Who Owns Dave and Busters? Dave and Busters Company History

May 2024 · 18 minute read

Dave & Buster’s, a popular entertainment and dining destination, has captured the hearts of many individuals across the United States and Canada. If you’ve ever wondered who owns Dave and Busters and how the brand came to be, we’ve got you covered! Let’s take a journey through the founding of Dave & Buster’s and explore its ownership history.

Founded in 1982 by David O. Corriveau and James W. “Buster” Corley, Dave & Buster’s started as a small venture in Dallas, Texas. Recognizing the potential for combining their separate establishments, David and James merged to create the ultimate entertainment destination. Since then, the brand has seen remarkable growth and expanded its presence with 156 locations in the United States, Puerto Rico, and Canada.

As a publicly traded company, Dave & Buster’s trades on the NASDAQ under the ticker symbol PLAY. This allows individuals to invest in the company and share in its success. The CEO of Dave & Buster’s is Chris Morris, who leads the executive team in shaping the company’s strategic direction and overseeing day-to-day operations.

In addition to Dave & Buster’s, the company also owns subsidiary Main Event Entertainment, further diversifying its offerings and experiences for customers.

Key Takeaways:

The History of Dave & Buster’s

Dave & Buster’s, a popular entertainment and dining destination, has a fascinating history rooted in innovation and entrepreneurial spirit. Founded in 1982 in Dallas, Texas, by David O. Corriveau and James W. “Buster” Corley, the company has been providing memorable experiences for over 40 years.

David O. Corriveau and James W. “Buster” Corley, the co-founders of Dave & Buster’s, recognized an interesting trend among their separate establishments. Customers were often seen transitioning between Corley’s entertainment locale, where he offered games and a lively atmosphere, and Corriveau’s restaurant, known for its delicious food. Inspired by this observation, the duo came up with the brilliant idea of combining the two concepts into one extraordinary entertainment destination.

In December 1982, the first Dave & Buster’s location opened its doors, marking the beginning of a new era in entertainment and dining. Since then, the company has grown significantly, expanding its footprint across the United States, Puerto Rico, and Canada. Dave & Buster’s currently operates 156 locations, offering guests a unique blend of food, drinks, and interactive games.

As the company continued to thrive, it went public in 1995, marking a pivotal moment in its history. This allowed Dave & Buster’s to expand even further, acquiring additional businesses and strengthening its position in the industry. Notably, the company acquired several Jillian’s locations, further enhancing its status as a leading entertainment destination.

Like any successful venture, Dave & Buster’s has experienced both triumphs and challenges along the way. In 2014, the company underwent a second initial public offering (IPO), solidifying its place in the market and demonstrating its resilience and adaptability.

Despite the passing of its founders, their legacy and vision live on, shaping Dave & Buster’s and inspiring generations of entertainment enthusiasts. The company stands as a testament to the power of innovation, creativity, and the pursuit of providing unparalleled experiences to its guests.

Key Milestones

YearMilestone
1982The first Dave & Buster’s location opens in Dallas, Texas.
1995Dave & Buster’s goes public, expanding its reach.
2014A second IPO solidifies Dave & Buster’s market presence.

Current Ownership and Leadership

At present, Dave & Buster’s is owned by its shareholders as a publicly traded company. The company’s CEO is Chris Morris, leading the executive team in overseeing day-to-day operations and strategic decisions. Dave & Buster’s is listed on the NASDAQ stock exchange under the ticker symbol PLAY.

In 2010, Oak Hill Capital Partners acquired Dave & Buster’s and later brought the company public again in 2014. This change in ownership marked a significant milestone for the brand, allowing it to continue its growth and expansion plans.

To provide a better understanding of Dave & Buster’s current ownership and leadership, here is an overview of the key details:

OwnershipCEO
Publicly traded companyChris Morris

As a publicly traded company, the ownership of Dave & Buster’s is distributed among its shareholders, who have a stake in the company’s success. This structure ensures transparency and accountability, as well as the potential for further growth and expansion opportunities.

