The LBX Show #92 – Rerun: Annual Predictions Episode 2026!

Transcript

Sponsored by Intercard!
Sponsored by PartyPing!

On this week’s show we revisit the Annual Predictions episode while BW is away in Bled, Slovenia racing at World Masters regatta.

On this re-run, we grade last year’s location-based entertainment predictions with brutal honesty, then map the signals that matter for operators across competitive socializing, arcades, VR, and IP-driven experiences. We close by laying out a practical 2026 playbook and a new round of predictions you can hold us to.

• IAAPA FEC Summit details and why it matters for FEC operators
• A clear framework for high, medium, and low predictions
• Japan amusement expansion in the US through cranes, gashapon, and acquisitions
• Competitive socializing venues overtaking traditional multi-attraction FEC new builds
• Dave and Buster’s brand strategy miss and the reality check on social bays
• VR supplier consolidation versus ongoing mini golf oversaturation
• Openings trend toward phygital signage, drop-in mission rooms, and hybrid mixes
• Round One component utilization and why positioning beats copy-paste rollouts
• XR fitness inside gyms plus the operational reality of cleaning headsets
• Closings and restructurings including Sixes and Dreamscape pivots
• Arcade industry 2025 releases, trade show momentum, and uneven operator performance
• Four 2026 growth levers: basics, efficiency, grassroots, value-first
• 2026 predictions on transmedia, pickleball, Merlin, IP venues, and laser tag evolution

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Brandon Willey

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