Arby's fans in Wilson Borough, Pennsylvania, bid farewell to a local favorite as signs announce its closure.
The fast-food chain has shut down one of its locations in the area, leaving loyal customers reflecting on their memories.
Arby's Closure Leaves Fans in Disappointment
Arby's, the second-largest sandwich restaurant globally, with over 3,500 locations, faced closure this week, as The U.S. Sun reported. No explanation has been provided for the shutdown of the Wilson Borough outlet.
As locals approach the now-empty spot, they are met with scattered cardboard boxes, signaling the end of an era.
Signs expressing gratitude to patrons adorn the location, conveying messages of appreciation. "We want to thank all our valued customers," reads one sign, "but unfortunately this location is closed." Another note, signed by management and staff, expresses hope for future encounters and directs customers to nearby open locations.
For those craving Arby's delights, the Phillipsburg, New Jersey, and Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, outlets remain open, providing solace amidst the closure. The Phillipsburg branch, inaugurated in January, revitalized a once-vacant lot, previously home to Ahart's Supermarket.
Local Reactions Reflect Little Surprise
News of the closure did not shock Wilson Borough locals, with many expressing their lack of surprise on Facebook. Comments on the announcement indicated dissatisfaction with the customer service at the now-shuttered location.
According to one commenter, "they had the worst customer service at that location anyway." Another comment criticized the establishment's quality, stating, "I was wondering why the place was still there, it's horrible and nobody ever goes there."
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Some attributed the closure to the chain's strategic misstep of opening two stores in close proximity. "There is another Arby's literally a couple miles down the road," one individual noted, questioning the rationale behind such a decision. "I don't think I have ever seen 2 Arby's that close to one another."
Others pointed to the neighborhood's state as a factor, with one user commenting on Wilson's appearance: "I have driven around Wilson for work reasons [and it's] not really a nice looking town."
As discussions ensued about potential replacements for the departed Arby's, suggestions poured in. Many advocated for popular alternatives such as Popeyes, Jersey Mike's, and Maryland Fried Chicken to fill the vacancy.
According to Arby's website, it is a well-known brand that aims to bring joy through enjoyable experiences. They achieve this goal by offering a variety of high-quality meats and tasty sides like Curly Fries and Jamocha shakes.
Their restaurant services combine quick service with the care and quality typical of fast casual dining.
Arby's is under the ownership of Arby's Restaurant Group, Inc., which is part of the Inspire Brands family headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia.
Established in 1964, Arby's has grown to become the second-largest sandwich restaurant brand globally, with over 3,500 restaurants across nine countries.
The local area has been grappling with a series of closures and neglected properties in recent times.
Just four months ago, an LA Fitness branch, formerly adjacent to the now-closed Arby's, ceased operations. The gym was situated close to a long-abandoned Dixie Cup factory, deteriorating for decades, and an empty Kmart store that shut its doors in December 2019.
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