PappaRich Brisbane franchise goes into liquidation

A dispute between an ex-franchisee and head office over the running of the business has led to the shutdown of a popular Malaysian restaurant in the location formerly known as Garden City.

PappaRich will close its Westfield Mt Gravatt doors, putting its future in doubt. The restaurant shut on June 26 and went into liquidation the following day.

A company spokeswoman dismissed customer concerns that the venue had shut down for good, while saying head office was not happy with how the franchise had been run.

“We understand the disappointment this may cause to our valued customers, and we apologise for any inconvenience caused,” she said.

“However, we want to assure you that we are actively engaged in discussions with the franchisee, the landlord, and all relevant parties to address the situation and find a resolution. Our primary goal is to resume operations as soon as possible and continue providing our locals in Garden City with the delicious and authentic Malaysian cuisine they have come to love.

“We deeply value the support and loyalty of our customers, and we are committed to upholding the high standards that have made PappaRich a trusted name in the food industry. We will spare no effort in working towards a swift resolution and reopening the Garden City store.”

The former franchisee who took over the business in 2022, said the structure of the business was not viable for it to continue.

“The prices are too low and the costs are too high,” he said.

“I put all my savings into it and was ready to put the rest of my life into it and now it’s gone into liquidation.”

“I don’t know what I am going to do now.”

PappaRich is a popular chain, with 34 restaurants across Australia.

Jonathan Jackson, 3^rd July 2023