Launch Family Entertainment Names John Palumbo Vice President of Franchise Development

October 22, 2026 // Franchising.com // EAST GREENWICH, R.I. – Launch Family Entertainment (Launch) has named John Palumbo Vice President of Franchise Development as the brand strengthens its leadership team and advances its national growth strategy.

Palumbo brings nearly two decades of franchise development experience and an early-career foundation in sports and recreation operations. He began his career in athletic administration and operated sports clubs in New York City before transitioning into franchising. Since then, he has held development leadership roles across the restaurant, education, and service industries with established franchise organizations including A&W Restaurants, H&R Block, and Primrose Schools, where he led national development strategies, franchise sales, and multi-unit growth initiatives. Most recently, Palumbo served as Vice President of Franchise Development at Celebree School.

In his new role, Palumbo will lead Launch's franchise development strategy and guide the brand's expansion into new and existing markets. As Launch looks toward 2027, he will also help identify strategic development opportunities that align with the brand's evolving model and long-term growth objectives.

“As we continue advancing Launch Family Entertainment's growth strategy, having the right leadership and strong franchisee relationships is critical,” said Craig Erlich, CEO of Launch Family Entertainment. “John has a proven track record of identifying development opportunities and partnering with seasoned multi-unit operators. His perspective will be invaluable as we strengthen our franchise system and bring the Launch Experience to more communities.”

Launch has accelerated its development efforts throughout 2026, opening new parks, signing development agreements, and securing new leases nationwide. The brand is also exploring more flexible park formats to accommodate a broader range of real estate opportunities and market needs while maintaining the core Launch Experience. With 30 locations across 15 states and multiple additional parks in development, Launch continues to target strategic markets and partner with qualified franchise operators.

“What stood out to me about Launch is the flexibility of the model and the opportunity that creates for thoughtful, strategic growth,” said Palumbo. “There is a real sense of alignment across the leadership team and franchise community around where the brand is headed and the experience we want to provide guests. I look forward to building on that foundation, helping our franchise partners grow, and identifying the right opportunities to bring Launch into new markets.”

Launch Family Entertainment offers a scalable, multi-unit franchise opportunity within the evolving family entertainment industry, combining diverse attractions, immersive experiences, and hospitality offerings to engage a broad demographic. The brand continues to seek qualified franchise partners with strong operational capabilities and the financial capacity to support strategic growth across the United States.

SOURCE Launch Family Entertainment

###