Bucking Bull Business Plan [Sample Template]

A Bucking Bull business, also known as mechanical bull riding, is an entertainment venture that offers the experience of riding a mechanical bull.

The concept originated from the sport of bull riding, where professional cowboys ride live bulls in rodeo competitions. In a Bucking Bull business, a mechanical bull is used instead of a live bull. The mechanical bull consists of a large, realistic-looking bull that is mounted on a platform.

It is designed to mimic the movements and actions of a real bull, providing riders with a thrilling and challenging experience. Customers pay a fee to ride the mechanical bull, either for a set amount of time or for a certain number of attempts.

The operator controls the speed and intensity of the bull’s movements, making it suitable for riders of different skill levels and preferences. Safety measures such as padded landing areas and trained staff are typically in place to ensure the well-being of the riders.

Steps to Write a Bucking Bull Business Plan

1. Executive Summary

McLee Nelson® Bucking Bull, Inc. is an entertainment company based in Dallas, Texas, specializing in the operation of mechanical bull riding services.

Our business aims to provide a thrilling and safe experience for individuals of all ages, catering to a diverse range of events and venues. With a focus on professionalism, customer satisfaction, and safety, we are poised to become the leading provider of mechanical bull riding in the Dallas area.

McLee Nelson® Bucking Bull, Inc. stands out from competitors through our commitment to safety, professionalism, and customer satisfaction. Our mechanical bulls are meticulously maintained and operated by trained staff, ensuring a secure and enjoyable experience for riders.

We prioritize excellent customer service and work closely with event organizers to tailor our services to their specific needs, making us the preferred choice in the Dallas area. McLee Nelson is the founder and CEO of McLee Nelson® Bucking Bull, Inc.

2. Company Profile

a. Our Products and Services

Our business model revolves around offering mechanical bull riding services at various events, including festivals, fairs, corporate gatherings, and private parties. We generate revenue through fees charged to riders, event rentals, and additional services such as bull riding competitions and party packages.

By ensuring the safety of our participants, maintaining high-quality equipment, and delivering exceptional customer service, we seek to establish long-term relationships with event organizers and become their go-to provider.

b. Nature of the Business

Our bucking bull center will operate as a B2C – Business to consumer business model. We will offer our services directly to the end user without any middleman arrangement.

c. The Industry

McLee Nelson® Bucking Bull, Inc. will operate in the entertainment and amusement industry.

d. Mission Statement

At McLee Nelson® Bucking Bull, Inc., our mission is to provide an exhilarating and safe mechanical bull riding experience that exceeds customer expectations. We are dedicated to delivering memorable entertainment, fostering a culture of safety, and creating long-lasting relationships with our customers and event partners.

Through professionalism, exceptional service, and a commitment to excellence, we aim to be the leading provider of mechanical bull riding in the Dallas area.

e. Vision Statement

Our vision at McLee Nelson® Bucking Bull, Inc. is to be the go-to destination for mechanical bull riding in Dallas, recognized for our unwavering commitment to safety, customer satisfaction, and innovation.

f. Our Tagline (Slogan)

McLee Nelson® Bucking Bull, Inc. – “Ride the Thrill, Feel the Rush!”

g. Legal Structure of the Business (LLC, C Corp, S Corp, LLP)

McLee Nelson® Bucking Bull, Inc. will be formed as a Limited Liability Company, LLC.

h. Our Organizational Structure

• Chief Operating Officer (Owner)
• Facility Manager
• Accountant/Cashier
• Marketing and Sales Officer
• Coach/Instructor/Trainers
• Customer Care Executive/Front Desk Officer
• Cleaners
• Security Officers.

i. Ownership/Shareholder Structure and Board Members

• McLee Nelson (Owner and Chairman/Chief Executive Officer) 51 Percent Shares
• Franklin Persley (Board Member) 19 Percent Shares
• Collins Vincent (Board Member) 10 Percent Shares
• John Bull (Board Member) 10 Percent Shares
• Maureen Nelson (Board Member and Sectary) 10 Percent Shares.

