Amusement Expo Intl. 2026

Doug Mechling

Star Lanes Polaris


Doug Mechling is an accomplished entrepreneur recognized for developing and operating innovative ventures in the entertainment industry. He is the founder of Star Lanes Polaris, a 35,000-square-foot, high-tech, bowling-anchored, multi-attraction entertainment facility in Columbus, Ohio. With a full-service food and beverage program and a reputation as a premier destination for social events, corporate functions, and team-building, Star Lanes Polaris has become a model for integrating technology, hospitality, and guest experience. Deeply immersed in the location-based entertainment (LBE) industry, Doug has built a strong network of operators, developers, and thought leaders across the sector. Well connected and engaged, he remains at the forefront of industry conversations, continuously monitoring emerging trends and shifts in guest preferences. This awareness allows him to anticipate change, adapt business strategies, and create experiences that resonate with evolving consumer expectations. His ability to blend hands-on operational knowledge with forward-looking insight positions him as both a practitioner and a trusted voice in the LBE community. In addition to his leadership at Star Lanes Polaris, Doug is the co-founder of Upward Entertainment Marketing, a full-service firm dedicated to the unique needs of the LBE space. Through Upward, he delivers strategic marketing, brand development, and guest engagement solutions that enable venues to stand out, attract new audiences, and optimize performance in competitive markets. His dual perspective—as both an operator and a marketer—equips him with a rare understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the industry.

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