Hollywood Bowl Group plc: Comprehensive Market Research Report

Background

Overview

Hollywood Bowl Group plc is a leading operator of ten-pin bowling and mini-golf centres in the United Kingdom and Canada. The company manages over 90 centres, each featuring bowling lanes, licensed bars, diners, and amusement zones equipped with the latest games. Its primary brands include Hollywood Bowl, Splitsville, and Puttstars.

Mission and Vision

The company's mission is to provide fun-filled, safe, and great value entertainment experiences that surprise and delight customers on every visit. Through customer focus and insight-led product and technological innovation, Hollywood Bowl Group aims to continually enhance the customer experience.

Industry Significance

As the UK's largest ten-pin bowling operator and the largest in Canada, Hollywood Bowl Group holds a significant position in the leisure and entertainment industry. Its comprehensive entertainment offerings make it a key player in the competitive socialising sector.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

• Expansion: Increase the number of centres to 95 in the UK by FY2035.

• Customer Experience: Enhance service quality through technological innovations and customer-focused initiatives.

• Diversification: Expand into new markets, including Canada, and introduce new entertainment formats like mini-golf.

Areas of Specialisation

• Family Entertainment: Offer inclusive and affordable leisure activities suitable for all ages.

• Competitive Socialising: Provide venues for social events, parties, and corporate gatherings.

Key Technologies Utilised

• Online Booking Systems: Facilitate easy reservations and dynamic pricing.

• At-Lane Ordering Technology: Allow customers to order food and drinks directly from their mobile devices.

• Digital Payment Solutions: Implement 'tap to play' technology for amusements.

Primary Markets Targeted

• United Kingdom: Focus on high-footfall retail and leisure destinations.

• Canada: Expand presence in Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, and Saskatchewan.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

Hollywood Bowl Group plc was listed on the Main Market of the London Stock Exchange in September 2016. In May 2022, the company expanded into Canada by acquiring Splitsville, a leading Canadian ten-pin bowling operator.

Recent Financial Performance

• Revenue: £250.7 million for the fiscal year ending 30 September 2025, an 8.8% increase from the previous year.

• Net Income: £34.6 million for the same period.

• EBITDA Margin: 36.74% for the year ending 30 September 2023.

Dividend Policy

The company announced a final dividend of 9.18p per share for the fiscal year ending 30 September 2025, bringing the total annual dividend to 13.28p per share, a 10.1% increase from the previous year.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

• New Centre Openings: Hollywood Bowl Reading opened in July 2025 following a £4.5 million investment.

• Refurbishments: Hollywood Bowl at The O2 underwent a £1.35 million refurbishment in August 2024.

Target Conditions

• United Kingdom: Focus on prime out-of-town retail and leisure destinations.

• Canada: Expand presence in major cities and high-footfall areas.

Anticipated Milestones

• UK Expansion: Achieve 95 centres by FY2035.

• Canadian Growth: Establish Splitsville as a national chain with 35+ centres by FY2035.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

• Go System: A customer relationship management (CRM) platform that drives targeted marketing and enhances customer engagement.

Significant Scientific Methods

• Data Analytics: Utilise customer data to inform decision-making and personalise marketing efforts.

• Dynamic Pricing Algorithms: Adjust pricing based on demand and customer behaviour.

Leadership Team

Key Executives

• Stephen Burns: Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

• Background: Joined Hollywood Bowl Group in 2012, leading the company through significant growth and expansion.

• Contributions: Implemented CRM-driven technology, resulting in increased customer visits and revenue.

• Darren Shapland: Chairman.

• Background: Extensive experience in retail and leisure sectors, serving on various boards.

• Contributions: Provides strategic oversight and governance to the company.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The leisure and entertainment industry is experiencing growth, with increasing demand for family-friendly and socialising activities. The competitive landscape includes both direct and indirect competitors.

Competitor Analysis

• Ten Entertainment Group plc: Operates 49 bowling centres under the Tenpin brand, focusing on value-oriented propositions.

• Paradise Island Adventure Golf: Private operator of mini-golf venues, competing with Hollywood Bowl's Puttstars brand.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Significant Collaborations

• Landlord Partnerships: Collaborate with landlords and developers to secure prime locations in retail and leisure destinations.

• Technology Providers: Partner with technology firms to enhance customer experience through digital innovations.

Operational Insights

Strategic Considerations

• Site Selection: Focus on high-footfall areas to maximise customer engagement.

• Revenue Diversification: Offer a mix of bowling, food and beverage, and amusements to enhance profitability.

Competitive Advantages

• Brand Recognition: Strong brand presence in both the UK and Canada.

• Customer Experience: Commitment to delivering exceptional service and entertainment.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Expansion Plans

• UK Market: Continue to open new centres and refurbish existing ones to reach the target of 95 centres by FY2035.

• Canadian Market: Focus on establishing Splitsville as a national chain with 35+ centres by FY2035.

Innovation Initiatives

• Technology Integration: Further invest in digital platforms to enhance customer engagement and operational efficiency.

• Product Diversification: Explore new entertainment formats and services to attract a broader customer base.

Contact Information

• Official Website: www.hollywoodbowlgroup.com

• Social Media:

• Facebook: Hollywood Bowl Group

• Twitter: @HollywoodBowlGrp

• LinkedIn: Hollywood Bowl Group