Summary
Ray Ray's, a barbecue chain in Ohio, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on December 19, 2025, and closed nearly half its locations due to rising meat costs. The chain, like others in the industry, is affected by increasing beef prices caused by reduced cattle supply and limited beef imports. The company plans to focus on its remaining locations in Ohio.
Key Facts
- Ray Ray's filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on December 19, 2025.
- The company closed three Ohio locations: Johnstown, Marion, and Linworth.
- Rising beef costs are due to reduced cattle supply and limited imports.
- Ground beef prices increased by 13% in August 2025 compared to the previous year.
- Steak prices increased by 16.6%, and minced beef by 12.8% year-over-year.
- Ray Ray's will continue operating four locations in Clintonville, Franklinton, Westerville, and Granville.
- The financial difficulties facing Ray Ray's are similar to those of other barbecue chains, which have also filed for bankruptcy.
