In a recent move, TGI Fridays has made the decision to permanently close 36 underperforming restaurants across 12 states, including six locations in Maryland and Virginia. The closures in Maryland took place in Columbia and Bowie, while in Virginia, the affected areas were Springfield, Manassas, Potomac Mills, and Fredericksburg. This decision leaves the D.C. region with only 11 TGI Fridays locations still in operation.

The closures are part of TGI Fridays' ongoing efforts to optimize its portfolio and focus on restaurants with better performance. The company aims to maintain a strong presence in the market by strategically refining its operations. As a result, TGI Fridays plans to concentrate its resources on the remaining locations in the region, ensuring a high-quality dining experience for its customers.

Additionally, TGI Fridays also announced the sale of eight previously corporate-owned restaurants in the Northeast to Ray Blanchette, their former CEO. Blanchette, who stepped down from his role in May of last year, has now taken up ownership of these establishments. The move highlights Blanchette's continued commitment and involvement with the TGI Fridays brand.

With approximately 650 restaurants operating in 51 countries worldwide, TGI Fridays remains a prominent player in the international dining scene. The company is owned by TriArtisan Capital Advisors, which also holds ownership of the P.F. Chang's chain. By streamlining its operations and focusing on higher-performing establishments, TGI Fridays aims to strengthen its market position and continue to provide excellent dining experiences to its customers globally.

As the restaurant industry faces ongoing challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this strategic decision by TGI Fridays demonstrates the company's commitment to adapt and thrive in a changing environment. With a revised focus on efficiency and profitability, TGI Fridays aims to position itself for long-term success in the competitive restaurant industry.

As the situation continues to evolve, patrons of TGI Fridays can still enjoy their favorite dishes at the remaining 11 locations in the D.C. region, ensuring that the brand's famous appetizers, entrees, and desserts remain accessible to loyal customers.