"The end of an era" - 7 Food Franchises That No Longer Exist in Malaysia

Below, we've compiled a list of food franchises that were once popular but no longer exist in Malaysia.

1. Wendy's

Wendy's was such a huge hit when it first opened back in 2008. Some of their famous menu items include the iconic Frosty dessert, chilli, and the Mushroom Melt Burger.

The fast food franchise started closing its outlets one by one in 2019. Although the real reason behind its closure was undetermined, it is said that one of the reasons for its permanent closure was because the Berjaya Group decided to not renew its franchise license.

2. Shakey's

Way before Pizza Hut made its debut in the country, Shakey's opened its first outlet in Malaysia in 1978. Aside from its pizza with generous toppings, their mojo potatoes were also a huge hit among the crowd.

The franchise lasted quite a while in the country, but in 2005, it is reported that 21 Shakey's outlets in Malaysia were converted into Domino’s Pizza following a partnership agreement.

The last Shakey's outlet (presumably in Summit, USJ) closed its doors for good in 2009.

3. White Castle

Back then, White Castle could be found along Jalan Chow Kit in Kuala Lumpur, Aeon Taman Maluri, and in Melaka. Generally regarded as the world's oldest hamburger chain, White Castle was distinctive for its small and square hamburgers called ‘sliders.’.

It is unclear where the last White Castle outlet is or when it was closed, but some people speculated that the chain's brief stint in the country was because Malaysians may prefer larger burgers.

4. Grandy's

Grandy’s was among the first American fast food chains to enter the Malaysian market. It offers unique Southern-style cuisine like fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and boiled corn.

The franchise’s first outlet in the country was at Subang Parade in 1988. Around the turn of the millennium, Grandy's had slowly disappeared from Malaysia, but the real reason behind its closure was not revealed to the public.

5. Hartz Chicken Buffet

This American brand was introduced to Malaysia in the mid-1990s. The restaurant boasted an all-you-can-eat concept for a flat rate of RM15 when they first opened, and customers could help themselves to a variety of chicken: fried, roasted, grilled, and more.

However, the quality of food and service started to decline, leading the franchise to close its last branch in Sunway Pyramid somewhere in 2013/2014.

Despite its full closure in West Malaysia, Hartz Chicken Buffet can still be found in Kuching.

6. Bubba Gump Shrimp

Inspired by the 1994 classic movie ‘Forrest Gump,’ this American restaurant chain entered the Malaysian market in 2008. It served a variety of American seafood that is often influenced by Cajun cuisine.

Back then, Bubba Gump was found in three locations throughout Klang Valley: one at The Curve, another at Citta Mall, and the third in Sunway Pyramid.

All three of the outlets were reportedly closed down by September 2018. Although it was never confirmed what was the actual reason for the closure, it is likely that Bubba Gump closed down due to poor business performance.

7. Papa John's

When it comes to pizza, the first things that come to mind for many Malaysians are Domino's and Pizza Hut. But once upon a time, Papa John's was also another option to consider if you're looking to try some good pizzas.