Applebee’s has a plan in the works to revive in-store sales. The plan starts with new menu items of which over 200 dishes have been tested over the past couple of months.
With sales down 2-4%, and an estimated 25-35 restaurants closing, Applebee’s is out to reinvigorate it’s brand with a brand new selection of dishes.
During Applebee’s latest earnings call, executives alluded to the changes coming down the pipeline for the restaurant.
CEO, John Peyton said that the chain is looking for the menu updates to be implemented sometime in 2024.
They continued about where they’re headed saying Applebee’s is: “focused on innovating the “culinary side” of its menu and creating more value offerings like its fan-favorite Dollarita and all-you-can-eat boneless wings promotion. Applebee’s also needs to add new items to the menu that “appeal to a younger guest.”
There aren’t many details on what exactly the new dishes would consist of, and if the menu is getting a complete overhaul or if they’re merely making some additions for a younger crowd. Either way, a shakeup is on the horizon for the chain.
Like Burger King, Applebee’s hasn’t escaped the rash of closures that have been plaguing various fast food chains over the past couple of months. Three major Burger King franchisees went belly-up in September, and October alone. And Applebee’s appears to be trimming some fat by closing underperforming restaurants, and tinkering with their menu. It will be interesting to see what the new food prospects will be going into 2024.
