Hooters announced Monday that it would close dozens of locations across the country due to “pressures from current market conditions.”

Hooters, one of America's most popular food franchises, is closing several locations. About 40 locations across the US are currently closed, National Restaurant News reports. Reports.

The end of an era 🍗 Hooters appears to be the latest restaurant chain to suddenly close dozens of locations across the U.S., already affecting patrons in the Tampa Bay area. https://t.co/hhJsnqbu4u

— 10 Tampa Bay (@10TampaBay) June 25, 2024

The Lakeland, Florida, store closed without notifying employees, the Tampa Free Press reported. reportSimilarly, two stores in the Louisville, Kentucky area also closed without giving a reason. according to WDRB.

Nation's Restaurant News obtained a statement from Hooters regarding the closure.

“Like many restaurants under pressure from current market conditions, Hooters has made the difficult decision to close underperforming locations. In these rare instances, ensuring the well-being of our staff is our top priority. New Hooters restaurants are opening nationally and internationally, new Hooters frozen meals are being launched in grocery stores, and Hooters' footprint is expanding into new markets through both company-operated and franchised locations. Our 41-year-old brand is highly resilient and relevant, and we look forward to continuing to serve our customers at home, on the go, and in our restaurants across the U.S. and around the world.”

Hooters joins a growing list of franchises closing locations across the U.S., including Red Lobster, which filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in May.

“Six businessmen with no experience in restaurant management” wanted to open a restaurant, but “they weren't going to be forced out.” start Hooters, Clearwater, Florida, 1983.