The services listed below are the focus of two actual centers in South Carolina. Some services have been added, while others removed and operating hours tweaked, as a result of us always asking our customers what appeals to them the most.

These services make the most profit for my jump centers (in order):

1. Private parties. A totally private jump arena and cake room for parties. I offer two different styles for the jump rooms. Make sure you always charge a deposit. This provides daily cash flow and prevents no shows.

2. Teen Night. We offer teen night every week, for ages 12 and up. This is a drop-off event and most of our customers are 11-13 years old. It is a challenge to keep them safe and orderly, but they are a great money maker.

3. Retail Sales. Food, party supplies, balloons and SOCKS are great add-ons and money makers. Many centers require you use their food and supplies. I personally do not require customers to use my food. I find that by allowing the customer the choice of bringing in their own food, I still get 95% of the food business, but I also get the business of those that are on a smaller budget, or special diet (kosher for example). I am not a restaurant; I contract for the pizzas, cakes and party supplies. I still make money, but eliminate the overhead.

4. Open Jump/Junior Jump. This is when the general public can play. I do not allow drop-offs. People will use you for inexpensive daycare if you allow them. I do not charge “by the hour”, this philosophy caused people to watch the clock and rush to leave. One price, no time limit allows them to relax, play, take time to eat, play arcades games, etc. The longer they are in your building, the more money they spend. I do reserve special times for “Junior Jump”. This is for kids 6 and under only. Many parents do not like the smaller kids playing with the older kids. They are concerned about them getting hurt. Boys 7 and older play much harder, and do not watch for smaller kids.

5. Arcade Games. I know most parents hate them, but you learn to love them. Especially when you see how much money they add to the bottom line. Almost all parents will put a few coins in to allow kids to play. This adds up quickly.

You may have other ideas. This is what works for my centers.