The CEO, Chris Morris, plays a crucial role in leading the company forward. With their expertise and vision, they guide the executive team in making strategic decisions and implementing initiatives to enhance the brand’s offerings and customer experience.

Note: The following table summarizes the current ownership and leadership of Dave & Buster’s:

Current OwnershipPublicly traded company
CEOChris Morris

Overall, Dave & Buster’s corporate ownership structure and leadership under CEO Chris Morris reflect the company’s commitment to delivering exceptional entertainment experiences and driving growth in the competitive market.

dave and busters ownership

Acquisitions and Expansion

Dave & Buster’s, a renowned entertainment and restaurant company, has a history of strategic acquisitions and successful expansion endeavors. These initiatives have played a crucial role in the company’s growth and development over the years.

In 2004, Dave & Buster’s capitalized on an opportunity and acquired nine Jillian’s locations. This acquisition was made after Jillian’s filed for bankruptcy, and it allowed Dave & Buster’s to further strengthen its presence in the market. The company made strategic decisions regarding these locations, either rebranding them as Dave & Buster’s or closing them down to optimize resources and focus on other ventures.

As part of its ongoing commitment to expansion and diversification, Dave & Buster’s made an exciting announcement in 2022. The company revealed its acquisition of Main Event Entertainment, a highly regarded family entertainment center chain. The acquisition amounted to an impressive $835 million, exemplifying Dave & Buster’s dedication to its growth strategy.

This acquisition is set to open up new possibilities for Dave & Buster’s, allowing the company to expand its offerings and tap into a broader customer base. With Main Event Entertainment under its wing, Dave & Buster’s has the potential to convert some of its larger locations into Main Event format, introducing a fresh and engaging experience for its patrons.

dave and busters acquisitions

Through these strategic acquisitions and their commitment to expansion, Dave & Buster’s continues to solidify its position as a leader in the entertainment industry. The company’s vision for growth and dedication to delivering exceptional experiences to its guests remain key drivers of its success.

Operations and Offerings

At each Dave & Buster’s location, guests can enjoy a comprehensive and entertaining experience that combines a full-service restaurant, a full bar, and a video arcade. Whether you’re looking for a delicious meal, a refreshing drink, or some exciting games, Dave & Buster’s has got you covered.

The menu at Dave & Buster’s offers a diverse selection of food options to satisfy any appetite. From classic comfort foods to gourmet dishes, their menu features a range of choices, including pastas, burgers, steaks, seafood, chicken, and delectable desserts. To keep up with evolving tastes and preferences, the menu is regularly updated to showcase the latest culinary trends and customer favorites.

One of the highlights of a visit to Dave & Buster’s is their “Million Dollar Midway” arcade, where guests can indulge in a variety of games and interactive experiences. The arcade boasts a wide range of options, including classic arcade games, state-of-the-art simulators, racing games, shooting games, and much more. With something for everyone, the arcade guarantees hours of endless fun and excitement for all ages.

“The arcade at Dave & Buster’s is a paradise for gaming enthusiasts, offering a diverse array of games and experiences that will captivate and thrill guests of all ages. It’s a truly immersive and unforgettable adventure!” – Happy Dave & Buster’s Customer

To enhance the gaming experience, Dave & Buster’s introduced the Power Card in 1997, replacing traditional tokens and tickets for game activation. This innovative technology allows players to easily store game credits and track their winnings. Since then, the company has continued to incorporate cutting-edge technology into their games, including the use of proximity card readers for seamless access and gameplay.

With its diverse offerings and commitment to providing unforgettable entertainment, Dave & Buster’s has established itself as a go-to destination for food, drinks, and thrilling gaming experiences. Whether you’re seeking a memorable family outing, a night out with friends, or a unique venue for special occasions, Dave & Buster’s guarantees a fantastic time for everyone.

dave and busters games

Events and Sponsorships

Dave & Buster’s is not just a popular destination for food and entertainment, but also an active participant in sponsoring various events and organizations. Through its sponsorships, Dave & Buster’s aims to generate awareness and attract customers to its locations.

