. So, if you’re ready to explore how to become an entrepreneur in the world of soft play rentals, keep reading!

Table of Contents

1. Familiarize Yourself With The Soft Play Rental Industry

If you’re thinking about starting a soft play rental business, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the industry first. Soft play rentals are becoming increasingly popular, especially for birthday parties and other events for young children.

There are a few things you should know about the soft play rental industry before getting started:

The demand for soft play rentals is growing

More and more parents are looking for ways to keep their kids entertained, and soft play rentals are a great option. If you can tap into this growing market, you’ll be successful.

There’s a lot of competition in the industry.

Because the demand for soft play rentals is increasing, there’s also a lot of competition out there. You’ll need to make sure your business stands out from the rest in order to succeed.

You’ll need to be organized and have good customer service skills.

Since you’ll be dealing with customers on a regular basis, it’s important to be organized and have excellent customer service skills. If you can provide a great experience for your customers, they’ll keep coming back to you.

Different types of soft play businesses

There are two main types of soft play businesses: party rental companies and inflatable playgrounds . Party rental companies typically rent out inflatables, bounce houses, and other party equipment for birthday parties and other special events. Inflatable playgrounds are usually larger facilities that offer a variety of inflatable games and activities for kids to enjoy.

To get started in the soft play rental industry, you’ll need to decide what type of business you want to start. Once you’ve done that, research the competition and find out what they’re offering. Then, create a business plan and start marketing your business!

2. Understand The Pros And Cons Of Starting A Soft Play Rental Business

There are many pros and cons to starting a soft play rental business. One of the biggest pros is that it can be a very profitable business. If you charge by the hour, you can easily make a lot of money. Another pro is that it’s a great way to get exercise. You’ll need to be constantly moving around to set up and take down the equipment, so it’s a great way to get some cardio in.

A con of starting a soft play rental business is that it can be a lot of work. You’ll need to transport the equipment to and from events, set it up and take it down, and do all the marketing yourself. It can be time-consuming and physically demanding. Another con is that there is some risk involved. If something happens to the equipment while it’s in your care, you could be held liable.

Alternatives to starting a soft play rental business

If you’re interested in starting a soft play rental business, you might also be interested in some alternative business ideas that are similar. For example, you could start a mobile play area business, where you set up temporary play areas at events or parties. You could also start a children’s indoor playground, where parents can bring their kids to play in a safe and supervised environment. Or, you could start a children’s entertainment company that provides face painting, balloon twisting, and other fun activities for kids.

Whatever business idea you choose, make sure to do your research and develop a detailed business plan before getting started. And, if you’re planning on renting soft play equipment, be sure to check out our guide on how to start a soft play rental business.

3. Understand The Profitability Of A Soft Play Rental Business

Yes, the soft play rental business is profitable. Soft play equipment is in high demand and there is a growing market for this type of business. There are many factors to consider when calculating the profitability of a soft play rental business, such as start-up costs, equipment costs, marketing, and insurance. However, with proper planning and execution, a soft play rental business can be profitable and provide a good return on investment.

How much revenue does a soft play rental business generate?

Assuming you are running a successful soft play rental business, you can generate a good amount of revenue each month. On average, a soft play rental business can generate around $5,000-$10,000 in revenue per month. Of course, this depends on many factors such as the size and location of your business, the demand for your services, and so on. But if you are able to consistently bring in this amount of revenue each month, then you are running a successful soft play rental business!

4. Understand The Capital Required To Start A Soft Play Rental Business?

The cost of starting a soft play rental business can vary depending on a number of factors. The most important factor is the size of the venue you plan to use for your business. If you have a large space, you’ll need to invest in more equipment. Similarly, if you plan to serve a large area, you’ll need to factor in the cost of transportation.

Other important costs to consider include insurance, licensing, and marketing. Insurance is vital to protect your equipment and employees; make sure you get quotes from multiple providers before making a decision. Licensing may be required depending on the state or country in which you operate; check with your local authorities to be sure. And finally, marketing is key to getting customers through the door; consider budgeting for online ads, flyers, and other promotional materials.

With all these costs in mind, it’s important to do some research and planning before starting your soft play rental business. All in all, you will need a minimum startup capital of $10,000 to $15,000 in order to start a successful soft play rental business. By taking the time to understand the start-up process and associated costs, you can ensure that your business is successful from the start!

How many soft plays do you need to start a soft play rental business?

If you’re thinking of starting a soft play rental business, you may be wondering how many soft plays you need to get started.

The answer to this question depends on a few factors, including the size and type of soft play you want to rent out, the demand for soft play rentals in your area, and your budget.

Generally speaking, you’ll need at least a few different types of soft plays to get started, as well as some storage space to keep them in when they’re not being used.

