Lunch Garden Files for Bankruptcy, Plans Relaunch with CIM Capital Support

January 22, 2025
Lunch Garden Files for Bankruptcy, Plans Relaunch with CIM Capital Support
  • Following the bankruptcy, Lunch Garden reached an agreement with investor CIM Capital, allowing 41 out of its 62 locations to remain operational.

  • On January 19, 2025, Lunch Garden announced its bankruptcy filing during an extraordinary company meeting, aiming for a relaunch with the assistance of CIM Capital.

  • Of the 41 restaurants that will continue, 24 will be operated directly by CIM Capital, while the remaining 17 will function as franchises.

  • As of the end of 2023, Lunch Garden employed over 800 people, a significant decrease from 1,100 employees in 2020 due to the challenges faced.

  • Approximately 430 employees are expected to retain their jobs following the restructuring, allowing them to continue working for Lunch Garden and its franchises.

  • Despite a positive trend in sales and operating profits over the past two years, the financial recovery was insufficient to support necessary investments.

  • The continued financial support from shareholder ICG became unsustainable, leading to the bankruptcy filing.

  • The bankruptcy procedure has enabled discreet market exploration to maintain operations and preserve jobs, according to curator Stijn Vanschoubroek.

  • CEO Stephan Brouwers described discussions with CIM Capital as constructive, focusing on creating a sustainable future for Lunch Garden through a more agile structure.

  • The chain's performance was negatively affected by rising costs from inflation and wage increases, which contributed to its financial struggles.

  • CIM Capital, an Antwerp-based investment company founded by Marc Van Hool, will provide fresh capital to assist Lunch Garden in its recovery.

  • Brouwers emphasized that the tough decision to restructure is aimed at building a sustainable future and preserving jobs.

Summary based on 4 sources


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