The Restaurant Group confirms it is in discussions with landlords over closures

The Restaurant Group has confirmed it is in discussions with landlords after reports that it plans to close up to 120 sites with the loss of up to 3,000 jobs.

The group announced last year that it would close more than 150 outlets, including Chiquito and Frankie & Benny's sites, as part of a restructure over the next six years, following its acquisition of Wagamama for £559m.

It may now close a further 120 Frankie & Benny's and Garfunkel's sites [www.thecaterer.com/news/100-restaurant-group-sites-close-3000-job-losses] “in order to meet both the immediate challenges and to build a post-lockdown business with a sustainable future”. Wagamama, it’s airport concessions and pub operators are not at risk of closure as yet.

The statement read: “As is widely understood our industry is facing exceptional challenges in what is an unprecedented operating environment. The casual dining sector was already facing significant challenges prior to the onset of Covid-19, with overcapacity and significant cost pressures.

“In order to meet both the immediate challenges and to build a post-lockdown business with a sustainable future, we are in discussions with our landlords regarding potential restructuring options for our leisure estate. Our Wagamama, airport concessions and pub operations are not affected by these discussions.”

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