After closing 1,000 restaurants, seafood chain sees clear sailing

Long John Silver’s, a well-known fast-food seafood chain, has been making headlines for its recent closures, dropping from over 1,000 units in 2015 to fewer than 500 currently. The company’s Senior Vice President, Tony Ellis, believes that these closures have positioned the brand for a strong comeback.

Ellis revealed that Long John Silver’s has closed approximately 110 to 120 locations over the past three years. The chain now operates 214 company-owned restaurants and about 262 franchised units. Some of these closures were part of a strategic decision to exit co-branded locations with other chains like Taco Bell, KFC, and A&W.

Not all closures were solely due to financial performance, according to Chief Marketing Officer Laura Ellis. The company has been focusing on remodeling its restaurants to enhance the in-restaurant experience for customers. Some closures were temporary to facilitate these renovations, while others departed from the historical strategy of the brand.

Long John Silver’s faced a Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in 1998 due to a leveraged buyout in 1989 that left the company with significant debt. However, the brand has been on a path to recovery, with recent quarters showing a growth in comparable sales. Four Oaks Partners purchased Long John Silver’s in 2022 and has plans for international expansion, particularly in Southeast Asia.

Despite the challenges faced by the restaurant industry as a whole, Long John Silver’s is optimistic about its future. Laura Ellis expressed confidence in the brand’s nostalgic appeal and potential for domestic growth. The chain is focused on driving awareness, opening new locations, and reminding customers of its presence in the market.

The restaurant industry has been grappling with various challenges, from rising food and labor costs to increased competition and evolving consumer preferences. Long John Silver’s, like many other chains, is navigating these headwinds and working towards a successful comeback in the fast-food seafood market.

This article was originally published on TheStreet on June 21, 2026, and highlights the journey of Long John Silver’s as it repositions itself for growth and expansion.