In Tampa, the iconic chicken chain that played host to everything from the Republican National Convention to charity events is expected to close at Channelside Bay Plaza. But you probably knew that — what with the recent reveal of local real estate developer Strategic Property Partners’ ambitious plans for the plaza, sans Hooters, and whatnot.
Hooters opened in the Channel District in 2004 or so. Last week, the chain announced its longtime corner home at 615 Channelside Drive will stop serving baskets of sauce-drenched wings and cold beer early next year.
“Our lease term is up on January 31st, 2019, and our landlord CBP Development, LLC has some different plans for the space,” according to a statement from CEO Neil Kiefer. “We have had a great 15 year run at this location and truly appreciate all the support from our neighbors and customers, especially the city of Tampa and all the organizations we so successfully partnered with to promote downtown Tampa and the waterfront.”
However, the silver lining is that Hooters aims to find a new location in the neighborhood.
“While we will miss the excitement we enjoyed on our corner for so many years, we look forward to finding an equally suitable location in the neighborhood to continue to serve our great fans and customers,” Kiefer added.
Founded in Clearwater 35 years ago, Hooters operates 12 outposts locally and more than 400 locations in 29 countries across the globe.
This article appears in Aug 2-9, 2018.
