Dine Brands Global's earnings decline in early 2024 can be attributed to several key factors:
- Decrease in Same-restaurant Sales: Both Applebee's and IHOP experienced a decline in same-restaurant sales, with Applebee's domestic comparable sales dropping by 4.7% and IHOP's by 2.8%1. This reduction in sales is a primary reason for the decline in revenues and profits.
- Strategic Closures and Impairment Charges: The company has faced challenges in delivering consumer value across its brands, leading to a strategic shift in focus. This has resulted in closures and impairment charges, which have impacted earnings21.
- Increase in Closure and Impairment Charges: These charges, coupled with a prior year income tax benefit, have contributed to the decline in fourth quarter earnings3. The increase in closure and impairment charges reflects the company's response to market challenges and the need to streamline its operations.
In summary, Dine Brands Global's earnings decline in early 2024 is primarily due to a decrease in same-restaurant sales, strategic closures, impairment charges, and increased closure and impairment charges. These factors combined have resulted in a challenging financial period for the company.