3. SWOT Analysis

a. Strength

• McLee Nelson® Bucking Bull, Inc. prioritizes safety and professionalism, ensuring a secure and enjoyable experience for riders and event participants.
• The company is committed to delivering outstanding customer service, building strong relationships with clients, and tailoring services to meet their specific needs.
• McLee Nelson® Bucking Bull, Inc. invests in top-notch mechanical bulls that are well-maintained, realistic, and capable of providing an authentic riding experience.
• The company is led by a team of skilled professionals with expertise in mechanical bull operation, event coordination, marketing, and administration.

b. Weakness

• As a local business based in Dallas, McLee Nelson® Bucking Bull, Inc. may have limited reach and face challenges in expanding to other markets.
• The demand for mechanical bull riding services may fluctuate based on seasonal events, potentially leading to variations in revenue throughout the year.
• Acquiring and maintaining high-quality mechanical bulls can involve a significant upfront investment, which may impact initial cash flow.

c. Opportunities

• McLee Nelson® Bucking Bull, Inc. has the opportunity to expand its services to neighboring cities and regions, tapping into a wider customer base and increasing market share.
• The company can forge strategic partnerships with event organizers, party planners, and entertainment venues to secure long-term contracts and create mutually beneficial relationships.
• Introducing additional services such as bull riding competitions, themed packages, or event rentals can attract a broader range of customers and generate additional revenue streams.

i. How Big is the Industry?

The entertainment and amusement industry that the bucking bull business is a part of is substantial, with a global market value of billions of dollars.

ii. Is the Industry Growing or Declining?

Yes, the bucking bull industry is growing. As a matter of fact, the industry has experienced significant growth and popularity in recent years. It’s worth noting that the industry’s size and growth are subject to market trends, economic conditions, and consumer preferences.

iii. What are the Future Trends in the Industry?

While it is challenging to predict future trends with certainty, there are several potential developments that could shape the Bucking Bull industry in the coming years.

As technology continues to advance, the Bucking Bull industry may see innovations in the design and functionality of mechanical bulls. This could include improvements in the realism of bull movements, enhanced safety features, and interactive elements that enhance the rider experience.

The integration of virtual reality (VR) technology could provide a new dimension to the Bucking Bull experience. By combining the physical thrill of riding a mechanical bull with immersive virtual environments, riders could be transported to different settings and scenarios, adding a new level of excitement and variety to the activity.

As environmental concerns continue to grow, there may be an increasing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly practices within the Bucking Bull industry. This could involve using energy-efficient equipment, minimizing waste, and adopting environmentally conscious policies to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.

iv. Are There Existing Niches in the Industry?

No, there are no niche ideas when it comes to bucking the bull line of business. This is so because the bucking bull business is a niche idea in the entertainment and amusement industry.

v. Can You Sell a Franchise of Your Business in the Future?

McLee Nelson® Bucking Bull, Inc. has plans to sell franchises in the nearest future and we will target major cities with growing working class and families in the United States of America.

d. Threats

• The mechanical bull riding industry may face competition from other entertainment providers offering similar experiences, potentially leading to price wars or decreased market share.
• Economic downturns or fluctuations could impact consumer spending on entertainment, leading to reduced demand for mechanical bull riding services.
• Compliance with safety regulations and insurance requirements is essential in the entertainment industry, and failure to meet these standards could result in legal issues or reputational damage.

i. Who are the Major Competitors?

• Buck Wild Bull Riding
• Bucking Bull Games
• Mechanical Bulls USA
• Buckaroo Bucking Bulls
• Wild West Bucking Bulls
• Buckin’ Fun Mechanical Bulls
• Bull Crazy Mechanical Bulls
• Rockin’ R Bucking Bulls
• Mechanical Bull Sales
• Extreme Bull Riding
• Buckin’ Broncos Mechanical Bulls
• Buckmasters Bucking Bulls
• Badlands Bucking Bulls
• Big Sky Bucking Bulls
• Roughstock Rodeo Supply
• Buckshot Mechanical Bulls
• Cowboy Bull Rentals
• Buck N Wild Mechanical Bulls
• Cowboy Up Mechanical Bulls
• The Bull Guys.

ii. Is There a Franchise for Bucking Bull Business?

No, there are no franchise opportunities for bucking bull business.

iii. Are There Policies, Regulations, or Zoning Laws Affecting Bucking Bull Business?

Yes, there are various policies, regulations, and zoning laws that can affect a bucking bull business in the United States. But policies, regulations, and zoning laws can vary at the local, state, and federal levels in the United States.

Most states and local jurisdictions require businesses to obtain the necessary licenses and permits to operate legally. This may include general business licenses, amusement permits, or specific permits for operating mechanical amusement devices like mechanical bulls.

