What Is CEC Entertainment?
CEC Entertainment, Inc. is the company behind Chuck E. Cheese’s restaurants. It used to be called ShowBiz Pizza Time until 1998, when the company changed its name and moved its stock from NASDAQ to the New York Stock Exchange. CEC stands for the new name of the company that brings fun, food, and games together for families.
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A Bit of History
Early Beginnings
Chuck E. Cheese’s started as Pizza Time Theatre in 1977, created by Nolan Bushnell of Atari fame. It mixed arcade games, pizza, and animatronic shows—a fresh idea at that time.
ShowBiz Joins the Game
In 1984, ShowBiz Pizza Time bought out the struggling Pizza Time Theatre, merging both brands together.
Becoming CEC Entertainment
By 1998, the brand and company unified under the name CEC Entertainment, reflecting its focus on family entertainment beyond just pizza and games.
What Does CEC Entertainment Do?
CEC runs fun centers that combine food, games, and live shows. The main attraction is Chuck E. Cheese’s, but the company also includes Peter Piper Pizza and a newer concept called Pasqually’s Pizza & Wings. They also offer carryout and unique family experiences, with systems like the Kid Check program to keep children safe.
Where Is CEC Based?
The company has its headquarters in Irving, Texas. It operates both company-owned and franchised restaurants across the United States and beyond.
Highlights from Recent Years
- 1999 Acquisition: CEC bought Discovery Zone, another children’s entertainment chain, and converted many of its locations into Chuck E. Cheese venues.
- Brand Expansion: In 2023, they launched a consumer products program featuring Chuck E. Cheese characters and in 2024 unveiled the Chuck E. Cheese Mystery Egg with Bonkers Toys.
- New Dining Concept: Peter Piper Pizzeria opened a new location in Olathe in 2023, marking growth beyond their main brand.
Why Families Love CEC Entertainment
CEC centers offer a complete family experience:
- Fun for kids: Arcade games, animated shows, and a friendly mascot
- Peace of mind for parents: Safe environments with helpful systems like Kid Check,
- Food and drinks: Pizza, sandwiches, and beverages in a lively setting.
Overall, CEC is a go-to place for families to eat, play, and make memories—especially for children under 13.
Conclusion
CEC Entertainment has been a key player in the family entertainment world for decades. From its roots as ShowBiz Pizza Time to today’s mix of restaurants and toys, it has kept families smiling. With safe environments, exciting food, and fun experiences, CEC continues to serve up joy for kids and peace of mind for parents—all while expanding into new and creative directions.
FAQs
What does CEC stand for?
It refers to the company CEC Entertainment, the rebranded name of the old ShowBiz Pizza Time.
When did ShowBiz change to CEC Entertainment?
In July 1998, the company changed its name and moved from NASDAQ to the NYSE.
What brands does CEC own?
It owns Chuck E. Cheese’s, Peter Piper Pizza, and Pasqually’s Pizza & Wings.
Where is CEC Entertainment headquartered?
In Irving, Texas, USA.
How did CEC expand in the late 1990s?
By acquiring rival Discovery Zone in 1999 and converting many locations into Chuck E. Cheese restaurants.
What are some new products or services?
The company launched the consumer product program in 2023 and introduced the Mystery Egg toy in 2024. Also, a new Peter Piper Pizzeria opened in 2023.