One of the notable sponsorships of Dave & Buster’s is its role as a corporate sponsor of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) organization. The partnership allows Dave & Buster’s to align its brand with the excitement and energy of one of the most popular combat sports in the world.

Additionally, Dave & Buster’s sponsors postgame reports of San Jose Sharks games, further cementing its presence in the world of sports entertainment. By associating itself with professional hockey, Dave & Buster’s enhances its brand recognition among sports enthusiasts.

The company has also sponsored World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) matches, which bring together a large fan base of passionate wrestling enthusiasts. Through these sponsorships, Dave & Buster’s connects with a diverse audience and builds meaningful relationships with fans.

Besides sports, Dave & Buster’s has sponsored tours by bands like Bowling for Soup, offering music lovers an opportunity to enjoy live performances while experiencing the excitement of Dave & Buster’s gaming and dining offerings.

“Our sponsorships allow us to engage with different communities and reach new audiences. Whether it’s supporting combat sports, professional hockey, or music events, we strive to create memorable experiences for our customers and strengthen our brand presence.”

Through its diverse range of sponsorships, Dave & Buster’s not only showcases its commitment to providing entertainment but also creates valuable partnerships that contribute to the success of events and organizations. The company’s continuous involvement in various sponsorships demonstrates its dedication to bringing joy and excitement to its customers beyond its physical locations.

dave and busters events

International Presence

Dave & Buster’s, known for its popular entertainment and dining experiences in the United States, has also ventured into the international market. While the company faced challenges in certain regions, their pursuit of global expansion remains a priority.

In 1998, Dave & Buster’s opened a restaurant in the United Kingdom, aiming to introduce its unique concept to a new audience. However, due to a lack of success, the UK location closed its doors. Despite this setback, the company did not abandon its ambition to reach international customers.

In recent years, Dave & Buster’s took steps towards expanding into other international markets. In 2022, they announced a franchise deal that would bring their brand to countries such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Egypt. This strategic move allows the company to tap into new markets and showcase its entertainment offerings to a broader audience.

dave and busters international

As Dave & Buster’s continues to explore opportunities for international expansion, they aim to adapt their offerings to meet the unique demands and preferences of each target market. By extending their presence beyond the United States, the company seeks to provide a memorable and entertaining experience for customers around the world.

Death of Founders

The success of Dave & Buster’s is rooted in the entrepreneurial spirit of its founders, David O. Corriveau and James W. “Buster” Corley. However, their journey took tragic turns as both founders faced untimely deaths.

In 2015, David “Dave” Corriveau passed away, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and creativity. His visionary approach and dedication laid the foundation for the unique concept of combining dining and entertainment under one roof.

Dave and Busters Founder Death

Years later, in 2023, the news of James “Buster” Corley’s death shocked the Dave & Buster’s community. He suffered a stroke four months prior, which resulted in severe brain damage. Tragically, he succumbed to his injuries, leaving a void in the hearts of those who knew him.

“The passing of our founders, Dave and Buster, leaves a profound loss in our hearts. Their passion, dedication, and ingenuity have forever shaped the Dave & Buster’s brand and provided countless memories for our guests.”

Their entrepreneurial partnership and commitment to providing unforgettable experiences paved the way for the success and growth of Dave & Buster’s. While their presence is deeply missed, their legacy continues to inspire and guide the company toward a promising future.

Impact of COVID-19

Like many other businesses in the entertainment and restaurant industry, Dave & Buster’s was heavily impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The company experienced a significant decline in sales due to the restrictions on non-essential businesses implemented to curb the spread of the virus.

During fiscal year 2020, Dave & Buster’s same-store sales fell by a staggering 70%. The closure of their locations and the absence of in-person gatherings severely affected their revenue and operations. The restrictions on indoor dining and entertainment venues meant that Dave & Buster’s was unable to provide their signature mix of dining and gaming experiences to their customers.

