Marc van Hengst
Algemeen Directeur @Augmented Entertainment Llc
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WORK HISTORY
Algemeen Directeur @Augmented Entertainment Llc
Kearny, NJ, US
I’m proud to be leading the launch of the first BattleKart location in the United States, right here in Kearny, NJ.At BattleKart Kearny, guests don’t just play a game, they drive it. Real electric karts become your controller as you race, score goals, dodge traps, and unlock power-ups on a massive projection-mapped arena floor. It’s an entirely new category of immersive entertainment that blends adrenaline, gaming, and social fun in a way people have never experienced before.Highlights of what I do:Building the U.S. flagship for a global franchise, setting the tone for future nationwide expansion.Designing a sq. ft. venue that combines karting, axe throwing, party rooms, and a full food & beverage experience.Creating unforgettable guest journeys, from check-in and safety, to the thrill of the games, to the celebratory drink after.Leading an amazing team of 100+ staff to deliver safe, high-energy, and memorable experiences for families, friends, and corporate groups.Driving awareness through bold marketing, partnerships, and brand storytelling across the NY/NJ metro area.This isn’t just a track, it’s a launchpad for the future of entertainment in America.About BattleKart KearnyLocated at 682 Schuyler Ave in Kearny, NJ, BattleKart Kearny brings Europe’s most exciting augmented reality karting concept to the U.S. for the very first time. Whether it’s a night out, a birthday, or a team-building event, every visit promises energy, competition, and pure fun.
EDUCATION
Zuyd University of Applied Sciences
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), Hospitality Administration/Management
SKILLS
ABOUT MARC VAN HENGST
I grew up in the Netherlands in a true entrepreneurial family. My earliest lessons in business came not from textbooks, but from being immersed in my family’s river cruise company, watching contracts being negotiated, guests being welcomed, and operations running seamlessly day after day. Those years gave me a foundation in service, resilience, and ownership that has shaped everything since.My career began in hospitality and brand experience, working in hotels and later as a Porsche Brand Ambassador, where I honed a mix of luxury service, event execution, and relationship building. Hospitality taught me that while people may come for the product, they return because of the people and the feeling you leave them with. That lesson became my north star.In 2024, I took the biggest leap of my professional life: founding Augmented Entertainment Kearny LLC to bring BattleKart, Europe’s groundbreaking augmented reality karting concept, to the United States for the very first time.Now, as Founder & Managing Partner of BattleKart Kearny, I’m leading the creation of a sq. ft. flagship venue that blends: Real electric karts + AR gaming on a projection-mapped arena floor Axe throwing, racing simulators, and party experiences A food & beverage program designed for groups, families, and corporate eventsThis role has pushed me far beyond my hospitality background. Into franchise operations, large-scale construction, multimillion-dollar financing, regulatory approvals, and brand localization. Over the past year alone, I’ve learned more than I could have imagined about building something from scratch in the U.S. market.My journey is proof of what happens when roots in service, passion for cars and innovation, and entrepreneurial drive come together. I see BattleKart Kearny not just as a business, but as the launchpad for a new category of entertainment in America. Where families, gamers, and companies can all share a truly unforgettable experience.I’m proud to be building the first, but I know it won’t be the last.If you’re passionate about innovation in entertainment, immersive tech, or creating experiences that make people say “wow”, let’s connect.
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