1205 ET - Dine Brands CEO John Peyton says the consumer environment remains challenging. "Guests remain highly intentional about how they spend their discretionary dollars," he says on a call with analysts. "Value remains a critical driver in that decision-making." Peyton notes the broader casual- and family-dining categories experienced some slowdown in comparable sales and traffic late last year. The Applebee's owner is working to better appeal to cost-conscious consumers by improving guest experiences, strengthening marketing to better connect with guests and launching new, value-driven menu items, Peyton says. (connor.hart@wsj.com)
(END) Dow Jones Newswires
February 25, 2026 12:05 ET (17:05 GMT)
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