Financing Arcade Machines and Ticket Redemption Equipment

Arcades and family entertainment centers thrive on fun and excitement—and that starts with having the right mix of arcade machines, ticket redemption systems, and prize counters. But the upfront cost of commercial-grade equipment can be overwhelming. New arcade cabinets can range from $5,000 to $20,000 each, and a complete ticket redemption system may add tens of thousands more.

That’s why many operators turn to equipment financing to keep their businesses competitive while managing cash flow.

Why Financing Makes Sense for Arcades

• Lower Upfront Costs – Avoid paying six figures in cash for new machines.

• Predictable Payments – Spread costs across affordable monthly installments.

• Faster Growth – Add new machines and attractions sooner.

• Upgrade Flexibility – Swap outdated cabinets for newer titles as trends change.

• Revenue Alignment – Match loan terms with daily or seasonal arcade earnings.

Equipment Commonly Financed

✔ Arcade Game Cabinets – Racing games, shooters, dance simulators, and classics.
✔ Pinball Machines – Popular in retro arcades and themed venues.
✔ VR & Interactive Games – Immersive attractions with high earning potential.
✔ Ticket Redemption Systems – Kiosks, scanners, and automated prize payout machines.
✔ Prize Counters & Displays – Shelving, counters, and secure storage.
✔ Payment & POS Systems – Card swipers, cashless arcade cards, and kiosks.

Financing Options for Arcades

1. Equipment Loans

• Fixed monthly payments.

• Ownership from day one.

• Best for long-term machines with consistent earnings.

2. Lease-to-Own Programs

• Lower upfront investment.

• Ownership transfers at lease-end.

• Great for prize counters and durable equipment.

3. Operating Leases

• Lowest monthly costs.

• Machines returned or swapped at lease-end.

• Ideal for staying current with fast-changing arcade trends.

4. Revenue-Based Financing

• Repay loans as a percentage of daily or monthly arcade revenue.

• Matches cash flow for seasonal or high-traffic locations.

5. Vendor Financing

• Many arcade suppliers offer in-house financing.

• Convenient, but compare with banks or independent lenders.

Example Financing Scenario

A family entertainment center wants to expand with:

• 5 Arcade Game Cabinets @ $12,000 each = $60,000

• Ticket Redemption System = $25,000

• Prize Counter & Displays = $15,000

Total Investment: $100,000

With a 5-year loan at 7%, monthly payments would be about $2,000. If each machine earns $150/day, that’s $22,500/month in revenue—easily covering financing while driving profits.

Tips for Arcade Operators

✔ Bundle games, redemption systems, and displays into a single financing package.
✔ Compare  leasing vs. revenue-based financing for the best fit.
✔ Negotiate service and maintenance agreements with vendors.
✔ Upgrade machines regularly to stay ahead of player trends.
✔ Track ROI—measure earnings per machine versus financing costs.

Final Thoughts

For arcades and family entertainment centers, financing arcade machines and ticket redemption equipment makes it possible to grow, upgrade, and compete—without overwhelming budgets. With loans, leases, or vendor financing, operators can bring in new attractions, boost revenue, and keep guests coming back for more.