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Alternatives worth a look
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A Play Meter issue featuring novelty pieces, private pay telephones, and kiddie
rides may not have brought more than a glance a few years ago when everyone had video
fever. But with operators now looking at equipment that does not have a prohibitive price,
has staying power, will earn a fair profit, and will be in demand, this issue featuring some
of the alternatives to video games should be popular.
Bonnie Theard , Play Meter's contributing editor, spent a lot of time compiling the
product photos, and making this the most comprehensive buyers guide for novelties,
phones, and kiddie rides ever. Some innovative and exciting product has been
introduced in those categories.
The private pay-telephone industry has been growing. New companies have
been added to the list of pay-phone manufacturers and distributors, and operators still
are seeking any and all information about this potentially lucrative industry. Our 1984
Buyers Guide was published just before deregulation made the private pay-phone ind us-
try possible , and no pay phones were listed in it. Since then the emergence of pay-phone
manufacturers has been tremendous. I can't imagine having to choose equipment from
all that is offered , and it is getting better all the time. But my advice to operators is to know
exactly what you need and make sure you buy equipment that is compatible with regula-
tions in your area. The private pay-phone industry has a lot of growing to do yet.
When looking at the new kiddie rides, I can honestly say I wish I were a kid again
with a parent who understood a child 's craving for a thrilling escape on a kiddie ride.
Maybe kids sense that these marvels were designed with only them in mind . The equip-
ment is ageless . Bonnie's November 15, 1985, Play Meter article on kiddie rides is worth a
look back to read the views of kiddie-ride operators.
The novelty pieces continue to amaze . They are geared for all ages , from the
older "kids" playing Ski//-0-Bingo, Four Kings, Pop-0-Shot, Batter Up! , and Idea
Ball to the teenagers testing their prowess on the Love Meter and Wheel of Love, to the
youngsters throwing balls at characters in garbage cans in Can Alley or pounding
critters on Whac-A-Mole .
Some operators will say they have no use for this kind of equipment. They may
profess to be making so much on video and pins that they don't need to operate "the
other stuff." Fine. Let them ignore it while others make a steady income with a low initial
investment on some of the most exciting equipment available.
No one will promise that this equipment will make you a million dollars the first
month . They won't even guarantee it will make you a fortune, ever. All anyone can
promise is that it makes good sense to look at a variety of equipment, keep an open mind ,
and study the potential. And for those who decide to give this equipment a try, we hope
you will use our gallery of photos and study the details from companies who have given
you more information in an ad . You have nothing to lose and everything to gain .
g
~ /l/JA~u.u~',,~J
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Valerie Cognevich
Director of Advertising/
Executive Assistant
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