
This guide will provide you with a comprehensive analysis of the equipment costs, profit models, and opening steps for investing in a 1000㎡ trampoline park in the US, helping you take a steady first step.
Opening a 1000㎡ trampoline park is a capital-intensive investment. A clear understanding of all expenses is key to budget planning. The following are the main cost components:
This is the core investment, accounting for approximately 35%-50% of the start-up cost. For a 1000㎡ site, you need to rationally plan the space and configure a diverse range of entertainment projects.
Core Trampoline Area: Trampoline park equipment costs include an open-air trampoline area, a basketball trampoline area, and a foam pit. This is the foundation of the park.
Special Features: To increase attractiveness, consider investing in features such as a ninja warrior path, extreme slides, climbing walls, and dodgeball areas. These are key to attracting repeat customers.
Children’s Zone: Small, low-intensity trampolines and soft play equipment specifically designed for young children effectively attract families.
Installation and Transportation: Professional installation is crucial; trampoline installation costs typically account for 15%-20% of the total equipment price. This ensures the safety and lifespan of the equipment.
When starting a business in the US, compliance is paramount and a significant cost.
Insurance: This is the largest legal expense. Due to the high risk in the industry, public liability insurance premiums can range from $20,000 to $40,000 annually.
Licenses: Business licenses, building permits, occupancy certificates, and fire safety inspections are required. Requirements vary by state and city, and attorney and consultant fees are necessary.
Legal Fees: These cover setting up the corporate entity (e.g., LLC), reviewing lease agreements, and drafting liability waivers.
These are the soft costs that get the park “on.”
Marketing and Pre-sales: Pre-opening social media advertising, website development, community events, and pre-sale tickets.
Staff Training: Training the first batch of staff on safety procedures, customer service, and equipment operation.
Office Equipment and Systems: Ticketing system (POS), computers, surveillance cameras, etc.
Working Capital: Used to cover operating expenses for the first few months after opening, such as salaries and utilities.
In total, the initial investment for opening a 1000㎡ trampoline park is estimated to be between $300,000 and $500,000.
A successful trampoline park relies on more than just ticket revenue.
Ticket revenue (approximately 60%): Hourly ticket sales, offering weekend tickets, weekday discounts, and monthly/annual passes.
Party and group bookings (approximately 25-30%): This is the most profitable segment. Packages are offered for birthday parties, company team building activities, and school events.
Food and beverage sales (approximately 10%): Selling pizzas, burgers, snacks, and drinks in the rest area. High profit margins significantly increase the average transaction value.
Additional services: Selling non-slip socks, themed souvenirs, or offering trampoline fitness classes.
Write a detailed business plan.
Identify funding sources: personal savings, bank loans, or find investors.
Find a site in a high-visibility, easily accessible, densely populated area.
Hire a lawyer to handle legal matters and begin applying for all necessary licenses and insurance.
Conduct extensive research, contact multiple trampoline park equipment suppliers, review their case studies, and request detailed quotes. Ensure they meet US ASTM safety standards.
Work with contractors to complete site preparation and equipment installation.
Recruit and train the team.
Launch a large-scale marketing campaign to generate buzz for the grand opening.
Hold an opening event, inviting community members and media to make it a resounding success.
Key to Success:
Safety First: Strict security checks, employee supervision, and mandatory safety videos are essential for survival.
Exceptional Customer Service: Create positive experiences and encourage word-of-mouth marketing.
Continuous Innovation: Regularly update activities and equipment to keep things fresh.
Pitfalls to Avoid:
Underestimating insurance and legal costs.
Choosing unprofessional, low-cost equipment suppliers can lead to safety hazards.
Poor location and insufficient customer traffic.
Neglecting marketing results in a lack of customers after opening.
What Is The Typical Payback Period In The Us?
With proper operation and cost control, most parks have a payback period of 1.5 to 3 years. Geographic location, market competition, and management efficiency are the main influencing factors.
How Do I Choose A Reliable Equipment Supplier?
Check qualifications and case studies: Request a list of completed projects in North America and conduct on-site inspections.
Inquire about standards: Confirm whether their equipment meets or exceeds US ASTM safety standards.
Check services: Understand whether they provide comprehensive services from design and installation to after-sales training and maintenance.
Review contracts: Carefully review the warranty terms and after-sales support details.
What Are The Most Easily Overlooked Costs When Starting A Business In The Us?
Ongoing Marketing Expenses: Beyond opening marketing, a budget is needed for daily marketing to maintain brand awareness.
Equipment Maintenance and Replacement: Trampolines and foam blocks are consumables that require regular replacement, representing a significant ongoing expense.
Credit Card Fees: For high-volume businesses like ticket and party bookings, credit card fees can accumulate.
Emergency Fund: A reserve fund is needed to handle unforeseen repairs, fines, or market fluctuations.
Investing in a 1000㎡ trampoline park is an exciting and high-potential business. While the initial investment is substantial, with careful planning, a commitment to safety and quality, and efficient operation and management, you can build a sustainable business that is not only profitable but also brings joy to the community.
The key is to do your homework, respect the data, and always prioritize customer safety and experience. Now that you have all the knowledge from blueprint to opening, it’s time to turn your trampoline park dream into reality.