Dairy Queen Closes Dozens of US Stores Amid Financial Pressures
American ice cream chain Dairy Queen has shut down dozens of locations across the US as independent operators face severe economic and corporate pressures.
A Dairy Queen employee holds an ice cream cone at a franchise restaurant location.
Corporate Disputes Cause Texas Closures
A corporate compliance dispute forced the immediate closure of 42 Dairy Queen locations across Texas. The brand's parent company revoked the franchise rights of Texas operator Project Lonestar.
The operator failed to complete required building remodels for its restaurants. Corporate headquarters subsequently blocked the group from ordering official inventory, halting all local operations.
Economic Pressures Hit Remote States
Financial difficulties have also forced closures in northern states like Alaska and Montana. In late June, an Alaskan franchisee closed three separate locations in Anchorage, Wasilla, and Palmer.
The sudden closures leave only one remaining Dairy Queen operating in the entire state of Alaska. Another owner in Montana closed his shop after 39 years to start a different food business.
Global Expansion Plans Continue
The fast-food chain currently operates approximately 7,800 locations across more than 20 countries. The iconic brand functions as a subsidiary of Warren Buffett's conglomerate Berkshire Hathaway.
Despite the recent domestic closures, the company plans to expand into international markets. Corporate executives recently announced a plan to open 20 new restaurant locations in Puerto Rico.
Read Also
Related Articles