However, as restrictions started to ease in fiscal year 2021, Dave & Buster’s saw a gradual recovery. Their same-store sales decline reduced to 10%, indicating a positive trend towards recovery. The company implemented safety measures and adapted their operations to comply with health guidelines, which allowed them to reopen their locations and welcome back customers.

Despite this positive momentum, Dave & Buster’s faced another setback with the emergence of the Omicron variant. In the fourth quarter of 2021, they experienced a decrease in sales once again as concerns about the variant led to renewed restrictions and hesitancy among customers. This further highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by businesses in the face of the evolving pandemic.

dave and busters COVID-19 impact

“The COVID-19 pandemic presented unprecedented challenges for the entire entertainment industry. Our same-store sales decline reflects the impact of the restrictions and the cautiousness among our customers. However, we remain committed to adapting and recovering as the situation continues to evolve.” – Dave & Buster’s spokesperson

The impact of COVID-19 on Dave & Buster’s serves as a reminder of the vulnerability faced by businesses in the face of unexpected crises. The company’s ability to navigate these challenges and continue to evolve will be crucial in determining their future success in the post-pandemic landscape.

Dave & Buster’s Leadership Transition

In September 2021, Brian Jenkins retired as the CEO of Dave & Buster’s, concluding his successful tenure. Following his retirement, Kevin Sheehan, the chairman of the company, assumed the position of interim CEO, providing stability and guidance during the transition period. However, the company had more transformative plans on the horizon.

Dave and Busters CEO Retirement

By April 2022, an exciting announcement reshaped the future of Dave & Buster’s. It was revealed that Chris Morris, the esteemed CEO of Main Event Entertainment, would take the helm as the new CEO of Dave & Buster’s. This transition coincided with the completion of the Main Event Entertainment acquisition, further solidifying the company’s growth strategy and bringing fresh expertise and insights.

The appointment of Chris Morris as the new CEO marked an exciting chapter in the company’s history. With his extensive experience in the entertainment industry and a proven track record in driving success, Morris was poised to lead Dave & Buster’s into a new era of innovation and growth.

This leadership transition showcased the company’s commitment to adapting to the evolving landscape of the entertainment and restaurant industry, ensuring that Dave & Buster’s remains a beloved and leading destination for unparalleled experiences and fun.

Customer Feedback and Reviews

Customer feedback and reviews play an important role in shaping the reputation of businesses like Dave & Buster’s. On popular review platforms like Yelp and Google Reviews, customers have shared their experiences and opinions regarding their visits to Dave & Buster’s locations.

“I had a fantastic time at Dave & Buster’s! The food was delicious, and they had a great variety of games to choose from. The rewards program is a nice bonus. Overall, it was a fun and enjoyable experience.” – Sarah J. (5-star review)

Many customers have praised the food options available at Dave & Buster’s, highlighting the variety and quality of the menu. From pasta dishes and juicy burgers to flavorful steaks and delectable seafood, the diverse range of offerings appeals to different palates.

The entertainment options provided by Dave & Buster’s also receive positive feedback from customers. The vibrant and lively atmosphere, coupled with the extensive selection of games in their “Million Dollar Midway” arcade, create an immersive experience for guests seeking entertainment and fun.

“While I enjoyed the games and the overall experience, the service could be improved. I found the pricing to be a bit on the higher side, which limited my ability to participate in as many games as I would have liked.” – Mark D. (3-star review)

As with any business, there are also some negative reviews related to service and pricing. Some customers have expressed dissatisfaction with the level of service they received during their visits to Dave & Buster’s. Additionally, a few individuals have mentioned that they found the pricing to be somewhat expensive, which impacted their overall experience.

