In a world where virtual reality (VR) and immersive experiences are becoming the cornerstone of entertainment, Funlab stands out as a beacon of innovation and creativity. We had the privilege to sit down with Dennie Renessis, the General Manager of Museum Products and Attractions at Funlab, during the annual A&P convention in Orlando, Florida. Dennie shared his insights on the journey of integrating VR into Funlab’s diverse entertainment portfolio, the challenges and triumphs of operating in the VR space, and the vision for the future.

The Evolution of VR at Funlab:

Funlab, known for its dynamic entertainment venues across Australia, New Zealand, and now the United States, has embraced VR technology to enhance its customer experiences. From non-attended VR units like VR robots and the SpongeBob VR ride to the exploration of attended VR setups, Funlab is at the forefront of the VR revolution in entertainment. Dennie detailed the selection process, the operational challenges, and the unexpected successes of incorporating VR into their venues.

Tackling the Challenges:

One of the pivotal aspects of our conversation was how Funlab addresses the operational hurdles of VR, particularly attended VR experiences. Dennie shared strategies for engaging customers, incentivizing play, and utilizing peak and off-peak staffing to ensure a seamless experience for guests. The insights into pricing strategies and the importance of balancing the ‘share of wallet’ were particularly enlightening for anyone interested in the business side of entertainment.

Expanding Horizons:

As Funlab makes its foray into the U.S. market, Dennie spoke candidly about the cultural nuances and strategic decisions behind their expansion. The choice of locations, understanding local terminologies, and adapting to cultural differences are crucial components of Funlab’s international strategy. Dennie’s perspective offers valuable lessons on globalization in the entertainment industry.

The Future of Entertainment:

Looking ahead, Dennie expressed cautious optimism about the role of VR in entertainment. The balance between offering unique, in-venue experiences that cannot be replicated at home versus the cost and operational complexity of VR is a constant consideration. However, Funlab’s commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction shines through as they continue to explore new possibilities.

Our conversation with Dennie Renessis provided a fascinating glimpse into the inner workings of Funlab and their journey through the world of VR and entertainment. As they continue to push the boundaries and expand their footprint, Funlab remains a company to watch in the evolving landscape of immersive entertainment.