How to Plan Arcade Equipment for Multiple Locations

Expanding an arcade business from one location to several locations creates new equipment challenges.

A single venue can often be managed with a relatively simple purchasing process. Once an operator has multiple locations, however, differences in machine models, payment systems, spare parts, branding, operating settings, and maintenance procedures can make the business much more difficult to manage.

For multi-location arcade operators, distributors, and entertainment brands, equipment planning should therefore focus on standardization as well as individual machine performance.

The objective is not necessarily to put exactly the same machines in every venue. Instead, the goal is to create a consistent equipment system that can be adapted to different locations while remaining easy to purchase, install, operate, maintain, and expand.

This guide explains how to plan commercial arcade equipment for multiple locations.

1. Start With a Multi-Location Equipment Strategy

Before ordering machines for several venues, establish an overall equipment strategy.

Define:

Target venue types
Target customer groups
Main equipment categories
Preferred machine models
Payment systems
Branding standards
Electrical configurations
Prize strategy
Maintenance procedures
Spare-parts requirements
Expansion plans

This prevents every location from developing its own completely different equipment system.

A standardized strategy can reduce unnecessary complexity as the business grows.

2. Decide Which Equipment Should Be Standardized

Not every machine needs to be identical.

A useful approach is to divide equipment into three groups.

Core equipment

These are machines that appear in most locations.

Examples may include:

Claw machines
Capsule machines
Popular prize games

These should generally have consistent specifications.

Location-specific equipment

These machines are selected according to venue size, customer demographics, and local demand.

Feature equipment

These are larger or specialized machines used to create a distinctive attraction at a particular location.

This approach provides consistency without making every venue look exactly the same.

3. Create a Standard Equipment List

A multi-location operator should maintain a master equipment list.

For each machine, record:

Model name
Product code
Dimensions
Weight
Voltage
Plug type
Payment system
Game settings
Prize type
Artwork
Cabinet color
Spare parts
Supplier
Warranty information

This document becomes an internal reference for purchasing and maintenance.

It can also make communication with suppliers much easier.

4. Standardize Core Claw Machines

Claw machines are particularly suitable for standardization.

If multiple locations use the same or closely related models, operators can benefit from:

Consistent customer experience
Easier staff training
Common spare parts
Similar maintenance procedures
Consistent branding
Easier purchasing
Simpler troubleshooting

For example, an operator may establish one standard cabinet design for most locations while allowing different prize configurations depending on local customers.

This provides operational consistency without limiting merchandising flexibility.

5. Create a Model Hierarchy

Instead of selecting dozens of different machines, consider creating a small model hierarchy.

For example:

Model A — Compact

Designed for small spaces.

Model B — Standard

Used as the primary machine for most locations.

Model C — Large

Used as a focal point in larger venues.

Model D — Multi-player

Used where customer traffic and social gameplay justify additional player capacity.

A model hierarchy makes expansion easier because new locations can select from an established product range.

6. Match Equipment to Each Location

Standardization should not mean ignoring the characteristics of each venue.

Before opening a new location, evaluate:

Floor area
Ceiling height
Entrance dimensions
Customer traffic
Customer age groups
Existing entertainment equipment
Electrical supply
Payment infrastructure
Storage space
Maintenance access

A compact location may need more small-format equipment.

A large entertainment center may have room for larger machines and dedicated equipment zones.

7. Keep the Brand Consistent

For an arcade chain, visual consistency can help customers recognize the brand.

Standardize elements such as:

Logo
Main colors
Cabinet artwork
Signage
Lighting style
Promotional graphics

OEM customization can be useful when the operator wants machines to match a specific brand identity.

The same basic artwork can be used across multiple locations while allowing individual venues to use different equipment combinations.

8. Standardize Payment Systems

Payment systems can become complicated when different locations use different technologies.

A multi-location operator should define its preferred payment strategy.

Possible options include:

Coins
Tokens
Banknotes
QR payments
Card payments
Cashless systems
Mobile payment

If the business uses a centralized cashless system, new machines should be checked for compatibility before ordering.

Standardizing payment equipment can simplify:

Staff training
Customer instructions
Technical support
Reporting
Maintenance
Replacement parts

9. Consider Local Payment Requirements

Even a multi-location business may operate in different markets.

An international operator may need different payment configurations for different countries.

For example, electrical standards, currencies, payment preferences, and local regulations may differ.

In that situation, standardize what can be standardized while allowing local configuration where necessary.

Keep the core machine specification consistent, but document market-specific differences.

10. Standardize Electrical Configurations

Electrical requirements should be included in the equipment database.

Record:

Voltage
Frequency
Plug type
Rated power
Payment-system requirements

This is particularly important when machines are shipped internationally.

A supplier should receive the destination-market requirements before production.

For large orders, avoid relying on assumptions such as "the machines are all the same voltage."

Confirm the configuration for each shipment.