It’s important to note that customer feedback can vary, as individual experiences and expectations differ. While positive reviews highlight the enjoyable aspects of Dave & Buster’s, negative feedback provides valuable insights for the company to address and improve upon.

dave and busters customer feedback

Positive FeedbackNegative Feedback
Diverse and delicious food optionsSome customers experienced subpar service
Wide variety of games and entertainmentA few customers found the pricing to be high
Rewards program adds value

By actively listening and responding to customer feedback, Dave & Buster’s can continuously enhance its offerings and address any areas of improvement. The company’s commitment to creating enjoyable experiences for its customers remains paramount.

Outlook and Future Plans

Dave & Buster’s is committed to continuous growth and expansion as it looks towards the future. One of its key focuses is the integration of Main Event Entertainment, a recent acquisition that will allow the company to enhance its offerings and broaden its reach. With Main Event’s expertise in family entertainment centers, Dave & Buster’s aims to provide unique and exciting experiences for its customers, cementing its position at the forefront of the entertainment and restaurant industry.

As the business landscape evolves, Dave & Buster’s understands the importance of staying adaptable and responsive to changing customer needs and preferences. This means regularly evaluating and refining its offerings and strategies to ensure they align with the evolving demands of its target audience. By keeping a pulse on industry trends and leveraging customer feedback, Dave & Buster’s can continue to deliver unforgettable experiences that exceed customer expectations.

Looking ahead, Dave & Buster’s remains committed to innovation and staying ahead of the curve. The company will explore new technologies and trends to enhance its offerings and create a seamless and engaging customer experience. Whether it’s introducing new menu items that cater to shifting dietary preferences or incorporating the latest advancements in gaming technology, Dave & Buster’s is dedicated to exceeding customer expectations and maintaining its status as a go-to destination for fun and entertainment.

FAQ

Who owns Dave and Busters?

Dave & Buster’s is a publicly traded company owned by its shareholders.

What is the history of Dave & Buster’s?

Dave & Buster’s was founded in 1982 in Dallas, Texas by David O. Corriveau and James W. “Buster” Corley. It started as a combination of separate establishments and has since expanded and gone public.

What is the current ownership and leadership of Dave & Buster’s?

Dave & Buster’s is currently owned by its shareholders as a publicly traded company. The CEO is Chris Morris.

Has Dave & Buster’s made any acquisitions or expansions?

Yes, Dave & Buster’s has made acquisitions over the years, including acquiring Jillian’s locations in 2004 and Main Event Entertainment in 2022.

What are the operations and offerings of Dave & Buster’s?

Each Dave & Buster’s location offers a full-service restaurant, full bar, and a video arcade. The menu includes a variety of food options, and there are interactive games and experiences in their arcade.

Does Dave & Buster’s sponsor any events or organizations?

Yes, Dave & Buster’s sponsors various events and organizations, including the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and the San Jose Sharks.

Does Dave & Buster’s have an international presence?

While Dave & Buster’s opened a UK restaurant in 1998, it later closed due to lack of success. The company continues to explore opportunities for international expansion.

What is the background of Dave & Buster’s founders?

David O. Corriveau and James W. “Buster” Corley co-founded Dave & Buster’s in 1982. James Corley passed away in 2023, while David Corriveau passed away in 2015.

How has COVID-19 impacted Dave & Buster’s?

Like many businesses in the entertainment and restaurant industry, Dave & Buster’s was negatively affected by the pandemic. However, it has started to recover as restrictions eased.

What was the leadership transition at Dave & Buster’s?

Brian Jenkins retired in 2021, and Kevin Sheehan served as interim CEO. Chris Morris, the CEO of Main Event Entertainment, became the new CEO of Dave & Buster’s in 2022.

What are customers’ feedback and reviews of Dave & Buster’s?

Customers have shared their experiences and feedback on platforms like Yelp and Google Reviews. While many praise the food and entertainment options, there are also some negative reviews related to service and pricing.

What are the future plans of Dave & Buster’s?

Dave & Buster’s aims to continue its growth and expansion plans, including integrating Main Event Entertainment and staying at the forefront of the entertainment and restaurant industry.

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