Poolhouse: The Next Wave in Pool Entertainment
April 18, 2025, 11:24 am
Poolhouse is making a splash. The London-based company has just raised $34 million in seed funding. This is not just a financial boost; it’s a signal that the world of entertainment is evolving. Poolhouse is here to redefine how we experience pool games, much like Topgolf did for golf.
The funding round was led by Sharp Alpha and dmg ventures. Heavyweights like David Blitzer, co-owner of the Philadelphia 76ers, and Simon Sports, co-owner of Ipswich Town F.C., joined the party. Active Partners, known for their investments in Soho House, and Emerging Fund, which has a stake in F1 Arcade, also contributed. Signature Hospitality Group has taken an equity stake and signed a franchise agreement. This is a lineup that speaks volumes.
Poolhouse is not just another bar with a few pool tables. It’s a tech-enabled entertainment venue that combines patented technology with a vibrant, Las Vegas-inspired atmosphere. Imagine a place where the ambiance is electric, and the games are interactive. Poolhouse aims to cater to everyone, from novices to seasoned players. The experience is designed to be engaging, ensuring that guests of all skill levels can enjoy themselves.
The culinary aspect is equally impressive. The drinks menu is curated by the Venning brothers from Three Sheets, ensuring that the offerings are top-notch. Quality is the name of the game here. Poolhouse is not just about playing pool; it’s about creating memorable experiences. The food and drink are integral to that vision.
The company plans to roll out its venues, starting with a 21,500 square foot site near London’s Liverpool Street Station. This location is strategic, tapping into a bustling area that attracts both locals and tourists. But the ambitions don’t stop there. Poolhouse is eyeing expansion in the Middle East, North America, Southeast Asia, and Europe. The world is their oyster.
Leading the charge is CEO Andrew O’Brien. He brings a wealth of experience from his time at F1 Arcade and Credit Suisse. COO Matt Fleming is no stranger to the hospitality scene either, having held senior positions at Vagabond Wines and Be At One. The team is rounded out by veterans from Puttshack, Bounce, Flight Club, and Swingers. This is a group that knows how to create buzz and deliver results.
The Jolliffe brothers, Steve and Dave, are the creative minds behind Poolhouse. They spent four years developing this concept. Their previous venture, Topgolf, transformed the golf landscape. Now, they aim to do the same for pool. The ambition is palpable. They want to create a space where people can gather, play, and enjoy life.
Poolhouse is not just about the games; it’s about the experience. The technology enhances gameplay, making it more interactive and fun. Imagine playing pool with augmented reality elements or engaging in multiplayer games that keep the energy high. This is the future of pool, and Poolhouse is leading the charge.
The company’s vision aligns with a growing trend in entertainment. Consumers are seeking unique experiences. They want more than just a night out; they want an adventure. Poolhouse is tapping into this demand. It’s not just a place to play pool; it’s a destination.
The potential for growth is significant. The global entertainment market is booming. People are looking for new ways to socialize and have fun. Poolhouse is positioned to capitalize on this trend. With its innovative approach and strong backing, it’s set to make waves.
As Poolhouse prepares to launch its first venue, the excitement is building. The combination of technology, ambiance, and culinary offerings creates a recipe for success. This is not just another entertainment venue; it’s a revolution in how we think about pool.
The competition will be watching closely. Other entertainment venues will need to step up their game. Poolhouse is setting a new standard. It’s a bold move in a crowded market, but the potential rewards are immense.
In conclusion, Poolhouse is more than just a business; it’s a vision for the future of entertainment. With a strong team, innovative technology, and a commitment to quality, it’s poised to change the landscape of pool. The $34 million funding is just the beginning. The world is ready for a new way to play, and Poolhouse is leading the charge. The game is on.
The funding round was led by Sharp Alpha and dmg ventures. Heavyweights like David Blitzer, co-owner of the Philadelphia 76ers, and Simon Sports, co-owner of Ipswich Town F.C., joined the party. Active Partners, known for their investments in Soho House, and Emerging Fund, which has a stake in F1 Arcade, also contributed. Signature Hospitality Group has taken an equity stake and signed a franchise agreement. This is a lineup that speaks volumes.
Poolhouse is not just another bar with a few pool tables. It’s a tech-enabled entertainment venue that combines patented technology with a vibrant, Las Vegas-inspired atmosphere. Imagine a place where the ambiance is electric, and the games are interactive. Poolhouse aims to cater to everyone, from novices to seasoned players. The experience is designed to be engaging, ensuring that guests of all skill levels can enjoy themselves.
The culinary aspect is equally impressive. The drinks menu is curated by the Venning brothers from Three Sheets, ensuring that the offerings are top-notch. Quality is the name of the game here. Poolhouse is not just about playing pool; it’s about creating memorable experiences. The food and drink are integral to that vision.
The company plans to roll out its venues, starting with a 21,500 square foot site near London’s Liverpool Street Station. This location is strategic, tapping into a bustling area that attracts both locals and tourists. But the ambitions don’t stop there. Poolhouse is eyeing expansion in the Middle East, North America, Southeast Asia, and Europe. The world is their oyster.
Leading the charge is CEO Andrew O’Brien. He brings a wealth of experience from his time at F1 Arcade and Credit Suisse. COO Matt Fleming is no stranger to the hospitality scene either, having held senior positions at Vagabond Wines and Be At One. The team is rounded out by veterans from Puttshack, Bounce, Flight Club, and Swingers. This is a group that knows how to create buzz and deliver results.
The Jolliffe brothers, Steve and Dave, are the creative minds behind Poolhouse. They spent four years developing this concept. Their previous venture, Topgolf, transformed the golf landscape. Now, they aim to do the same for pool. The ambition is palpable. They want to create a space where people can gather, play, and enjoy life.
Poolhouse is not just about the games; it’s about the experience. The technology enhances gameplay, making it more interactive and fun. Imagine playing pool with augmented reality elements or engaging in multiplayer games that keep the energy high. This is the future of pool, and Poolhouse is leading the charge.
The company’s vision aligns with a growing trend in entertainment. Consumers are seeking unique experiences. They want more than just a night out; they want an adventure. Poolhouse is tapping into this demand. It’s not just a place to play pool; it’s a destination.
The potential for growth is significant. The global entertainment market is booming. People are looking for new ways to socialize and have fun. Poolhouse is positioned to capitalize on this trend. With its innovative approach and strong backing, it’s set to make waves.
As Poolhouse prepares to launch its first venue, the excitement is building. The combination of technology, ambiance, and culinary offerings creates a recipe for success. This is not just another entertainment venue; it’s a revolution in how we think about pool.
The competition will be watching closely. Other entertainment venues will need to step up their game. Poolhouse is setting a new standard. It’s a bold move in a crowded market, but the potential rewards are immense.
In conclusion, Poolhouse is more than just a business; it’s a vision for the future of entertainment. With a strong team, innovative technology, and a commitment to quality, it’s poised to change the landscape of pool. The $34 million funding is just the beginning. The world is ready for a new way to play, and Poolhouse is leading the charge. The game is on.