World’s largest bowling center owner to acquire three longtime Wichita-owned centers

The world’s largest bowling center owner, New York-based Bowlero Corp., has a deal to acquire three Wichita Joma Bowling Co. bowling alleys.

After a week of not responding to The Wichita Eagle’s requests for comment about a possible sale, Bowlero issued the information in a news release on Monday.

Frank and Cathy DeSocio owned Joma together for years, but last week, Frank DeSocio said Cathy DeSocio is the one to talk to for any questions about the company. Cathy DeSocio hasn’t returned several calls for comment.

The release does not mention Joma or the DeSocios.

“Bowlero Corp is committed to delivering a world class bowling experience to the guests we serve each year and we’re thrilled to welcome these three new centers to our portfolio,” said Bowlero chairman and CEO Tom Shannon in the news release.

One of the three bowling alleys included in the deal is Northrock Lanes at 3232 N. Rock Road, which the release said is the state’s largest bowling complex, with 48 lanes, an arcade, banquet hall and grill.

Also included is the Alley Indoor Entertainment at the Plazzio development at 13th and Greenwich, which has 32 lanes, an arcade, an escape room, electric go-karts and a grill.

The third bowling center in the deal is West Acres at 749 N. Ridge Road, which has 36 lanes, a pro shop, cosmic bowling and a bar.

According to the release, Bowlero will have “new offers and exclusive promotions” at the centers once the deal is done, which should be in about three months.

Bowlero owns more than 300 bowling centers in North America under the brands Bowlero, AMF and Bowlmor Lanes.

It also owns the Professional Bowlers Association, but there’s no indication in the release that the association will have any future events at the Wichita bowling centers that are part of the deal.

This story was originally published May 23, 2022 at 10:56 AM.