Applebee's is closing locations across the United States as part of a strategic shift by its parent company. Owners and franchisees are adjusting menus, staffing, and marketing to align with a smaller network of restaurants.
The closures involve both underperforming markets and properties with high operating costs, reshaping the casual dining footprint for the brand in several regions.
| Restaurant | Status | Location | Closure Timeline | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Applebee's #2417 | Closing | Columbus, OH | 2024-09-30 | Underperforming sales, lease non-renewal |
| Applebee's #0831 | Closing | Phoenix, AZ | 2024-11-15 | High labor and occupancy costs |
| Applebee's #1556 | Closed | Nashville, TN | 2024-06-30 | Completed exit in June 2024 |
| Applebee's #3005 | Closing | Denver, CO | 2025-01-31 | Franchisee transition to new concept |
| Applebee's #4122 | Open | Dallas, TX | N/A | No planned closure, performance stable |
Menu Changes and Limited Time Offers
Streamlined Menu Strategy
Applebee's is paring down its menu to focus on higher-demand items and speed of service. This shift reduces complexity in the kitchen and can improve table turns in busy locations.
Promotions and Value Meals
To offset lower traffic at closing locations, the brand is offering targeted deals and bundles, often communicated through digital channels and local email campaigns.
Franchisee Impact and Transition Planning
Financial Considerations for Owners
Franchisees facing closure review lease terms, debt obligations, and transition support from corporate. Clear timelines help reduce uncertainty for operators.
Support During Closure
Corporate teams provide guidance on staffing, inventory liquidation, and staff placement to ease the transition for outgoing franchisees and managers.
Customer Service Changes During Transitions
Staffing Levels and Hours
As locations near closure, hours may shrink and staffing levels drop, affecting wait times and the availability of certain menu items.
Communication with Guests
Managers are encouraged to inform regulars about closures early, using signage, social media, and direct outreach to maintain goodwill.
Regional Trends and Market Decisions
- Closures focus on underperforming markets to strengthen the overall brand.
- Corporate analyzes traffic, competition, and operating costs before deciding on each location.
- Franchisees receive dashboards and reports to understand the drivers behind closure decisions.
- Open locations may see localized marketing campaigns to retain loyal guests in affected regions.
- Menu and pricing adjustments at remaining sites aim to capture demand from closing properties.
FAQ
Reader questions
Why are specific Applebee's locations closing now?
Closings reflect performance data, lease expirations, and corporate portfolio optimization, especially in markets with high operating costs or low traffic.
Will staff at closing locations be offered transfers?
Some employees may be offered positions at nearby open locations, though transfers are not guaranteed and depend on local staffing needs.
How can franchisees prepare for closure if they are exiting the brand?
Franchisees should work with corporate on asset disposition, lease compliance, and fulfilling any remaining contractual obligations to minimize penalties.
What happens to loyalty points and gift cards at closing locations?
Customers are usually notified in advance about redemption windows, and some locations allow point balances to be used or refunded within a set period.