A well-known chain of restaurants has ceased operations after two decades, closing all its branches in the UK. Ping Pong, a Chinese dim sum restaurant founded in 2005 by Kurt Zdesar, made the announcement on Instagram, confirming the permanent closure of all its locations.
Expressing gratitude for the support received over the years, Ping Pong acknowledged the memories created by customers during dim sum dates, happy hours, and other occasions. The closure has left loyal diners devastated, with many taking to social media to share their sadness and fond memories of the restaurant.
Last year, Ping Pong faced criticism for replacing its service charge with a discretionary 15% “brand charge” to cover franchise fees and other expenses. This move was attributed to impending legislation prohibiting employers from withholding service charges from staff, amidst rising inflation and energy costs impacting businesses.
With reported trading losses of £1.4 million in the year ending March 2020, Ping Pong CEO Art Sagiryan highlighted the challenges faced by the industry, hinting at potential changes in pricing strategies post-closure.
Following Ping Pong’s closure, Browns, a chain of brasseries and bars, recently shuttered its inaugural branch in Brighton. Known for its traditional British fare and signature offerings like breakfasts, lunches, and Sunday roasts, Browns has a network of 26 establishments across the UK, including locations in London, Bristol, and Cambridge.