Most people who walk into a GameTruck think this is a great way to spend an afternoon. Vic Antipow walked in and thought this is a great way to change my life.
Three years ago, Vic wasn’t looking to start a business when he attended a party with a
“I worked for other startups in my career and this had the same feel to it,” said Antipow. “I could see potential growth and it is fun to be a part of that while being my own boss.”
GameTruck is located in 54 cities around the country and Vic became the first GameTruck franchise in northern California. Three years later and numerous amounts of parties under his belt, Vic is enjoying every minute of being a GameTruck owner.
What is a GameTruck?
For those that don’t know, GameTruck was founded in 2006 by Scott Novis in Tempe, Arizona. What started out as a fun birthday party experiment for family and friends quickly turned into a business. In 2009, GameTruck had a break out year growing by more than 800% and expanding into most of the top markets across the United States.
GameTruck brings the ultimate video game party to your doorstep with a custom mobile gaming theater that comes with an extensive library of games for all ages. Vic likes to focus on multiplayer games for X-Box 360, Playstation 3 and Nintendo Wii. If a game can be system linked for multiplayer fun they will typically carry 2-4 copies of that game.
Challenges with starting a franchise
Becoming a franchisee can be quite difficult and there are many barriers to consider. Vic had to worry about raising enough capital at the start to buy a truck and build the equipment. Once that was completed he had to worry about clientele, hiring employees and basically starting a company from scratch. Not an easy task for anyone.
“Of course there is a lot of risk involved but there are never any guarantees with becoming a business owner,” said Antipow. “I am just focused on getting the word out, increasing brand awareness and creating the best experience for each customer I work with.”
Vic has done a phenomenal job at that. While he has dabbled in some advertising on the internet, he notices a majority of his clients come from word of mouth or someone who attended a GameTruck party.
Being in the Silicon Valley is also a great location for his GameTruck. It is a great option for after school programs, fund raising and also serves as an educational tool. From games that help develop cognitive and critical thinking skills to those that teach children how to effectively collaborate, GameTruck is committed to educating and entertaining.
The future of GameTrucks
One of the beauties about GameTruck is that it appeals to people of all ages. Whether you are planning a party for kids, adults, or your company, GameTruck makes sure the experience is tailored for the participants.
Vic wants to continue and grow his business in the years to come and having more trucks is just one way to make sure that happens. Right now he is the “jack of all trades” but understands that growth will open up more opportunities to hire people to take on the different aspects of the business.
As for his advice for others looking to become a business owner.
“It is important to do your research, make sure the idea is successful and see if the numbers add up,” said Antipow. “After you create a business plan, have someone review everything so you can get an outside opinion.”
It is clear that Vic not only enjoys what he is doing, but has the expertise and passion to be successful.
For more information about booking a GameTruck party or if you want to lean more the business please visit their website or facebook page.
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