Commercial Synthetic Ice
Commercial Grade Synthetic Ice Rinks: All There Is to Know
Why commercial rinks use a different panel than home rinks, where they're used, and how to make one profitable.
Commercial grade synthetic ice rinks are the most requested by clients because they're built for 100% commercial use — not residential. That's why commercial rinks use Xtraice's Pro panels, while residential rinks use the thinner Lite panels. Commercial rinks show up everywhere from shopping malls to town councils, hotels and FECs, and with the right approach they can be turned into a profitable attraction.
Commercial grade synthetic ice rinks are the most requested by clients. Why do we call them commercial grade? Easy — they are requested for commercial use 100% of the time, not residential or home use.
In fact, the material used for a commercial rink is different from the material used for a residential rink. Why? Because commercial rinks will, normally, have more exhaustive use than residential rinks. This is why our commercial grade rinks use our Pro panels, and residential rinks use our Lite panels, which are thinner.
Uses of Commercial Synthetic Ice
As you already know, unlike traditional ice rinks, these acrylic rinks do not require sub-zero temperatures or constant refrigeration. Built with synthetic ice technology, the surface offers a smooth glide that simulates real ice. The rink quickly becomes a meeting point for families, skaters and tourists looking for an environmentally friendly and cost-effective way to enjoy winter sports all year round.
Taking that as a starting point — what are the uses of commercial synthetic ice? Here are some ideas:
Ice Rinks in Malls
Commercial grade synthetic ice is perfect for energizing shopping centers, whether at Christmas or any other time of year.
Commercial Events
There are numerous recognized brands that have used our skating rinks as the cornerstone of their commercial events.
Town Councils and Merchant Associations
This is one of the most popular uses for our commercial synthetic ice rinks. City councils and/or trade associations look to an Xtraice rink to boost the local economy and offer a plus to their fellow citizens.
Ice Rinks for Tourism
Ice skating rinks installed at hotels, ski resorts or even municipalities that use the ice rink as an attraction for tourism from nearby towns.
FECs / Amusement and Adventure Parks
In places dedicated to leisure, attractions of all kinds proliferate, always focused on customer fun. Ice rinks are another commercial hit for these facilities.
Is a Commercial Synthetic Ice Rink Profitable?
One of the most frequently asked questions by our clients is: is investing in a commercial synthetic ice rink profitable? Our answer is always the same — it depends on a number of different factors, but we always defend two basics:
- Keep your ice rink clean.
- Make sure your skates are sharp.
These two elements are key to the proper functioning of the ice rink. If you comply with these two premises, all you have to do is position your ice rink to attract customers. Here are some ideas to make your ice rink profitable:
Ways to monetize a commercial rink
- Sale of skating tickets: the number one point to obtain benefits. Careful with the prices — popular prices will always attract more skaters and keep your rink packed.
- Advertising on the boards: one of the most used elements by our clients, ideal for obtaining additional benefits.
- Competitions organization: organizing hockey or curling games can attract new skaters and generate expectation around the rink.
- Skating classes: there are always people wanting to learn how to skate, or to improve their technique.
- Private events: rent your synthetic ice rink for birthdays, events or any type of party.
- Rent additional accessories: to make skating more fun, rent skating aids such as penguins or bears.
These are just some ideas, but you can go deeper into more detail here on how to make your ice rink more profitable.
Now that you know more about our commercial synthetic ice rinks, would you like to receive a quote? Request it below!
Frequently asked questions
What makes a rink "commercial grade"?
A commercial grade rink is built for 100% commercial use rather than residential use, which is why it uses Xtraice's Pro panels instead of the thinner Lite panels used for home rinks.
Where are commercial synthetic ice rinks typically installed?
Common locations include shopping malls, town councils and merchant associations, hotels and ski resorts for tourism, and FECs or amusement and adventure parks.
Is a commercial synthetic ice rink profitable?
It depends on several factors, but keeping the rink clean and the skates sharp are the two basics. From there, ticket sales, board advertising, competitions, skating classes, private events and accessory rentals are common ways to generate revenue.
Does a commercial rink require sub-zero temperatures?
No. Unlike traditional ice rinks, synthetic ice rinks do not require sub-zero temperatures or constant refrigeration, while still offering a smooth glide that simulates real ice.
Can accessories be rented for a commercial rink?
Yes. Skating aids such as penguins or bears can be rented to make skating more fun, especially for younger or first-time skaters.