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Flip The Bird Closes Another Location Amid Industry Woes
21 Jun
Summary
- Independent restaurants face increasing competition in the fried chicken market.
- Rising food, labor, and occupancy costs pressure profitability.
- Flip The Bird is reducing its footprint, closing another location.
The fried chicken sandwich market, a rapidly growing sector, is proving increasingly challenging for independent restaurant brands. Major chains have significantly invested in this segment, driving up competition.
Consumption of fried chicken sandwiches at U.S. restaurants saw a notable rise between 2019 and 2024 and is projected to continue growing. However, independent operators face substantial headwinds from higher food and labor costs, escalating occupancy expenses, and intense competition.
Flip The Bird, a comfort-food chain established in 2019 in Beverly, Massachusetts, is now contracting its operations. The restaurant recently confirmed the closure of its Swampscott Mall location, effective at the end of business on June 21, 2026.
The company stated that this decision reflects broader industry operational pressures. Construction projects, increased labor and occupancy costs, and higher food prices have made maintaining quality and service more difficult. Flip The Bird explored alternative locations but found no suitable sites. The chain aims to strengthen its core business for long-term stability, transferring impacted employees to nearby stores.