If you’re not sure how many soft plays you need to start your business, it’s a good idea to consult with someone who has experience in the industry. They can help you determine the right number for your specific circumstances.

5. Write A Soft Play Rental Business Plan

When starting a soft play rental business, it is important to have a solid plan in place. This will help you to map out the steps you need to take in order to be successful. Here are some tips on how to write a soft play rental business plan:

Define your business

What exactly will your business entail? What services will you offer? Who is your target market? Answering these questions will help you to create a clear and concise business plan.

Create a budget

In order to be successful, you need to have a realistic budget in place. This budget should include start-up costs, as well as ongoing expenses such as rent, utilities, and payroll.

Write a marketing plan

How will you let people know about your business? What marketing strategies will you use? Creating a detailed marketing plan will help ensure that your soft play rental business is successful.

Set up operations

Once you have all of the above information in place, you can start setting up the day-to-day operations of your business. This includes finding a suitable location, hiring staff, and stocking inventory.

Launch your business

After everything is set up and ready to go, it’s time to launch your soft play rental business! Promote your grand opening through marketing efforts, and make sure that everything is running smoothly from day one.

5. Choose The Right Location For Your Soft Play Rental Business

There are a few things to consider when choosing the right location for your soft play rental business. First, you’ll want to choose a location that is easily accessible to your target market. If you’re targeting families with young children, you’ll want to be located near residential areas. Second, you’ll want to choose a location with enough space to store your equipment and set up your inflatable play structures. Third, you’ll want to choose a location with good foot traffic so that potential customers will see your business. Lastly, you’ll want to make sure that the rent for your chosen location is affordable.

6. Register Your Soft Play Rental Business

Registering your soft play rental business is a simple process that can be completed online or in person at your local government office. The first step is to choose a business name and then register it with your state or country. Once you have registered your business, you will need to obtain a business license and tax ID number.

You will also need to open a bank account and apply for any necessary permits or insurance. After you have completed all of the necessary paperwork, you will be ready to start renting out soft play equipment to customers!

Register for Taxes and Obtain an EIN

If you are starting a soft play rental business, you will need to register for taxes and obtain an EIN. This can be done online through the IRS website . Once you have registered for taxes and obtained an EIN, you will need to obtain a business license from your local municipality.

7. Get Your Soft Play Rental Business Insured

As a soft play rental business owner, it’s important to make sure your business is properly insured. This will protect you from any financial losses if something goes wrong with your equipment or if someone is injured while using your products.

There are a few different types of insurance you should consider for your soft play rental business:

• Product liability insurance : This type of insurance will protect you from any claims that might be made against you if someone is injured while using your products.
• Business interruption insurance : This type of insurance will cover you financially if your business has to stop operating for a period of time due to an accident or other event beyond your control.
• Equipment insurance : This type of insurance will protect you from any damage or loss to your soft play equipment, whether it’s caused by an accident or normal wear and tear.
• Public liability insurance : This type of insurance will protect you from any claims that might be made against you if someone is injured while on your premises.
• Employer’s liability insurance : If you have employees, this type of insurance will protect you from any claims that might be made against you by them for injuries or illnesses they sustained while working for you.

Speak to an experienced business insurance broker to find out which types of coverage are best for your specific needs.

8. Promote Your Soft Play Rental Business

There are a few things you can do to promote your soft play rental business:

• Create a website or blog and share information about your business, services, and prices.
• Use social media to reach out to potential customers and promote your business.
• Attend local events and fairs where you can advertise your business.
• Distribute flyers and brochures to local businesses and pediatrician offices.

Build a Website

There are a few key things you need to do in order to build a website for your soft play rental business. First, you’ll need to choose a domain name and web hosting, provider. Once you’ve done that, you can begin building your website using a platform like WordPress or Squarespace.

Be sure to include information about your business on your website, as well as contact information and directions to your location. You should also list the types of events you cater to and the services you offer. If you have any promotions or discounts, be sure to mention them on your website as well!

Run Paid Ads

Starting a soft play rental business can be a great way to earn some extra income. However, running paid ads can be expensive and may not be worth the investment if you are just starting out. There are a few things to consider before running paid ads for your soft play rental business:

• Your target audience : Who are you trying to reach with your ads? Make sure you target your ads to the right people in order to get the most bang for your buck.
• Your budget : How much are you willing to spend on paid ads? Keep in mind that paid ads can be expensive, so be sure to set a budget and stick to it.
• Your goals : What do you hope to achieve by running paid ads? Make sure your goals are realistic and that you have a plan for measuring success.

