The closure leaves customers disappointed as franchise holder faces administration.

Topics covered
In a surprising turn of events, the Itsu branch in Aberdeen has closed its doors this afternoon, leaving many customers disappointed and confused. The abrupt closure follows reports that the franchise holder, HeartWithSmart Ltd, has entered administration, raising concerns about the future of this popular Asia-inspired dining spot.
Customer disappointment and confusion
As the clock struck noon, eager patrons arrived at the Itsu restaurant, only to find the doors locked and a printed notice affixed to the entrance. The message, which expressed apologies for the inconvenience, indicated that the restaurant would be closed while “things were sorted out.” It offered a glimmer of hope by stating that the establishment would “hopefully re-open soon,” although no specific timeline was provided.
The notice read: “Dear customers, the Itsu here in Aberdeen is closed and will hopefully re-open soon. We are so sorry for the inconvenience.” This unexpected closure has left many fans of the restaurant feeling let down, as they had been looking forward to enjoying their favorite dishes.
Franchise holder in administration
According to staff members at the Union Square location, the franchise holder, HeartWithSmart Ltd, has indeed entered administration. While this information has yet to be officially confirmed, the company’s website is currently inaccessible, and its LinkedIn page has been removed, further fueling speculation about the franchise’s stability.
HeartWithSmart Ltd, which markets itself as “the UK’s leading hospitality franchise partner,” operates a range of restaurants, including Pizza Hut and Itsu outlets. The closure of the Aberdeen branch raises questions about the future of other Itsu locations under the same franchise.
What’s next for Itsu in Aberdeen?
As customers await updates, the message on the door reassured them that staff members were still present inside the restaurant, despite the locked doors. The uncertainty surrounding the franchise’s administration process has left many wondering whether the Aberdeen Itsu will reopen or if it will join the ranks of other establishments that have faced similar fates.
For now, the community is left in limbo, hoping for a swift resolution that will allow the beloved restaurant to resume operations. Updates are expected to be posted on Itsu’s official website, where customers can stay informed about the situation.
As the hospitality industry continues to navigate challenges, the fate of Itsu in Aberdeen serves as a reminder of the fragility of restaurant franchises and the impact of administrative issues on local businesses.