After filing for bankruptcy in 2024, TGI Fridays is now expanding.
Will it build new restaurants in Florida? That remains to be seen, although a company representative said it would like to expand its footprint in the Sunshine State.
The expansion is part of the restaurant's1-2-3 Strategic Vision toward 1,000 restaurants globally and $2 billion in annual revenue by 2030.
The chain that describes itself as the "original casual dining bar and grill," TGI Fridays currently has more than 380 restaurants in more than 35 countries.
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On Sept. 29, TGI Fridays announced a development agreement to open five new restaurants in New York, the "first domestic development agreement in more than a decade, reenergizing its growth plans
in the U.S."
TGI Fridays expanding restaurants in US, around the world
In January 2026, TGI Fridays announced its plans to increase the number of its restaurants to more than 1,000 and to increase revenue to $2 billion by 2030.
"TGI Fridays pioneered the casual bar and grill category and continues to introduce Americana culture to millions around the world," said Ray Blanchette, CEO of TGI Fridays said.
"Our focus as we accelerate our growth is to resonate with the next generation of consumers while preserving the classic Americana feel and signature experience that has made the brand beloved in more than 40 countries."
"Guests are increasingly looking for casual dining that delivers real value without sacrificing experience, and Fridays is well positioned to meet that demand as we grow," said Ashley Kirkley, TGI Fridays chief operating officer.
Will TGI Fridays add new restaurants in Florida?
TGI Fridays currently has five restaurants in Florida:
- 3 in Orlando
- 1 in Hollywood
- 1 in Miami International Airport
“We would like to grow our footprint in Florida and are constantly assessing locations and partners,” Kirkley said via email.
What is TGI Fridays '1-2-3 Strategic Vision'?
TGI Fridays 1-2-3 Strategic Vision is the company's strategy to "spur Fridays next chapter, energizing the brand for the next generation, supercharging unit and channel expansion, ensuring franchise health, and fueling performance through people."
The plan has four "strategic pillars":
- Activating the brand: "Fridays will continue to create memorable experiences that cultivate deep emotional connections and more reasons to celebrate.... demonstrating the power of the Fridays brand to create 'wow' moments that resonate with guests worldwide."
- Flexible growth across markets: "Beloved internationally for bringing a taste of Americana to guests around the world, Fridays is expanding through flexible formats and multi-channel growth models. The brand's growth strategy includes a diverse mix of formats, from high-volume airport locations to right-sized hotel concepts and traditional full-service restaurants, designed to meet guests where they are and optimize franchise development opportunities in key markets."
- Strengthening the franchise system: "Fridays will strengthen franchisee profitability and consistency through enhanced support, operational excellence, and strategic partnership."
- Fueling performance through people: "Fridays has long been known for its strong training programs and culture of recognition. The brand will deepen that advantage by investing in leadership development, comprehensive training, and performance initiatives that empower team members and franchisees to deliver flair-fueled, high energy guest experiences."
TGI Fridays 'is where the world goes to celebrate'
TGI Fridays was founded in 1965 as the "world's first casual bar and grill and is known for being the first happy hour place for singles to mingle."
The restaurant goes by both TGI Fridays and Fridays and is known for its "classic and innovative American food."
Cheryl McCloud is a journalist for the USA TODAY Network-Florida's service journalism Connect team. You can get all of Florida’s best content directly in your inbox each weekday day by signing up for the free newsletter, Florida TODAY, at https://palmbeachpost.com/newsletters.
This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: TGI Fridays expanding. Will new restaurants open in Florida?
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