In 2024 alone, hundreds of restaurants owned by this popular fast-food giant closed down, with thousands more disappearing since 2016. Many consumers are now concerned about the ongoing trend, as additional closures loom in 2025. Is your favorite location next on the list?
The past year proved harsh for numerous chains, with several announcing major store shutdowns or entering bankruptcy protection. Jack in the Box, for instance, recently confirmed plans to close between 150 and 200 underperforming locations. Management noted that most shuttered spots have operated for over three decades. By the end of 2025, the chain hopes to downsize further, targeting an additional 80 to 120 closures.
Meanwhile, a large Burger King franchisee, Consolidated Burger Holdings LLC, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in April. This Destin, Florida-based operator once ran 75 Burger King outlets but is now down to 57 locations across Florida and Georgia. Company spokespeople attribute these moves to mounting financial pressures, signaling a tough road ahead for traditional burger outlets.
Why widespread fast-food closures keep affecting established restaurant brands in 2025
A combination of rising operational costs, changing consumer preferences, and competition has led big names to reconsider their footprint. Hy-Vee Inc. decided in February 2025 to close all 79 Wahlburgers franchises within its supermarkets, replacing them with Market Grille concepts. According to the company, performance was underwhelming, and both parties mutually agreed to end their agreement.
The Little Mint Inc., parent of Hwy 55 Burger Shakes & Fries, also finished 2024 on a difficult note by filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. The pandemic’s impact on costs and labor left this once-growing chain struggling. Thirteen corporate-owned locations had already closed before the filing, and many others are now rethinking long-term viability. Below is a brief overview of several well-known chains and the store closures announced:
| Chain | Locations Closed in 2024 | Bankruptcy/Closure Details |
|---|---|---|
| Subway | 631 | Continues shrinking since 2016 |
| Jack in the Box | 150-200 planned | Underperforming stores over 30 years old |
| Burger King (Franchisee) | 18+ | Filed for Chapter 11 in April 2025 |
| Wahlburgers (Hy-Vee) | 79 (all closed) | Replaced by Market Grille restaurants |
| Hwy 55 Burger Shakes & Fries | 13 corporate-owned | Chapter 11 at end of 2024 |
These figures reflect a shifting market where older or less profitable outlets are quickly phased out.
How steep competition and evolving consumer habits are driving faster closures this year
The nation’s largest sandwich chain, Subway, continues its trend of store declines, reporting a net drop of 631 outlets in 2024. Even though Subway still has tens of thousands of worldwide sites, management has publicly acknowledged the pressure of changing consumer tastes. Nevertheless, smaller franchisees and lesser-known eateries remain equally vulnerable.
With so many long-standing chains announcing new shutdowns, diners may want to explore alternative eateries or stay alert for local closure updates. Whether you’re a fan of burgers, subs, or milkshakes, keeping track of these changes can help you plan your next meal.