The growth of FECs in India is rapid but is being hampered by import duty, high rents and other taxes to slow down the return on investment, according to Shalini Vij, a director at Hang Out, one of the best family entertainment centres in the country.
“The Indian market is yet to accept the principal of spending freely on family fun and entertainment.
“The idea is still new and will take time to gain willingness and acceptance by parents to pay more for family fun. We therefore lag behind China in this area and that forces operators to choose cheaper options and keep investment low,” said Vij.
Hang Out is operated by MF Entertainment and Amusement and has four locations, in New Delhi, where the company is based, in Haryana, West Delhi and in Ludhiana. The first was set up six years ago to cater for all age groups but primarily for children under 14.
“We promote family interaction and by using virtual rides, a 6D motion theatre and other attractions we make Hang Out a ‘family hang-out,’” said Vij.
Editor’s note: a full report on the amusement industry in India will appear in our September issue.
