Foundations University set for Chicago

The 49th Foundations Entertainment University (FEU) will be held July 16-18 in Chicago, Illinois. The three-day comprehensive seminar programme will cover all aspects of planning, designing, developing and operating a location-based entertainment business or family entertainment centre (FEC). It will bring together top industry consultants Frank Seninsky, CEO, and Jerry Merola, CFO of Alpha-Omega Amusements and Amusement Entertainment Management (AEM), Frank Price, President of FL Price and Birthday University, Doug Wilkerson, Principal of Dynamic Designs and Studio 41B, Peter F. Olesen, P.E., President of Entertainment Concepts, Inc., and Kevin Williams, CEO of KWP. Special guest speakers, Sherry Howell, Brand Engagement Director for CenterEdge Software and Jim Howell, COO of Perky’s Pizza will be joining the group in Chicago and sharing their best practices and industry insights. Randy White of White Hutchinson Leisure & Learning Group will be presenting a session, as FEU brings back one of its founders.

FEU’s panel of industry professionals will present their 200+ combined years of knowledge and experience on subjects that include market assessment and feasibility, funding, food and beverage, design concepts, guest experience, staffing, operations, construction and contractor selection, games and attractions, performance monitoring, marketing and group sales, and much more. The programme will include behind-the-scenes tours to local entertainment venues, plenty of time for networking and Q&A, and one-on-on discussions with the presenters as well as a new group round table session.

Now in its 17th year, Foundation’s continues to represent every facet of the industry including: Family and Children’s Entertainment Centres (indoor and outdoor), Inflatable Parks, Bowling, Waterparks, Amusement Parks, Movie Theaters, Sports Parks, Laser Tag, Trampoline Parks, Skating, Vending and Street Operators, and more. Although Foundations is useful for anyone entering or thinking about entering the family and location-based entertainment industry, existing facilities have found the programme to be invaluable as they reassess their current business plans and look to make significant changes for the future, not just struggle to survive in the changing marketplace.