Dave & Buster’s Buys Main Event for $835M

Dave & Buster’s Entertainment, operators of entertainment and dining venues, has announced that it has entered into an agreement to acquire Main Event from Ardent Leisure Group Limited and RedBird Capital Partners. Upon closing, later in the year, Chris Morris, the current CEO of Main Event, will be the CEO of Dave & Buster's.

Main Event is a family entertainment concept with 50 locations in the U.S., including three recently acquired The Summit locations in Colorado. It is known for its bowling centers, laser tag, and virtual reality games. Dave & Buster’s venues comprise dining and an extensive array of games, plus watching live sports. The company has locations in 40 states, Puerto Rico, and Canada.

 “We are thrilled to welcome Main Even to the Dave & Buster’s family,” said Kevin Sheehan, board chair and interim CEO. “Main Event’s existing footprint works well with Dave & Buster's current geographies, and each brand has significant growth opportunities."

Main Event is also a premier sponsor of Special Olympics International, supporting fundraising and serving as venues for Special Olympics events nationwide. Interestingly, Main Event is also a partner of the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys.

 “On behalf of the entire team at Main Event, we are excited to join the Dave & Buster’s family,” said Chris Morris, Main Event’s CEO. “We will be well-positioned to leverage our collective experience and provide our consumers with a category-defining entertainment experience.”