339: The Hidden Risks of Joining a Play Café Franchise

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The Profitable Play Podcast

Michele Caruana

350 episodes

1 week ago

If you own or manage an indoor play center, play cafe, indoor playground, family entertainment center, mobile soft play rental business or really any business that serves local children and families, and you want to operate with more EASE and JOY, all while making the living you dreamed of– I created the profitable play podcast just for you. Join me, your host, Michele Caruana, for small but mighty tips every single weekday that will all add up to a BIG impact on your mindset, your business, and your bottom line. Stick with me to keep the PASSION and GROW the profit in YOUR play-based business

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All content for The Profitable Play Podcast is the property of Michele Caruana and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.

Entrepreneurship

Business

339: The Hidden Risks of Joining a Play Café Franchise

The Profitable Play Podcast

40 minutes 53 seconds

2 weeks ago

339: The Hidden Risks of Joining a Play Café Franchise

In this episode, I’m breaking down the truth about play café and indoor playground franchising — and why this model has failed to deliver lasting success for most owners, outside of what you may see on social media.

I’ve worked with countless franchisees who believed joining an established concept would simplify their startup journey, only to discover overwhelming fees, lack of flexibility, and corporate systems that didn’t fit their local markets.

In this episode, I share real examples of owners who struggled under these agreements and explain the key red flags to watch for if you’re researching a franchise opportunity (and we get VERY specific!).

You’ll learn:

• Why big national brands like The Little Gym or Goldfish Swim School can make franchising work — and why smaller ones rarely can.

• The financial math behind royalties, marketing fees, and hidden costs.

• Common build-out and permitting pitfalls new franchisees face.

• The importance of local flexibility in pricing, programs, and menu offerings.

• How to read the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) and spot deal-breaking clauses.

• Smarter alternatives to franchising for aspiring owners who still want systems and support.

If you’ve been tempted by the promise of “done-for-you” business ownership, this episode will help you make a truly informed decision before signing anything.

Blog for this episode

Old Pros and Cons of Franchising Article Mentioned

What's Working Guide for 2025-2026

OTHER RESOURCES:

Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society

Getting Started With Your Play Cafe [YouTube Video Playlist]

What's Working In The Indoor Play Industry 2025 Guide

Fund Your Indoor Play Business [Free Training]

Indoor Play Courses & 1:1 Consulting Waitlist

Michele’s Instagram

Michele’s Website

Play Cafe Academy YouTube Channel