Landlords

“We were approached by Sven Schmidt, the owner of German Events Limited, in 2012 with a proposal to introduce a dinosaur themed golf course at thecentre:mk during the summer months of 2013. An agreement to locate this in Queens Court, an open event space in the heart of the centre, was taken. This space has proved problematic for promotions and events, despite the close proximity of great retailers as it has no roof. The Jurassic Golf course is completely weatherproof however and it was decided to reduce the size of the course down to 12 holes in order to fit this venue. The intention was to drive footfall into the area, particularly during late summer evenings, entertain a family audience and drive additional sales to the adjacent restaurants which would, in turn, increase turnover rents .

In February half term two promotional dinosaurs were positioned in the planters of the main hall to promote the activity. The 12 hole course, containing a dozen life size dinosaurs plus props (including an aeroplane, jeep and a fully animated T Rex) all themed to replicate Jurassic Park feature film, was installed for Easter. The quality of the set and equipment is first class, everything being brand new for thecentre:mk; installation was completely problem free and the activity ready early.

Since commencement in Easter, we have been exceptionally please with the activity and income (based on a share of the turnover) exceeding expectations, particularly during weekends and school holidays. The on-site team offer exceptional customer service and the administration has been first class. Unforeseen initial problems have been addressed quickly and efficiently and Sven has been keen to build upon initial marketing to drive additional sales via scholl and group bookings as well as birthday parties – we are starting to see the results of this. One of our restaurants is working with Sven to produce a term time only promotional offer. We have received exceptional feedback, particuarly via social media, which has, in turn, driven additional business. The family audience has also been supplemented during lunch times by groups of adults keen to test their skills.

I would have no hesitation in recommending the German Events Adventure Golf for other shopping centres, which are ideal venues for this type of activity. This is a perfect footfall and sales driver, ideal for both indoor and outdoor locations and a great example of shoppertainment.”

Jackie Tracey
Commercialisation Manager

Sven Schmidt of German Events Ltd approached us with a proposal to bring a Jurassic themed mini golf course to The Oracle.

We were impressed with the proposal and so we decided to book it in for summer 2014 (April to September) on our Riverside performance area.

The course was a real hit with our customers and exceeded our expectations in terms of aesthetics and management.

It gained a great amount of social media and press coverage and fast became a destination for families and people of all ages. It also met our objectives in terms of  providing customers with a new leisure offer and increasing dwell time on the Riverside.

Francesca Hutchinson
The Oracle Reading