Due to the inherent risks involved in operating a mechanical bull, businesses are often required to carry liability insurance. This insurance coverage helps protect against potential injuries or damages that may occur during bull riding activities.

Bucking Bull businesses that operate in urban or residential areas may need to comply with noise regulations to minimize disruptions to nearby residents. Some municipalities may have specific noise limits during certain hours or for specific types of events.

Bucking Bull businesses must consider accessibility requirements outlined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Ensuring that facilities and equipment are accessible to individuals with disabilities is important for compliance and inclusivity.

4. Marketing Plan

a. Who is Your Target Audience?

i. Age Range: McLee Nelson® Bucking Bull, Inc. may target individuals within a broad age range, typically ranging from teenagers to adults. The primary focus might be on individuals aged 18 to 40 who are physically active and seeking adventurous and entertaining experiences.

ii. Level of Education: The level of education may not be a significant factor in targeting the audience for a Bucking Bull business. The experience is generally accessible to individuals of varying educational backgrounds.

iii. Income Level: McLee Nelson® Bucking Bull, Inc. will target a middle-income to higher-income bracket. The cost associated with riding the mechanical bull and hosting events or renting the equipment may cater to individuals who have disposable income for recreational activities.

iv. Ethnicity: McLee Nelson® Bucking Bull, Inc. will appeal to individuals of diverse ethnic backgrounds. The experience of mechanical bull riding is not limited by ethnicity and can attract a wide range of participants.

v. Language: McLee Nelson® Bucking Bull, Inc. will primarily target English-speaking individuals, as English is widely spoken in the United States. However, depending on the location and clientele, the business could consider accommodating participants who speak other languages or provide multilingual staff if needed.

vi. Geographical Location: The geographical location of McLee Nelson® Bucking Bull, Inc., as mentioned earlier, is Dallas, Texas. The target audience would primarily consist of residents in and around the Dallas area, including both city dwellers and those in nearby suburban communities.

vii. Lifestyle: The target audience for McLee Nelson® Bucking Bull, Inc. will include individuals who enjoy active lifestyles, seek unique experiences, and have an interest in adventurous recreational activities. This may include people who participate in rodeo events, enjoy Western-themed activities, or those looking for engaging entertainment options for parties, corporate events, and special occasions.

b. Advertising and Promotion Strategies

• Host Themed Events That Catch the Attention of Potential Clients.
• Tap Into Text Marketing.
• Use FOMO to Run Photo Promotions.
• Share Your Events in Local Groups and Pages.
• Turn Your Social Media Channels into a Resource
• Develop Your Business Directory Profiles
• Build Relationships with other indoor sports and recreational service providers and related organizations in our Area

i. Traditional Marketing Strategies

• Marketing through Direct Mail.
• Print Media Marketing – Newspapers & Magazines.
• Broadcast Marketing -Television & Radio Channels.
• OOH Marketing – Public Transit like Buses and Trains, Billboards, Street shows, and Cabs.
• Leverage direct sales, direct mail (postcards, brochures, letters, fliers), tradeshows, print advertising (magazines, newspapers, coupon books, billboards), referral (also known as word-of-mouth marketing), radio, and television.

ii. Digital Marketing Strategies

• Social Media Marketing Platforms.
• Influencer Marketing.
• Email Marketing.
• Content Marketing.
• Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Marketing.
• Affiliate Marketing
• Mobile Marketing.

iii. Social Media Marketing Plan

• Start using chatbots.
• Create a personalized experience for each of our clients.
• Create an efficient content marketing strategy.
• Create a community for our freelance marketers and influencers.
• Gear up our profiles with a diverse content strategy.
• Use brand advocates.
• Create profiles on relevant social media channels.
• Run cross-channel campaigns.

c. Pricing Strategy

McLee Nelson® Bucking Bull, Inc. will adopt the following pricing strategies:

• Cost-Plus Pricing
• Value-Based Pricing
• Competitive Pricing
• Dynamic Pricing
• Bundle Pricing

Please note that our pricing strategy is based on a careful analysis of the costs and profitability of the business, as well as the needs and preferences of the target customer base.

5. Sales and Distribution Plan

a. Sales Channels

Our channel sales strategy will involve using partners and third parties—such as referral partners, affiliate partners, freelance marketers, and social media influencers to help refer clients to us.

