Lunch Garden Files for Bankruptcy, Plans Relaunch with CIM Capital Support
January 22, 2025Following 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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Sources
VRT NWS: news • Jan 20, 2025
Lunch Garden files for bankruptcy, plans restart with 42 restaurantsVRT NWS: news • Jan 22, 2025
Agreement over Lunch Garden relaunch, 41 restaurants to remain open and 431 staff to keep their jobs