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CONCESSION CORNER

SOME IDEAS TO CONSIDER FOR A KART TRACK OR FEC
By Peter F. Olesen, P.E.

The development of a go-kart track facility or expanded family entertainment center (FEC) requires the consideration of many issues that may have an impact on the ultimate success of a project. Among the factors that should be considered at the start of deliberations include, but are not limited to the following:

1. Make decisions based on sound judgment, using factual information
2. Unless you have a million people passing your site annually, have a feasibility study performed or get advice from people that have expertise in evaluating markets and potential patronage.
3. The single most important requirement for a successful operation is a good site location with easy access.
4. Have your site plans and specifications prepared by competent professional engineers having knowledge and experience in the design of similar FEC’s.
5. Be certain that the site has sufficient space to accommodate the various elements you plan to construct.
6. Determine whether zoning or other variations can be obtained prior to making a decision on whether to purchase or lease a property for development.
7. Be certain all questions relative to underlying soils, possible environmental contamination and site drainage considerations have been answered before you commit to the purchase or development of a site. Also of major concerns are the possibilities of wetlands, flood-plain encroachments or extensive tree cover that could impact the acceptability of a site.
8. Be aware of needed utilities, such as water and sewer, as well as requirement for storm detention.
9. Many locations require assessment of traffic flow and modified entrance designs to address the added impact of traffic. Know your constraints beforehand.
10. Establish a site concept that addresses your specific market, including attractions that provide entertainment for all age groups.
11. Initial construction of one or two attractions, properly done, will serve to generate more repeat visits than will more attractions done in a “cheap” or less attractive manner.
12. Gain as much knowledge as possible about the industry. Visit other operating facilities. Take notes and photos and discuss your preferences with your design consultant.
13. Know your financial limits.
14. Establish good relationships with neighbors, nearby businesses, etc.
15. Look for non-competitive recreational and entertainment facilities to develop cross-marketing.
16. Determine whether you will have competition in the area that could reduce your potential revenues.
17. Identify forces in adjacent communities that may delay or block your project. Anticipate problems in advance and have solutions prior to confrontations.
18. Plan your facility to maximize exposure of each attraction to your patrons.
19. Be certain that your site is designed to address customer safety at all times.
20. Discuss your planned attractions mix with your insurance carrier.
21. Be cautious of construction proposals that do not define the materials to be used or how the construction work will be done.
22. Purchase quality equipment from reputable manufacturers.
23. Consider the impact of new attractions for your patrons.
24. Make certain that each employee is properly trained and understands that he or she represents you in all their actions on the job.
25. Use work assignment and maintenance checklists and instructions to avoid operational problems.
26. Establish and enforce effective safety, operating and management procedures.
27. Establish proper emergency first aid and incident documentation procedures.
28. Make each employee a part of the team operation, encouraging suggestions and comments. Remember, they hear comments from your customers.
29. Respond to customer comments, suggestions and complaints. Advise your personnel to do the same.
30. Be prepared for circumstances beyond your control. Mother Nature and the economy are both noted for their unpredictability where the enterprising entrepreneur is concerned. Also be prepared for construction delays, equipment failure, staff problems and other issues.

The above are only a few of the elements that can impact your potential for success. Each project, owner and community is unique. Plan ahead for both the good and bad times. This industry can be the source of much success and satisfaction for those who have the commitment, understand the industry and know their market.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Peter F. Olesen is president of Peter F. Olesen and Associates, a professional consulting engineering firm providing a wide range of services. These services span preliminary site evaluation, feasibility studies, concept design and development of final plans and specifications and construction methods for projects ranging from stand-alone go-kart tracks to family entertainment centers and full-sized theme parks. The company can be reached at 847-253-1515.

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