Chick Fil-A Closes it's Doors
Sadly, yesterday, August 31st, 2024 Chick Fil-A closed up shop at the Southern Park Mall in Boardman, Ohio. Chick Fil-A has served fantastic meals including a fabulous chicken sandwich and fantastic waffle fries.
He told me that he did not have a choice. The franchise was told by the mall management that they would not renew the provided space where the restaurant conducted business for the past 44 years.
Attempts were made and discussions planned but to no avail. (Seriously, no talks about a franchise for the last 44 years!)
My thoughts are now focused on hoping the current employee's working at Chick-Fil-A can find new employment at a new venture. Thankfully, I was told that all employee's would be transferred to the several other local restaurants. So, at least that is some good news.
After my conversation with the manager, it was time to go. I took my chicken sandwich, 12 pack chicken nuggets, and medium sized macaroni and cheese and began my exit.
I stopped for a mere few seconds. I slowly took a wide look at the restaurant just hours before it closed. The same restaurant I have been a patron for many many years. In front of me were dozens of empty tables quietly waiting for customers to sit down and eat their food.
I took a long hard look, turned slowly, and exited for the last time.
If it matters anymore, the Grassy Knoll Institute awards 5 hits out 5 for my last visit to Chick Fil-A.
Was out at the Southern park mall yesterday, and the Chick Fil-A restaurant is completely removed. Not one speck of the restaurant remains. The walls were even painted to remove any Chick-Fil-A signage.
ReplyDeleteVery sad...
I have been boycotting them for years. Check out Hot Dog Allie in Austintown for a great chicken sandwich.
ReplyDeleteTried the allie, but, at best, it was ok.
DeleteGumby,
DeleteI am shocked that the Southern Park mall is even still open. And now, they close a very important and busy store, Chic-Fil-A to what, make more space. Hell, the mall has almost half of their stores closed. Some completely empty. What the hell do they think they are doing? Goodbye southern park mall.
Yes, goodbye to Southern Park Mall for sure. I walked through the mall today, around noon time. And what did I see? Or not see? For one thing, shoppers. As in, I counted 15 people inside the hallways of the mall. Yes, 15 people. Talk about being transported into a science fiction horror movie. But yep that is what it looked and felt like.
DeleteSecondly, as I walked past each store, I counted 18 stores closed. Not just for the day, but completely closed. No lights on, no merchandise displayed, no employees. Just locked up entrance gates.
The future of the mall?
Seriously, it certainly looks bleak. I really do not know what tricks of magic or sleight of hand management can muster up to bring back life to the mall?
Conclusion. I do believe that this Christmas holiday season will be the last session that the Southern Park Mall will be open and operating. I do not believe any suiters are waiting at the door to take control of a dying operation.
From the early 1970's to the present time, at this time, this moment, the Southern Park Mall is deceased.
So sorry.
And, just to add to the story, Billy James Chic-Fil-A owner and operator of the Boardman Chic-Fil-A is doing one hell of a job. His restaurant is almost always crowded inside and out. However, the pace of the wait and lines are very swift. Seriously, I would pull in, scan my order, and drive around to pick up my order.
ReplyDeleteNo more than a five minute wait. And always, the staff are all fantastic people. And well trained. Every experience ends with a smile and a "My pleasure" from the team members.
Excellent food, excellent service and it is always a pleasure.
Thank you Billy James and the entire Chic-Fil-A staff.