Back on the Menu: Denny’s Serves Up Round Two of Sticky Kicks for National Sneaker Day
Denny's is re-releasing its limited-edition "Sticky Kicks 2.0" sneakers in collaboration with custom footwear artist Mache for National Sneaker Day. These updated sneakers feature syrup-scented hang tags, hand-splattered syrup soles, and diner-inspired laces, plus a QR code for two free pancakes with a meal purchase. The sneakers will be available exclusively for Denny's Rewards members during a three-hour window on October 9th.
38. Denny’s
Denny's, ranked 38th in the Top 400 Franchises, is a 24/7 full-service family restaurant chain known as "America's diner." The company, which was founded in 1953, has 1,376 units globally and is almost entirely franchised. In late 2025, plans were announced for Yadav Enterprises, TriArtisan Capital, and Treville Capital to take Denny's private.
Denny's targets 500 restaurant upgrades as diner chain invests in AI, new technology: 'Project Grand Slam'
Denny's CEO Christopher Bode announced "Project Grand Slam," a 24-month modernization strategy involving upgrades to 500 restaurants, investment in AI and new technology, and an expansion of its catering business. The initiative aims to improve customer experience, optimize operations, and adapt to changing diner expectations in a competitive market. Denny's is also celebrating its Grand Slam breakfast's 50th anniversary with a "Denny's Heroes" campaign to honor community leaders.
Denny's stock exits Nasdaq as owners plan over 350 remodels
Denny's stock (DENN) left Nasdaq on January 16, 2026, after its sale to TriArtisan Capital Advisors, Treville Capital Group, and Yadav Enterprises for $6.25 per share, making the restaurant group privately held. Under its new private ownership, the company has initiated "Project Grand Slam," which aims to renovate over 350 restaurants and open 20 new locations in 2026, with an additional 20 planned for 2027. The plan also includes menu expansions, catering services, and leadership changes under CEO Chris Bode, focusing on operational improvements.
Denny’s Presents $1.24 Million for Childhood Cancer Research, Calls on Restaurant Industry to Join the Cause
Denny's and its partners have donated over $1.24 million to Cookies for Kids’ Cancer, bringing their total contributions since 2011 to nearly $4 million. The company is urging other restaurant brands to join the fight against childhood cancer, emphasizing the critical need for more research funding. Denny's also honored Gretchen Holt Witt, co-founder of Cookies for Kids’ Cancer, with its inaugural Humanitarian Leadership Award for her dedication to funding pediatric cancer research.
Denny's targets 500 restaurant upgrades as diner chain invests in AI, new technology: 'Project Grand Slam'
Denny's is planning significant upgrades to approximately 500 of its restaurants over the next 12 to 18 months, spearheaded by CEO Christopher Bode's "Project Grand Slam" initiative. This strategy involves substantial investments in AI to optimize operations and pricing, new technology like point-of-sale systems and mobile apps, and an expansion of its catering business. The goal is to enhance the customer experience and attract diners in a competitive market while celebrating the 50th anniversary of its Grand Slam breakfast with a "Denny's Heroes" campaign.
Denny's CEO maps out the modernization of the iconic diner chain
Denny's CEO Christopher Bode discussed the company's "Project Grand Slam" initiative aimed at modernizing the iconic diner chain. Key pillars include menu innovation with items like the "Diner Dipper," significant restaurant upgrades for 500 locations, and the expansion of catering services which saw substantial growth after a national partnership with Easy Cater. The plan also emphasizes leveraging new technology like AI and improving customer experience through a new app and focused support for underperforming restaurants.
Denny's stock exits Nasdaq after USD 6.25 buyout today? no wait
Denny's stock was delisted from Nasdaq on January 16, 2026, following a $6.25-per-share buyout that made the company privately held. Under new private ownership, Denny's is implementing "Project Grand Slam," a 24-month turnaround plan focusing on menu innovation, catering expansion, technology upgrades, and restaurant remodels and openings, aiming for 350 remodels and 40 new locations by 2027. This private ownership allows for a longer-term strategic focus away from public market earnings pressures.
Denny's stock exits Nasdaq after a USD 620 million buyout
Denny's Corporation completed a $620 million buyout on January 16, 2026, transitioning to private ownership and delisting from Nasdaq. The company plans significant operational changes under private ownership, including remodeling up to 350 of its 1,321 restaurants and introducing new menu items. Despite a reduction of 131 locations from the previous year, Denny's is focusing on a turnaround strategy through capital investment and targeted operational improvements.
