Facing Redundancy at TGI Fridays? Here's What You Need to Know—and How to Take Your Next Step

With TGI Fridays UK recently acquired by Breal Capital and Calveton UK (owner of D&D London ) the future of 51 restaurants and over 2,000 jobs has been secured, but sadly, 35 sites are closing, and 1,000 workers are being made redundant.

This news is difficult for everyone involved, but it’s important to remember that while redundancy feels like a major setback, it can also be the start of something new. I know it doesn’t feel that way now, but trust me, this could be your chance to refocus, rebuild, and find new opportunities.

To everyone affected by these closures, I want to share some advice—drawn from my own experience—to help you through this transition.

1. Take Time to Process—Redundancy is Hard, and That’s Okay

The first thing I want to say is, give yourself permission to feel however you feel right now. It’s okay to feel uncertain, frustrated, or even lost. Redundancy is a hard pill to swallow, and you’re not expected to be okay with it overnight. Don’t try to brush off those emotions or pressure yourself to jump straight into the job hunt immediately. It’s better to take the time you need to process what’s happened so you can put your best self forward when you’re ready.

I learned this lesson the hard way when I was made redundant from Loungers ltd . I was so eager to land another role that I threw myself into a job hunt without properly preparing. I found a role at GAIL's and went all in—tracked down the recruiter on LinkedIn, sent them my CV, and even called them directly. It got me noticed, but when I made it to the final interview stage, I realized I hadn’t taken the time to think about why I wanted the role or what I could bring to the table. I wasn’t ready, and it showed.

Even though I didn’t get the job, I’m grateful for that experience. It gave me the confidence to keep going and eventually led me to start WHY Hospitality UK , the business I run today. So, remember—there’s no rush. When you’re ready to take that next step, make sure you’re fully prepared and focused on what you want.

2. Get Your CV and LinkedIn in Shape—Stand Out and Get Noticed

Before you even think about applying for your next role, make sure your CV and LinkedIn profile are updated and polished. A well-organized, professional CV can make all the difference—and the good news is, you don’t need to spend a fortune on it. Canva offers free, easy-to-use templates that look fantastic. They even have a 30-day trial if you want to try out some of their premium designs.

Once your CV is ready, focus on your LinkedIn profile. I can’t stress enough how important LinkedIn is in today’s job market, especially in hospitality. Hospitality roles are filled faster through LinkedIn for those that stand out, and it’s more than just a job board—it’s your chance to showcase your skills, connect with people in the industry, and engage with content that’s relevant to your field.

I know many in hospitality don’t use LinkedIn regularly, but those who do find work faster. Even if it’s not immediate, connections you make today can open doors months or even years down the line. So, take the time to build your profile, connect with industry professionals, and engage with hospitality hashtags to stay on top of trends and opportunities.

3. Don’t Rush—Take Time to Prepare and Apply with Intention

When you’re ready to start applying, don’t rush. One of the biggest mistakes people make after redundancy is applying for every available role, hoping that something sticks. But the truth is, you’re far more likely to land a role if you apply with intention. Take the time to research the companies you’re interested in, tailor your CV and cover letter to each role, and make sure you’re applying for jobs that genuinely align with your skills and career goals.

And once you’ve applied, don’t just sit back and wait. Be proactive. Just like I did with Gail’s, don’t be afraid to reach out directly to recruiters or hiring managers. Send them a message on LinkedIn, introduce yourself, and explain why you’re interested in the role. That extra step can make a huge difference and help you stand out in a crowded job market.

For managers and head office roles, there are plenty of hospitality recruitment companies that can help you on your journey. One that really helped me was Sixty Eight People . Their team was incredibly supportive, and I can’t thank them enough for the role they played in helping me navigate my career path. Don’t hesitate to reach out to agencies like them—they can offer invaluable guidance and support during your search.

4. Upskill and Explore New Avenues—Turn This Into an Opportunity to Grow

If you’re thinking about a career shift or want to improve your skills for the next role, now’s the time to invest in your development. Upskilling is a great way to stay competitive, especially if you’re looking to move into a different area of hospitality.

The Department for Education offers free online courses in areas like DE&I, counselling, project management, and marketing. Platforms like Coursera offer free trials and courses on a wide range of topics, from consulting to HR. If you’re looking to explore something completely new, there’s no better time to dive into a subject you’ve always been curious about.

And if you’re ready to invest in yourself, MasterClass is an incredible resource for visual learners. I personally love Anna Wintour’s class, which offers insight into leadership and creativity. For those who prefer quick reads or audiobooks, Blinkist condenses books into 10-20 minute snippets—perfect for learning on the go.

5. Lean on Your Support Network—You Don’t Have to Do This Alone

One of the most important things to remember is that you don’t have to go through this alone. Reach out to friends, family, and former colleagues—they can provide not just emotional support but also advice, referrals, and opportunities. Surrounding yourself with a strong support network can help you stay motivated, focused, and grounded during this challenging time.

Additionally, consider reaching out to industry-specific communities like Be Inclusive Hospitality , which is dedicated to driving change in the sector by supporting underrepresented groups. They offer resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities to help you get through this transition stronger and more prepared. Being part of a community that understands the unique challenges of our industry can be a game-changer.

6. Mental Health Matters—Take Care of Yourself

Redundancy isn’t just a career hurdle—it can take a real toll on your mental health. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed, anxious, or uncertain about the future. Don’t hesitate to seek professional support if you’re struggling. Your mental health is just as important as your career, and taking care of it will help you stay resilient during this time.

Organisations like The Burnt Chef Project are dedicated to addressing mental health challenges in the hospitality industry. They offer resources, peer support, and guidance for hospitality professionals dealing with stress, anxiety, and burnout. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need help—they're a great resource, especially during times of uncertainty like this.

7. Don’t Stand Still—Keep Moving Forward

Whatever you do, don’t stay stagnant. Redundancy isn’t the end—it’s the chance to explore new opportunities. Whether it’s chasing that dream job you’ve always wanted or finally writing the business plan you’ve been putting off, use this time to reflect on what you truly want next.

Who knows—one of those closed TGI Fridays Fridays sites might turn into the next big hospitality venture, and you could be a part of it. Keep your eyes open for opportunities, and be ready to seize them when they come your way.

If you’re struggling or need advice, I’ve been through it all—from seven final interviews to a year of redundancy and eventually launching my own company. If you need a pep talk or know someone who does, reach out—I’m here to help.

You’ve got this.

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