The latest trend in hospitality, “Competitive Socializing” refers to interactive experiences that bring people together in a fun and exciting way. From head-tossing bars to escape rooms, these venues offer their guests a unique space to socialise and have fun. Successful concepts from the Anglo-American region include Swingers Crazy Golf, F1 Arcade, Bounce, Flightclub and Lane7. In Germany, the Electric Social arcade was launched in Berlin last Autumn. In addition to special ‘playgrounds’ for adults, canteens/restaurants are becoming increasingly popular meeting places for such entertainment, adding a new dimension to social life. The success of the concept is due to a number of factors: firstly, the demand for interactive experiences is growing in a world where people are increasingly glued to screens. On the other hand, the sense of isolation and loneliness is growing for many people. These new games, ping-pong and bowling facilities provide easy access to socialising and friendly competition. This type of socialising is particularly popular with millennials, who are willing to invest their money in unforgettable experiences that they can share with friends and on social media. From a hospitality perspective, this means that those who offer their guests unique and unforgettable experiences by combining food, drink and entertainment can significantly increase sales and footfall. Restaurateurs can embrace the trend by partnering with existing venues or restaurants or by organising events. The installation of (gaming) technology is attractive to guests interested in technology and provides an unforgettable culinary experience that encourages returning guests (food-service.de).
