For four decades, Hooters has been one of the most recognizable and successful restaurant chains in the world…and for good reason, obviously.
Their menu is full of delicious food such as hot wings and cold beer, but they are also known for their famous Hooter Girls.
Recently, the company decided to make some changes to the iconic uniforms that the Hooter Girls wear.
Unfortunately, this decision was not met with open arms by both employees and customers alike.
The response from both employees and the public has been alarming, thus forcing Hooters to rethink their strategy.
The classic Hooter Girl outfit typically consists of a tight-fitting t-shirt or halter top with equally tight booty shorts.
However, new uniforms look more like underwear than shorts – which has caused quite an uproar among staff members via social media outlets.
In response to this outcry, Hooters amended its uniform policy by allowing employees to choose between wearing either the original longer shorts or the more risqué booty shorts.
According to a spokesperson for Hooters of America, “As we continue to listen and update the image of the Hooters Girls, we are clarifying that they have the option to choose from traditional uniforms or the new ones…They can determine which style of shorts best fits their body style and personal image”.
Furthermore, an email sent out by management stated that those who do not agree with these changes should submit their resignation letters if necessary.
Hooters also claims that they received positive feedback on these updates in restaurants located in Texas– indicating that uniform changes were made collaboratively with employees’ input included.
In addition, they mentioned future clothing items and accessories being taken into consideration as well as updated hairstyle policies (including tattoos) in order maintain an accommodating image for all employees across all locations worldwide.
A statement released by Hooters of America expressed appreciation for all “positive and negative feedback regarding a more inclusive image policy…as well as new uniforms – to include new top styles, shorts…addition of socks” hoping customers will be accepting during this transition period as well.
It is clear how much controversy this decision has sparked among current employees however, opinions from customers may differ altogether given how popular this chain restaurant is due its suggestive appearance since its inception.
‘AWM’ added:
Hooters recently changed their uniforms to make them skimpier and tighter, which has many employees – and customers – upset about the change. Servers claim that they now have to wear booty-style underwear that resembles a thong, and women are comparing the shorts to a “pornographic” style.
Hooters of America operates more than 420 franchise locations across 42 states and 29 countries. Servers at these establishments will be showing off their booties in the new short shorts. However, twenty-five other Hooters restaurants owned by the Original Hooters Group did not participate in the uniform change, although they require servers to wear similar uniforms.
It will be interesting to see what other reactions arise…in the meantime, are you yay or nay to this uniform change?