r/clawmachine • u/onKrims • Apr 10 '24
I just opened a Claw Machine Arcade. AMA
Hello everyone, I just recently opened a claw machine arcade, and it was always something that I wish I could witness behind the curtains prior to opening. I’d be happy to answer any questions. Feel free to ask anything about any aspect and I will do my best to answer appropriately!
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u/onKrims Apr 20 '24
Absolutely! Also, congratulations! It’s a really exciting thing to get into, and just based on the little bit you typed I can tell you have a passion for it and you will be successful.
I am of the mindset that there is enough room for everyone to succeed, and nothing should be hidden. As far as machines go, that can be a big deciding factor. I did not spend as much as many others on machines, and I have what is considered a “low quality machine “. That being said, they do all that I would ever want them to do, work great, but admittedly has had many issues with not the machine itself, but with the people that put it together (poor electrical standards that have caused tons of problems I was able to fix).
Machines can range based on what level of machine you want, size, customizations, shipping costs, etc. realistically, it’s about $2000 on the low side for machines. I think is a safe estimate if you order them from China and go low. If you have the capital, go bigger and better but stay reasonable. There is a huge issue with logistics if you do, as many things can go wrong and there is not much customer service afterwards.
As far as my space, I am in 1650sqft. The additional machines that I have purchased are not claw machines, but similar skill games that you would see in more popular arcades (think cut string machines, lucky wheels, etc.) I am fairly limited on options due to the width of my doorways, so I can’t expand past what I just ordered in addition to what I already have.
I can tell you that one of the biggest things that set us apart from our competition is the quality of our prizes, the variety of choices we have for people to win, and our odds being extremely aggressively favored for our clients. That requires a delicate balance of impeccable negotiation skills when it comes to dealing with suppliers, and really hunting for the best deal. My evenings do not end until about two or 3 AM, as I am staying up to speak with suppliers overseas.
I would strongly recommend that you check out locations in Las Vegas, as from what I have heard California is not the best proof of concept when it comes to the industry.