CLEVELAND, Ohio — Hooters has announced that it is closing several “underperforming” locations across the United States, marking the latest challenge for the casual dining chain.
Although Hooters has not specified the exact number of locations it plans to close, NBC News reports that the chain has attributed the closures to pressure from “current economic conditions.”
According to Nation’s Restaurant News, approximately 40 restaurants have already been shut down in states including Texas, Rhode Island, Virginia, Florida, and Kentucky. Hooters confirmed these closures on Monday.
In a statement released to Nation’s Restaurant News, the chain emphasized its resilience and relevance, stating, “this brand of 41 years remains highly resilient and relevant.” The statement also mentioned that new restaurants are opening both in the United States and internationally, and highlighted the launch of new frozen products in grocery stores.
The statement further expressed the company’s commitment to serving its guests: “We look forward to continuing to serve our guests at home, on the go, and at our restaurants here in the U.S. and around the globe.”
As reported by USA Today, Hooters had 293 locations at the end of 2023. This represents a 12% decline from the end of 2018, when there were 333 locations.
Hooters is not alone in facing these challenges; several other well-known restaurant chains, including Applebee’s, TGI Fridays, Outback Steakhouse, and California Pizza Kitchen, have also announced closures as Americans’ dining habits shift. Additionally, Red Lobster recently declared bankruptcy.
