Overview
- Superior Star filed for Chapter 11 on July 9 and told the court it plans to continue operating while it pursues a reorganization that covers roughly $80 million in 2025 revenue and estimates $10 million to $50 million in assets and liabilities.
- The company says its distress began after it bought a portfolio from StarCorp in 2023, discovering millions in deferred maintenance, repair costs, unpaid taxes and other liabilities that were not disclosed before the sale.
- Superior Star closed about 30 underperforming locations in November–December 2025 and shrank from roughly 93 restaurants in January 2024 to 59 now, while continuing to pay rent on some shuttered sites and accumulating significant 'dark site' costs.
- Court filings list major unsecured claims including a disputed $7.04 million seller note to StarCorp and obligations to McLane Foodservice, landlords, royalty holders and other creditors, and they say state tax levies on bank accounts were the immediate trigger for the bankruptcy.
- Hardee’s parent acknowledged the voluntary filing and said it is focused on system stability, but outcomes for leases, further closures, creditor recoveries, or brand intervention remain uncertain given recent franchisee failures such as ARC Burger’s shutdowns and liquidation.