Denny's stock exits Nasdaq as buyout makes chain private
Denny's stock has exited Nasdaq and the company is now privately held following a $620 million buyout completed on January 16, 2026. The transaction with TriArtisan Capital Advisors, Treville Capital Group, and Yadav Enterprises shifts the company's focus from public quarterly earnings to operational milestones like restaurant expansion and franchisee support. The company plans 350 restaurant updates and 40 new locations across 2026 and 2027 as part of Project Grand Slam.
Denny’s Mapputatsu? Parfait is hiding a big secret in plain sight that splits us down the middle
Denny's Japan has introduced the "Mapputatsu? Parfait" which appears as a full-sized parfait from the front but is actually half the width from the side. This innovative design aims to reduce food waste while still providing a visually appealing, photo-worthy dessert, addressing the issue of diners ordering large parfaits for social media and not finishing them. The article highlights the enjoyment of this perfectly sized treat, particularly the Shine Muscat grape version.
Denny’s Wants to Find 30 Hometown Heroes for a Grand Slam Thank You
Denny's is launching "Denny's Heroes: A Grand Slam Thank You" to recognize 30 individuals nationwide who make a difference in their communities through generosity, service, or leadership. Nominations are open until October 30, with selected heroes receiving a catered hometown celebration. This initiative also celebrates the upcoming 50th anniversary of Denny's Grand Slam in May 2027.
U.S. Travelers Are Turning Their Heads As Denny's Launches Comeback With New Identity
Denny's is undergoing a major rebranding effort, including a new menu, restaurant renovations, and an ownership change, to revitalize its image and move beyond recent restaurant closures. The initiative, dubbed "Project Grand Slam," aims to modernize the classic diner while retaining its core identity, with new food items testing later this autumn and a nationwide rollout by April 2027. This strategic shift seeks to prove that Denny's appeal can extend beyond mere convenience, as the company works to find a balance between its nostalgic familiarity and a new, updated experience for customers.
Lamar’s new Denny’s restaurant slated to open Monday, September 21, 2026
The new Denny's restaurant in Lamar, Colorado, is scheduled to open on Monday, September 21, 2026, at 9 AM. Located at 805 N. Main Street, the restaurant will be the only 24/7 establishment in southeast Colorado, offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Owner Doug Thrall oversaw extensive renovations and plans to employ around 50 people, utilizing local companies during construction.
Denny’s closes 5 spots in Minnesota, Wisconsin
Five Denny's restaurants, four in Minnesota and one in Wisconsin, have closed abruptly after franchisee M15 Inc. announced its plans to file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy due to accumulated debt. The company hopes these locations will eventually reopen under new ownership. These closures are part of a larger trend for Denny's, which has shuttered approximately 155 locations since 2024 to improve overall unit performance.
Denny’s closes another 5 locations in Minnesota and Wisconsin
Denny's has closed five more locations in Minnesota and Wisconsin due to franchisee M15 Inc. accumulating unsustainable debt, bringing the total closures over the last couple of years to 155. These closures are part of a broader strategy by Denny's to close underperforming restaurants and increase average unit volumes. The company, recently acquired by private equity firms, is undergoing a "Project Grand Slam" turnaround plan focusing on modernization and new revenue streams, such as a national catering program.
5 Denny's Diners Have Suddenly Closed Across Minnesota And Wisconsin
Five Denny's diners, operated by franchisee M15 Inc., have abruptly closed in Minnesota and Wisconsin due to financial difficulties. The company, which is preparing for Chapter 7 liquidation, notified employees only one day before the closures and stated it might not be able to cover final paychecks. Denny's corporate is exploring options to reopen these locations.
Denny’s closes another 5 locations in Minnesota and Wisconsin
Denny's has closed five more locations in Minnesota and Wisconsin due to franchisee M15 Inc. accumulating unsustainable debt, bringing the total closures to 155 over the last couple of years. The company is working to reopen these restaurants and is implementing "Project Grand Slam" to modernize the brand and increase average unit volumes. This strategy includes a new national catering program and aims to improve sales after a decline in 2025.
Denny’s rival dining chain files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy
Buttermilk Eatery, a breakfast and brunch chain and competitor to Denny's, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy due to financial challenges and an ongoing lawsuit. The company, which operates two locations in Florida and plans for a third, listed over $407,000 in debts. This bankruptcy follows a trend of financial difficulties in the breakfast dining sector, with other chains like Sarabeth's and Breakfast Republic also closing locations.
