Dave & Buster’s is acquiring family entertainment company Main Event, which is owned by Ardent Leisure, in an all-cash deal valued at $835M.
Once the deal closes, which is expected later this year, Main Event CEO Chris Morris will be named CEO of Dave & Buster’s. Morris joined Main Event in 2018 and has since expanded it by more than 30 per cent.
Founded in 1998, Dallas-based Main Event operates 50 locations in 17 states across the US. Its FECs offer state-of-the-art bowling, laser tag, arcade games and virtual reality (VR). Main Event will continue to operate as a distinct brand under Dave & Buster’s. It is one of the fastest-growing family entertainment companies in the US.
“We are thrilled to join the Dave & Buster’s family,” Morris said. “We will undoubtedly benefit from the collective expertise and strong culture of both brands, particularly as we continue to accelerate Main Event’s aggressive expansion plans. I’m looking forward to enhancing the offerings and experiences of each brand and providing even more opportunity for our team members. Main Event is a perfect complement to Dave & Buster’s, and I feel very honoured to lead the growth of both brands.”
