Shoney’s franchise owner Tom Lewis is closing doors on the restaurant, hopefully temporarily.
Depending on interstate traffic business and local loyal patronage, the restaurant has tried to stay afloat amid pandemic panic. But few out-of-town travelers are willing to risk entering an unfamiliar establishment in a different town or state and lingering and eating there. Instead they are choosing fast food drive-throughs.
Another issue is that Shoney’s diners tend to be older or those with families. Senior individuals are doing what they can to protect themselves and staying at home as much as possible. Families are also concerned about the potential spread of the virus and are not eating out as much. Together, these issues affect all dine-in restaurants, and Walterboro’s beloved Shoney’s as well.
Recently, Lewis hired J.R. Tiger, a chef who appeared on the television reality show “Chopped” and won the show’s championship. Tiger, an extremely talented and personable character, was hired as manager. He had great hopes that he could help Tom recoup losses generated by the virus. But every time Tiger made a little progress, COVID would interfere and cause diners to stay away. Lewis said they were losing ground badly.
“I am not even clearing half of what is needed to pay employees,” said Lewis, and his first concern was for his workers. “I just want to know that they are taken care of,” said Lewis.
He hopes that this situation is only temporary.
“I hope to perhaps reopen in the fall, when things have settled down,” said Lewis. “I wish things were different,” said Lewis. “It’s hard to work your whole life and then in a short time lose it all.”
