Same desk rule help requested

[Guest boberlander]

The Eye, Nose & Throat LLC disolves, and three new business: Eye LLC, Nose LLC and Throat LLC are started. All of the employees from the original company perform their same functions at their respective brand new companies. There is no sale of assets. The 401(k) Plan from the original employer is terminated.

Are the employees of the original employer subject to the same desk rule?

Are the new employers restricted from beginning their own 401(k) plans (successor plans)?

Any guidance is appreciated.