How to Start a Claw Machine Store: Complete Turnkey Project Guide

Table of Contents

Introduction: Why Claw Machine Stores Are Booming Globally

Claw machine stores—also known as claw arcade parks—have become one of the fastest-growing entertainment business models worldwide. With low operating costs, strong impulse appeal, and high repeat play, they perform exceptionally well in shopping malls, commercial streets, and entertainment districts.

For investors and entrepreneurs, a claw machine store turnkey project offers a proven, scalable, and beginner-friendly entry into the arcade industry.

This guide explains how to start a claw machine store step by step, from planning to operation, using a complete turnkey approach.

claw machine business


What Is a Claw Machine Store Turnkey Project?

A turnkey claw machine store solution means everything is provided and integrated by one professional supplier, including:

  • Store concept & business planning

  • Machine selection & game mix

  • Layout & 2D/3D design

  • Prize strategy & payout setup

  • Payment & management system

  • Installation, testing & training

With a turnkey model, investors can launch faster, reduce risks, and optimize ROI from day one.


Step 1: Define Your Claw Machine Store Business Model

Before starting, you need a clear positioning.

Popular Claw Machine Store Models

  • Pure Claw Arcade (20–100+ claw machines)

  • Mini Claw Store (10–20 machines)

  • Claw + Redemption Hybrid

  • Kids-focused Claw Playground

  • Claw + Arcade Mixed Store

BLEE helps you select the best model based on budget, space, and local market demand.


Step 2: Choose the Right Location

Location directly affects revenue.

Best Locations for Claw Machine Stores

  • Shopping malls

  • Commercial pedestrian streets

  • Near cinemas or supermarkets

  • Tourist areas

  • University districts

  • Family entertainment zones

High foot traffic + young customers = higher play frequency and faster payback.


Step 3: Plan Store Size & Layout

Typical claw machine store sizes:

  • 30–50㎡: Starter claw store

  • 80–150㎡: Standard claw arcade park

  • 200㎡+: Flagship claw machine store

A professional layout includes:

  • Clear customer flow

  • Back-to-back machine rows

  • Eye-catching storefront design

  • Prize display & exchange area

BLEE provides custom 2D layouts and 3D renderings as part of the turnkey project.

arcade store setup


Step 4: Select the Right Claw Machines

Machine quality is critical for long-term profitability.

Common Claw Machine Types

  • Standard plush claw machines

  • Mini claw machines

  • Large-prize claw machines

  • Capsule / blind box claw machines

  • Skill-based claw machines

A balanced mix improves customer retention and spending.

As a professional claw machine supplier, BLEE ensures:

(View Blee claw machine models:https://www.bleearcade.com/product-category/gift-game-machine/claw-machine/

  • Stable grab performance

  • Adjustable payout settings

  • Durable hardware for long operation hoursclaw machine supplier


Step 5: Prize Strategy & Cost Control

Successful claw machine stores are built on smart prize management, not luck.

Popular Prize Categories

  • Plush toys

  • Licensed characters

  • Electronics accessories

  • Blind boxes

  • Trendy gifts

BLEE helps design a prize cost vs. play price ratio that maximizes profit while keeping players satisfied.


Step 6: Payment & Management System Setup

Modern claw machine stores rely on cashless systems.

Recommended Systems

  • Coin + cashless hybrid

  • Card swipe system

  • QR code / mobile payment

  • Central management backend

With a smart management system, operators can:

  • Monitor revenue in real time

  • Adjust pricing remotely

  • Analyze machine performance

This is essential for scaling multiple stores.

arcade revenue management


Step 7: Investment Cost & ROI Overview

Typical Claw Machine Store Investment

  • Claw machines: USD 700–1,500 per unit

  • Store renovation & branding: varies

  • Prizes & accessories: controllable

  • Management system: optional but recommended

ROI Expectations

  • Single machine daily revenue: USD 15–50+

  • Payback period: 6–12 months (location-dependent)

  • Mature stores often achieve high-margin stable cash flow

A claw arcade park offers one of the best ROI profiles in the amusement industry.


Step 8: Why Choose a Turnkey Supplier Like BLEE

Starting alone increases risk. A turnkey partner simplifies everything.

BLEE One-Stop Claw Machine Store Solution

  • Business consulting & planning

  • Full machine supply

  • Custom layout & design

  • Payment & control system

  • Installation & training

  • Long-term technical support

We support projects worldwide across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and North America.

(View BLEE claw arcade solution models:https://www.bleearcade.com/product-category/arcade-game-center-solution/ )

claw machine full setup solution


Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Buying cheap machines without stable quality

  • Overcrowding the store layout

  • Poor prize cost control

  • Ignoring visual design and lighting

  • No management system for data tracking

A professional claw machine turnkey project avoids these issues from the start.


FAQ

FAQ 1: Can beginners start a claw machine store successfully?
Yes. With a turnkey solution, beginners can launch quickly without prior arcade experience.

FAQ 2: How many machines are needed to start?
Most starter stores begin with 10–30 machines and expand after validating performance.

FAQ 3: Is a claw machine store profitable year-round?
Yes. Claw machines generate stable daily cash flow with seasonal peaks during holidays.

FAQ 4: Does BLEE provide global shipping and installation guidance?
Yes. BLEE supports international projects with full technical and operational guidance.


Conclusion & Call to Action

A claw machine store is one of the most accessible and profitable arcade business models today. With the right location, machines, and a professional turnkey partner, investors can achieve fast ROI and long-term success.

🎯 Looking to start your own claw machine store?
📩 Contact BLEE now to receive a customized claw machine turnkey project plan, including layout, budget, and profit analysis.

Guangzhou Baoli Animation Technology Co., Ltd.

— BLEE 22 years focus on Arcade Turnkey Solution

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