Forget the World Cup or the fact that a new form of life has been discovered. What’s happening to Hooters? Is the future of boob-driven dining in jeopardy?
Since the death of owner Robert “Bob” Brooks in 2006, a legal battle has been waged by his estate’s recipients—mostly family members—who all want a piece of the franchise.
This afternoon, a judge approved the sale of Hooters to Wellspring Capital Management, a private-equity company based in New York. But not without complication: Chanticleer Investments LLC is attempting to block the sale—and buy the chain itself.
Either way, new owners
“could reinvigorate the company,” said Darren Tristano, an executive vice president at Technomic, which tracks Hooters. “The actual model may be becoming a bit tired, and it may be time to re-image.”
So what does he predict for the chain and its following?
The chain could venture into fast-casual-style restaurants, a middle ground between full-service restaurants and fast food, or improve its takeout business.
Hooters to go? We’re skeptical. But it’s a slim possibility, says Tristano.
Regardless of who manages the chain in the future, it is “very unlikely with the strength of the Hooters brand that it would go away.”
I can’t imagine that Hooters has grown in popularity given the fact that restaurants like Buffalo Wild Wings have been busily scooping up their market share. I think it may very well be time for some restructuring/rebranding for this company.