In an exclusive interview with Top 10 of Asia, industry leaders Greg Pearn and Lawrence Paul share the vision behind a bold new hospitality concept that blends larger-than-life carnival skill games, boardwalk-style Western fusion dining and social interaction. Representing HB Leisure and Carousel & Co., the duo shares on innovation, leadership, and why experiential venues may define the future of leisure.
Greg Pearn begins by tracing the venture’s roots to its parent company, HB Leisure. “HB Leisure is a global provider of skill-based games that usually appear in theme parks – operating in around 150 locations worldwide,” he explains. “For nearly 100 years, HBL’s core business has been built around classic carnival-style games, such as hook-a-duck, ring toss and basketball. They’ve done that incredibly well and are market leaders working with major brands like Universal, Legoland and Chimelong Group.”
Having previously introduced the company’s games to Genting SkyWorlds and Legoland Malaysia, Pearn saw an opportunity to evolve the model. “They wanted to diversify into what we call competitive socialising, which involves putting skill games in a hospitality setting with food, beverages, and a completely immersive shared experience. That’s essentially what Carousel & Co is.”
The concept took two years to bring to life. “We started with deep market studies, brand development, and guest journey mapping in January 2024,” he says. “We asked what would make the experience instantly recognisable and memorable. The answer was the Carousel Bar, a visual and social centerpiece.”
Carousel & Co. opened its first venue in Kuala Lumpur in January 2026. “We established the main business here. Although our headquarters are in the United Kingdom, the operating team is 100% Malaysian. This is a locally built business with global ambition. We want to prove the concept in KL before taking it further afield, and I’m pleased to say the interest from other parties has exceeded all of our expectations!”
Pearn says the venue’s multi-layered experience is what sets it apart. Guests move between vibrant skill game zones, relaxed boardwalk-style dining, and a visually striking bar inspired by classic fairground movement. “As the day transitions into night, the space comes alive,” Pearn explains. “Lights warm up, drinks are crafted, games spark friendly competition. It’s not about rushing through a meal. It’s about staying, playing and connecting.”
He points out that the idea fills a local need. “This model has been tested in the UK and the USA, but no one in Southeast Asia has offered that full 360-degree experience yet. People eating out today are looking for more than just food; they want an experience they can share, photograph, and remember. That’s what we provide.”
Lawrence Paul adds that the strength of the concept lies in its balance of experience and execution. “HB Leisure understands the skill games better than anyone else,” he says. “We’re now pairing that with strong hospitality operations and Western fusion food that feels approachable and fun. The games have always resonated well in Malaysia, so bringing the two together gives us a very unique offering.”
The growth plans have already been laid out. “This first venue acts as a blueprint,” Pearn says. “The concept is modular and scalable. Partners can introduce the games alone or adopt the full Carousel & Co. experience, from menus and bar design to furniture and overall look and feel.”
The venue was also designed to play a role within its retail environment. Located in the heart of KLLC at Avenue K Shopping Mall, Carousel & Co. is positioned as the rooftop anchor tenant that draws people in. He says, “Avenue K wanted something distinct,” Pearn explains. “Rooftop spaces can be challenging, so the idea was to give people a reason to go up first, then explore the rest of the mall.”
Both leaders agree that having a clear leadership philosophy is key to keeping things moving forward. Pearn says, “We’ve created a culture where people work together. There’s no hierarchy. Everyone has a voice and can question ideas. Having a range of different skills and experiences is what helps us keep moving ahead. Working with Paul has also helped him see things from a different point of view. I come from a background of theme parks and location-based entertainment. I’m getting a lot more into hospitality now, and it’s been really insightful working closely with Lawrence Paul.”
For Pearn, motivation comes from belief. “When people say something can’t be done, that’s when leadership really counts,’’ he reflects. “You keep the vision clear, energise the team and stay focused. It’s demanding, but that’s how something new takes shape.”
As Carousel & Co. looks ahead, it stands as a Malaysian-born concept with international potential. By blending nostalgic carnival games, boardwalk-style dining and beverages, and a strong sense of social connection, it offers a fresh take on modern leisure, one designed to be experienced, not just visited.