Applebee's Announces Closures Amid Corporate Restructuring

Applebee’s, a prominent American restaurant chain, is set to close at least four locations across three states: Indiana, New York, and Missouri. The closures include two restaurants in Evansville, Indiana, one in Glenville, New York, and another in Columbia, Missouri. The Evansville locations, which had been operational for nearly 30 years, recently saw crews dismantling signage and thanking customers for their loyalty. The Glenville location is scheduled to close on April 12, 2026, while the Columbia restaurant closed permanently on February 18, 2026.

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These closures are part of a broader corporate restructuring plan by Applebee's parent company, Dine Brands Global. The company aims to address underperforming locations while simultaneously planning to open 80 dual-branded Applebee’s and IHOP restaurants throughout 2026. This strategy follows a trend where Dine Brands projected closing between 20 to 35 locations last year. Despite the closures, Applebee's maintains a significant presence with around 1,500 locations worldwide.

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The closures are attributed to rising operational costs, including food, utility, and labor expenses, which have significantly impacted the restaurant industry. Over the past five years, the National Restaurant Association reported a 35% increase in food and labor costs, contributing to tighter profit margins for many establishments. The economic landscape has prompted numerous longstanding restaurants to shut their doors, with Applebee's not being an exception.

Newsweek

John Peyton, president of Applebee’s, emphasized that restaurant closures are a normal aspect of managing a mature national chain. He stated, “What matters is the momentum behind our growth, and we’re seeing real signs of an inflection point.” Additionally, he noted that the company plans to open more restaurants than in previous years, indicating a focus on expansion despite the current closures.

The Hill

Critics argue that the closures reflect broader issues within the restaurant industry, particularly the challenges posed by rising costs and changing consumer behaviors. The closures of beloved local restaurants have sparked concerns about the sustainability of traditional dining establishments in the face of economic pressures.

The Independent

• “Restaurant closures are a normal part of running a mature national system, but they don’t define our trajectory.” — John Peyton, President of Applebee’s

The Hill

• “We feel the love and passion our guests have for Applebee’s every day, and we’re excited to continue building and growing with Applebee’s, as we have for the past two-and-a-half decades.” — Greg Flynn, Founder and CEO of Flynn Group

Newsweek

As Applebee's navigates these closures, the company is poised to implement its dual-branding strategy with IHOP, which may reshape its market presence. The upcoming openings and restructuring efforts will be closely monitored as the chain seeks to adapt to the evolving restaurant landscape.

The Hill