Competitive Sports Themed Entertainment

Many clients ask what is the next big thing in the

competivesportsthemedentertainment coming in 2026.

Without a doubt Poolhouse out of London, founded by Topgolf and Puttshack’s own

Jololiffe Brothers, Steve and Dave is right at the top of the pile. Their track record in tech-integrated group entertainment sets the bar high for immersive, welcoming venues.

Anyone who visited the legendary Elbow Room in Leeds UK knows how magical a well-run pool room can be. Inspired by their success, we launched Pool Works in Derry, Northern Ireland, and the response blew us away including lines out the door, with female attendance at 35%. It was proof that pool venues attract diverse crowds when the basics are done right.

Here are five key lessons from our journey:

• Dress Code was critical, set the tone from the door.

• Customer behaviour had to be curated and upheld daily.

• Music made the atmosphere; playlists were never left to chance.

• Menu mattered, no oily foods that mess up cues or baize.

• Making female guests feel genuinely welcome, from spotless restrooms to the perfect cocktails was a non-negotiable.

Poolhouse, led by Andrew O'Brien Matthew Fleming and Steve Lane, take it to the next level! Wishing the entire team huge success in 2026 as they reimagine competitive socialising for a new generation.