Major Restaurant Chains Announce Permanent Closures

Several major restaurant brands are closing multiple locations this year due to financial challenges, underperformance, and safety concerns. Notable closures include Cracker Barrel, Applebee’s, Chili’s, TGI Fridays, and others. Despite setbacks, some brands plan to expand with new outlets soon. Stay informed about local restaurant closures by searching online or checking news updates to stay ahead of industry changes and plan your dining accordingly.

Major Restaurant Chains Announce Permanent Closures

Since the start of this year, numerous well-known restaurants have announced closures or consolidation of their locations. This influx of closures has caused concern among food enthusiasts, takeaway fans, and those who enjoy dining at restaurants. Many of these shutdowns are attributed to financial struggles, reduced customer turnout, or bankruptcy, while some cite underperformance as the main reason for shutting down.

Cracker Barrel
Recently, Cracker Barrel reported a drop in customer visits, resulting in a 4% earnings decline. Consequently, they closed four sites in Sacramento, CA; Santa Maria, CA; Medford, OR; and Columbia, CA.

Applebee’s
Over recent years, Applebee’s has closed over 300 outlets, including 46 last year, with additional closures expected in 2024. Despite setbacks, Dine Brands plans to revitalize the brand by launching joint venues with IHOP in early 2025, offering hope to loyal customers.

Chili’s
Two Chili’s locations in Indiana and North Carolina shut down this year due to poor performance and lease expirations.

TGI Fridays
The restaurant announced the closure of 36 outlets across 12 states, citing unprofitability. This move is part of their broader growth plan, which includes openings in several locations.

Denny’s
Last year, Denny’s closed 57 restaurants nationwide. An additional 10-20 closures are anticipated this year, mainly due to inflationary pressures.

Boston Market
Once thriving, this chain has faced decline amid legal and financial troubles, leading to closures from over 300 restaurants down to 27 this year. Rumors suggest further shutdowns may occur.

Mod Pizza
The pizza chain shuttered over 27 locations across cities like Chicago, Dallas, Seattle, and New Jersey, amid ongoing challenges.

PDQ Chicken
Known for its chicken tenders and sandwiches, PDQ closed 8 stores in North and South Carolina recently due to tough market conditions. Future closures remain unconfirmed.

Outback Steakhouse
Despite profit reports, Bloomin’ Brands closed 41 Outback establishments due to low sales and traffic issues. The company plans to open 18 new outlets in 2024 as part of expansion efforts.

Hardee’s
This brand has faced closures in several locations since last year, including Champaign, Springfield, and Carterville, with no specific reasons disclosed.

Tijuana Flats
Filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in April, Tijuana Flats closed around 40 restaurants. It is now owned by Flatheads LLC, operating 65 company-owned outlets in Florida and 26 franchise locations in several states.

In-N-Out Burger
For the first time in 76 years, In-N-Out closed an 18-year-old location near Oakland International Airport, citing safety concerns due to rising crime in the area.

Bonefish Grill
The upscale restaurant in Secaucus, NJ, shut down amid ongoing issues with Bloomin’ Brands, which still operates over 160 locations. Another high-end brand, Fleming's Prime Steakhouse, also ended operations at a La Jolla location last year.

To learn about restaurant shutdowns in your area, searching online with keywords like “closing restaurants near me” can provide detailed insights.