Applebees
COMPANY DESCRIPTION
Applebee’s Services, Inc. franchises and operates the Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill and Bar restaurant chain. With almost 2,000 restaurants in 50 states, 15 countries and one U.S. territory, Applebee’s is the world’s largest casual dining chain. Headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri, the restaurant is known for its fun, family-oriented atmosphere and signature menu. In 2007, IHOP completed the purchase of the Applebee’s chain, and the parent company DineEquity (NYSE: DIN) now controls both brands. The Applebee’s restaurant concept is mainly freestanding units with sport-themed interiors decorated with local memorabilia to give each restaurant a local flare. The menu features mainstream American dishes and differentiates itself with innovative concepts such as Weight Watchers options and “Carside To GO” pickup. In efforts to add greater value and broaden its appeal, the restaurant introduced the “It’s a Whole New Neighborhood” campaign in 2008 to focus on a fresh, re-energized approach and the promise of new, enticing menu items. Applebee’s continues to set the standards for best practices in the restaurant industry and has always been dedicated to full service, consistently good food, reasonable prices and quality service in a neighborhood setting. Today, Applebee’s is focused on building upon this heritage and maintaining the brand’s position at the top of the casual dining industry by becoming more competitive and differentiated in the casual dining segment of the restaurant industry.