In an effort to adapt to the changing landscape of the fast-food industry, Burger King has announced plans to close between three hundred and four hundred stores by the end of 2023. This decision comes as the iconic burger chain faces tough market conditions and seeks to improve its overall financial health.
CEO Joshua Kobza explained the rationale behind the closures, stating, “We are targeting restaurants that are underperforming to improve our overall financial health.” The company had already closed 124 locations by March, leaving 6,964 restaurants in the United States still operational.
The decision to close stores reflects Burger King’s strategy to focus on its most profitable locations while streamlining its operations. This move is part of a broader effort to remain competitive in the fast-food market, which has seen significant changes in recent years.
One of the challenges Burger King faces is the wide variation in sales performance among its locations. To address this issue, the company is actively seeking new franchisees who have the dedication and enthusiasm to drive success in their local communities. Chairman Patrick Doyle emphasized the importance of franchisees who are willing to work hard to operate restaurants that exceed the system average over the long term.
Burger King’s decision to close stores also comes at a time when the fast-food industry as a whole is experiencing significant shifts. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on consumer behavior, leading to changes in how people dine out and where they choose to eat.
The pandemic year of 2020 saw Burger King lose its position as the second-largest burger chain in the United States, with Wendy’s surpassing it to claim the spot behind McDonald’s. This shift in rankings underscores the challenges faced by fast-food giants like Burger King as they navigate an increasingly competitive market.
Despite the closures, Burger King remains committed to serving its customers and providing them with high-quality food and service. The company’s focus on improving its financial health and streamlining its operations is aimed at ensuring its long-term success in the fast-food industry.
As Burger King continues to evolve and adapt to changing market conditions, the future of its remaining stores will depend on its ability to innovate and meet the evolving needs of its customers.
The following Burger King locations are set to shut down in 2023.
Michigan
2155 Gratiot Ave
9871 Livernois
8201 Woodward Ave
18021 Kelly Rd
20200 Grand River Ave
13600 W. McNichols Rd
15500 W. Seven Mile
20240 Plymouth Rd
12661 Mack Ave
9239 Gratiot Ave
17440 E. Warren
16245 Livernois Ave
3863 W. Jefferson Ave.
10336 W. 8 Mile Rd
3625 South Dort Hwy
3801 Clio Rd
13324 Woodward Ave
28203 Plymouth Rd
34835 Plymouth Ave
31456 Woodward Ave
23660 Telegraph Rd
30711 Southfield Rd
1113 E. West Maple Rd
2411 E. 8 Mile Rd
9774 E. M-36
Minnesota
209 Nokomis Street, Alexandria
926 Central Avenue Northeast, East Grand Forks
528 Western Ave, Fergus Falls
21 Depot Street, Litchfield
205 Lake Street, Long Prairie
586 Southwest 1st Street, Montevideo
516 East Bridge Street, Redwood Falls
100 21st Street North, Moorhead
1611 US-12, Willmar
Montana
1422 West Main Street, Lewistown
520 North 27th St, Billings
1211 9th Street West, Columbia Falls
Kansas
2201 East Kansas Ave, McPherson
Nebraska
3627 South Lincoln Avenue, York
2504 O St, Lincoln
4230 North 27th Street, Lincoln
North Dakota
3765 Gateway Drive, Grand Forks
Utah
171 East Gateway Dr, Heber
7810 South 1300 E, Sandy
10235 South State Street, Sandy
729 North Main St, Clearfield
1466 East 3500 North, Lehi
119 East Crossroads Blvd, Saratoga Springs
147 East Bangerter Highway, Draper
5390 South 1900 West, Roy
1660 West North Temple St, Salt Lake City