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"Thanks For The Mammaries": Hooters Shutters Every Location In Four Blue States
Hooters, a restaurant chain known for its waitresses in revealing uniforms, is reportedly abandoning its long-held politically incorrect image. The chain recently closed its last location in Colonie, New York, and several other New York locations. This follows the closure of its final outlets in Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Minnesota. While external pressures are cited, the company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy last year due to inflation and declining sales. A potential "family friendly" rebranding is underway, focusing on a beach-bar motif with more modest server attire. Historically, Hooters defended its hiring practices, arguing that female servers were a Bona Fide Occupational Qualification. The company faced legal challenges, including a dispute with the EEOC over hiring only women as servers. It also navigated complaints related to sexual harassment and the objectification of women. The rise of #MeToo and later identity politics brought further scrutiny and sensitivity to its brand. Recent lawsuits involved claims of preferential treatment for lighter-skinned servers and discrimination against a transgender individual. Despite these challenges, some fans express nostalgia for the chain's original image.