Subject area:                      Competitive Strategy, Corporate Level Strategy, Growth Strategy, International Business Strategy

Region:                                   Valdosta, Georgia

Industry:                                Amusement

Company:                              Recoil Trampoline Park

Decision Maker:                Trent Coggins, Owner

Dilemma: Trent Coggins, owner of Recoil Trampoline Park, finds himself looking to fill a void in him that has been itching at him. His business has been losing customers around mealtimes to go get food at an offsite location. He decided to bring food to Recoil, but how was he supposed to start? Trent, having attended Mercer University for both his undergraduate and masters degrees – known as a “double bear” – consulted parties associated with his alma mater. Specifically, he consulted a trustworthy friend and entrepreneur alike, Dr. Marko Horn. The Mercer University professor, on a rainy Monday morning, presents the entrepreneur’s simple dilemma; to which three prized pupils take an interest. An inkling of an idea begins to form behind the brain of the soon-to-be graduates; if someone could elevate this business to the next level, they could truly begin their careers on a bright note.

Dr. Horn then thrust upon the class this single question; “who has the gall to take on this project?” There was little doubt in their minds; this group was ready to complete the task at hand. Upon accepting this project, the consulting team drove to Valdosta, to meet the principal and to see the worksite.

Recoil Trampoline Park, opening on September 19, 2019, had only a few months before the COVID-19 pandemic. The business opened with great success, however, with the principal noting such confidence during the initial meeting with the consulting team. It is, however, up to Recoil’s response that would determine the success – or doom – of the business.

Recoil Trampoline Park shut operations down for six months following the United States’ Central Disease Control’s order for personal and professional quarantine. Coggins, being the considerate and conscientious entrepreneur he is, makes renovations to the business during that time that should help Recoil keep its edge on the local competition within the Valdosta area and regions close to the Florida-Georgia line. 

These renovations ultimately resulted in the addition of a laser tag arena, one which hits home to the military families as well as the teenage population present in the Valdosta region, and continues to draw in revenue to this day. By this point, the business had taken off completely, and was back into the full-flight course which it was destined for before quarantine was mandated. Through continuous and dedicated improvement, as well as a vigilant watch for community standards, Recoil has created a center of family fun enjoyable for all ages.

Now, Recoil only has one question, “How can we keep customers in our building and enjoy the attractions for as long as possible?”