What is your role at Dave and Busters?

I am Vice President of Operations.

How long have you been there?

Going on 23 years.

Is it a classic “climbed through the ranks” story?

Started in the Philadelphia location and climbed the ladder.

What area of the country do you live in?

Cape May during the Summer, South Florida the rest of year.

The new Gloucester Outlets location is the newer modernized and patterned store… and our area is mostly used to the massive and unique Philadelphia (Delaware Ave) location which was developed to fully utilize the pier. How will the experience in Gloucester Outlets be different and better?

The Gloucester Twp location is designed to maximize the space and give the guest a wow experience without overwhelming them.

Still looking at an April 2020 opening?

I think we are shooting for March 2020.

Anything else to add distinctive about the Gloucester Outlet store or the Simon Outlets it’s associated with?

This will be our Fourth store in NJ. Looking forward to being a great partner (with Simon).

Former New Jersey Governor Christie change state laws to allow the development of Dave and Busters style venues in the state. Did you play a consultative part in that process?

No the current GM in Philly went to hearings. We applied, but it was driven more by the towns in New Jersey.

It’s been reported that the “flagship” Philadelphia location’s property/pier was sold to a residential developer. Can you confirm the status of the Delaware Ave Dave and Busters?

We are tenants of the new developer, and working with them looking for long term solution.

Opening a new location in Gloucester Township… how does that decision start? Relationship with Simon?

It’s more complex with us identifying sites, then working thru approval process. It can take years sometimes.

Were you looking to expand in Southern New Jersey?

We like the whole state of New Jersey.

Does the South Jersey marketplace demographics shine through strong when researching?

Yes, they meet our criteria for a great site.

Does the Philadelphia location status play into the NJ move?

Not at all.

Did you consider any other locations in South Jersey? Media reports (and significant rumors) stated you were coming to the Deptford Mall. If so, what happened with those plans?

You will need to ask the Mall. We wanted to open in this market and Gloucester Twp met the needs first.

The new Dave and Busters will be less than two miles from the Round One at the Deptford Mall. Do you compete with Round One in other areas, with such close proximity?

We are the top of this category. They chase us, but we need to be the best in product and service. They are more arcade… we are a sports bar, restaurant, midway and special events. Very hard to duplicate.

How do you think your two business models differ? Age groups, attractions (bowling). Free standing vs Mall?

We attract all types, from family, sports, corporate, social. When opening a store like this parking is a key factor.

Other thoughts on the Gloucester Township Dave and Busters, the Entertainment Restaurant industry in general?

Looking forward to opening.

I understand you have a South Jersey connection. You live in the beautiful Miami area but have a vacation home at a South Jersey Beach. What’s the connection?!

Born in Philly. I still own season tickets to the Eagles. I have around 50 cousins, aunts and uncles in area. My youngest twins were baptized in the Church in Cape May that my Grandfather took us to.

Ed Forler

Dave & Buster’s Inc.

Vice President Operations & FUN!