Fast Food Chain Closing 140 Stores: What it Means for Michigan

In today's round of "Who's Closing Next?" another fast-food giant announced plans to shut down 140 of its "outdated and underperforming" locations. During their October 31, 2004 earnings call, the CEO blamed rising costs and consumers tightening their wallets for the closures, as chains across the US and Michigan are getting hit hard.

According to a transcript of the call posted on Motley Fool, the chain's chief muckety muck claims "poor trade areas" and outdated layouts that just don't fit the Hamburger Giants vibe will be the first to go, and they will, before the end of the year.

Out With the Old, In With the New

Canva

According to the US Sun, sleek new interiors and fresher, faster food service are the future, and it's out with the old to make way for locations that better suit today's "modern" diner. The chain backs this idea by planning to open 250 to 300 brand-new restaurants this year.

Get our free mobile app

And what about Michigan? With no hard numbers on which states will be hit hardest, Michiganders might lose a few of the familiar spots. Hopefully, they won't pull a Rite Aid and abandon the state entirely. But there's hope: Fast Company reports the fast-food giant plans to keep its footprint alive by growing in popular areas, so a handful of shiny new locations could spring up here just in time.

What Drive Thru Might Be Shut Down Soon in Michigan?

Canva

So, if you're wondering which chain just dropped this big news, it's none other than Wendy's, the burger slinger known for its sassy Twitter clapbacks and Frostys. USA Today reports the company hopes that while it says goodbye to some of its past, newer stores will satisfy your square-burger cravings for years to come.

Here's hoping Wendy's doesn't cut back on customer service in its new locations, replacing the order window with a self-serve kiosk. Oh, and maybe they'll bring back the Super Bar and the old newspaper tabletops.

Wendy's Dave Thomas, Formerly of Kalamazoo

7 Recent Bankruptcies With Devastating Impact on Michigan Retail

National retail and restaurant chains are feeling the pinch of the changing economy. Instore traffic has dropped as more and more consumers head online to make their purchases. Here's a look at seven businesses that have filed for bankruptcy protection and operate in Michigan, according to bankruptcy watchdog Intellizence. Their filings could have a devastating impact on the state's jobless rate and economy.

Gallery Credit: Scott Clow

Inside Jackson, Michigan's Long Vacant Gilbert's Steakhouse

Listed by Griffin Properties of Detroit, Jackson, Michigan's former Gilbert's Steakhouse has sat empty since 2006, waiting for someone to reboot this iconic restaurant. Let's look at what it looks like today, nearly two decades since the last plate of garlic bread was placed on a table.

Gallery Credit: Scott Clow

Source: Fast Food Chain Closing 140 Stores: What it Means for Michigan