Arcade claw machines: turning simple game into business opportunity

Focus Taiwan
Date: 2018/02/18
By: Justin Su and Kuan-lin Liu 

Taipei, Feb. 18 (CNA) Arcade claw machines, a longstanding drain on the pockets, are gaining traction in Taiwan, with many claiming that it is an easy way to make quick money on the side.

According to one man, identified only as “Stanley,” the business model is simple, and owners of arcade claw machine shops can break even within a year and start making up to NT$150,000 (US$5,000) in revenue every month afterward.

The arcade owner is responsible for setting up the infrastructure — renting out space, buying 26 to 30 arcade claw machines, and installing security cameras — all of which typically costs a little less than NT$1 million.

The owner then rents out each machine, at NT$5,000 a month, to those interested in managing a machine as a source of additional income, Stanley, who is himself a manager, explained.    [FULL  STORY]