We will develop a comprehensive marketing strategy to promote McLee Nelson® Bucking Bull, Inc. through online channels, social media platforms, local advertising, and partnerships with event organizers.

b. Inventory Strategy

The fact that we will need related supplies per time means that McLee Nelson® Bucking Bull, Inc. will operate an inventory strategy that is based on a day-to-day methodology to follow for ordering, maintaining, and processing items in our warehouse.

We will develop our strategy with the same thoroughness and attention to detail as we would if we were creating an overall strategy for the business. McLee Nelson® Bucking Bull, Inc. will make sure we work with “Just-in-time (JIT) inventory” – (JIT involves holding as little stock as possible, negating the costs and risks involved with keeping a large amount of stock on hand.)

c. Payment Options for Customers

Here are the payment options that McLee Nelson® Bucking Bull, Inc. will make available to her donors and contributors;

• Bank Transfers
• Credit or Debit Card
• Cash
• Checks
• Electronic Payment Systems such as PayPal or Venmo.

d. Return Policy, Incentives, and Guarantees

Incentives: McLee Nelson® Bucking Bull, Inc. will offer various incentives to attract customers and promote customer loyalty.

These incentives may include discounted rates for repeat customers, special packages for large events or parties, referral programs, or exclusive access to new features or promotions. Such incentives can encourage customer engagement, repeat business, and positive word-of-mouth referrals.

Guarantees: McLee Nelson® Bucking Bull, Inc. will provide guarantees to ensure customer satisfaction and the quality of its services.

These guarantees will include assurances of equipment functionality, safety standards compliance, and overall customer experience. For example, the company may guarantee that their mechanical bulls are well-maintained, offer a realistic riding experience, and operate safely.

In the event of any issues or concerns, the company may provide remedies or resolutions to uphold their guarantee and ensure customer satisfaction.

e. Customer Support Strategy

Our customer support strategy will involve prioritizing excellent customer service by providing a friendly and welcoming atmosphere; addressing customer inquiries, concerns, and feedback promptly and professionally. We will strive to exceed customer expectations by ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.

6. Operational Plan

Our operational plan for McLee Nelson® Bucking Bull, Inc. would outline the day-to-day activities and processes involved in running the business efficiently. Coordinate with event organizers and individuals to plan and execute mechanical bull riding experiences for various events, including private parties, corporate functions, and festivals.

Overall, we plan to expand our revenue by 25 percent in the second year and the plan will include a marketing, sales, and operations component. The operations component of the plan would include attracting partnerships and referrals that will enable the firm to boost our service offerings and support revenue growth.

a. What Happens During a Typical Day at a Bucking Bull Center?

• Before opening the doors, staff at the center typically clean the facility, inspect the equipment, and make sure everything is in good condition for customers.
• Greet and assist customers as they arrive, providing them with waivers or necessary forms to sign.
• Collect fees, process payments, and issue wristbands or tokens for bull riding sessions.
• Operate the mechanical bull and oversee the bull riding sessions. Ensure that participants follow safety instructions and guidelines.
• Staff members also answer questions from customers regarding booking inquiries or general inquiries about the game.
• At the end of the day, staff members clean up the facility and prepare it for the next day of operations.

b. Production Process

There is no production process when it comes to a bucking bull business.

c. Service Procedure

• Greet and assist customers as they arrive, providing them with waivers or necessary forms to sign.
• Collect fees, process payments, and issue wristbands or tokens for bull riding sessions.
• Operate the mechanical bull and oversee the bull riding sessions.
• Ensure that participants follow safety instructions and guidelines.

d. The Supply Chain

McLee Nelson® Bucking Bull, Inc. will establish a business relationship with wholesale supplies of bucking bull supplies and merchandise.

e. Sources of Income

McLee Nelson® Bucking Bull, Inc. makes money from;

• Booking fees
• Walk-in fees
• Private events such as corporate team building activities, birthday parties, or bachelor/bachelorette parties for which they charge a flat fee.
• Food and beverage sales
• Merchandise sales
• Memberships and loyalty programs
• Advertising and sponsorships.

7. Financial Plan

a. Amount Needed to Start Our Bucking Bull Center?

McLee Nelson® Bucking Bull, Inc. would need an estimate of $1.3 million to successfully set up our bucking bull center in the United States of America. Please note that this amount includes the salaries of all our staff for the first month of operation.

b. What are the Costs Involved?

