SYLVAN LAKE — If you like entertaining children, Leanne Pinette and Meaghan Cooney have a deal for you.
The co-owners of Cabin Fever Indoor Family Fun Centre in Sylvan Lake’s Beju Industrial Park are looking to sell their business.
Long-time friends with young children of their own, Pinette and Cooney opened Cabin Fever last June to help fill the void left by the closure of Moonwalker Fun Centre in Red Deer. Designed for children 12 and under, the approximately 3,000-square-foot premises feature a two-level play structure, a toddler area, activity centres and a room for private bookings.
A variety of healthy meals, snacks and beverages are available, as well as coffee and comfortable seating for parents and other caregivers.
Pinette said feedback has been positive and business increased as the public became more aware of Cabin Fever’s existence. But she and Cooney always planned to step away at some point.
“We thought we’d build it up, and once it was established we’d sell.”
They’ve already had some interest from prospective buyers but feel no urgency to close a deal quickly, said Pinette. Even after they sell, the partners would like to remain in the industry — ideally by opening a similar business in another community.
“I see a need for other ones in other towns,” said Pinette, adding that the process would be much easier now that she and Cooney have one play centre under their belts.
“I think it would take a fraction of the time to start one. That’s why we’d be willing to do it.”
They’d have to choose a community far enough from Sylvan Lake so as not to draw clients from the original Cabin Fever, acknowledged Pinette. And that might require relocating their homes.
“I would consider that, but Meaghan would not,” she said.
Pinette said she believes in the market potential of play centres and wants to develop others before someone else does. This building process excites her more than simply operating an established business.
“I need change, all the time.”
Additional information about Cabin Fever Indoor Family Fun Centre can be found online at www.cabinfeverfun.ca.
hrichards@www.reddeeradvocate.com