A group of former employees who claim they were fired from Bowlero based on their age or in retaliation have announced plans to sue the bowling chain. This development comes after the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) closed its case against Bowlero, according to the attorney representing the claimants.

Bowlero, the world's largest owner and operator of bowling centers, had been under investigation by the EEOC since 2016. Over 70 former employees alleged that they were unlawfully terminated as Bowlero aimed to revamp its bowling alleys with a more upscale experience. The dismissed employees argued that they were targeted for being too old to fit the company's new image, as previously reported by CNBC.

Although the EEOC informed Bowlero that it would not proceed with a lawsuit, it clarified that this decision does not absolve the company of any wrongdoing. The agency stated in a letter sent to Bowlero that terminating their investigation does not certify compliance, nor does it prevent individuals from filing private lawsuits.

During an earnings call, Bowlero executives expressed relief that the EEOC investigation is now behind them, emphasizing their denial of the allegations made against the company. However, Daniel Dowe, the lawyer representing the former employees, asserted that the case is far from over. Dowe intends to file a single lawsuit on behalf of more than 70 claimants and seeks monetary damages.

The EEOC's investigation found reasonable cause in 58 of the complaints against Bowlero, suggesting a potential pattern or practice of age discrimination dating back to at least 2013, which the company vehemently denies. The closure of the investigation also means that the employees who had pending cases with the EEOC now have the right to pursue their own legal action.

Bowlero, which saw significant revenue growth between 2021 and 2023, plans to fight any claims filed by its former employees. The company's attorneys remain confident that Bowlero will overcome these allegations.

It is worth noting that the EEOC attempted to settle the complaints with Bowlero for $60 million earlier this year, but settlement efforts failed. The specific details regarding the potential financial impact on Bowlero are undisclosed at this time.

As the former employees prepare to move forward with their lawsuit, Bowlero will face legal challenges in the upcoming months. The outcome of this case will shed light on the allegations of age discrimination and retaliation within the company.