Still bowling?
When it comes to the bowling business, it has been the new, nightclub-style alleys in the area that have gotten most of the media attention in recent years. Newer area clubs such as Bethesda Strike, Gallery Place's Lucky Strike, and Rockville's 300 aim for a hipper crowd with large-screen televisions, dress codes and $10 cocktails.
Alexandria-based Bowl America is unapologetically old school by comparison. Walk into the chain's Gaithersburg location, and you might hear Michael Jackson's "Billie Jean" on the sound system. On Friday afternoon, the smell of bacon was in the air as the kitchen got ready for Saturday morning's youth program, which will bring 160 kids to play on the joint's 48 lanes.
Amateur critics at Yelp.com joke about how Bowl America locations can feel like a slice of the '80s, for their lack of modern amenities. Still, a frugal approach to business could turn out to be what helps the company weather a tough economic climate.
In the company's most recent financial report, Bowl America told investors that it is still considering expansion plans, despite a downturn that has taken a whack at profits. Read more
By
Jodi Westrick
|
December 7, 2009; 10:25 AM ET
| Category:
Local
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Posted by: bobsewell | December 7, 2009 12:39 PM
I'd bowl more often if there weren't so much cigarette smoke.
Posted by: Arggg | December 7, 2009 3:37 PM
Every Monday night, September through May, I'm at Bowl America. A bowling league is a second job, I tell ya!