In a significant blow to the UK's casual dining sector, the popular American-themed chain TGI Fridays has permanently closed 16 of its restaurants with immediate effect. The sudden move has resulted in the loss of 456 jobs across the country.
Rescue Deal Saves Some Sites But Sees 16 Shut
The closures follow the acquisition of the business and assets of Liberty Bar and Restaurant Group Limited, the UK operator of TGI Fridays, by Sugarloaf TGIF Operations Limited. The deal was finalised immediately after administrators were appointed on 13 January 2026.
While the rescue package has safeguarded employment for 1,384 staff members across 33 surviving outlets, it explicitly excluded 16 locations. These sites have now ceased trading permanently. The joint administrators, Ryan Grant and Will Wright, have stated that assisting the impacted workers is their top priority as they manage the closure of these non-transferring establishments.
Full List of Permanently Closed TGI Fridays Restaurants
The complete list of branches that have now shut their doors for good includes locations across England and Scotland. The affected restaurants are:
- Aberdeen Beach
- Ashton
- Bournemouth
- Braintree
- Coventry
- Crawley
- Doncaster
- Edinburgh
- Nottingham
- Reading
- Sheffield
- Staines
- Stevenage
- Stratford
- Telford
- Walsall
This drastic reduction leaves the once-dominant chain with just 33 outlets in the UK, a stark contrast to its peak when it operated between 80 and 87 restaurants nationwide.
Brand Leadership Looks to a 'Reinvigorated' Future
Phil Broad, Global President of TGI Fridays, commented on the administration and sale. He stated that extensive work had been undertaken to explore options for the brand's long-term future in the UK.
"We believe that this is the best outcome for the business, preserves jobs, and offers a strong platform for success and growth," Broad said. "TGI Fridays has a long history in the UK, and I believe that the future of the brand is in strong hands - focused on reinvigorating the brand while continuing to deliver the bold flavours, welcoming atmosphere, and high-energy dining experience that define TGI Fridays."
The chain first launched in Britain in 1986, opening its inaugural restaurant on Hagley Road in Birmingham. Its decline in recent years reflects the broader challenges faced by the UK's restaurant industry, which has been grappling with rising costs and changing consumer habits.
