Fast food giant says it’s closing its doors for good

Burger King, one of the best known fast-food chain restaurants in the world is reevaluating its operations as they are embarking on a transformative journey.

Back in 2021, the fast-food giant underwent its first major transformation in the past 20 years by changing its logo and making it resemble as that used during the 1970s, 80s and 90s.

Speaking of the re-branding, designer Lisa Smith told Dezeen, “We explored a lot of different design territories, but kept coming back to the brand’s original iconic logo from 1969 and 1994 when Burger King looked at its best.”

She continued: “We were inspired by how it has grown to have such an iconic place in culture – from Back to the Future, Gremlins through to more recently Stranger Things and BK’s Warhol campaign.

“The new logo pays homage to the brand’s heritage with a refined design that’s confident, simple and fun.”

In an attempt to keep up with its rivals, Burger King would be closing between 300 and 400 underperforming restaurants, as per CEO Joshua Kobza.

Up until March of 2023, the company shuttered 124 locations, leaving 6,964 restaurants across the country.

Currently, Burger King is the third-biggest fast-food restaurant in the US, losing its second position to Wendy’s, while McDonald’s is on the top.

The question is whether Burger King would not let other chains get in front of them by closing locations. According to the company, the answer is yes.

“There will always be a minority [of franchisees] who aren’t dedicated, enthusiastic operators. We’ll work with them to leave the system and move on to do something else,” Chairman Patrick Doyle says.

“There simply is no room for franchisees who are not willing or able to work hard to operate restaurants that are better than the system average over the long term.”

Their goal is to close the least profitable stores and to focus on the company’s turnaround plan to boost sales and fight its competition.

In an attempt to answer to the challenge of securing its position in the fast-food industry, Burger King introduced the ambitious “Reclaim the Flame” re-branding campaign in 2022, amounting to $400 million in investments which include restaurant renovations, advertising, streamlined menu offerings, and more.

The company’s commitment to modernization is an intensive one and focuses on various technological enhancements, kitchen upgrades, and physical renovations, all for the sake of providing customers with the ultimate experience.

One thing is certain, the company is keeping track with its consumer preferences.