AttractionPros
Episode 451: Mike Whincup Talks About Modular Attractions, Profitability Through Efficiency and Trends in Inflataparks
Why It Matters
Understanding modular attraction design helps family entertainment centers maximize revenue while minimizing capital outlay, a crucial advantage in a competitive market. As consumer demand shifts toward ever‑changing, themed experiences, operators who adopt flexible, efficient solutions can stay relevant and profitable, making this episode especially timely for anyone planning or managing an entertainment venue.
Key Takeaways
- •Modular rides cut build costs by two‑thirds versus traditional parks.
- •Swappable inflatables enable seasonal themes and quick component replacement.
- •Efficiency-focused design maximizes playable space, boosting profitability.
- •Galaxy MultiRides leads mechanical bull market, offers 54 custom attachments.
- •Do the Beach franchising merges manufacturing expertise with park operations.
Pulse Analysis
In Episode 451, Mike Whincup explains how Galaxy MultiRides leverages modular ride platforms to slash construction expenses. By using interchangeable components, a 10,000‑square‑foot attraction can be built for roughly one‑third the cost of a conventional trampoline or inflatable park. This flexibility lets operators swap themes—like a Christmas inflatable—or replace high‑wear entry modules without overhauling the entire facility, delivering a fast‑track path to seasonal relevance and reduced downtime.
Whincup emphasizes profitability through efficiency, contrasting inflatable parks with traditional trampoline venues. Modular designs increase usable play space while occupying smaller footprints, allowing operators to fit attractions into tighter real‑estate parcels. The streamlined layout reduces labor, maintenance, and energy costs, directly improving margins. By applying the same efficiency principles to operational processes—such as standardized staffing and data‑driven capacity planning—family entertainment centers can achieve higher revenue per square foot and stronger return on investment.
The conversation shifts to emerging trends, notably the Do the Beach franchise model that blends Galaxy’s manufacturing know‑how with hands‑on park operation. These immersive inflatable parks feature custom brand activations, from mechanical sharks to novelty rides like a lobster, creating memorable experiences that attract both families and corporate events. The franchise‑in‑a‑box approach supplies real‑estate assistance, financing guidance, and a proven modular product suite, positioning operators to capitalize on the growing demand for adaptable, high‑impact entertainment venues.
Episode Description
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Mike Whincup is the Head of Design and Marketing at Galaxy Multi Rides. Growing up in a family business that pioneered mechanical bull innovation, Mike has worked across both manufacturing and operations, helping expand the company globally while also launching Do The Beach, an inflatable park franchise concept. His experience spans decades in the attractions industry, blending creativity, entrepreneurship, and operational insight. In this interview, Mike talks about modular attractions, profitability through efficiency, and trends in inflataparks.
Modular attractions
“If you can think it, we’ve probably made it, as long as we can make it safe.”
Mike explains how Galaxy Multi Rides evolved from a single mechanical bull into a fully modular attraction system with interchangeable ride attachments. What began as a practical solution to improve setup efficiency turned into a versatile product line that allows operators to swap themes and experiences easily. From surfboards to sharks to branded activations, the modular concept enables venues to refresh offerings without major capital investment.
This adaptability also makes the attractions appealing across multiple markets, from party rentals to permanent installations. The ability to customize and iterate has attracted major brands and entertainment venues, reinforcing the value of flexibility in attraction design.
Profitability through efficiency
“We’re trying to create profitability through efficiency.”
A central theme in Mike’s philosophy is designing attractions and facilities that maximize revenue while minimizing operational strain. He highlights how inflatable parks can achieve up to 90 percent playable space compared to around 60 percent in trampoline parks, immediately increasing capacity and revenue potential within the same footprint.
Efficiency also extends to staffing and layout. By designing attractions that require less supervision and optimizing facility flow, operators can reduce labor costs while maintaining safety and guest experience. This balance between design, operations, and guest flow is what drives sustainable profitability.
Trends in inflataparks
“It’s the evolution of the concept.”
Mike describes the current inflatable park movement not as a new trend, but as an evolution. Earlier versions were disconnected attractions placed side by side, while modern inflataparks are fully integrated environments where guests remain engaged continuously.
This shift toward immersive, interconnected design improves safety, increases engagement, and enhances overall guest satisfaction. The model also benefits from lower build costs and greater adaptability, making it attractive for operators entering the market. As a result, inflataparks are gaining renewed momentum as a scalable and efficient alternative within the family entertainment center space.
Mike can be reached on LinkedIn. To learn more about Galaxy Multi Rides, visit www.galaxymultirides.com. To learn more about Do The Beach, visit www.dothebeach.com.
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