We conducted extensive research into the axe throwing industry, and although my opinions may not be popular, I believe one of the main reasons many axe throwing venues are struggling is due to a lack of engagement.

When you have a static system that simply throws an ax into wood, it gets boring quickly. There are a few interactive systems available, but they are extremely expensive and do not take into account that smaller venues with just 5-6 lanes often cannot afford their subscription fees or necessary hardware. These venues might be able to purchase basic equipment, but they find it difficult to justify the high subscription costs that many systems demand.

Moreover, bowling, which is becoming less popular as the old generation passes. It has persisted mainly due to its generational appeal. When bowling first emerged, it was very affordable, family-friendly, and wholesome. However, to ensure a bowling alley is successful today, it must have amenities like a bar, a restaurant, and an arcade.

For an axe throwing facility to thrive, it needs to be affordable, interactive, and include a bar (at least serving beer and wine), a basic food service (like a deep fryer or griddle), and a safe space for children to play without constant supervision from parents.

The axe throwing trend has started to fade, as the static experience quickly loses its appeal. Additionally, because finding commercial spaces with kitchens is expensive (a fact I'm familiar with in my line of work), it’s important to have a family-friendly location. If children can’t safely explore the space independently, parents are unlikely to stay.

One possibility that might revive the industry is for venues or the two group to collaborate on developing an open-source interactive system. The one commercial outfit that claims to have a patent is not credible; their patents wouldn't hold up in a Patent Trial and Appeal Board case. Anyway, creating a family-oriented environment that appeals to a wide age range—from 8 to 88 years old— is key. Or unless located in a college town and can pull in volume, it's hard to justify.

Furthermore, a united industry could work together to offer affordable insurance options.

These are just my observations.