This Former Banker Opened a ‘Terrifying’ Haunted House in a Strip Mall as a Side Hustle. 24 Years Later, It’s a Multimillion-Dollar Empire.
Chris Stafford’s company, Thirteenth Floor, now pays 4,500 seasonal workers every Halloween and is branching into Christmas.
What a wild ride! Chris Stafford's haunted house venture, Thirteenth Floor, has transformed from a humble side hustle in a strip mall to a multimillion-dollar empire over 24 years. This story showcases the power of entrepreneurship and diversification. By starting small and catering to a niche audience, Stafford was able to test his concept, refine it, and eventually scale it into a behemoth that now employs 4,500 seasonal workers.
The fact that Thirteenth Floor has expanded beyond Halloween to Christmas is a strategic move, indicating that Stafford is keen on diversifying his revenue streams and reducing dependence on a single seasonal event. This approach can help mitigate the risks associated with a seasonal business and create a more stable financial foundation. It's also a testament to the evolving nature of consumer entertainment, where experiences are increasingly driving spending.
As we watch this story unfold, it's essential to keep an eye on Thirteenth Floor's expansion plans, particularly how it navigates the competitive landscape of experiential entertainment. Will Stafford's company continue to innovate and push the boundaries of what's possible in the haunted attraction space? Can it successfully translate its Halloween success to the Christmas season? One thing is certain – the entrepreneurial spirit and adaptability that Chris Stafford has demonstrated will be fascinating to follow in the years to come.
Originally reported by entrepreneur.com. StoreWire adds analysis for business & startups readers.