Hooters has closed its final locations in Massachusetts and New York, continuing a trend of restaurant closures in states with policies described as liberal. The chain has now ceased operations in Massachusetts, New York, Connecticut, and Minnesota.
According to MassLive, the last Hooters in Massachusetts closed in June. Around the same time, the final New York location shuttered, following earlier closures in New York City. While most locations in these states have closed, one Hooters reportedly remains open in Michigan, a state also described as liberal-controlled.
Company leadership has indicated a new Hooters movie is in development and that the chain is exploring growth opportunities in Western states, in addition to maintaining a strong presence in Florida. The company has also noted a pivot towards a more family-friendly approach, moving away from skimpy uniforms and bikini nights, and is observing trends such as declining beer consumption and the rise of to-go sports bar food models.