11. Plan Shipping Across Multiple Locations

Shipping becomes more complicated when equipment is being delivered to several destinations.

Before ordering, determine:

Final delivery locations
Port or door delivery
Packaging requirements
Shipping method
Delivery schedule
Container loading
Local customs responsibilities
Installation arrangements

If several locations are opening at different times, it may not make sense to ship all machines together.

Create a delivery schedule based on each project's opening date.

12. Coordinate Equipment With Store Opening Dates

Equipment should arrive early enough for:

Unpacking
Inspection
Installation
Electrical testing
Payment-system setup
Prize loading
Staff training
Final testing

However, equipment arriving too early can create storage costs and security issues.

A good deployment schedule connects manufacturing, shipping, venue construction, and installation.

13. Use Standard Installation Procedures

Multiple locations should follow a similar installation process.

A basic procedure can include:

Inspect packaging
Check for transportation damage
Confirm machine quantity
Verify model numbers
Position equipment
Connect power
Configure payment
Test gameplay
Load prizes
Check lighting and sound
Complete final inspection

Using the same checklist at every location makes it easier to identify problems.

14. Create a Standard Machine Setup

The customer experience should be reasonably consistent across locations.

For claw machines, standard settings may include:

Game price
Game time
Claw settings
Sound
Lighting
Prize category

Exact settings can still be adjusted according to local performance.

The important point is to establish a baseline rather than allowing every location to configure machines completely differently.

15. Allow Local Optimization

Standardization should not prevent improvement.

After a machine has operated for some time, local data may show that certain settings or prizes perform better.

Operators can test:

Different game prices
Different prizes
Different machine positions
Different equipment mixes
Different promotional strategies

Successful changes can then be evaluated for rollout to other locations.

This creates a continuous improvement process.

16. Build a Central Spare-Parts Strategy

Multiple locations need a more organized approach to spare parts.

Instead of each store independently purchasing parts, consider maintaining a central spare-parts list.

Common parts may include:

Joysticks
Buttons
Motors
Control boards
Power supplies
Claw assemblies
Lighting components
Payment components
Switches

Keep records of:

Part number
Compatible machine
Quantity in stock
Location
Supplier
Replacement procedure

This can reduce downtime and prevent duplicate purchasing.

17. Standardize Maintenance Procedures

If ten locations operate similar machines, staff should not need ten completely different maintenance procedures.

Create standard instructions for:

Cleaning
Claw inspection
Control testing
Payment-system checks
Lighting checks
Prize replenishment
Door and lock inspection
Electrical inspection
Basic troubleshooting

Staff training becomes much easier when the same machine behaves similarly at every location.

18. Create a Maintenance Escalation Process

Not every problem should be handled by store staff.

A practical system can divide repairs into levels.

Level 1: Store staff

Simple tasks such as cleaning, prize replenishment, basic checks, and replacing approved easy-to-change components.

Level 2: Local technician

Electrical or mechanical issues requiring technical knowledge.

Level 3: Manufacturer

Complex problems, control-board issues, unusual faults, or warranty cases.

This gives staff a clear process for handling problems.

19. Keep Equipment Records by Location

Every machine should have a record.

Useful information includes:

Machine ID
Model
Installation date
Location
Purchase date
Warranty status
Maintenance history
Major repairs
Spare parts used
Revenue performance

A centralized record makes it easier to identify recurring problems.

For example, if the same component fails repeatedly across multiple machines, the operator can investigate whether a design, installation, or operating issue is involved.

20. Compare Performance Across Locations

Multi-location operators have an important advantage: they can compare data.

Useful metrics include:

Revenue per machine
Plays per day
Prize consumption
Downtime
Maintenance frequency
Customer usage
Payment-method usage

Suppose the same claw machine performs strongly at Location A but poorly at Location B.

The problem may not be the machine itself.

Possible differences include:

Customer traffic
Machine placement
Prize selection
Game price
Nearby equipment
Customer demographics

Comparing locations helps identify what actually affects performance.

21. Standardize Prize Categories

Prize management can also benefit from a standardized system.

Instead of allowing every location to buy completely different products, establish categories such as:

Entry-level prizes
Popular plush
Collectibles
Seasonal products
Premium prizes

Then allow stores to select products within those categories according to local demand.

This can simplify purchasing while preserving local flexibility.

22. Plan Seasonal Changes

Multiple locations can share seasonal campaigns.

Examples include:

Holiday prizes
Back-to-school promotions
Summer themes
Halloween merchandise
Christmas products
Local events

Standardized artwork or promotional materials can help create a consistent campaign across the chain.

At the same time, individual locations can use locally appropriate products.

23. Plan Equipment Quantities by Location

Each location should have its own equipment plan.

Consider:

Total floor area
Equipment zone size
Customer traffic
Machine dimensions
Player clearance
Budget
Storage
Maintenance access

A large location may justify a larger equipment mix.

