For nearly 40 years, the OABA has been committed to improving all aspects of our carnival midway operations. Guaranteeing guest satisfaction is critical in how well we achieve our goal of creating a wholesome and memorable guest experience.

No place is this any more critical than in the area of carnival games. In 2002, the OABA’s board of directors endorsed Foundation for the Future, a program that addresses five operational areas “that should be focused on continually to improve our image.”

Games concessions is one of the five areas identified. The written document states, “The OABA’s board of directors believes that all business owners, and especially members of our trade association, should continue to raise the level of safety and quality in the mobile amusement industry. In doing so, not only will revenue improve, but also our family businesses will reap more positive public relations and improved image in the eyes of our customers or guests on the midway…

The perception of value and quality of a game plus the guest relations and service by game attendants will determine the public’s opinion of our game operation. By maintaining clean operations, providing winnable games, and providing quality stock based on the skill and price of the game, our guests will continue to support our game concessions.”

DECORATIONS

Themes, carpeting, landscaping, flags and banners, all add to creating the positive image we are trying to accomplish on our games midways making them more inviting.

MAINTENANCE

w All game components should be in proper working order.

w All maintenance work shall be done according to game manufacturer specifications, good judgment, governing law, and by properly trained individuals.

w All replacement, preventive maintenance, and lubrication schedules shall be closely monitored and performed by qualified individuals.

w An operator’s manual shall be kept with the equipment. The manual will be kept reasonably up to date with all reasonably available bulletins and completed work orders.

INSPECTION

All games shall be inspected at least daily to maintain standards of quality by the game owner or supervisor.

GENERAL TIPS

w Keep the area in front of the game clean and free of debris.

w Music can be a plus; however, levels should be monitored at all times. Loud blaring music will drive guests away sooner than it will attract them.

w No one likes to be shouted at, especially over a PA system. In calling your guests to play your game, be considerate, and don’t make comments that are suggestive or offensive.

w Winners seen with stock prizes generate more players. Guests are more apt to play games where they see others with prizes on the midway.

w Word of mouth advertising is the best kind. When a guest has a positive experience at a game, they are more likely to return and tell someone else. If they leave after a bad experience, there is little chance of getting them back or having them tell someone else to play the game.

Recently, the Concessions Committee of the OABA revised and proposed specific guidelines that pertain to carnival games. Their recommendations address and include:

Male attendants should be clean shaven with neatly trimmed hair. All attendants should wear clean clothes that complement the show uniform. The choice of personal jewelry should be appropriate and sensible.

At a minimum, a shirt with a show or company logo is mandatory. Attendants should wear a visible ID at all times they are “on duty” and operating their game.

Hand written, cardboard signs reflect poorly on a game operation. Professionally manufactured signs with colorful graphics and clearly stated rules, pricing per game, and a clear statement on the object of the game and how to win it should be clearly posted. Signs should explain the various prize categories such as SMALL, MEDIUM, LARGE, etc. Bilingual signage may be necessary in some areas.

Prices should be clearly posted and competitive with comparable types of games, rides, and other attractions on the midway. Customers should never feel that anyone has taken advantage of them.

Create an inviting and welcoming environment at the game for guests of all ages, especially older people and those with disabilities. Being polite and courteous will leave a good impression on guests and encourage repeat business.

Research studies and exit surveys indicate that guests stay longer and enjoy themselves more when benches, shaded areas, tables and landscaping are part of the midway scene.

Game Rules for our Games

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