Two of Columbus’ Zoup! locations have closed their doors as of today, Friday, January 27.
Co-Owner Tom Dailey shared more about the decision to close Zoup! Capitol Square, 41 S. High St., and Zoup! Tuttle Crossing, 4971 Tuttle Crossing Blvd.
“Zoup Capitol Square has been greatly affected by the expansion of work-from-home and hybrid employment practices and three years of pandemic-related impacts,” Dailey said. “Many major downtown office towers remain less than 50% employee-occupied, and as low as 20% daily employee presence in large downtown State of Ohio facilities and departments.”
The absence of daily workers has also impacted catering orders.
Dailey said there have been similar impacts at the Tuttle location, in addition to a downturn in mall traffic.
“We’ve tried many potential solutions including sales promotions, expanded delivery options, changes in operating hours and menu expansions,” he shared. “Many of these initiatives produced positive results, but were insufficient to overcome the larger challenges mentioned above.”
Dailey and fellow Co-Owner Sung Jin Pak will continue to operate the Zoup! locations in the Arena District, 155 W. Nationwide Blvd., and at Lennox, 1543 Lennox Town Lane. The pair’s other brand, Tasty Dawg, will also remain open at 107 S. High St. Downtown.
And with a closure that’s several months out is long-running 94th Aero Squadron Restaurant. The aviation-themed eatery will take its last flight on Sunday, June 18.
“Our lease is ending at that time and we have decided to explore other opportunities,” the restaurant posted on its website.
Situated at the end of CMH’s runway, the restaurant has a decades-long history in Columbus. They’ve adjusted their hours in the months leading up to the closure, but will continue to host events like their Friday Night Dance Parties.
“Please know this decision came with a great deal of thought (and tears),” the post continued. “We have loved our time at the 94th Aero Squadron and so appreciate each and every customer and staff member that we have had the privilege of knowing over the past 30 years.”
For more information, visit zoup.com and the94thaerocolumbus.com.