Copyright AL.com
The co-developer of a prominent downtown Birmingham property says he hopes to fill the vacancy left by the departure of a national franchise quickly. Developer Dick Schmalz of RGS Properties said the decision by Outback Steakhouse to leave the 20 Midtown development at 20th Street South was not specific to Birmingham. The restaurant, along with Outback’s Inverness location on U.S. 280., closed Sunday, as well as other Outback restaurants in six states, according to Restaurant Business Online. Two Outback locations, in Hoover and Fultondale, remain open, as well as another 12 throughout Alabama. The closing was unusual, as Outback opened the 20 Midtown location early last year. However, an Outback Steakhouse in Silver Spring, Md. closed this week only 17 months after it opened. “Closing a restaurant is never easy,” a company statement released on Monday stated. “This was a business decision that is not a reflection of the management or staff. Some employees will have the opportunity to transfer, and all will receive a transition bonus. We appreciate the community’s support over the years and look forward to serving them at our Fultondale and Hoover restaurants.” Outback signed a 10-year lease with 20 Midtown, according to Schmalz, and has committed to continue paying rent and maintaining the property until it is once again under lease. Marketing materials are being prepared for the site. “We look forward to getting the space refilled as soon as possible,” he said. Outback occupied a 6,650-foot space at the development. Any other restaurant tenant would have to prove a good mix with the existing commercial tenants, which include Milo’s, Panda Express, Toasted Yolk, Cava and Chipotle, as well as Publix. “The rest of the development remains healthy,” Schmalz said.
