Laugh Factory, a chain of comedy clubs, is planning to open a location in Fresno within the next three to six months, depending on the chosen site.
Driving the news: Joseph Merhi, a partner in the Laugh Factory chain, is considering three or four potential sites in Fresno, including downtown, and expects to make a final decision and sign a lease soon.
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- The company is looking for a site of 5,000 to 10,000 square feet that can accommodate a 300 to 600-seat comedy club with bar and food services.
- Fresno currently does not have a standalone comedy club, but various restaurants, nightclubs, breweries, and venues host occasional comedy shows or open mic nights.
What they’re saying: Mayor Jerry Dyer expressed his support for a comedy club in downtown Fresno, stating, “We need the Laugh Factory here in downtown Fresno, to put you on the spot.”
- Joseph Merhi praised Fresno and downtown Fresno as “the place to really invest,” while mentioning challenges faced in negotiations with San Francisco for a Laugh Factory location.
- The most recent Laugh Factory location opened in Covina, set up inside an old theater, and has been successful.
