FEARS over the future of the Jersey branch of TGI Fridays have grown after the St Helier site was not included among a list of more than 50 restaurants that had been sold.
Following the news three weeks ago that TGIs was seeking to sell off its 87 branches across the British Isles in a bid to stave off administration, an announcement was made yesterday that 51 restaurants had been sold to Breal Capital and Calveton UK, while the remaining 36 would be closed immediately.
The Jersey site was closed yesterday and is understood to be among the stores not currently trading, although TGIs has said it was hopeful that the future of further locations might be secured following discussions with landlords.
The JEP has asked the Jersey Development Company, which is responsible for the Waterfront complex and leases to businesses there, to comment on the latest situation.
Julie McEwan, chief executive of TGI Fridays UK, said: “TGI Fridays is a much-loved brand with a rich heritage.
“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.”
TGI Fridays was founded in 1965 in New York, with the first UK store opening in Birmingham in the 1980s.
