Chuck E Cheese total revenues decreased by $14.8m to $213.3m in Q3 year on year, primarily driven by a 6.9 per cent decline in comparable venue sales, offset partially by new venue sales.
The company said this was partially due to venue closures related to hurricanes Harvey and Irma at 73 of its locations.
“Our third quarter revenues continued to be impacted by the same challenges we have faced for most of this year as we experienced traffic declines in both our walk-in business and booked birthday parties,” said Tom Leverton, CEO.
“We have taken action on several fronts, including changing our advertising approach and messaging, in order to improve traffic in future periods,” he added.
However, the 40-year-old business continues to expand with a new site slated to open in Kapolei, Hawaii.
“I’d been looking in Kapolei for the last 10 years for a good location, because I could feel the synergy and the movement going out there,” said franchise president Wayne Hayami. “Family entertainment is a premium, so we’re hoping that people out there are going to like it.”
“Chuck E Cheese has always provided an experience for the guest. They come and not just enjoy pizza and play games, but we also have a show,” said Jodie Hasche, general manager and vice president. Hasche said they hope to open some time next summer and aim to hire 75 people beginning in April.
