How is Cici’s becoming more like Chuck E. Cheese?

This week’s episode of the Restaurant Business podcast “A Deeper Dive” features Jeff Hetsel, the president and COO of Cici’s Pizza.

Hetsel discusses the chain’s rapid shift into something of an eatertainment concept. Many of the brand’s locations have been adding larger and larger game rooms, complete with tickets and prizes, much like the aforementioned classic pizza-and-games concept.

We talk about what games is doing for its business and why franchisees are the ones who led the charge.

We also talk about a variety of other topics, including the labor situation in the restaurant industry and what Cici’s and its operators are doing about it. We also talk about the brand’s new loyalty program.

You can also find out what the most expensive pizza to make is—it’s not what you think.

It’s a fascinating discussion of pizza so please check it out.