You might think the premium burger industry is thriving, but recent events tell a different story. One major chain has filed for bankruptcy amid mounting debts and declining sales, raising questions about the future of high-end fast food. As other brands struggle with rising costs and shifting consumer tastes, you may wonder how long this industry can sustain itself before more closures follow. The story behind this collapse could change everything you thought you knew.
The premium burger industry is facing a sharp decline as several major chains file for bankruptcy and close locations amid mounting financial pressures. You may have noticed that once-thriving brands like BurgerFi and TGI Fridays are now battling significant financial struggles.
Between 2024 and 2025, these chains filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, reflecting the widespread instability in the sector. BurgerFi, burdened with up to $500 million in debt, was acquired by Savvy Sliders in late 2024, but its future remains uncertain.
Meanwhile, TGI Fridays experienced a sharp downturn, filing for bankruptcy late in 2024, which led to the closure of many locations. By early 2025, the chain had reduced its U.S. footprint by over half since 2008, closing 30 outlets and leaving only 133 remaining. These closures aren’t isolated; other brands like Red Robin also cut back drastically, shuttering about 70 locations in 2025, marking its most aggressive downsizing ever.
You might also notice that franchise disputes and unpaid royalties are adding to the chaos. Chains like EYM Pizza and EYM Chicken, operated by franchisees, filed for Chapter 11 due to unpaid royalties and legal disputes with parent companies.
EYM Pizza closed 65 unprofitable locations and sold 77 during bankruptcy proceedings, while EYM Chicken shuttered nearly half of its outlets. The industry’s store footprint is shrinking as companies attempt to stabilize financially through strategic restructuring and asset sales to franchisees.
Almost Famous, a U.K.-based chain, closed all its locations, overwhelmed by financial strain despite positive reviews.
You’re also seeing that rising operational costs, inflation, and changing consumer preferences are making it harder for premium burger brands to stay profitable. Post-pandemic difficulties, including reduced customer visits and a more cautious spending attitude, have hampered recovery efforts.
For example, TGI Fridays saw sales plummet by 63%, and its number of U.S. locations has dramatically declined since 2008. High fixed costs, supply chain inflation, and legal disputes over unpaid royalties further strain these companies, leading to a cycle of closures and financial distress.
Ownership changes add another layer of uncertainty. BurgerFi’s acquisition by Savvy Sliders, for example, raises questions about its long-term viability, even as new management tries to focus on quality and customer experience to turn things around.
Some chains plan to operate only a smaller number of stores with leaner models, but the overall market remains volatile.
As a consumer or industry observer, you’re witnessing a tough period where many premium burger brands are struggling to adapt, leaving the future of this sector uncertain.