If you decide that running paid ads is right for your soft play rental business, there are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Test different ad platforms : There are many different ad platforms out there, so it’s important to test a few out to see which one works best for your business. Try out a couple of different platforms and see which one gives you the best results.
• Use relevant keywords : When creating your ad, be sure to use relevant keywords so that people searching for soft play rentals will be able to find your ad easily.
• Create compelling ad copy : When creating an ad for your soft play rental business make sure to create a compelling copy so that people looking to rent soft plays are compelled to rent through your business.

Buying An Existing Soft Play Rental Business Vs Starting One From Scratch

There are pros and cons to both buying an existing soft play rental business and starting one from scratch. If you’re looking to get into the soft play rental business, it’s important to weigh your options and decide which route is best for you.

Starting a soft play rental business from scratch has its advantages. You’ll have complete control over every aspect of the business, from the equipment you use to the prices you charge. You’ll also have the opportunity to build the business exactly how you want it, without having to worry about making changes to fit someone else’s vision.

However, starting a business from scratch can be a lot of work. You’ll need to do your research, find suppliers, market your business, and build up a clientele base. It can be difficult to get everything up and running, and there’s always the risk that your business might not take off.

Buying an existing soft play rental business can give you a head start in the industry. You’ll have access to an already established customer base, as well as supplier relationships. This can make it easier to get started and start generating income quickly. However, you will likely have less control over the direction of the business, as well as some pre-existing debt that you’ll need to pay off.

Final Thoughts

There are many factors to consider when deciding if starting a soft play rental business is the right choice for you. One of the most important factors to consider is whether or not you have the required start-up capital. Starting a soft play rental business can be expensive, so you need to make sure you have the financial resources in place before moving forward.

Another key factor to consider is whether or not there is a demand for soft play rentals in your area. If there is already a large market for this type of service, it may be difficult to break into the industry. However, if there is a lack of competition, this could be a great opportunity to fill a void in the market.

Finally, you need to make sure you have the time and energy required to successfully launch and operate a soft play rental business. This type of business requires dedication and hard work in order to be successful. If you don’t feel like you’re up for the challenge, it may be best to look into other business opportunities.

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What is soft play equipment?

Soft play equipment is very much as the name suggests, play equipment which is soft and safe for all users. House of Play have been soft play suppliers since 1994, manufacturing the equipment from our factory right here in Doncaster, UK.

Soft play is typically the term used for small pieces of equipment such as , shapes, packaway play equipment and small structures suited to cafes, nurseries, and garden centres as examples.

Soft play equipment , comes in varying form, but typically is comprised of soft foam with a PVC covering for ease of cleaning and longevity. Not all soft play equipment is the same however, as raw material choice and quality of manufacture play a vital role in determining the intended use of the equipment. All of our soft play equipment is produced to a commercial standard providing peace of mind that our equipment is both safe for young users and provides the longevity expected in a commercial environment.

Soft play manufacturing requires specialist knowledge and techniques, so always be sure you use an industry specialist for your equipment.

To Learn How to Setup a Soft Play Business  keep reading below as we can provide you with the necessary tools and to understand how we can assist with your project development. Our service goes much further than simply supplying the soft play equipment, we are with you every step of the way!

Pack away arctic soft play

Arctic pack away soft play.

It’s getting chilly in this play space; this winter wonderland is filled with different snow pals. From penguin bowling and wobbly characters, to fish rockers in the water and an activity igloo, this snow zone is packed with fun and adventure for kids to explore, whether they want to race down the slides of play bowling in groups.

Dimensions:  160 m² Footprint

waterfall soft play

Waterfall themed soft play.

Careful that you’re not in the splash zone on this water themed soft play! Filled with lots of aquatic animal themed soft play shapes, log climbs, bash bags and a water themed ball bit, all perfect for an exciting and fun play experience!

Dimensions: 14m² Footprint

sea pack away soft play

A self-contained sea play space filled with sea critters and nautical play features, like crab rockers, activity rings and a pirate ship soft play shape. Designed for a corner area in a building, this mean the walls could also be themed to create a fully immersed soft play space for young children.

Dimensions:  14 m² Foot Print 

Jungle Pack away soft play

Jungle pack away soft play.

This compact soft play space for young children filled with jungle and animal themed soft play toys, which can also be packed away for easy storage was a simple design for a client but could also be perfect in the home. Filled with some of our best animal soft play toys, with a lion wobbly character and horse rocker, this was a perfectly sized packaway soft jungle adventure.

Dimensions: 16 m² Foot Print

pack away forest Soft play

Pack away forest soft play.

This fun forest pack away has a variety of soft play features and activities, with a badger themed rocker and animal activity blocks. This play space can be easily packed away into the play space when needed, limiting the size of the space needed.

Dimensions:  16 m² Footprint

Pack away beach soft play

Pack away beach soft play.

