HITC takes a look at James ‘Buster’ Corley’s net worth after the heartbreaking news of Dave and Buster’s co-founder’s death at 72.
Corley, who gained recognition for establishing the “eatertainment” franchise alongside Dave Corriveau, passed away on January 2, 2023. His demise was verified by Buster’s spokesperson, as well as his daughter.
Amid the news of the businessman’s death, let’s take a look at the early beginnings and net worth of his chain and entertainment.
On Monday, January 2, James ‘Buster’ Corley, a 72-year-old man, was discovered deceased at his residence near White Rock Lake, Dallas.
As stated by WFAA, the individual was subsequently identified as Corley. Law enforcement officials were alerted to a complaint regarding a male who had an “evident self-inflicted gunshot injury.”
“Four months ago, Buster Corley suffered a stroke that resulted in significant impairment to the communication and personality region of his brain,” stated his daughter Kate Corley to the identical news source.
According to a spokesperson for the restaurant and entertainment chain, Corley’s legacy was remembered in a heartfelt tribute, highlighting his innovative mindset and unwavering conviction that ‘everyone is important.’ This mindset served as the basis for providing food and entertainment to countless guests at Dave & Buster’s over the last four decades.
During this challenging time, our hearts go out to Dave’s family as we will miss his easy laughter and wise counsel, while also acknowledging and appreciating the enduring legacy he built. The statement from Buster emphasizes the unmatched care and demanding pursuit of excellence that Dave had for his team members, as well as his unwavering passion for hospitality.
James ‘Buster’ Corley’s net worth
As per online reports, James had an approximate wealth ranging from $6 to $10 million as of the present year.
After successfully expanding its business across a total of 10 locations in the United States by 1997, the retail conglomerate invested in and opened doors to its first Buster’s and Dave’s restaurant in other cities.
By January 2023, the restaurant and entertainment franchise boasts more than 140 establishments in the United States and two branches in Canada. It is characterized as a fusion of cutting-edge arcade games and delectable culinary offerings.
According to Macrotrends, the current estimated net worth of Dave and Buster’s is $1.7 billion.
Dave and Buster’s early beginnings
During the late 1970s, while his business partner Dave Corriveau managed a game parlor, Corley operated a small business before starting the combined restaurant and entertainment company.
Dave managed the amusement center Cash McCool’s and just a few buildings away, Corley possessed a tavern named Buster’s in Little Rock, Arkansas.
In December 1982, they inaugurated their inaugural Dave and Buster’s eatery utilizing the venue, a spacious warehouse measuring 40,000 square feet, that they stumbled upon. They opted to combine efforts as they recognized that their enterprises appealed to comparable clientele, who relished engaging in games and indulging in meals.
Similar to other businesses, Dave and Buster’s witnessed a 70 percent decrease in revenue in fiscal year 2020 due to the pandemic.