How to Increase Revenue in an Arcade Business: Proven Strategies for Modern Arcades & FECs

Table of Contents

Introduction: Why Revenue Growth Is the Real Challenge in Arcade Businesses

Starting an arcade business is only the first step. The real challenge—and opportunity—lies in consistently increasing revenue.

In today’s competitive entertainment market, successful arcades and Family Entertainment Centers (FECs) no longer rely on foot traffic alone. They combine:

  • High-ROI arcade machines

  • Smart pricing strategies

  • Cashless payment systems

  • Data-driven arcade management systems

  • Optimized layouts and customer flow

This guide explains how to increase revenue in an arcade business, whether you operate a small arcade, a claw machine store, or a full FEC project.

increase arcade revenue


1. Choose High-ROI Arcade Machines

Not all arcade machines generate the same return. Revenue growth starts with machine selection.

Top Revenue-Driving Arcade Machines

  • Claw machines – low operating cost, stable daily income

  • Racing arcade machines – high engagement, multiplayer appeal

  • Shooting game machines – strong replay value

  • Redemption games – ideal for families and kids

  • VR arcade machines – premium pricing, high attraction power

💡 A balanced machine mix increases both play frequency and average spending per customer.


2. Upgrade to a Cashless Arcade Payment System

One of the fastest ways to increase revenue is switching from coins to a cashless arcade system.

Why Cashless Payments Boost Arcade Revenue

  • Faster transactions = more plays per hour

  • Higher average spend per visit

  • Easy bonus credits and promotions

  • Reduced cash handling and theft

Modern arcade POS systems support:

  • Card swipe

  • QR code payments

  • RFID cards or wristbands

  • Hybrid coin + cashless setups

Arcades that adopt cashless systems often see 15–30% revenue growth.


3. Use an Arcade Management System to Optimize Performance

A professional arcade management system (also known as arcade management software or FEC management system) is essential for revenue optimization.

How an Arcade Management System Increases Revenue

  • Tracks revenue per machine in real time

  • Identifies top-performing and underperforming games

  • Enables remote price adjustments

  • Supports time-based pricing and promotions

  • Reduces machine downtime

With data from the arcade backend system, operators make smarter decisions instead of relying on guesswork.


4. Optimize Pricing Strategy (Dynamic Pricing Works)

Fixed pricing limits revenue potential.

Smart Pricing Strategies for Arcades

  • Higher prices during peak hours

  • Discounted credits on weekdays

  • Bundle offers (buy more, get more)

  • Special pricing for members

Using a smart arcade system, pricing can be adjusted instantly without changing machines manually.

amusement management system


5. Improve Arcade Layout & Machine Placement

Revenue per square meter matters.

Layout Tips That Increase Arcade Revenue

  • Place high-earning machines near entrances

  • Group claw machines into visible clusters

  • Use racing and shooting games as visual anchors

  • Keep prize counters within customer flow

  • Avoid dead zones and blocked walkways

Professional arcade full setup solutions include layout design to maximize income.


6. Increase Repeat Visits with Membership & Loyalty Programs

New customers are expensive. Repeat customers are profitable.

Effective Arcade Loyalty Strategies

  • Membership cards with bonus credits

  • Point-based reward systems

  • Birthday and party packages

  • Weekly or monthly promotions

These features are easily managed through an integrated arcade management software or FEC management system.


7. Reduce Downtime & Maintenance Losses

Every minute a machine is down = lost revenue.

How to Reduce Revenue Loss

  • Use systems with real-time machine monitoring

  • Receive instant fault alerts

  • Perform preventive maintenance

  • Replace low-ROI machines regularly

An advanced arcade control system ensures machines stay operational during peak hours.


8. Expand Revenue with Events & Group Sales

Beyond walk-in customers, arcades can generate extra income through:

  • Birthday parties

  • School group bookings

  • Corporate team-building events

  • Mall or resort promotions

Group packages significantly increase average transaction value.


9. Analyze Data & Continuously Optimize

Revenue growth is an ongoing process.

With a smart game center management system, operators can:

  • Compare daily, weekly, and monthly revenue

  • Track ROI by machine category

  • Adjust machine mix based on performance

  • Plan future expansions with confidence

Data-driven arcades consistently outperform traditional setups.


10. Choose a One-Stop Arcade Solution Partner

Many revenue problems come from poor integration.

A professional arcade one-stop solution or turnkey arcade solution includes:

  • Arcade machines

  • Arcade management system

  • Payment system

  • Layout planning

  • Installation & training

  • After-sales support

This integrated approach ensures higher efficiency and faster ROI.

arcade turnkey project


How BLEE Helps Arcade Owners Increase Revenue

As an experienced arcade complete solution supplier, BLEE supports arcade operators with:

  • High-ROI arcade machines

  • Smart arcade management systems

  • Cashless arcade POS systems

  • Optimized layout design

  • Scalable FEC turnkey solutions

From small arcades to large family entertainment centers, BLEE helps clients increase revenue and reduce operational risk.


FAQ 

What is the fastest way to increase arcade revenue?
Upgrading to cashless payments and using an arcade management system delivers the quickest revenue boost.

Which arcade machines make the most money?
Claw machines, racing arcade machines, and shooting game machines typically generate the highest ROI.

Can small arcades use arcade management systems?
Yes. Even small arcades benefit from real-time data, reduced labor, and better pricing control.

How often should arcade machines be replaced?
Low-performing machines should be reviewed every 6–12 months based on backend data.


Conclusion: Revenue Growth Comes from Systems, Not Luck

Increasing revenue in an arcade business is not about luck—it’s about strategy, data, and integration.

With:

  • The right machine mix

  • A smart arcade management system

  • Cashless payments

  • Optimized layout and pricing

Your arcade can achieve sustainable and scalable revenue growth.

📩 Contact BLEE today to learn how our arcade machines and one-stop arcade solutions can help maximize your arcade business revenue.

Guangzhou Baoli Animation Technology Co., Ltd.

— BLEE 22 years focus on Arcade Turnkey Solution

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