Mexican chain Guzman y Gomez suddenly closes all restaurants in Lake, McHenry counties and surrounding area
Lake and McHenry County Scanner • • business
Key Points:
- Guzman y Gomez, an Australian-based Mexican fast food chain, has abruptly closed all its restaurants in Lake and McHenry counties, exiting the Chicago market after six years.
- The company announced on May 22 that all GYG USA locations would cease trading, marking the end of their U.S. operations which began in 2020 with a Naperville location.
- Expansion efforts included opening multiple restaurants across Chicagoland, but the chain cited challenges such as Chicago's snowy weather and a drive-thru focused strategy that did not succeed.
- Founder Steven Marks reflected that key strategic decisions, including market choice and entry method, contributed to the unsuccessful U.S. venture.
- Guzman y Gomez encouraged former employees and customers to visit their locations in Australia, Singapore, or Japan, where the brand continues to operate.