Roughly 50 people found out this week that their place of employment is shutting its doors.

Tom Vlahoski, manager of Shoney’s in Gardendale, said he and the restaurant’s 45 to 50 other employees found out on Thursday that the business is closing on Sunday.

Shoney’s is at least the third Gardendale business to close in recent weeks. G’Daddy’s Burgers and Treats closed on Oct. 30 and Magnolia Cleaners closed about two weeks ago.

A tearful Vlahoski said the company would do everything it can to help employees find jobs.

“We’re going to do our best. We will speak to local businesses,” he said. “We will take care of our employees as best we can.”

Vlahoski has been with the company for six years and at the Gardendale store for three years.

Franchise owner Rory Smith was unavailable for comment by press time Friday.

Vlahoski said the restaurant is like his home. He thanks the customers who have been loyal throughout the years. “I’ve appreciated their business. I’ve enjoyed serving them every day I’ve been here,” he said.