*An error in our recent coverage mistakenly reported the closure of Red Lobster in Bloomington, IL. The actual closure occurred in Bloomingdale, IL. We apologize for the confusion.
Chicago, IL – In a sudden move that has stirred both concern and curiosity, multiple Red Lobster locations across the Midwest, specifically in Illinois, Indiana, and Iowa, have closed their doors permanently. These closures come as the seafood chain reportedly grapples with financial setbacks.
According to reports, the closures were confirmed by TAGeX Brands, which announced it will conduct a “winner takes all” auction for the restaurant equipment at these locations. The auctions are set to begin on Monday, May 13, 2024, and will conclude on Thursday, May 16, 2024. This event is poised to be one of the largest restaurant equipment auctions, involving everything from kitchen appliances to dining furniture.
Local customers and businesses may find opportunities in these auctions to acquire commercial-grade equipment. The affected locations in Illinois include Bloomingdale* and Danville; in Indiana, notable closures were reported in Indianapolis and Elkhart; and in Iowa, Council Bluffs and Waterloo have also shut down. The community has expressed mixed feelings, with many lamenting the loss of a familiar dining spot and others looking forward to the auction as a rare opportunity.
