Take a drive down a major road anywhere in America and you will see a fair share of restaurants on both sides of the street, but the likelihood that you will see a few that are shut down along the way is high.
America’s fast-food and fast-casual food restaurants have taken a hit since the pandemic, and some are having a hard time keeping locations afloat.
The factors that are leading to the issues are inflation, cost of product and employee wages. Some companies close locations overnight, and some announce the closures a little in advance, to allow for employees and everyone involved to make their next move.
Major Restaurant Chain With More Than 500 Locations Closing Doors Across America
The latest restaurant chain to take a hit in these hard times is Shake Shack. There are currently 527 Shake Shacks across America, but there are about to be nine less.
The large chain announced that it will shutter nine stores by the end of September. The company didn’t beat around the bush or mince words in its announcement, either.
According to Nation’s Restaurant News, Shake Shack is citing underperformance and possible cannibalization of other locations in their 527-unit system.
Unlike some past closures, where employees didn’t even get their final paychecks, Shake Shack seems to be taking care of their displaced employees.
The company said management at the restaurants affected will be offered jobs at neighboring Shake Shacks. Hourly employees, and managers who do not accept a transfer, will receive 60 days’ pay.
Shake Shack has locations all across America, as well as in some of America’s largest airports, and has a very dedicated following. The locations that are closing are in California, Ohio and Texas.
Evan Paul is the host of Taste of Country Nights, a syndicated radio show heard on more than 130 country radio stations nationwide, every night from 7PM to midnight. The radio show reaches over 21 million listeners per week. He plays the best new country music and interviews today’s top stars, like Luke Combs, Morgan Wallen, Kenny Chesney, Miranda Lambert, Dan + Shay, Keith Urban, Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, Chris Stapleton, Lady A, + more!
22 Country Stars With Their Own Bars + Restaurants
Of all of the side hustles country artists could partake in, opening a bar or restaurant is the most fitting — and very common. After all, many of these stars got their start on a barstool, tip jar nearby, playing their music for anyone who would listen.
These places feel like home for many of these singers. Over the years, several artists have gotten into the bar or restaurant game, and for a select few, brands have turned into franchises with several locations and/or concepts — we’re looking at you, Jimmy Buffett!
Let’s take a look at the country star food and entertainment venues that have opened over the years.
Gallery Credit: Jess
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Gallery Credit: Evan Paul
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Gallery Credit: Billy Dukes