Several Applebee’s restaurants across the Kansas City metro area abruptly closed this week, leaving many employees shocked to find their workplaces shuttered Wednesday morning.

Applebee’s officials confirmed the closure of eight locations in Kansas City, attributing it to financial challenges faced by an independent franchisee.

“Applebee’s restaurants are independently owned and operated by franchisees. The closure of eight restaurants in the Kansas City market looks to be the result of financial circumstances and decisions made by the franchisee,” said Applebee’s President Tony Moralejo.

He added, “This situation is unfortunate, and we continue to believe the Kansas City area is a great neighborhood for Applebee’s restaurants.”

While the company typically refrains from publicly addressing individual franchisees, Applebee’s representatives noted this particular franchisee has had a history of issues with the brand, affecting its standing in the Kansas City market.

Only two Applebee’s locations, in Blue Springs and Gladstone, remain open to serve customers in the Kansas City area.