Ashley’s Closes Cape Town Branches Amid Taxi Violence, Prioritizes Staff Safety
Ashley’s, a popular Cape Town restaurant known for its pizzas and grills, has temporarily closed its Goodwood and Kraaifontein branches due to ongoing taxi violence. “It is with a heavy heart that we announce our decision to temporarily close Ashley’s Family Restaurant due to the ongoing taxi-related violence affecting our communities across Cape Town,” management stated in a Facebook post, emphasizing staff safety over business operations.
Users praise employee welfare despite financial concerns
Online users praised Ashley’s for prioritizing employee welfare, with one commenter calling the decision “commendable” and noting, “This is not just a family restaurant, but a REAL FAMILY.” However, some expressed concern about the financial strain on staff. “Respect to you… But financially, how will these families manage?” a user asked, highlighting the broader economic challenges faced by families who already face many financial struggles.
The closures follow a 48-hour surge in taxi-related violence, including shootings at the Palm taxi rank in Delft on October 28, 2026. The incident left at least two people injured and intensified fears among commuters. City officials, including Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis, have called for increased policing and established a 24-hour anonymous tip line to address the unrest.
Staff Safety Triggers Branch Closures
The decision to close the restaurants came as taxi ranks across Cape Town remained empty due to route disputes and shootings. Ashley’s management cited the risks faced by employees, stating, “Every member of our team deserves to travel to work safely and, more importantly, return home safely to the people who love them.” The statement emphasized the emotional and practical stakes of the closure, with management acknowledging the “heavy heart” behind the decision.
The violence has disrupted public transport. Meanwhile, SAPS is investigating attempted murder cases in Delft as of October 28.
Ashley's awaits stable conditions to reopen
Ashley’s has not yet announced a reopening date, stating it will “continue to monitor the situation and communicate updates through its official Facebook page.” The restaurant’s decision has sparked broader conversations about corporate responsibility during crises. “May all employers learn from you,” one commenter wrote, reflecting a growing expectation for businesses to prioritize human welfare over profit in volatile environments.
City officials remain focused on stabilizing the taxi sector, with Public Order Police and Metro Police deployed to high-risk areas.
Why did Ashley's close its branches?
Why did Ashley’s close its branches?
Ashley’s cited ongoing taxi violence and public transport disruptions as the primary reasons for the closure, emphasizing the need to protect staff safety. The decision followed a spate of shootings linked to route conflicts in Cape Town, including an incident at the Palm taxi rank on October 28, 2026.
How are staff affected financially?
The restaurant has not provided details on financial support for employees during the closure. One user asked, “How will these families manage?”
What is the city doing to address the violence?
Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis has pledged full policing support to SAPS, with Public Order Police deployed to high-risk transit hubs. A 24-hour anonymous tip line was also established to gather information on perpetrators.
Ashley's operates branches in Goodwood and Kraaifontein
Ashley’s is a popular family restaurant in Cape Town with branches in Goodwood and Kraaifontein.
Pro Tips
Staying informed through official channels, such as Ashley’s Facebook page or city announcements, can help mitigate risks during ongoing unrest.
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