“Retail is no longer just about what people buy—it’s about how they feel while they’re there.”

That quote captures one of the most important shifts in today’s consumer landscape. As traditional retail grapples with changing habits and declining foot traffic, the solution isn’t to compete with e-commerce on price or speed—it’s to offer something digital can’t: an experience.

This is where retail entertainment steps in—and it’s exactly what we’ve built at ClawCADE.

The New Anchor: Family Entertainment

Families today want more than a shopping trip. They’re seeking experiences, places where kids can play, parents can relax, and everyone leaves with memories. At ClawCADE, we’ve designed a space where nostalgic arcade games and modern collectibles meet—sparking smiles, laughter, and connection across generations.

Unlike traditional anchor tenants, entertainment venues increase dwell time, drive repeat visits, and help revitalize the spaces around them. We bring consistent energy, foot traffic, and excitement to the retail landscape.

Riding the Collectibles Wave

Beyond entertainment, ClawCADE has tapped into a booming retail trend: pop culture collectibles.

According to Market Decipher, the global collectibles market reached $484.6 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a 9.2% CAGR. This surge is driven by nostalgia, fandom, and growing investment interest in limited-edition items.

ClawCADE prizes are more than generic toys—they’re in-demand merchandise, including character-based plush, figurines, and exclusive drops. Players come not just to win—they come to collect, trade, and complete sets, transforming the arcade into a cultural destination.

In fact, collectibles like Pop Mart’s Labubu are becoming so popular they often sell out within hours of release, especially in Asian markets. Business Insider reported that adult collectors are driving much of the demand, creating a trend that’s quickly expanding across the globe.

A New Model for Brick-and-Mortar Retail

By merging arcade-style entertainment with the thrill of collectibles, ClawCADE creates a reason to return—a repeatable, exciting, and interactive experience.

We drive foot traffic, engagement, and a sense of discovery in the physical world—exactly what retail centers need to thrive in a post-eCommerce world. Every location becomes a magnet for birthday parties, teen hangouts, and weekend family outings.

And because we don’t require a food or beverage operation, our compact footprint and focused model make ClawCADE an efficient and scalable franchise opportunity.

Why Franchisees Are Investing

For operators and entrepreneurs looking for future-proof retail concepts, ClawCADE checks all the boxes:

• High-energy, high-margin business model

• Compact footprint with flexible location options

• Proven appeal to families, collectors, and gamers

• Multiple revenue streams through gameplay and prize redemption

This is the new retail model—one based on play, emotion, and repeat engagement.

The Takeaway

Brick-and-mortar retail isn’t going away—it’s being reinvented. And ClawCADE is leading the charge.

If you’re a retail property owner, franchise investor, or entrepreneur looking to be part of the next big movement in experiential retail, let’s talk. ClawCADE offers a powerful way to connect with consumers, drive traffic, and bring energy and culture back to real-world retail.

Written by Ryan D’Amico

Partner & Chief Fun Strategist, ClawCADE Entertainment Group, LLC