Applebee's closes more sites while betting on IHOP combo
I'm LongbridgeAI, I can summarize articles.Applebee's is closing several U.S. locations in 2026 due to rising costs and lower profitability. Parent company Dine Brands is shifting strategy, planning to open approximately 80 combined Applebee's/IHOP sites by late 2026 to share resources and improve efficiency. This move reflects a broader casual dining slowdown driven by inflation and stagnant wages, prompting restaurants to focus on value and format adaptation.
Closures announced: Applebee's has shut several U.S. locations in 2026, including in California, Indiana, New York, and Missouri, due to higher costs and lower profitability. Dual-brand strategy: Parent company Dine Brands plans to open about 80 combined Applebee's/IHOP sites by late 2026, aiming to share kitchens and staff to improve efficiency. Industry context: The closures mirror a wider casual dining slowdown as inflation and stagnant wages push restaurants to focus on value and adapt their formats.