How to Design Play Spaces That Drive Revenue and Repeat Visits - Simon Egan

In this episode of Skip the Queue, Andy Povey is joined by Simon Egan, Project Development Fellow at CAPCO, the creative studio behind some of the UK’s most immersive and story-led play environments.Simon shares his unexpected journey into the attractions industry, from co-creating the much-loved BeWILDerwood to founding CAPCO and championing play as a powerful driver of social connection, wellbeing, and commercial success. Andy and Simon explore why play matters more than ever in a screen-dominated world, how storytelling can transform visitor experiences, and what attractions can learn from farm parks, schools, and international projects. Key Topics Discussed:Simon’s route into the attractions industryThe creation and success of BeWILDerwoodWhy story and narrative are critical to play designGetting children (and parents) playing again outdoorsThe impact of play on wellbeing, inclusion, and social skillsDesigning for dwell time, food spend, and revenue growthLessons from farm parks in the UK and North AmericaWhy play is becoming just as important for adultsCAPCO’s Royal Warrant and future projects Show References: Download The Visitor Attractions Website Survey Report - https://www.merac.co.uk/download-the-visitor-attractions-survey Simon Egan - Project Development Fella at CAP.CO (Creating Adventurous Places Ltd)https://www.wearecapco.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/simonpegan/ Skip the Queue is brought to you by Merac. We provide attractions with the tools and expertise to create world-class digital interactions. Very simply, we're here to rehumanise commerce. Your host is Andy Povey. Credits:Written by Emily Burrows (Plaster)Edited by Steve FollandProduced by Emily Burrows and Sammy Entwistle (Plaster), with Wenalyn Dionaldo (Skip the Queue HQ) Download The Visitor Attractions Website Survey Report - https://www.merac.co.uk/download-the-visitor-attractions-survey We have launched our brand-new playbook: ‘The Retail Ready Guide to Going Beyond the Gift Shop’ — your go-to resource for building a successful e-commerce strategy that connects with your audience and drives sustainable growth. Download your FREE copy here