Bakersfield, CA, located in the heart of Kern County, is a booming city known for its thriving communities and diverse population. The residents of Bakersfield have shown a keen interest in video games, making it an attractive location for starting a video game store. This article aims to provide insights into the video game industry’s prospects, initial investment, potential returns, and suitable locations for opening a store in Bakersfield.
1. Demographics and Residential Distribution:
Bakersfield boasts a population of over 380,000 residents, with a median age of 31.6 years. The city’s population is primarily diverse, with a significant Hispanic and Caucasian population. Residential areas like RiverOak Neighborhood, Seven Oaks, and Glenwood offer a high concentration of potential customers, especially among young adults and families.
2. Commercial Zones:
Bakersfield has an array of bustling commercial areas, offering promising opportunities for a video game store. The Valley Plaza Mall, located on Ming Avenue, is a prime location attracting high foot traffic. Other prominent commercial zones include the East Hills Mall, The Marketplace, and the Downtown Arts District. These areas provide an ideal setting for a video game store, with numerous potential customers passing through regularly.
3. Industry Prospects:
The video game industry has consistently showcased robust growth worldwide, and Bakersfield is no exception. With an increasing demand for video games, consoles, and accessories, the city presents a promising market. The proliferation of esports and gaming competitions further highlights the potential for a successful video game store in Bakersfield.
4. Initial Investment and Return on Investment (ROI):
The initial investment required for starting a video game store in Bakersfield can vary depending on factors such as store size, location, and inventory. A rough estimate suggests an initial investment of $50,000 to $100,000. Return on investment can be calculated based on factors like pricing strategy, marketing efforts, and customer retention. While it may take some time to break even, the potential for longterm profitability in the video game industry is significant.
5. Suitable Store Locations:
- Valley Plaza Mall: This bustling mall attracts a diverse crowd of shoppers, making it an excellent choice for a video game store. Its central location and ample parking facilities are definite advantages.
- Downtown Arts District: With a blend of trendy boutiques, restaurants, and entertainment venues, the Downtown Arts District offers a unique setting that appeals to the younger demographic. It provides an opportunity to create an immersive gaming environment while attracting gaming enthusiasts.
- Southwest Bakersfield: Residential areas like Seven Oaks and RiverOak Neighborhood are located in the southwest part of the city. These areas, with their highincome residents and younger population, are wellsuited for a video game store targeted towards families and gamers.
A wellplanned and strategically located video game store in Bakersfield, CA, can tap into the city’s thriving gaming community and generate substantial profits. The industry’s potential for growth, coupled with the city’s demography and commercial zones, offers an exciting opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs. With careful planning, initial investment, and emphasis on customer engagement, a video game store in Bakersfield can carve its niche and thrive in this vibrant market.