Three Mistakes a New Complex Should Avoid
Opening a new sports complex or recreational facility is a challenging, multi-faceted endeavor that requires experienced project management. All too often, investment groups make a few common mistakes that can seriously hurt their project’s viability.
To avoid these mistakes, consider partnering with an industry-leading management team such as Sports Facility Management. At the very least, check out the top three common mistakes that many new sports complexes make.
1 – Not Planning for the Future of Your Sports Complex
With the incredible rate of growth of the sports industry, not planning for future expansion when you are designing your building can be a fatal mistake. Even if your initial plan is to simply create a space where neighborhood families can play basketball, you may find that a smaller facility is putting a hard ceiling on your potential growth. Even if you have a limited budget, there are measures that your architects can take to design space for future expansion if requested.
2 – Cutting Corners on Equipment Purchases
While equipment is often one of the more expensive investments a sports complex will make during their pre-opening timeline, it is important to fight the urge to cut corners with your equipment purchases.
Not only is equipment quality one of the most important factors for attracting customers, but buying discount equipment can end up costing you more in the long run. Lower quality equipment will often need to be replaced sooner because of breakdowns or wear and tear. Worse still, you could be looking at safety and liability issues for your members. Spending a little more on a trusted brand will pay off in the long run.
3 – Not Investing in Marketing in the Pre-Opening Phase
Every sports complex owner’s goal should be to open with a robust marketing database and a multitude of events already booked by the time the doors open. With the impact of the internet, digital marketing can be extremely effective for spreading the word about your new sports complex without hurting your budget the way a television spot might. Invest in marketing early and you will reap the rewards when it comes time to open your facility.
Contact Sports Facility Management for Expert Advice
If you are planning a new sports complex and want the guidance that an expert team of sports industry leaders can provide, contact SFM today. Our team has helped hundreds of sports facilities across the nation move from the planning phase to a successful opening. If you are interested in learning more about our services, call us today at 727-474-3845.
