Saks Global took a big step forward in its bankruptcy case on Friday when a federal judge gave the final sign-off on the debtor-in-possession financing meant to see it through the Chapter 11 process and back to solvency. The “first-day hearing” last month was a dramatic affair, with Amazon trying to hold up the financing over a commercial agreement that it said was backed by the retailer’s famed Fifth Avenue flagship. Amazon invested $475 million into Saks when it bought Neiman Marcus Group in late 2024, ...

Del Taco's Georgia locations have abruptly closed as the franchise owner of the restaurants navigates Chapter 11 bankruptcy, the company said. As of Friday, Feb. 20, when searching for the American-Mexican fast-food chain's Georgia locations, its website says, “Sorry, this location no longer exists." When reached by email on Feb. 20, Del Taco said the franchisee operating its Atlanta, Columbus, Macon and Chattanooga (Fort Oglethorpe) locations closed all 14 restaurants. "This closure occurred without pr ...

Group 1 - Chapter 7 bankruptcy typically results in total liquidation of a company, although it may not always mean the end of the brand if its intellectual property is acquired [1][3] - The bankruptcy court prioritizes selling assets to entities that can provide the best return for creditors, rather than those who may be the best stewards of the brand [3] - In the case of Stoli USA, a Texas bankruptcy judge has intervened to prevent immediate liquidation and has ordered the appointment of Chapter 11 trustees to manage the bankruptcy process [4][5] Group 2 - An agreement was reached among stakeholders, including Stoli Group and its largest lender, Fifth Third Bank, to appoint at least one Chapter 11 trustee to oversee the winding down of the businesses [6] - Discussions are ongoing regarding whether a single trustee will manage both Stoli USA and its bourbon affiliate Kentucky Owl LLC, or if separate trustees will be appointed for each [7]

Core Viewpoint - Primrose Candy Company, a 98-year-old manufacturer of nostalgic candies, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy due to financial pressures and competition from lower-cost imports [3][4][5]. Company Overview - Founded in 1928, Primrose Candy Co. produces hard candies, taffy, and flavored popcorn, operating a factory in Chicago and outsourcing some production to China [4][5]. - The company has faced challenges from rising domestic sugar costs and competition, leading to consolidation in the industry [4]. Bankruptcy Filing Details - Primrose Candy Co. filed for Chapter 11 protection on January 27, 2026, in the Northern District of Illinois, aiming to restructure its financial obligations while maintaining its manufacturing presence in the Midwest [5]. - The company's assets are estimated between $1 million and $10 million, with liabilities ranging from $10 million to $50 million [6]. Operational Challenges - The company operates a 130,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Chicago but has recently lost two major contracts for lemon drop production, valued at approximately $1 million annually [6]. - The losses have been attributed to competition from lower-cost foreign products [7]. - Additionally, the company is managing liabilities related to a $125,000 settlement concerning the Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act [7].

This story was originally published on Restaurant Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Restaurant Dive newsletter. Over the past few years, Fat Brands built up a 19-brand portfolio through acquisitions of chains like Round Table Pizza and Johnny Rockets. But those deals came with a significant cost: over $1 billion in debt. While Fat was growing quickly, creating a development pipeline of 1,000 units, economic conditions soured. Consumers pulled back on spending, leading t ...

Core Viewpoint - FAT Brands is facing significant financial challenges, leading to a potential Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing to restructure its debt and improve its financial situation [1][2][5]. Financial Situation - The company has been in discussions with note holders for 18 months to two years regarding debt restructuring, but negotiations have not been productive [2]. - FAT Brands reported an outstanding debt of approximately $158.9 million under the FB Resid Notes, with a net amount of $110 million [3]. - The total debt of FAT Brands is estimated to be between $1.5 billion and $1.58 billion, primarily due to leveraged acquisitions and financing strategies [7][8]. Bankruptcy Filing - FAT Brands filed for voluntary Chapter 11 bankruptcy in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas on January 26, 2026 [5][7]. - The Chapter 11 process aims to deleverage the balance sheet, enhance the capital structure, and maximize stakeholder value while maintaining operations at over 2,200 locations worldwide [6][7]. - The company's securities will continue to trade on NASDAQ with a "Q" suffix during the bankruptcy proceedings [6][7]. Operational Impact - Despite the bankruptcy filing, FAT Brands plans to keep its restaurant brands, including Fatburger and Johnny Rockets, operational during the restructuring process [6][7].

