Missouri, Illinois Hooters Close—No Heads-Up Given

I can't say it was a big surprise, but it sure was sudden. There is confirmation that Hooters just shut down locations in Missouri and Illinois this week with no warning whatsoever.

I started hearing friends in Missouri pass along the word that one of the Hooters locations in downtown St. Louis was suddenly closed and I've been able to confirm they are correct. It's not just Missouri either. Cheapism says that the chain shut down restaurants in 12 different states this week including one in Illinois, too.

Here are the Missouri and Illinois Hooters that are now permanently closed:

Hooters - Downtown St. Louis, Missouri

Hooters - Rockford, Illinois

Both of the Google reviews for the St. Louis and Rockford locations confirm they are kaput. The Cheapism report says this is part of the bankruptcy restructuring plan. If so, so be it.

I don't normally say contrary things about a business, but I'm going to in this case. In my opinion, this chain has used the superficial exploitation of women as the main draw for their brand. It was the reason why I never have walked through the doors of any Hooters anywhere and have no plans to start now. As the father of daughters, I'd hope they have enough self-worth and self esteem to know that they are much better than the perception of women that Hooters has been famous for. I'm not saying don't support them and I never wish bankruptcy or closures on a business, but I will continue to support businesses that treat everyone including women as real people and not hot wings Barbie dolls.