Dine Brands Global (DIN) Piper Sandler 5th Annual Growth Frontiers Conference summary

IHOP brand evolution and strategy

• IHOP's new leadership has driven strong performance, with three consecutive quarters of outperformance in traffic and comps, attributed to a new everyday value menu and enhanced menu innovation.

• The everyday value menu expanded from five to seven days, offering $6 combo meals, and has been made permanent with franchisee support.

• Menu innovation includes new items like Dubai Chocolate Pancakes and stuffed French toast, with a focus on digital and social engagement.

• Off-premise sales have grown from 7% pre-pandemic to over 22%, with catering showing double-digit quarter-over-quarter growth since its relaunch.

• Investments in packaging and technology have supported off-premise and catering expansion.

Applebee's brand priorities and initiatives

• Applebee's is navigating a competitive full-service dining landscape, focusing on menu innovation, marketing, and restaurant renovations.

• New menu platforms and items are rolling out, with a stronger pipeline than in previous years.

• Enhanced social media presence and real-time engagement have improved brand perception.

• Restaurant refreshes are underway, with a third of locations being renovated this year and half by next year.

• Operational focus includes improved guest interaction and off-premise order accuracy.

Dual brand strategy and execution

• The dual brand concept combines IHOP and Applebee's in one location, offering a single menu across all dayparts and cross-trained staff.

• The strategy leverages IHOP's breakfast strength and Applebee's dinner expertise, activating restaurants throughout the day.

• Dual brand units have shown 1.5 to 2.5 times the original revenue, with 45 open and a target of 80 by year-end.

• Most duals are conversions, with a robust pipeline and high guest engagement across both menus.

• Alcohol offerings have expanded, with IHOP now serving mimosas and Bloody Marys via Applebee's liquor license.