Get ready for an electrifying journey into the heart of family entertainment technology with Jay Spears, the visionary VP of IT at CEC Entertainment! In this episode, Jay pulls back the curtain on how Chuck E. Cheese and Peter Piper Pizza survived and thrived through the most challenging period in modern business history.
When the pandemic hit, most entertainment venues crumbled. Not Chuck E. Cheese. Instead, they transformed their entire business model, introducing innovative solutions that kept families connected and entertained. Jay shares the inside story of how they reimagined birthday parties with a game-changing $99 package, created value-based membership programs, and used cutting-edge technology to keep the magic alive.
Discover how AI is revolutionizing their business strategy, from dynamic pricing to understanding customer preferences. Learn about their bold moves in international markets, where stores in the Middle East are pushing the boundaries of family entertainment with double-height climbing walls and unique attractions.
The episode isn’t just about technology – it’s about creating experiences. Jay reveals the delicate balance between high-tech solutions and the irreplaceable human touch that makes Chuck E. Cheese special. From active play zones to innovative game selections, they’re constantly reinventing what family fun means in the digital age.
Listeners will be fascinated by the behind-the-scenes insights into how a beloved entertainment brand adapts to changing consumer needs. How do you keep kids engaged? How do you create value for families during economic challenges? How does technology enhance – rather than replace – the joy of play?
Jay Spears doesn’t just talk about innovation – he lives it, demonstrating how creativity and technology can transform an entire industry. Prepare to be inspired, entertained, and amazed by the future of family fun. This is more than a podcast – it’s a masterclass in resilience, innovation, and the power of play!
Available on Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | iHeartRadio
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