KINGSTON, Jamaica — Birdshack has pulled the plug on its Red Hills Road location, marking an abrupt end to what was hoped to be a flagship move into the Kingston fried chicken scene.
The closure, effective Saturday, July 19, 2025, comes just shy of the store’s one-year anniversary. Though no official reason was given, the move signals a reassessment by Arya Resort Management Group, the brand’s operator, of where it wants to plant its next urban flag.
Industry watchers noted the chain’s ambitious placement on a stretch notorious for heavyweights like KFC and Popeyes, in addition to a loyal local fanbase for pan chicken vendors. While Birdshack’s menu gained modest traction, logistical oversights — namely cramped parking and the absence of a drive-thru — dampened momentum early.
In a short statement, Arya’s CEO Wayne Cummings thanked patrons for their support and hinted at a renewed push to secure a more viable Kingston address. For now, the brand will continue to serve patrons from its coastal locations in Montego Bay and Ocho Rios.
The exit underscores how even well-funded franchises must do more than show up — they must solve for convenience, culture, and competitive pressure. In Kingston’s fast-food battlefield, real estate is not just about location, but leverage.
