The future of one of the best-known restaurant chains is again hanging in the balance, only months after the business shut 36 restaurants, which led to the loss of around 1,000 jobs. Liberty Bar and Restaurant Group, TGI Fridays UK’s holding company, filed a notice of intention to appoint administrators, a legal step that protects the company from creditors while its owners consider their next move. The notice was filed on December 5, 2025.
The move comes despite a major rescue last year and a fresh takeover just a few weeks ago. After its former owner, Hostmore, entered administration in September 2024, the brand was bought by Breal Capital and Calveton, a deal that kept dozens of restaurants open but led to 36 closures, including the flagship Leicester Square site.
The chain relaunched in summer 2025 with new branding, a revamped menu and renewed investment. Early signs appeared promising, with year-on-year sales up and festive bookings reportedly 25% higher than the previous year.
Sugarloaf TGIF Management went on to purchase the UK arm of the brand from Breal Capital and Calveton in October 2025, roughly a year after the chain had been rescued from administration in a £9.55m deal. The acquisition protected around 2,000 jobs and all remaining sites.
Phil Broad, president of TGI Fridays’ International said the filing was intended to help the chain’s new owners secure its long-term future.
He stressed that all 49 remaining restaurants will continue trading through the Christmas period, adding that the business remains committed to safeguarding its workforce and providing the “welcoming, celebratory” experience the chain is known for.
Phil Broad, president of TGI Fridays International told BusinessLive: “The directors of TGI Fridays UK can confirm that a notice of intent to appoint administrators was filed with the court.
“This step brings the new owners, who assumed control last month, closer to securing and strengthening the long-term future of TGI Fridays in the UK.”
He added: “The priority is to protect TGI Fridays employees and its restaurants, and we want to express gratitude to all stakeholders for their patience during this process.
“We also want to reassure guests that all locations remain open throughout the holiday period, delivering the welcoming, celebratory experience that TGI Fridays is known for.”
The American casual dining chain serves burgers, ribs, chicken, and cocktails, as well as bottomless brunch, with its first UK location opening in Birmingham in 1986. The very first TGI Fridays opened in New York in 1965. For Christmas, they are offering a two-course festive menu for £24.95 per person, including an ultimate cocktail.