Discover the inspiring story of Thomas Brout, founder of Normandy Jump, in collaboration with Play In Business.

From the field of athletics to the creation of these unique leisure spaces, his unconventional career path is a source of inspiration. Partnering with Play In Business, he was able to turn unique ideas into reality, offering an exceptional customer experience. Dive into this captivating entrepreneurial adventure.

Enjoy the read!

Hello Thomas, could you share your professional background with us and what led you to create Normandy Jump in Caen and Le Havre?

Thomas Brout: Hello, my name is Thomas Brout and I am the manager of the two Normandy Jump trampoline parks in Caen and Le Havre.

My professional background is quite unconventional: I did not pursue my studies beyond high school, but I have always had a passion for the field of sports.

So, I started as a development and coaching agent in athletics associations, an experience that lasted 4 years!

Next, I worked at La Poste for 4 years before making the decision to create my own company: Normandy Jump.

Originally, we focused on urban sports, particularly stilts, but discovering trampoline parks in the United States broadened our perspective. And in 2018, we jumped into this adventure by opening the first trampoline park in Caen.

Convincing the banks was a very big challenge! Why? Because we were introducing a new structure that did not yet exist. It was a unique park model, focused on an individual and personalized experience.

But, after only six months, we were already considering the possibility of opening a second trampoline park in Le Havre, which opened its doors in January 2020 and was an immediate success!

How did you discover Play In Business and what was it about their approach that convinced you to work with them for the realization of your trampoline parks?

Thomas Brout: For our first project, we had met a trampoline park manufacturer and visited the parks they had built, but we were not convinced.

Play In Business then caught our attention. After visiting one of their projects in Troyes, we were won over by their transparency.

They explained to us that problems sometimes arise, but the essential thing is attentive follow-up and responsiveness!

This transparency built our trust because they take responsibility for their work. Furthermore, their competitive rates do not sacrifice quality in any way.

Why did you specifically choose Caen and Le Havre as locations for your trampoline parks? Were there any particular factors that influenced this decision?

Thomas Brout: In Caen, finding a building for a trampoline park was a challenge due to the need for high ceilings (minimum 6 meters). During an urban stilt event in Caen, we discovered a building ideally located at a highway exit, surrounded by shops and restaurants, with a bowling alley nearby.

This opportunity immediately convinced us!

As for Le Havre, I had a colleague who owned a trampoline park in Honfleur. To get there, you had to cross the Normandy Bridge.

However, customers found it difficult to get there because the jump park was sometimes closed, and the toll was a deterrent (€10 round trip).

Ultimately, many preferred to go to Normandy Park in Caen. I was often encouraged to open a trampoline park in Le Havre. So we jumped at the chance! This choice proved to be a resounding success: our trampoline park is very successful.

How did the Play In Business team integrate and implement your specific ideas for the trampoline parks?

Thomas Brout: Our concept differs from others, which did not necessarily correspond to typical projects. In addition to that, our ideas were very precise. Therefore, Play In Business had to adapt.

Bertrand and Aminata provided excellent advice. They helped us turn our project into reality and reassured us regarding safety standards and the feasibility of the project.

In the end, Play In Business understood our request and was extremely receptive to our trampoline park model.

Which communication channels do you prioritize to promote your parks and reach your target audience?

Thomas Brout: We are very active on social networks such as Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

In addition to that, since September, we have launched a loyalty program.

And if we manage to build customer loyalty, they will talk about us, which will promote word-of-mouth.

We occasionally organize advertising campaigns via gift vouchers or flyers, although this remains exceptional and seasonal.

Are you satisfied with the attendance at your parks? How do you evaluate the demand and the level of enthusiasm of your target audience?

Thomas Brout: We are completely satisfied. We offer the experience people are looking for: a pleasant venue, a friendly team, and a personalized approach for every customer.

Furthermore, there is not much turnover, which means our customers often find familiar faces at the reception desk.

Finally, we believe in the importance of a warm and personalized experience, with small touches. That is why, for example, water is free at our parks: these small details make the difference and foster a friendly atmosphere.

Can you give us an idea of the average number of customers you welcome per week in your trampoline parks in Caen and Le Havre?

Thomas Brout: We welcome about 500 people per week.

During school terms, this figure varies between 300 and 400 per week. Meanwhile, during holidays, it climbs to about 1,500.

This shows that our packages appeal to the public. We notice a difference between school terms and holiday periods, but weekends and Wednesdays are always well-filled.

What are the most rewarding moments you have experienced in connection with the creation and management of Normandy Jump?

Thomas Brout: The inauguration of the first park was a memorable moment.

It was a point of pride after four years of work. Additionally, our families and friends were invited, so we were truly proud.

Also, welcoming and seeing our customers with disabilities enjoy the park is a great source of satisfaction.

Even though the COVID period was difficult, in retrospect, we are proud to have overcome those challenges and to have succeeded in keeping our trampoline parks open.

On a scale of 1 to 10, how likely would you be to recommend Play In Business to other entrepreneurs looking to create trampoline parks?

Thomas Brout: I would say 9. Play In Business stands out for their transparency, kindness, and honesty.

These are crucial qualities for the long-term sustainability of a business.

They do not seek to avoid problems, but to solve them. Furthermore, they reassured us regarding the safety of our trampoline parks, a paramount aspect for us and our customers.

Can you give us an overview of the future projects you are considering, whether in collaboration with Play In Business or in other areas?

Thomas Brout: We are in the middle of negotiations with a building owner to open a third park in Rouen by 2024.

At the same time, we are refining the design and models for this trampoline park with Play In Business.

The first two parks were built by Play In Business, so it goes without saying that we wish to collaborate again for this third project.

 

In the great adventure of Normandy Jump, we, Play In Business, have been the key partner in turning unique ideas into reality and offering an exceptional customer experience. If you also aspire to create an unforgettable trampoline park, discover how we can support you on your path to success. Contact us today!