Red Lobster Seeks Bankruptcy Protection

Surviving in the restaurant business is often said to be an uphill task as operators have to grapple with competition as well as wild business fluctuations. In the case of the casual-dining chain Red Lobster, the combination of debt and a failed all-you-can-eat shrimp campaign may result in a bankruptcy filing later this month.

Red Lobster’s Bankruptcy

Red Lobster, the largest seafood restaurant chain in the U.S., has been facing challenges in recent times. It recorded operating losses of $11 million in the third quarter and has closed numerous locations across nearly 20 states.

According to Technomic, the company generated approximately $2.2 billion in revenue last year, marking an 8% decline from 2022. This decline occurred amidst economic challenges affecting consumer spending and rising costs. Additionally, the company’s attempt to revive its fortunes with an all-you-can-eat shrimp deal backfired, resulting in significant losses due to overwhelming customer demand.

To worsen the situation, Thai Union Group (TU), the majority owner of Red Lobster, decided to divest its ownership stake, leading to a write-down of its investment in the restaurant chain.

And Next Steps

Now, Red Lobster plans to use the bankruptcy proceedings to win concessions from its landlords and clinch a deal with its creditors so that it can continue its operations, according to the Wall Street Journal.    

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