It’s summer time on this beach themed soft play area, filled with soft play sand castles and buckets, it’s just like a day at the beach! With added soft play rockers like crabs, dolphins and fish it becomes a nautical adventure as kids can pretend to swim through the tropical waters with lots of aquatic creatures.

Dimensions:  84 m² Foot Print

adventure Soft Play

Adventure play frame.

This branded adventure course play frame has everything you could want, slides, bash bags, log climber, dizzy disks and building blocks, a perfectly compact play space that doesn’t miss out on any of the fun.

Dimensions :  17m² Footprint

Jungle Soft Play

Jungle themed soft play.

A compact and playful soft play frame, this design never compromised fun while being made especially compact. Filled with lots of exciting activities like navigating bash bags, climbing log stairs and climbing through netting walls, this soft play frame was perfect for little adventurers.

Dimensions:  14 m² Footprint 

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pack away sea soft play

Pack away soft play, why is childrens soft play equipment important.

Childrens Soft play equipment helps young children to learn and develop their physical, social, emotional and intellectual skills through doing and talking, which research has shown to be the means by which young children learn to think. It is also how they learn to socialise as children engage in learning experiences with other children and adults.

The client will have every opportunity as part of the design process to influence, size, content, theme, objectives and learning opportunities, however it is important that we consider the purpose of play and how this will benefit children, we have prepared a summary below:

The Essential Dimensions of Play Are:

• Voluntary, enjoyable, purposeful and spontaneous
• Creativity expanded using problem solving skills, social skills, language skills and physical skills
• Helps expand on new ideas
• Helps the child to adapt socially
• Helps to thwart emotional problems

Soft Play Equipment Will Teach Children To:

• Figure out how things work
• Pick up new ideas
• Build muscle control and strength
• Use their imagination
• Solve problems
• Learn to cooperate with others

Children use play not simply as a fun past-time but as research into the world around them. When they are born, children can do very little for themselves and know very little about the world or their place in it. As they play, children come to understand more about the world and themselves, developing the physical, cognitive, emotional and social skills that they will need to live independently later in life. Through quiet, creative, active, cooperative and dramatic play children get the chance to work on these skills.

As a prominent soft play supplier we understand the intricacies and importance of this, and design and manufacture our soft play equipment to meet these vital needs. Additionally, we look to apply our expertise continuously as we are always seeking to add new soft play products to our ever growing range and work with customers to develop bespoke items as needed.

why choose house of play

We are the only soft play equipment manufacturer, to see through the eyes of an operator. As an operator, we know what you need and how to help!

hOW TO START A SOFT PLAY BUSINESS IN THE UK

House of Play has become and remains the UK’s leading supplier of soft play and soft adventure play equipment over a period of nearly 3 decades. It is our forward thinking approach along with our commitment to developing commercially viable venues that sets us apart from our competitors. A key element of our ethos is to design equipment / venues that work rather than what looks good on paper and disguising lack of consideration that ultimately will not benefit the client from a commercial perspective.

House of Play are unique in the fact that we are the only UK manufacturer of soft play and indoor playground products to both own and operate a children’s indoor play centre that operates at the peak of operational efficiency.

The real benefit however, lies in the intellectual knowledge that has been gained as a result of operating a soft play and indoor playground venue, as it allows us to influence the design of the play equipment / venue from the outset ensuring that operational efficiency is maximised, operating costs are minimised and maximum secondary spend is sought.

A benefit of choosing House of Play as your partner for your development is that once the project is delivered and open to the public, you will have access to on-going operational support as and when you require, and a member of our team will always be available to guide you through any problems or issues whatever the nature of your quandary.

If you would like a tailored, professional guidance on how to start a soft play business, contact our team to discuss your project. 

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Like what you see.

If you’re interested in starting your own soft play business and have more questions to ask, you can contact us and one of our experts will be able to help you with any questions you may have, or you can checkout our FAQ page to see some of our most asked questions regarding soft play. We also have a wide range of products that we can offer off the shelf, we’re constantly adding more product ranges so check back often to see whats new.

Giant Penguin Bowling Skittles Set

Puzzle Block Shape Set – Stone Effect

Car Track Bollard – Soft Play Shape

Soft Play Shape – Car Track Traffic Light

Soft Play Shape – Petrol Pump

Helicoptor Soft Play Set

Submarine Soft Play Shape

Crocodile Soft Play Shape

Whale Soft Play Shape

Star Soft Play Shape

Rocket Soft Play Puzzle

Soft Play Shape – Fish

Pairs Memory Game – Soft Play Frame

Soft Play Animal Blocks Cubes

Sandcastle Building Blocks Cubes

Soft Play Shapes Game – People Blocks

Soft Play Alphabet Block Cube Set

Soft Play Game – Number Blocks

Soft Play Building Blocks Set

Train Soft Play Set Puzzle

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