Ryan Giggs has unexpectedly shut down his restaurant, George's Dining Room and Bar, located on Barton Road in Worsley, Greater Manchester, leaving staff shocked and customers bewildered. Announced with immediate effect on January 31, 2025, the closure sparked immediate concern and confusion among patrons who arrived to find the restaurant emblazoned with signs stating it was closed 'due to unforeseen circumstances'.
Employees of the eatery revealed they were informed of their job losses through text messages sent by management. One text, which was reported by the Manchester Evening News, expressed regret: 'We regret to announce... we have no alternative but to close George's effective immediately.' This announcement came just as staff were preparing to work on what should have been another busy day.
The messages noted the closure was attributed to 'the obvious reduction in trade and business against the huge increases in costs of operating the business and the cost of living crisis'. Staff were also told they would receive outstanding wages and possible redundancy payments, but many were left feeling blindsided.
According to one unnamed employee: 'It came totally out of the blue, we were all supposed to be working today and then we got the text messages through. We are all stunned.'
Ryan Giggs, the Manchester United icon, opened George's Dining Room and Bar back in 2014 alongside his childhood friends, Kelvin Gregory and Bernie Taylor, with much fanfare and hopes of transforming Worsley.into a 'foodie destination'. At the time of the opening, Giggs spoke of their lifelong dream of owning a restaurant together, stating: 'We've known each other for 30 years... we wanted to do something in Worsley.'
The restaurant quickly became known for its quality service and delicious food, gaining popularity among locals and visitors alike. The opening event featured many of Giggs' former footballing colleagues, including Bryan Robson and Gary Neville, showcasing the strong community ties and support for the venture.
Despite its initial success, George's Dining Room and Bar struggled to remain profitable amid rising operational costs and changing consumer behavior, which have heavily impacted the broader hospitality sector. The recent economic climate, marked by significant increases to minimum wage and national insurance contributions, has left many restaurants questioning their viability, as revealed by surveys indicating closures are occurring at the highest rates seen in over a decade.
Local leaders and loyal patrons have expressed their disappointment over the sudden closure. Councillor Robin Garrido, who lives near the restaurant and often frequented it, lamented, 'I feel very badly for the staff to receive this news... The quality of the staff has always been one of the successes of George's over the years.'
Garrido mentioned he had heard rumors about the restaurant potentially being sold. While he expressed hopes for new ownership, he emphasized the importance of maintaining the restaurant's charm and commitment to quality service for both locals and tourists passing through Worsley.
The restaurant's abrupt closure also raises questions about Giggs' other ventures. Since opening George’s, Giggs has expanded his portfolio significantly, partnering with Neville to develop the GG Hospitality Group, which operates several other successful locations including Hotel Football at Old Trafford.
Despite these successes, the harsh realities of running restaurants can lead to sudden and unexpected challenges, especially when the business environment becomes more turbulent. With individuals increasingly turning to healthier lifestyles—evidenced by the rise of 24-hour gyms versus pubs—traditional dining establishments must adapt or face closure.
Giggs, now also involved with Salford City FC, where he serves as assistant manager, is no stranger to the ups and downs associated with business ventures. He and his co-owners will likely need to reassess their approach and adapt to the current economic climate to avoid similar pitfalls at their other establishments.
While the closure of George's Dining Room and Bar has left staff and customers heartbroken, the hope remains intact within the community for its revival or the opening of another eatery to fill the vibrant space.