(NewsWorthy.news) – Hooters is permanently closing dozens of restaurant locations across the United States due to poor business performance.
The popular but somewhat controversial chain has already shuttered around 40 restaurants throughout the country, including in the company’s home state of Florida. The business recently shared in a statement that it is shutting down “a select number” of stores which are “underperforming.”
Hooters cited “pressure” received due to “current market conditions” as the reason for making the “difficult decision to close.” The company also emphasized its “priority” of protecting the “well-being” of its employees during “these rare instances.”
However, Hooters also expressed its confidence that the business is still “highly resilient and relevant,” noting the launch of new restaurants throughout the world, frozen products in stores, and expanding marketing feats.
So far, four locations in Florida—where Hooters, Inc. headquarters in Clearwater—have already closed. One restaurant in Lakeland was reportedly the second location to open back in 1984. Another six have shut down in Texas.
Since the first restaurant opened its doors in Clearwater, the Hooters chain has established over 420 locations in 29 different countries. As the business grew, some locations—including over a dozen in Florida—fell under the leadership of LTP Management, which is part of the Atlanta, Georgia-based Hooters of America.
The first restaurant location opened in 1983 after six businessmen gave life to their plan of opening the largest chain that boasts pretty waitresses wearing controversially tight uniforms. These employees, called “Hooters Girls,” feature the logo of “Hootie the Owl” on their white tank tops, sported with short, tight orange shorts.
The company came under fire back in 2021, when they introduced new shorts which some waitresses compared to underwear and expressed discomfort in wearing them to work. Following backlash, the uniform change was later made optional.
Beyond their controversial fame over pretty waitresses in skimpy uniforms, Hooters’ American menu of burgers, wings, and beer has gained popularity over the past 40 years, as has its regular support of local charity organizations.
Copyright 2024, NewsWorthy.news
