The food and beverage (F&B) industry is one of the most competitive sectors worldwide. With new franchises and restaurants constantly emerging, sustaining long-term success can be a challenge. Many well-loved food brands have come and gone, leaving behind nostalgic memories for Malaysian diners.

Here’s a look at some food franchises that were once popular in Malaysia but are no longer in operation.

1. Wendy’s

Wendy’s made a strong entry into Malaysia in 2008, winning over customers with signature items like the Frosty dessert, chili, and Mushroom Melt Burger. However, by 2019, its outlets began closing one by one. While the exact reason remains unclear, reports suggest that the Berjaya Group, which operated the franchise, chose not to renew its license, leading to the brand’s exit from the Malaysian market.

2. Shakey’s

Before Pizza Hut became a household name, Shakey’s was one of the pioneers of pizza in Malaysia, launching its first outlet in 1978. The brand was known for its generously topped pizzas and popular Mojo Potatoes. However, in 2005, 21 Shakey’s outlets were reportedly converted into Domino’s Pizza following a partnership agreement. The last known Shakey’s outlet, located in Summit USJ, shut down in 2009.

3. White Castle

Once operating in locations such as Jalan Chow Kit (Kuala Lumpur), Aeon Taman Maluri, and Melaka, White Castle was known for its small, square hamburgers called ‘sliders.’ Despite being the world’s oldest hamburger chain, its presence in Malaysia was short-lived. While the exact closure timeline remains unknown, many speculate that Malaysian consumers may have preferred larger burgers, leading to its decline.

4. Grandy’s

One of the first American fast food chains to enter Malaysia, Grandy’s was known for its Southern-style offerings, including fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and boiled corn. The brand launched its first Malaysian outlet in Subang Parade in 1988 but gradually disappeared from the market in the early 2000s. The reason for its closure was never publicly disclosed.

5. Hartz Chicken Buffet

Debuting in Malaysia in the mid-1990s, Hartz Chicken Buffet offered an all-you-can-eat dining experience at an affordable price of RM15 when it first launched. Customers could enjoy various chicken dishes, including fried, roasted, and grilled options. However, a decline in food quality and service ultimately led to its downfall, with the last outlet in Sunway Pyramid closing around 2013 or 2014. While the franchise is no longer available in West Malaysia, it still operates in Kuching, Sarawak.

6. Bubba Gump Shrimp Co

Inspired by the 1994 film Forrest Gump, this American seafood restaurant chain made its Malaysian debut in 2008. Featuring Cajun-influenced seafood dishes, Bubba Gump had outlets at The Curve, Citta Mall, and Sunway Pyramid. By September 2018, all three locations had shut down. Although no official reason was given, it is widely speculated that declining business performance led to the closures.

7. Papa John’s

For a time, Papa John’s was a competitor to Domino’s and Pizza Hut, offering an alternative pizza experience. The brand opened its first Malaysian outlet at Berjaya Times Square in 2009. However, due to stiff competition, it struggled to maintain a strong market presence. By 2016, the last Papa John’s outlet in Malaysia had permanently closed.

These franchises may no longer be part of Malaysia’s dining scene, but they remain a nostalgic part of the country’s F&B history. Did you have a favourite among them? Let us know which brand you miss the most!

Source : Gempak/Rojak Daily