US restaurant and entertainment chain Chuck E Cheese has announced plans to enter the Turkish market, with up to three venues scheduled to open in Istanbul by the end of 2026.

The move forms part of a wider international expansion strategy, citing Türkiye’s youthful demographic and family‑centred culture as factors in its decision to enter the market.

Initial development will be carried out in partnership with local franchisees PNB Restoran and Unique Hospitality Company.

Istanbul will be the launch pad for the brand’s Turkish operations, with a longer‑term goal of growing to 20 locations across the country by 2030.

Chuck E Cheese International chief operating officer Mario Centola stated: "We are thrilled to bring Chuck E Cheese to Türkiye, a dynamic and growing market full of opportunity.

"Building on our decades of international experience, we know our intellectual property will deliver a unique mix of wholesome family-friendly entertainment that has been missing in the market."

Chuck E Cheese currently operates 600 locations across 17 countries and reports an annual guest count of more than 25 million.

The company offers venue formats aimed at boosting footfall in shopping centres and supporting retail landlords. It believes that this flexibility will facilitate faster rollout in Turkey’s mall‑driven leisure market.

The expansion is supported in part by initiatives from the Presidency of the Republic of Türkiye Investment Office.

In September 2025, Chuck E Cheese reached a multi-unit agreement to expand into the UK market.

This combines food, arcade games, play zones and the company’s signature characters, including Chuck E Cheese.

In June 2024, the brand launched its inaugural location in Kuwait, in collaboration with Joury International Restaurants. It also  entered Australia in January 2024 with a master franchise partnership agreement with the Royale Hospitality Group.