The Big Game Was a Big Win for 810 Billiards & Bowling

Womply, a small business ecommerce platform, analyzed transaction data from 42,000 local bars and restaurants during the 2019 NBA playoffs and found that exciting playoffs can provide almost a 12% boost to bar revenue, depending on the game.

Equipped with that datapoint, 810 Billiards & Bowling, which offers a modern, family-friendly approach to a bowling alley/pool hall by combining them with an upscale bar and restaurant environment, leverages tentpole sporting events to connect with customers.

Big events the Super Bowl, NBA Finals and March Madness allow them to provide fans with opportunities to socialize, while helping franchise owners capitalize on the excitement. 

“There’s a lot of competition for big games,” said Susan Koch, director of sales and marketing. “People have their favorite spots to go and watch a game. That’s why advertising and marketing is so important—we need to get the word out and we do.”

So while 810 offers customers the ability to be a part of their own activities like bowling and pools, it is also a place to watch games. 

“It's critical to get the message out initially that we're a sports bar destination in addition to our myriad entertainment options,” said Mike Siniscalchi, president of 810 Billiards Bowling. “That’s because we're creatures of habit. Once people give us a try and get a sense of how much more we offer than your typical sports bar, 810 really does become the spot to be every Saturday and Sunday for game day.”

How does a brand get more people to take advantage of its sports viewing opportunities on game days? The brand says it employs a number of proven marketing channels and tactics to get the 810 game day buzz going. 

“We use social media and radio advertising to get the word out about most events,” said Koch. “For big games like the Super Bowl, we run specials, we offer ticket giveaways, but we also allow franchise locations to do what works in their market.” 

That level of effort means a lot to new franchisees like Ronak and Poonam Manek, a husband-and-wife team who will soon open locations in Chandler, Arizona.

"We are so excited to be in a place where people can gather and watch their team," said Ronak. "It's amazing to be able to watch your team with a crowd. We can't wait to recreate that in our 810 Billiards & Bowling setting in Chandler. We want to bring as much excitement at our location as you would find if you were really at the sporting event. Maybe even more!"

As restrictions still limit the number of people allowed in restaurants at one time, Siniscalchi  said that there's a pent-up demand for people to get together and enjoy sports together. He thinks as vaccinations become more widely available, the sports enthusiasts  will still need a place to watch their favorite team.

“As we've all found out in the past year, there's no substitute for gathering in person to enjoy a sporting event, from the major American sports to UFC and boxing pay-per-view events,” he said. “And 810 provides a unique atmosphere to enjoy these events with fellow fans, so get in early and save your seats!”

About 810 Billiards & Bowling 

810 Billiards & Bowling, a three-unit emerging franchise out of South Carolina, is a classic bowling alley with an upscale twist. In its expansive space, 810 offers its customers multiple bowling lanes, billiard tables, full service bars, a fun-to- play arcade, classic board games, mini golf and so much more! The menu boasts soul satisfying foods serving lunch and dinner. For more information please visit 810bowling.com/franchising.