A small location may achieve better results with fewer, more carefully selected machines.

Avoid using a fixed machine count for every store simply because the stores belong to the same brand.

24. Use a Repeatable Store Layout System

A multi-location business can benefit from standard layout templates.

For example:

Small location

Compact claw machines, capsule machines, and selected prize games.

Medium location

Dedicated claw zone, capsule zone, sports games, and arcade games.

Large location

Multiple equipment zones with feature machines and larger multiplayer attractions.

These templates can then be adapted to the actual floor plan.

25. Standardize Documentation

Create a document package for every location.

It may include:

Equipment list
Floor plan
Machine specifications
Electrical requirements
Installation checklist
Payment setup
Maintenance instructions
Spare-parts list
Warranty information
Supplier contacts

This becomes particularly useful when staff changes or a new location is opened.

26. Choose Suppliers That Can Support Expansion

A supplier for a single machine does not necessarily have the infrastructure needed for a multi-location project.

Evaluate whether the manufacturer can support:

Consistent production
Repeated orders
OEM customization
Stable specifications
Packaging
International shipping
Spare parts
Technical support
Documentation

The supplier should be able to maintain consistency when the second, fifth, or tenth order is placed.

27. Avoid Changing Specifications Without a Reason

One challenge in multi-location purchasing is specification drift.

For example, the first batch may use one joystick, while the second batch uses another.

The cabinet artwork may also change slightly, or the payment system may be replaced without documentation.

Small differences can become a maintenance problem later.

If a specification changes, record:

What changed
Why it changed
Which locations use the new version
Which spare parts are compatible

This creates a controlled equipment system.

28. Use a Pilot Location Before Large Expansion

If a new machine model is being considered, test it at one location first.

Evaluate:

Customer response
Revenue
Prize consumption
Maintenance
Payment reliability
Staff feedback
Installation requirements

If the results are positive, consider expanding the model to other locations.

A pilot program can reduce the risk of purchasing large quantities of untested equipment.

29. Plan for Relocation

Not every machine will perform equally well forever in the same location.

A multi-location operator can move equipment between venues when appropriate.

For example, a machine that performs well with younger customers may be transferred to a family-focused location.

A machine with stronger appeal to teenagers may be better suited to another venue.

Equipment mobility can therefore become part of the overall asset-management strategy.

30. Build a Long-Term Replacement Strategy

Machines do not need to remain in the same location indefinitely.

Create a replacement or refurbishment plan based on:

Physical condition
Maintenance frequency
Performance
Customer appeal
Availability of parts
Cost of repair
New equipment opportunities

A machine that is still functional may no longer be the best use of floor space.

Replacement decisions should consider business performance, not only whether the machine still turns on.

31. Multi-Location Equipment Purchasing Checklist

Before launching a new location, confirm:

Equipment

Technical

Logistics

Operations

32. Questions to Ask a Manufacturer

For a multi-location project, ask the manufacturer:

Can you reproduce the same machine specification for future orders?

This is important for standardization.

Can you keep the same artwork and branding?

Useful for chain operations.

Can you supply spare parts later?

Important for long-term maintenance.

Can you support different electrical markets?

Relevant for international expansion.

Can payment systems be customized?

Important when different locations use different payment technologies.

Can you support different machine quantities for each location?

Useful when stores have different sizes.

Can you provide packaging and shipping support?

Important when equipment is delivered internationally.

33. Fanhong Support for Multi-Location Projects

Fanhong is a commercial arcade equipment manufacturer based in Panyu, Guangzhou, China, serving international B2B customers.

Its product range includes claw machines, gashapon machines, coin pushers, prize machines, sports arcade equipment, and other amusement equipment.

For multi-location projects, Fanhong can support customers with product selection, OEM and ODM customization, branding, artwork, payment-system configuration, equipment specifications, packaging, shipping coordination, and after-sales technical assistance.

For operators expanding a branded arcade concept, maintaining consistent machine specifications can help simplify purchasing and maintenance across different locations.

Fanhong can also support broader entertainment projects with store layout planning and equipment selection according to available space and operating requirements.

Conclusion

Planning arcade equipment for multiple locations requires more than placing a larger order.

The key is to create a repeatable system.

Standardize core machine models, payment systems, branding, electrical configurations, documentation, maintenance procedures, and spare parts where practical.

At the same time, allow each location to adapt its equipment mix, prizes, layout, and settings according to local customers and available space.

A strong multi-location equipment strategy should make the business easier to expand, easier to maintain, and easier to manage.

Before opening each new location, use the same equipment checklist, installation procedure, documentation system, and performance-tracking process.

This creates a consistent operating foundation while allowing each venue to develop according to its own market.

For arcade operators, distributors, and entertainment brands planning long-term growth, equipment standardization is not about making every location identical. It is about creating a reliable system that can be repeated, measured, improved, and scaled.