Have you ever been to a location where the soundtrack, visuals, and experience just blew you away? Well, chances are, Control Play had a hand in that. Since 2004, we’ve been focused on helping subscribers create innovative guest experiences through the power of entertainment. As we celebrate 20 years, it’s causing me to reflect on the journey and the impact we’ve made…so far.
The Early Days – More Than Just a Mixtape
Imagine this scene: It’s 2004, Usher has just released “Confessions” and owns the top two songs on the Billboard 100 (Yeah! and Burn), and a group of music nerds (and proud of it) decided to turn their love for tunes into a quest to transform the atmosphere of businesses, through music.
There is Power to the Playlist after all. We found a market with bowling alleys (at least initially) and the Bowling Music Network (BMN) was founded!
Demonstrating undeniable impact on these bowling alleys, we broadened our horizons, extending our services to restaurants and bars with the service you know as Control Play, (except then, it was controlPLAY). This also gave way to another natural progression, Music Video services. By integrating video content, venues were able to transform their existing screens into dynamic tools for atmosphere creation. It also aligned perfectly with our vision.
The Evolution of Control Play/CPTV
The next natural progression was into digital signage, was the integration of digital signage, marking the advent of our marketing platform. Customers could personalize messages and promotions, again leveraging their pre-existing screens. This progression not only expanded our service offerings but also enriched the customer experience by transforming passive viewing into interactive engagement. What started as awesome software syncing with curated music libraries for each client has exploded into a full-on platform for the senses.
Our platform allowed customers to simplify their entertainment, enabling them to concentrate on managing their establishments more efficiently. It offered the flexibility of remote management, the potential to drive revenue, and the capability to enhance their ambiance. Additionally, it provided tools to make their content more engaging, streamlining operations and enriching the customer experience simultaneously.
As we have improved the platform offerings, a diverse set of customers, including retail environments, jump parks, and family entertainment centers, have embraced our services. By doing so, they are creating not just spots to visit, but experiences to remember.
Keeping It Real With Our Core Values
Bob Dylan hit the nail on the head when he said, “The times they are a-changing.” We’ve rolled with those changes, evolving our methods and platform, but we’ve always stayed true to what we believe in. At Control Play, we’re serious about fun but we take our commitment to our subscribers’ success very seriously. It’s why we have been successful helping some of the best in the world tailor their experiences. Our core values are the rhythm to our rhyme:
- Passionately Exceeding Expectations: We’re here to wow, not just please.
- Voraciously Curious: Like that one friend who always has the scoop on the latest tech, we’re always exploring and learning.
- Relentlessly Innovative: Staying still isn’t in our playbook. We’re always moving, shaking, and breaking new ground.
- Always Thinking BIG: Go big or go home, right? We’re on a mission to redefine the landscape of audio-video experience, setting new standards and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
The Vibe Never Dies
Fast forward to now 20 years into our journey, Usher is rocking the Superbowl, and we’re still all about creating those “You had to be there” moments. We pride ourselves on being the secret sauce in the recipe for an unforgettable atmosphere, working our magic from the shadows (or, well, the cloud) to make sure your space is the place to be.
Through the years, we have seen a lot of change. We’ve embraced technological advancements that have expanded how we entertain and engage guests across visual, audio, and digital channels.
Yet, even as we’ve evolved, our unwavering passion for harnessing the power of entertainment enables us to assist our clients in creating memorable guest experiences that not only build loyalty but also enhance revenue.
What’s next? AI, themed retail, Gamification, Eatertainment – We are ready to evolve and grow how the market grows. So, here’s to the future—filled with more beats, more visuals, and more unforgettable experiences. Whether it’s the nostalgia of a throwback hit or the pulse of a trending track, we’re here to make sure your business isn’t just a stop on the map, but a destination.
To our valued customers, partners, and supporters – we extend our heartfelt thanks for your collaboration over the past two decades. Rest assured, as the industry evolves, we remain committed to keeping you ahead of the curve, continuously delivering the most innovative elements for your guest entertainment experiences. Here’s to forging ahead together into the future!
Ready to turn the volume up on your guest experience? Let’s make some noise together.
Some Throwbacks
An Early Version of Our Website…Oh, How Far We’ve Come
Our Early Booth at Bowl Expo!
Our Latest Booth Level Up at IAAPA
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