Bluegrass Hospitality Group reaches settlement in class action lawsuit

Kentucky-based Bluegrass Hospitality Group recently reached a settlement in a class action lawsuit, agreeing to pay $9 million to current and former employees. This settlement comes after allegations that employees were not adequately compensated for their work, particularly for tasks like janitorial duties, cleaning, dishwashing, cooking, food preparation, and other non-tip-producing work.

Bluegrass Hospitality Group, which operates popular restaurants in Lexington such as Drake’s and Malone’s, emphasized its commitment to providing a positive workplace environment where team members are treated like family. The company stated that their organization’s foundation is built on caring for employees, treating them fairly, and compensating them appropriately. The decision to settle the lawsuit was made to allow the team to move forward while maintaining a focus on creating a positive environment for both employees and guests.

One individual, Keaton Sant, who worked at a Lexington Drake’s for almost three years, shared her experiences that resonated with the claims made in the lawsuit. Sant reflected on the challenges she faced in the restaurant industry, recognizing that her work conditions were demanding and that she was not receiving adequate breaks. She highlighted the disparity in hourly wages, noting that employees were paid just $2.13 an hour, which she likened to paying family members the bare minimum.

While Sant was not among the listed plaintiffs in the class action suit, she filed for compensation as part of the settlement that includes employees who worked in Kentucky between April 22, 2019, and November 7, 2024. Her experience sheds light on the difficulties faced by restaurant workers in terms of fair compensation and appropriate treatment in the workplace.

The settlement reached by Bluegrass Hospitality Group serves as a reminder of the importance of fair labor practices and equitable treatment of employees. It underscores the need for employers to prioritize the well-being of their workforce and ensure that they are compensated fairly for their contributions. Moving forward, it is imperative for companies to uphold ethical standards and create an inclusive and supportive work environment for all employees.

In conclusion, the resolution of the class action lawsuit against Bluegrass Hospitality Group reflects a step towards addressing issues of employee compensation and fair treatment in the workplace. By acknowledging and rectifying past grievances, companies can pave the way for a more equitable and respectful work culture for their employees.