In 2025, restaurant chains faced numerous closures, some resorting to bankruptcy protection. K&W Cafeterias, a popular Southern comfort-food chain founded in 1937, closed its nine locations on Dec. 1, 2025, after growing to 35 outlets. Other chains like Bravo Brio and Abuelo’s Mexican Restaurant also filed for bankruptcy due to financial strains. Dickey’s Barbecue Pit saw a franchisee in Elk Grove, Calif., file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, adding to the chain’s previous closures. Despite challenges, Dickey’s reported opening new locations in 2025, aiming for further expansion.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: 84-year-old dining chain franchisee files Chapter 7 bankruptcy