A beloved BBQ chain that once graced the palates of many with its finger-licking sauces and delectable smoked meats has now found itself on the brink of collapse. Sticky Fingers Restaurants, a South Carolina-based chain famous for its signature sauces available in over 2,000 locations, recently made headlines by filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, sending shockwaves through the struggling restaurant industry.
Founded in 1992, Sticky Fingers Restaurants was once a thriving establishment boasting 15 locations across South Carolina, Tennessee, and Florida. However, a series of ownership changes over the years led to inconsistent leadership, resulting in a decline in food quality, service issues, and ultimately a drop in sales. These challenges, compounded by the economic hardships brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, forced the chain to close nine of its 11 locations, leaving only two standing—Greenville, North Charleston, and Summerville, S.C., as well as Chattanooga, Tenn.
Despite efforts to revive the business by opening two new locations, Sticky Fingers was unable to overcome its financial woes. The chain, which had garnered a loyal following for its mouthwatering menu featuring barbecue pork ribs, smoked brisket, pulled pork, smoked chicken, wings, and a variety of Southern sides like fried okra, mac and cheese, and baked beans, also gained popularity through its house-made barbecue sauces available for purchase in retail locations.
Court documents revealed that Sticky Fingers Restaurants listed assets of up to $50,000 while facing liabilities between $1 million and $10 million—an alarming financial disparity that ultimately led to the difficult decision to file for bankruptcy. This move comes as a blow to loyal customers who have cherished the chain’s flavors and atmosphere throughout the years.
The restaurant industry has been hit hard by the pandemic, with many well-known establishments facing financial difficulties and closures. Sticky Fingers’ bankruptcy filing follows a trend of industry collapses, including On the Border and several other popular chains like Red Lobster, TGI Fridays, Hawkers Asian Street Food, and Melt Bar & Grilled. Experts have noted that 2024 has been one of the toughest years for the restaurant sector since the onset of the pandemic in 2020.
As Sticky Fingers Restaurants navigates this challenging chapter in its history, the future of the beloved BBQ chain remains uncertain. The closure of multiple locations and the financial strain of the pandemic have left many wondering what lies ahead for this once-thriving establishment. Only time will tell if Sticky Fingers can rise from the ashes and reclaim its status as a beloved culinary destination for BBQ enthusiasts across the nation.
