Denny's to Close 150 Locations Amid Financial Struggles

Denny's is set to close 150 underperforming restaurants, approximately 10% of its locations, to streamline operations and address financial challenges. The closures will occur in two phases, with 50 locations shutting down by the end of 2024 and the remaining 100 in 2025. This restructuring move comes as the chain faces declining sales and increased competition, compounded by shifts in consumer behavior post-pandemic. Additionally, Denny's plans to reduce its menu from 97 to 46 items and ease its 24/7 operating requirement due to diminished late-night traffic. The company has not specified which locations will close but indicated that older and unprofitable sites are being targeted. These changes have led to a 17% drop in Denny's stock, reflecting broader struggles in the casual dining sector.