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.
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Upgrade Flexibility – Swap outdated cabinets for newer titles as trends change.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.
✔ 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.
Fixed monthly payments.
Ownership from day one.
Best for long-term machines with consistent earnings.
Lower upfront investment.
Ownership transfers at lease-end.
Great for prize counters and durable equipment.
Lowest monthly costs.
Machines returned or swapped at lease-end.
Ideal for staying current with fast-changing arcade trends.
Repay loans as a percentage of daily or monthly arcade revenue.
Matches cash flow for seasonal or high-traffic locations.
Many arcade suppliers offer in-house financing.
Convenient, but compare with banks or independent lenders.
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.
✔ 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.
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.