June 6th 2025.
After much speculation and rumors, Hooters has confirmed that they have closed over 30 of their company-owned locations on June 4th. This sudden decision comes as the iconic American restaurant chain continues to navigate through bankruptcy. Hooters stated that this was a difficult decision to make, and all the locations that closed were company-owned establishments.
In a statement to USA Today, Hooters shared their plans to shift to a pure franchise business model and how this will allow them to continue their iconic legacy. They also expressed their gratitude to their loyal customers for their support and dedication to the Hooters brand. The company assured that they will be providing support to their impacted team members during this process.
While Hooters did not disclose a list of the closed locations, local news outlets have reported that several dozen have shut down. Some of these locations had a prerecorded message announcing their closure, including Sanford, Orlando, Kissimmee, and Melbourne in Florida, as well as Atlanta, Douglasville, Gwinnett, and Valdosta in Georgia. Other locations, such as Greenwood in Indiana, Rockford in Illinois, Newport in Kentucky, Flint and Taylor in Michigan, St. Louis in Missouri, Charlotte and Columbia in North Carolina, Rock Hill in South Carolina, Murfreesboro, Memphis, and Nashville in Tennessee, and Grapevine, Houston, and San Marcos in Texas, were also affected.
In addition, Hooters had also removed Madison in Wisconsin and Fort Smith in Arkansas from their website, indicating that these locations were also closed. Reports from social media and news outlets also mentioned the closure of Tuscaloosa in Alabama, Tallahassee, Jacksonville, and Lafayette in Florida, Evansville in Indiana, and Detroit in Michigan.
This news does not come as a surprise as reports of Hooters' bankruptcy emerged in February, leading to the company filing for Chapter 11 protection in March. By the end of March, Hooters announced their plans to sell 100 of their US locations in order to stay afloat. As part of the bankruptcy process, all remaining Hooters locations were turned over to franchises for ownership.
It is a sad time for Hooters and its employees as they navigate through this difficult period. However, the company remains optimistic about the future under a new franchise business model. Their loyal customers can still enjoy the iconic Hooters experience at their remaining locations and continue to support the brand during this time.
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