TGI Fridays Malaysia expands amid US bankruptcy filing

TGI Fridays Malaysia has assured customers that its local operations remain unaffected following TGI Fridays Inc.’s recent Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in the United States.

Craveat International Sdn Bhd, a wholly owned subsidiary of Techna-X Berhad and master franchisee of TGI Fridays in Malaysia, clarified that it operates under a franchise agreement with TGI Fridays Franchisor, LLC—a separate entity unaffected by the financial restructuring.

TGI Fridays Malaysia: Business as usual

The Chapter 11 filing in Dallas, Texas, involves only the corporate-owned restaurants managed by TGI Fridays Inc. in the United States, covering 39 locations that will undergo financial restructuring to secure long-term stability.

This legal action does not affect the 400+ franchise locations globally, including those in Malaysia, which are independently owned and operate under TGI Fridays Franchisor, LLC.

To further reassure franchisees, TGI Fridays Franchisor, LLC has enacted a Transition Services Agreement that maintains support services, ensuring smooth operations worldwide.

This commitment allows Malaysian outlets to continue delivering the signature TGI Fridays experience without disruption.

“Business continues as usual here in Malaysia, with no impact from the U.S. proceedings,” confirmed Lee Yew Jin, CEO of TGI Fridays Malaysia.

“We’re excited to keep growing and bringing ‘That Fridays Feeling™’ to more locations across the country.”

New openings for TGI Fridays Malaysia

Despite the U.S. developments, TGI Fridays Malaysia is poised for expansion with three exciting new openings:

• Mid Valley Megamall, Kuala Lumpur – Opening in November 2024
• Sunway Pyramid, Selangor – Reopening in December 2024
• Putrajaya – New location scheduled for the first half of 2025

The Mid Valley and Sunway Pyramid locations offer convenient, popular dining spots for fans, while the new Putrajaya outlet marks the brand’s strategic growth in Malaysia.

“We’re thrilled to expand and provide more opportunities for our guests to enjoy ‘That Fridays Feeling™,’” added Lee.

TGI Fridays Franchisor, LLC’s Transition Services Agreement provides global franchisees, including those in Malaysia, with the support needed to maintain seamless operations.

This agreement guarantees essential services and resources, ensuring the Malaysian team can focus on growth and customer satisfaction.

While TGI Fridays Inc. reorganises its U.S. operations, the commitment to supporting franchisees worldwide reaffirms the brand’s dedication to a consistent, quality experience across all locations.