Labour-run council offers support to staff made redundant after major chain closes sites
The council said residents looking for a new role can get free help including CV advice and guidance on job opportunities.
Telford & Wrekin Council said it is “committed to supporting residents and businesses affected by difficult circumstances, including those impacted by the immediate closure of TGI Fridays at Telford Centre”. It added: “For employees now facing redundancy, a range of practical support is available to help them take the next step towards new employment, training or reskilling opportunities.” The council said residents looking for a new role can get free help including CV advice and guidance on job opportunities.
Council cabinet member Councillor Shirley Reynolds said: “We know this is an incredibly difficult time for the employees and families affected by the sudden closure of TGI Friday’s.
“Our priority is to ensure people know that support is available right now.
“Whether it’s help updating your CV, accessing new training, or connecting with local employers, our teams are here to provide one‑to‑one support to help residents move forward with confidence.”
More than 450 TGI Fridays staff members were made redundant earlier this week after outlets across England and Wales were closed.
The American-style dining chain on Wednesday said most of its sites will remain open after a rescue deal was secured.
Liberty Bar and Restaurant Group, the company that runs TGI Fridays’ UK restaurants, appointed administrators from Interpath Advisory on Tuesday.
They immediately sold the business and its assets to a subsidiary of Sugarloaf, the firm behind the global TGI Friday brand.
Sugarloaf had bought the UK business two months earlier from private equity firm Calveton UK and Breal Capital.
Administrators confirmed the pre-pack administration deal would safeguard 33 restaurants and transfer 1,384 workers to the new vehicle.
“We have been working closely to explore all available options for securing the long-term future of TGI Fridays in the UK, and believe that this is the best outcome for the business, preserves jobs, and offers a strong platform for success and growth,” said Phil Broad, global president of TGI Fridays.
This week, the UK Hospitality trade body warned more than 2,000 pubs, restaurants and hotels could shut their doors this year unless the Government makes sector-wide changes to “staggering” incoming business rate increases.
