Major fast food chains are closing hundreds of locations nationwide in 2026, raising questions about deeper economic stress. Brands like Hooters, Denny’s, Wendy’s, Jack in the Box, Pizza Hut, and Popeyes are scaling back as rising food and labor costs squeeze margins. Customers report higher prices, smaller portions, and declining value. With restaurants historically signaling downturns, many are asking whether these closures point to broader trouble ahead.
United States