Chuck E. Cheese: The potential end of a childhood era for many

NEWARK, CA - JANUARY 16: A sign is posted in front of a Chuck E. Cheese restaurant on January 16, 2014 in Newark, California. CEC Entertainment, operator of 577 kid-themed restaurants, announced today that it has agreed to be purchased by private equity firm Apollo Global Management for $1.3 billion. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)
NEWARK, CA - JANUARY 16: A sign is posted in front of a Chuck E. Cheese restaurant on January 16, 2014 in Newark, California. CEC Entertainment, operator of 577 kid-themed restaurants, announced today that it has agreed to be purchased by private equity firm Apollo Global Management for $1.3 billion. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

Chuck E. Cheese may be no more, and we’re super sad about it!

There are so many things going on in our world right now that has since forced many restaurants, arcades, and other types of stores to close. Some have been revived while others are still struggling to make ends meet unfortunately. As you may have already guessed, Chuck E. Cheese is one of those places facing some hardships.

Chuck E. Cheese is a place of food and fun for people of all ages. While you’re there waiting for your food to be ready, go check out their huge arcade room and have some fun and win some pretty awesome prizes!

Chuck E. Cheese is facing the potential of bankruptcy

It was recently announced that the company was facing the possibility of bankruptcy, according to Delish, which would ultimately end up forcing them to close their stores and locations permanently. The Texas-based chain is trying to avoid filing for bankruptcy as they are roughly $1 billion in debt.

As of right now, there are currently 610 locations across the 50 United States; however, since the pandemic hit, nearly 65 percent of support staff and the majority of non-exempt workers have since been laid off, putting tons and tons of people out of work.

Here’s what The Journal’s Heather Haddon had to say about all of this:

"The question now for Chuck E. Cheese is whether the new world of social distancing poses an existential threat or if families will continue to seek places to gather to celebrate birthdays and other child-focused events."

If you’re a fan of Chuck E. Cheese, then this will surely come as some very sad news to you. While I didn’t frequent the joint as much as some other kids might have, it still is a part of my personal childhood memories as it is for many.

Unfortunately, there’s not really that much that we can do as customers and fans; however, even just a little thank you for all that they did over social media could make their day.

What what your favorite part of going to  Chuck E. Cheese as a kid or an adult? Are you saddened by the news that they may be closing for good? Tell us what you think in the comments.