Under what condition can a restaurant close before the actual closing time?

A restaurant can close before the actual closing time with ARL approval, as this indicates that there is a formal process in place that ensures all necessary protocols and standards are followed. The ARL, or Area Regional Leader, typically has managerial authority and oversight over multiple locations, which allows them to make such decisions based on operational needs, customer volume, and staffing levels.

While employee consensus, non-peak hours, and customer agreement may seem like reasonable considerations, they do not carry the same level of authority or accountability. Employees may not have the final say in the operational aspects of closing early, and customer requests do not override the policies or managerial duties that include maintaining standards of service and profitability. Therefore, the necessity of obtaining approval from the ARL reflects the importance of maintaining proper management practices within the restaurant.