World’s largest Hooters bar in Liverpool set to close following “difficult” year
The world’s largest Hooters bar is set to close following a “difficult” year for the brand, during which the US restaurant chain collapsed financially.
The Liverpool venue, which was hailed as the biggest Hooters in the world when it opened in 2022, will shut permanently in the new year, according to its director. The bar has experienced a turbulent period since launching in the city and has been at the centre of several controversies.
The closure announcement comes only days after reports emerged that staff had not received tips since August, with the money allegedly being withheld to help keep the struggling business afloat.
The Water Street site opened three years ago after an extensive refurbishment and marked the arrival of the iconic US franchise in Liverpool. Known for its chicken wings and revealing waitress uniforms, the bar has faced ongoing challenges throughout its time in operation.
The decision follows Hooters of America filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the US in March, when the company confirmed it had entered into a restructuring support agreement with near-unanimous backing from its key stakeholders.