Workers at Georgie Pie were shocked by the decision to close, as expansion plans, customer loyalty and sales figures indicated business was booming. There was speculation that Progressive received a massive buyout offer from McDonalds that shareholders felt was too good to turn down - and rather than face a PR backlash, workers and the public were "fed" a lie.[failed verification]Adams, Christopher (22 July 2011). "Georgie Pie revival hopes kept alive". The New Zealand Herald.