Sutton Coldfield restaurant blow: Sudden closure comes as 'no surprise' to diners after 'very disappointing visits'

The ‘once-beloved’ TGI Fridays restaurant in Sutton Coldfield has closed its doors permanently, much to the dismay of local customers.

This closure comes despite a recent rescue deal that saved 51 other TGI Fridays locations across the UK.

The Sutton Coldfield branch, located at 4 Lower Queen Street, had been a staple in the community for over two decades.

Known for its vibrant atmosphere and American-themed menu, it was a popular spot for celebrations and casual dining.

However, the restaurant’s condition had been deteriorating, with many locals describing it as “run down” and in need of refurbishment.

Read More - Birmingham TGI Fridays: Full List of closed and ‘saved’ locations in 'rescue deal' amid 35 restaurant closures

The sudden closure of TGI Fridays in Sutton Coldfield has left many diners unsurprised, as recent visits to the restaurant were described as ‘very disappointing’.

The Royal Sutton Coldfield Business Improvement District (BID) confirmed the closure on its social media, stating: “We are sorry to announce that TGI Sutton Coldfield has now closed its doors permanently from today. Our thoughts go out to the staff affected by the closure.”

The announcement received over 290 comments from Sutton Coldfield locals, eliciting a range of reactions. While some were taken aback by the sudden closure, others were less surprised.

One commenter expressed their sadness, saying, “It's a real shame. I've enjoyed every visit but it's tough competition out there now with all these small independent shops opening and so many eateries to choose from now.”

Another shared their disappointment, “Used to love it in there, but recent visits were very disappointing!! Sad to see it go but not surprised.”

Despite the mixed reactions, the consensus among many was that the restaurant’s recent performance had not met expectations, leading to its inevitable closure.

TGI Fridays will remain in UK cities following a rescue deal for the chain, but more than 1,000 staff have lost their jobs with the immediate closure of 35 restaurants.

Breal Capital and Calveton UK have acquired 51 restaurants after the group’s previous operator fell into administration.

Nearly 2,400 jobs have been saved across the US-themed restaurant group. But in a statement released on the Gov.UK website, it was confirmed that 35 restaurants were not included in the sale and have been closed immediately, resulting in 1,012 redundancies.

Julie McEwan, chief executive of TGI Fridays UK, said: “The news today marks the start of a positive future for our business following a very challenging period for the casual dining sector as a whole.

“We are devastated for our colleagues who will be leaving TGIs and thank them for their loyalty and contribution during their time with us.

“We are doing everything possible to retain our team and support those impacted.”

The Government has provided advice for employees who may be at risk of redundancy, in what it said was a “worrying time” for both employees and creditors of the business.

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