Restaurant chain Hooters abruptly closed locations across multiple states June 4, as reported by parts of the USA TODAY Network and other local outlets.

Hooters said in a statement to USA TODAY that the closed stores were company owned and called the closures a "difficult decision."

"Hooters will be well-positioned to continue our iconic legacy under a pure franchise business model," the company said. "We are committed to supporting our impacted team members throughout this process and are incredibly grateful to our valued customers for their loyalty and dedication to the Hooters brand."

The company did not immediately respond to a follow-up inquiry on when employees were notified of the closures.

The company filed for bankruptcy in late March but did not indicate that restaurants

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