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Just weeks after closing three locations across the Philadelphia region, Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant abruptly shut down its remaining 16 outposts.

In a Sept. 25 social media post, the Exton, Pa.-based chain did not explain why the restaurants went dark, but thanked customers for their “support, friendship and loyalty over the years” and said that it hopes “to return in the future.”

A spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for more information; however, The Delaware News Journal and USA Today reported Iron Hill filed for bankruptcy due to “ongoing financial challenges.”

Founded in 1996, Iron Hill became one of the most well-known restaurant and craft brewery concepts in the U.S. Its footprint included Delaware, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, South Carolina and Georgia, USA Today noted.

Earlier this month, the business closed sites in Voorhees as well as in Newark, Del., and Philadelphia as part of “ongoing efforts to adapt to a changing business landscape,” Iron Hill said at the time. After that, Iron Hill had one restaurant left in New Jersey – Maple Shade.

Iron Hill CEO Mark Kirke described that decision as difficult but that it was part of “a larger growth story.”

“We are evolving, strengthening our brand, and positioning Iron Hill for long-term success,” he said in a Sept. 10 statement.

Kirke, a restaurant industry veteran, took the helm of Iron Hill about eight months ago. He succeeded Chris Westcott, who served as CEO since late 2021.