Mancunians have shared their views after controversial restaurant Hooters was given the go ahead to open in Salford following complex negotiations with the building’s landlord.
The chain, which was founded in the US in the 80s, made its way to Liverpool last year will be opening its doors in Salford later this year.
Whilst the license for Hooters was granted last June by Salford City Council, there were 91 objections, including from Salford’s own Mayor Paul Dennett, Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham and Salford MPs Rebecca Long-Bailey and Barbara Keeley.
Mancunian Matters spoke to some Manchester locals to see their take on the chain – branded “sexist” by one feminist group for the waitresses’ scantily-clad outfits – coming to the city.
“Hooters is a sexist restaurant, which uses the objectification of women as its selling point,” said a spokeswoman from feminism society Womenchester.
“It is an outdated brand, viewing women as objects to sell food and drink and is no longer acceptable in 2022.
“In the wake of #MeToo and the fight against casual sexism, the idea of objectifying women as a marketing tool is no longer acceptable.
“Woman’s Place UK have quite rightly asked why would any city want to associate themselves with the outdated image of skimpily clad, objectified women serving a mostly male customer base.”
Lawyer Tom Farr agrees with this view.
“I am appalled to see that the council has agreed to open a Hooters restaurant in Salford,” he said.
“Time after time, I have seen the impact that the normalisation of the sexual objectification of women in one environment has on how men go on to treat women in another.
“Greater Manchester cannot say they are committed to tackling male violence against women and girls, and wider misogyny if they are complicit in the establishment of environments that normalise and encourage such objectification.”
Bartender Rosie Rayworth agreed, saying: “I think Hooters promotes misogyny and definitely objectifies women.
“Some women who go to work there may find it empowering which is completely up to them, but if you ask me, the men that are going there will not be visiting to promise female empowerment.
“I personally think it is a step in the wrong direction for feminism.”
Hooters’ reputation comes from their workers uniforms entailing skimpy shorts – but not all are against the chain.
Jack Potter, 23, from St Anne’s, said: “It’s all just a bit of fun, I don’t understand why people take it so seriously.
“They get paid well and are happy to be there, they’re not being forced against their will.
“I think Hooters will make a great addition to Salford and I can’t wait to visit.”
Despite controversy over the skimpy uniform, manager of the Nottingham branch Olivia Wright labelled it as ‘iconic’ and believes it can have a positive impact on those who wear it.
She said: “Everyone is different and feels differently.
“I feel the uniform is amazing and body confident. It makes women feel amazing and empowered.”
Whilst the opening date is unknown, the restaurant located on Salford Quays will open from 9am-1pm seven days a week.
Hooters has been approached for comment but did not respond.
