Chuck E. Cheese, the American fast-food entertainment giant, has recently announced it will be the latest chain to open in Australia, with a restaurant in Joondalup, WA.
With more than 300 new stores opened by major food chains last year, Australia’s culture and institutions are becoming more Americanised.
Ryan John Coffee and Kitchen are just 1.6 km away from the Chuck E. Cheese site and have similar items to the fast-food chain, putting them in direct competition.
Kelly Cornell, a senior member of staff, has had enough of the American food chains filling up her local area.
“Keep your stuff in your own back garden, we’ve got enough small businesses,” she says.
“[We’re] up against Maccas, Chuck E. Cheese [and more], we need more support.”
Ms Cornell believes that not enough is done by councils and governments to support small and local businesses.
New data from 2024 highlights that business closures were at a record high, with a 42 per cent increase in business insolvency.
Ms Cornell says she has seen many friends and business owners lose market share because of new mainstream businesses coming in and taking the interest of their customers.
“Ohh, look, if my voice goes for anything, I can support small businesses.”
Despite all her worries, Ms Cornell believes that Ryan John Coffee and Kitchen will not be heavily affected by the opening.
“I’m confident… we’re lucky here.
“We’ve built a community. Our customers are extremely loyal…. [but] if there is a Chuck E. Cheese coming in, then my mind definitely has to go into damage control because I need to be prepared for that, ” she says.
The new chain is set to open on September 6.
Joondalup Mayor Albert Jacob is delighted that his city will be crowned home to the first Australian store of the famous American chain.
“It’s… a big win for fun-seekers, and anyone who has ever wanted to eat pizza while being serenaded by robotic animals.
“Memories will be created, and new experiences enjoyed in Joondalup. Of course, it’s not every day you get to shake hands with a six-foot-tall animatronic mouse in a purple T-shirt!”
Beyond the competition, Ms Cornell is worried about the impact these fast-food chains and American ideals will have on the younger generations, with her grandchildren at the forefront of her mind.
With reports that the average Australian child is exposed to at least 827 unhealthy food advertisements on television each year, the introduction of another fast-food chain aimed at younger generations may not have the right impact.
“I feel sorry for our kids […] the impact on children is gonna be huge,” Ms Cornell says.
“That’s enough of America here, I reckon…. keep your Chuck E. Cheese.”
