The amusement and attractions industry has always been about creating joy, nostalgia, and unforgettable experiences. But in today’s fast-moving digital world, fun alone isn’t enough, marketing plays a critical role in keeping family entertainment centers (FECs) relevant, engaging, and profitable.
In this episode of the Funcast, Erik Weasenforth explores how attractions can combine creativity, strategy, and cultural awareness to grow their businesses. From the rise of collectibles like Labubu to the importance of social media consistency, the discussion highlights practical ways operators can capture attention and turn guests into loyal fans.
Why Nostalgia is a Powerful Marketing Tool
For many guests, visiting an amusement park or FEC isn’t just about the rides or games—it’s about the memories tied to those experiences. Tapping into nostalgia can be a powerful marketing strategy. Whether it’s showcasing vintage arcade games, promoting “throwback” nights, or sharing old photos on social media, attractions that remind people of their childhood create emotional connections that drive repeat visits.
Takeaway: Incorporate storytelling into your content. Share stories of past events, highlight long-time employees, or feature customer testimonials that focus on special memories.
How Trends Like Labubu Fuel Customer Engagement
One of the hottest collectibles right now is Labubu, a quirky, limited-edition toy that’s become a global phenomenon. For FECs and arcades, these cultural trends aren’t just a passing fad—they’re marketing opportunities.
- Claw machines and redemption prizes: Stocking trending collectibles can turn casual players into repeat customers.
- Social media buzz: Posting about new prizes tied to pop culture generates shareable content.
- Exclusive events: Hosting “Labubu nights” or similar promotions can create urgency and excitement.
Takeaway: Keep an eye on trending collectibles and integrate them into your offerings. Trends bring fresh energy into your marketing and keep your venue top-of-mind.
Content Creation: The Secret to Staying Relevant
Social media is now the front door of every amusement business. Customers are scrolling long before they step through your doors, and if you’re not posting consistently, you’re invisible.
The solution? A content calendar. Planning posts in advance helps you:
- Stay consistent across platforms.
- Mix different formats (photos, videos, reels, stories).
- Avoid last-minute marketing stress.
Consistency doesn’t mean posting daily it means posting reliably. Whether it’s three times a week or twice a day, keeping a rhythm builds trust and expectation with your audience.
Takeaway: Build a monthly calendar around your events, promotions, and behind-the-scenes content. This gives structure while still leaving room for spontaneous, trend-based posts.
Repurposing Content for Maximum ROI
One of the most overlooked strategies in marketing is repurposing content. A single video shot inside your arcade can turn into:
- A short-form TikTok or Instagram Reel.
- A blog post with tips or storytelling.
- A behind-the-scenes photo carousel.
- A customer testimonial snippet.
By reusing content in different formats, you stretch your marketing budget and keep your feed fresh without burning out your team.
Takeaway: Don’t think of content as one-and-done. Think of it as a library you can pull from and adapt across channels.
Quick Tips for Engaging Content Creation
- Show faces, not just attractions – People connect with people, not machines.
- Use trending sounds and formats – Ride the algorithm’s wave instead of fighting it.
- Encourage user-generated content – A guest’s post about your arcade is more powerful than any ad.
- Post highlights in real time – Share what’s happening in your venue as it unfolds to build FOMO.
Final Thoughts
The amusement industry thrives at the intersection of fun and marketing. By combining nostalgia, trend awareness, and a consistent content strategy, family entertainment centers can stay relevant in a crowded marketplace.
The key isn’t just to create moments inside your venue, it’s to capture and share those moments online, turning them into powerful marketing assets.
