Embracing the Future of Entertainment: The Rise of Family Entertainment Centres (powered by AI)

In the swiftly changing entertainment landscape, Family Entertainment Centres (FECs) are headed for significant growth in the coming years, according to the latest research. Modern FECs are expected to attract global audiences while showcasing innovation through physical, digital, and virtual experiences, integrating emerging technologies, hyper-personalised consumer preferences, and substantial return on investment potential.

To put it in context, the global family entertainment centres market was valued at USD 25.14 billion in 2021 and has since grown rapidly. This surge is likely driven by increasing consumer spending on recreational activities and the rising popularity of themed entertainment. 78% of millennials* prefer spending on experiences or events over tangible items. FECs, with their diverse activities, are subsequently well-positioned to capitalise on this experiential spending trend.

As the world around us evolves, more or less powered by and/or assisted by AI, FECs will not only serve as entertainment hubs but also as the heart of future societies. By leveraging AI, IoT, robotics, and big data, FECs can create truly inclusive, mindblowing, innovative, and sustainable net-zero environments that have yet to be realised.

A key to building the next-generation FECs is to dissolve the traditional barrier between ‘culture’ and ‘entertainment’ and redefine and enhance the centre’s purpose in society. By positioning FECs as destination-based ecosystems on their own, they can attract both local and international visitors while fostering spaces where people come together to actively create, participate in, and enjoy. A 2024-2030 forecast on the global FEC market shared by Experience UK, from an original report by 360iResearch™, highlights the industry's robust growth trajectory, expected to reach USD 110.97 billion by 2030, (a CAGR of 13.27% from 2023). This impressive growth is driven by increasing urbanisation, rising disposable incomes, and a shift towards indoor entertainment options.

For this reason, the next five years will present a unique window for investors and developers to build FECs and associated entertainment offerings in all major cities across the globe. The integration of cutting-edge technologies, shifting consumer preferences towards local and experiential activities, and strong commercial potential make the business case for FECs investment exceptionally compelling, according to these figures. By capitalising on these trends and aligning with the evolution of the society around us, developers and investors can achieve significant financial returns and set new standards for family-oriented entertainment and societal advancement.

As a creative masterplanning, innovation, and placemaking studio, Immersive International has spent the last decade envisioning the future of entertainment, attractions, and visitor experiences for multiple projects across the globe. If you are interested in learning more, get in touch!

‍