They've lost control of their Franchise and Brand
Pros
I loved my co-workers! Because it was such a revolving door, I had the opportunity to meet tons of smart, talented, and interesting people. Although we were taken advantage of and cheated out of our hard-earned money, we stuck together and tried to remain loyal and positive. There were a few corporate-appointed managers that came in and out of our doors that truly cared about adhering to the Trader Vic's brand and that gave me hope that my particular location would survive, but they were short-lived. I fell in love with Trader Vic's years ago because no matter where you went in the world, I could order the same Mai Tai that brought up happy memories of my childhood.
Cons
The owners of the Trader Vic's Los Angeles at LA Live are a bunch of crooks. They opened their franchise in May 2009 and it closed abruptly in March 2014. I worked there the entire time and I witnessed stealing, lies, and cheating. They cut corners in order to put more money into their own pockets and remain above water. Employees were never offered any benefits or insurance and they got around that by cutting hours or letting people go. They altered the menu and traditional drinks (generic rum and no Mai Tai concentrate for the last 2 years I worked there) to suit the demographics of the location and that hurt the Trader Vic's brand that people loved and cherished for over 75 years. It was sad to see such an iconic place sink at the hands of these individuals. I blame corporate for not keeping a closer eye on these people. I woke up one day without a job after giving my time and service for 5 years. It's unfair and very unfortunate. Generations today will not be able to appreciate what Trader Vic's really is because of this franchise location and it's owners.