Core Viewpoint - FAT Brands has filed for voluntary Chapter 11 bankruptcy to restructure its debt and capital structure, aiming to enhance stakeholder value and support brand growth [1][2]. Group 1: Bankruptcy Filing Details - The filing follows FAT Brands' missed interest payments on its $1.2 billion debt, as reported by Bloomberg [2]. - Court documents indicate that FAT Brands has assets and liabilities both estimated between $1 billion and $10 billion [2]. - The company operates as a global franchising entity with a portfolio of 18 restaurant brands and over 2,200 locations worldwide [2]. Group 2: Operations During Bankruptcy - Key restaurant brands such as Fatburger, Johnny Rockets, and Round Table Pizza are expected to continue operations throughout the Chapter 11 process [3]. - Trading of FAT Brands' securities on NASDAQ is anticipated to continue with a "Q" suffix during the bankruptcy proceedings [3]. Group 3: Leadership and Strategic Intent - CEO Andy Wiederhorn stated that the Chapter 11 process will allow the company to strengthen its capital structure and maintain its competitive position [4]. - The company plans to engage with stakeholders to develop a value-maximizing plan while protecting their interests [4]. - Wiederhorn returned as CEO in September 2025 after previously resigning in May 2023 amid a federal investigation, which was later dismissed [5].

Core Insights - Saks Global's bankruptcy in early 2026 was primarily driven by low inventory due to unpaid invoices and poor communication with vendors [1] - The company's restructuring efforts hinge on maintaining relationships with key wholesale merchandise vendors, which are essential for its curated retail model [2][3] Group 1: Bankruptcy and Restructuring - Saks Global filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, with the Chief Restructuring Officer emphasizing the importance of a curated assortment of merchandise for income generation [2] - The new CEO, Geoffroy van Raemdonck, is actively engaging with suppliers to restore relationships and ensure the flow of goods, highlighting the bankruptcy process as a potential benefit [3] - Experts suggest that while new leadership may improve confidence, the bankruptcy process will dictate the treatment of pre-petition claims, making recovery a lengthy process [4][6] Group 2: Vendor Relationships - Smaller vendors have expressed cautious optimism regarding payment of past-due invoices, although many have previously reported significant unpaid amounts [5] - The payment of these invoices is ultimately governed by the Chapter 11 process, which may favor larger companies over smaller vendors [6]

Core Viewpoint - A U.S. bankruptcy judge has approved a $400 million financing deal for Saks Global Enterprises to support its operations during Chapter 11 bankruptcy, despite opposition from Amazon and other creditors [1][2]. Financing and Bankruptcy Proceedings - Judge Alfredo Perez approved the initial $400 million financing after a lengthy courtroom battle lasting 7.5 hours, with Saks seeking a total of $1.75 billion to remain operational [2]. - Further approvals will be required from the U.S. District & Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas for the complete financing plan [2]. Opposition from Creditors - Amazon and other creditors have expressed objections to the proposed financing plan, citing concerns over Saks' financial management and the potential impact on their investments [3][6]. - Amazon previously invested $475 million in preferred equity to assist Saks in acquiring Neiman Marcus for $2.65 billion, but now claims that this investment is effectively worthless due to Saks' failure to meet agreed terms [4]. Financial Performance and Obligations - Saks has reportedly failed to meet its financial targets, burning through hundreds of millions of dollars within a year and accumulating significant unpaid invoices to retail partners [5]. - Amazon's legal representatives argue that the new restructuring plan increases Saks' debt burden, further jeopardizing the investments of Amazon and other creditors [6].

Core Viewpoint - STG Logistics has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy to restructure and reduce its debt by nearly $1 billion, entering into a restructuring support agreement with lenders that eliminates approximately 91% of its debt and provides $150 million in new debtor-in-possession financing [1][2]. Group 1: Bankruptcy Filing and Restructuring - The company filed for Chapter 11 in a New Jersey bankruptcy court, aiming to reduce its debt load by approximately $952 million [1]. - STG intends to utilize the new capital to support core business operations during the Chapter 11 process and expects to exit bankruptcy in five months [2]. Group 2: Ownership Changes and Management Statements - The debt-for-equity swap will lead to new ownership by private equity firms Antares Capital, Fortress Investment Group, and Invesco, who will exchange their debt claims for stakes in the business post-bankruptcy [3]. - The CEO of STG Logistics stated that it is "business as usual" and that the restructuring will not impact service levels for customers, vendors, and partners [3]. Group 3: Operational Continuity - All facilities remain open and operational, with day-to-day roles, responsibilities, and wages unchanged, allowing STG to continue booking, scheduling, and fulfilling shipments [4]. - The company has filed "first day" motions to ensure continued payment of employee wages and benefits, maintain customer programs, and execute ordinary business functions [4].