• Business Registration Fees – $750.
• Legal expenses for obtaining licenses and permits – $7,300.
• Marketing, Branding, and Promotions – $5,000.
• Business Consultant Fee – $2,500.
• Insurance – $5,400.
• Rent/Lease – $450,000.
• Other start-up expenses include commercial satellite TV subscriptions, stationery ($500), and phone and utility deposits ($2,800).
• Operational Cost (salaries of employees, payments of bills et al) – $70,000
• start-up inventory – $75,000
• Store Equipment (cash register, security, ventilation, signage) – $4,750
• Equipment and maintenance – $150,000
• Website: $600
• Opening party: $3,000
• Miscellaneous: $2,000

c. Do You Need to Build a Facility? If YES, How Much Will It Cost?

McLee Nelson® Bucking Bull, Inc. will not build a new facility for our bucking bull center; we intend to start with a long-term lease and after 5 years, we will start the process of acquiring our own facility.

d. What are the Ongoing Expenses for Running a Bucking Bull Business?

• Equipment Maintenance and Repair
• Rent or Mortgage
• Employee wages and benefits
• Marketing and Advertising
• Utilities such as electricity, water, heating, and cooling
• Insurance and License Renewals
• Cleaning and Maintenance
• Administrative and Office Expenses (office supplies, software subscriptions, accounting services, legal fees, and other administrative needs).
• Miscellaneous Expenses.

e. What is the Average Salary of your Staff?

• Chief Executive Officer (Owner) – $55,000 per year
• Facility Manager – $40,000 per year
• Accountant/Cashier – $36,0000
• Marketing and Sales Officer – $35,000 per year
• Coach/Instructor/Assistant – $35,000 per year
• Customer Care Executive/Front Desk Officer – $25,396 per year
• Cleaners – $22,000 per year
• Security Officers – $21,150 per year.

f. How Do You Get Funding to Start a Bucking Bull Business?

• Raising money from personal savings and sale of personal stocks and properties
• Applying for a loan from your bank/banks
• Pitching our business idea and applying for business grants and seed funding from the government, donor organizations, and angel investors
• Source for soft loans from our family members and our friends.

8. Financial Projection

a. How Much Should You Charge for Your Product/Service?

• Hourly Rental Rate: The average hourly rate can range from $200 to $500, depending on the location and demand.
• Event Packages: Prices for event packages can range from $500 to several thousand dollars, depending on the scope of the event.

b. Sales Forecast?

• First Fiscal Year (FY1): $320,000
• Second Fiscal Year (FY2): $450,000
• Third Fiscal Year (FY3): $520,000

c. Estimated Profit You Will Make a Year?

• First Fiscal Year (FY1): (20% of revenue generated)
• Second Fiscal Year (FY2): (30% of revenue generated)
• Third Fiscal Year (FY3): (35% of revenue generated)

d. Profit Margin of a Bucking Bull Service

The ideal profit margin we hope to make at McLee Nelson® Bucking Bull, Inc. will be between 10 and 35 percent on service charges. This refers to our profit as a percentage of our total cost.

9. Growth Plan

a. How do you intend to grow and expand? By opening more retail outlets/offices or selling a franchise?

McLee Nelson® Bucking Bull, Inc. will grow our bucking bull business by first opening other facilities in key cities in the United States of America within the first five years of establishing the organization and then will start selling franchises from the tenth year.

b. Where do you intend to expand to and why?

McLee Nelson® Bucking Bull, Inc. plans to expand to

• Nashville, Tennessee
• Denver, Colorado
• Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
• Las Vegas, Nevada
• San Antonio, Texas
• Indianapolis, Indiana
• Kansas City, Missouri
• Atlanta, Georgia
• Birmingham, Alabama
• Rapid City, South Dakota
• Billings, Montana
• Salt Lake City, Utah
• Sacramento, California
• Seattle, Washington
• Omaha, Nebraska
• Chicago, Illinois.

The reason we intend to expand to these locations is the fact that these cities have a promising market for bucking bull centers and indoor sports entertainment centers generally.

10. Exit Plan

The founder of McLee Nelson® Bucking Bull, Inc. plans to exit the business via family succession. We have positioned structures and processes in place that will help us achieve our plan of successfully transferring the business from one family member to another and from one generation to another without difficulties.

The company has successfully developed a detailed transition plan to smoothly hand over responsibilities to the new successor. This includes transferring ownership, training key personnel, and communicating with employees, customers, and suppliers about the change.