Since last spring, sit-down restaurants have struggled, and 2021 is no different.
Outback Steakhouse, Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, Chili's, and other notable restaurants had 30% less customers in 2020 than in 2019. But Denny's has suffered the most.
Denny's restaurants experienced 52.7% fewer traffic the week of Nov. 30, 2020, than the year before. As the holidays approached, sales plummeted. By 2021, traffic had dropped 59.8%.
New indoor eating regulations in several areas contributed to the reduction.
Some governments have declined to close eateries despite an increase in coronavirus infections in practically every state. Winter weather impedes outdoor eating.
Denny's is in 49 states and D.C. Along with Alaska and Vermont, Washington has two restaurants. Delaware is the only state without a Denny's; Florida, Texas, and California each have hundreds.
The company is growing two "virtual brands" focused on burgers and melts, providing curbside pickup and new promotions for 2021, and is optimistic.
With growing vaccine availability, a recently legislated economic stimulus that should assist our franchisees, and the
continuous commitment of our operators, Denny's is well-positioned to continue managing the pandemic while planning for future development.