By now, you’ve probably heard about this ‘disgraceful’ brand checking out sites in Manchester. You’ve probably heard the moaning. The scathing remarks… What is it that really upsets you all so much? Have you ever visited a Hooters? Is it the outfits, the food, or maybe that it’s just American?
Since Hooter’s original site opened in Clearwater, Florida in 1983 it has grown into a world wide enterprise. The company is said to be worth £1billion with over 460 sites in over 25 countries – the Nottingham location is amongst the 15 most profitable across the globe! Why wouldn’t they want to open in Manchester?
Referred to by some as a ‘retro-sexist establishment’, Hooters have had their share of issues with feminist groups across the UK, so much that the Bristol site ended up closing down after just over a year. We all know that sex sells. The fashion, beauty, alcohol and car industries use sexual innuendoes to promote themselves on a regular basis. Ever notice the ceiling in the men’s toilets at Socio Rehab? Covered in porn. The iconic Almost Famous advertisements of a ‘hot’ girl ripping into a dirty burger… Is this not the same thing?
The Hooter’s uniform is part of a brand which represents their theme, an American theme. No different than walking into an Indian restaurant with all indian staff or the recently opened Fumo, who seem to only have hired good-looking Italians. The theme of Hooters is American Sports Bar so hiring girls that look like cheerleaders seems to me like they are only trying to ‘complete the experience’. An experience that starts with the ‘Hooters Girls’, the food, and the decor. And as far as the food goes, it’s amazing! Hot wings, ribs and a damn good burger -proper American bar food which honestly, is something Manchester’s missing.
All in all, we’re pretty excited about the possibility of Hooters coming to Manchester. What are your thoughts?