Savory Flavors and Sweeter Deals: Denny’s Celebrates Loyal Fans and New Fall Menu
Denny's is launching its new Fall Fest Menu featuring autumn-inspired dishes like Pumpkin Pecan Pancakes and Caramel Apple beverages, available nationwide. Alongside the new menu, Denny's is holding "Diner Days" from September 1-7, offering exclusive VIP rewards and deals to its loyalty program members as a thank you. The company aims to provide both familiar fall flavors and special appreciation for its customers through these initiatives.
Denny’s rival dining chain files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy
Buttermilk Eatery, a breakfast and brunch dining chain, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection to reorganize its business, listing over $407,000 in debts. This move comes as the chain faces a lawsuit from a creditor and amidst a challenging financial environment for the breakfast dining sector. Another Florida-based restaurant, a franchisee of Village Inn, also recently filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, highlighting ongoing struggles in the industry.
Savory Flavors and Sweeter Deals: Denny’s Celebrates Loyal Fans and New Fall Menu
Denny's is celebrating the fall season with a new "Fall Fest Menu" featuring cozy autumn comfort foods and craveable apple and pumpkin treats. To show appreciation for its loyal customers, Denny's is also launching "Diner Days" from September 1-7, offering exclusive daily perks and savings for rewards members. The new menu includes items like Pumpkin Pecan Pancakes and a Mushroom & Onion Medley Sirloin Steak, alongside new caramel apple beverages.
Denny's Returns as Title Sponsor of the 2026 Orange Blossom Classic
Denny's has announced its return as the title sponsor for the 2026 Orange Blossom Classic, continuing its partnership to celebrate Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The event will feature a football game between South Carolina State University and Florida A&M University on September 6, 2026, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, and will include a weekend of cultural and educational activities. This partnership highlights Denny's commitment to supporting HBCUs and generating economic impact and scholarship opportunities for students.
Denny's Returns as Title Sponsor of the 2026 Orange Blossom Classic
Denny's has announced its return as the Title Sponsor for the 2026 Orange Blossom Classic (OBC), continuing its partnership to celebrate HBCU excellence. The event, featuring the South Carolina State University Bulldogs and Florida A&M University Rattlers, will take place on Sunday, September 6, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, and will include a weekend of cultural and community events. This sponsorship highlights Denny's commitment to education and creating opportunities, while also providing significant brand visibility and economic impact for the South Florida region.
Denny's partners with ezCater
Denny's is launching a new national catering platform in partnership with ezCater, making over 400 locations available for corporate catering with hundreds more to follow. This initiative, part of Denny's "Project Grand Slam" growth roadmap, aims to create a new sales channel for franchisees and expand the brand's reach by leveraging ezCater's strong breakfast demand. Customers will also be able to place orders directly through Dennys.com.
Denny’s Hits it Out of the Park with All-New Triple Play Combo Meals
Denny's has launched new "Triple Play Combo Meals" allowing customers to choose a drink, starter, and entrée starting at $9.99, inspired by their iconic Grand Slam. This customizable menu also introduces the new Diner QP Burger. Additionally, Denny's is bringing back its annual No Kid Hungry campaign, aiming to fight childhood hunger and having raised over $15 million in previous partnerships.
Calexico Denny's Reconstruction Coming Soon
The Calexico Denny's, which burned down on Christmas Day last year due to an electrical fire, is now undergoing demolition in preparation for a rebuild. Owner Alex Campillo plans to make the new restaurant "bigger and better than ever," aiming for completion within six months. Campillo, who has owned the franchise for over 30 years, also intends to rehire the majority of the 55 employees displaced by the fire.
Denny’s Hits it Out of the Park with All-New Triple Play Combo Meals
Denny's has launched new "Triple Play Combo Meals" starting at $9.99, allowing customers to choose a drink, starter, and entrée. The menu also introduces the new Diner QP burger. Additionally, Denny's is bringing back its annual No Kid Hungry campaign, aiming to raise funds to fight childhood hunger.
Denny’s Hits it Out of the Park with All-New Triple Play Combo Meals
Denny's has launched new "Triple Play Combo Meals" allowing customers to choose a drink, starter, and entrée starting at $9.99, inspired by its iconic Grand Slam. The diner also introduced the new Diner QP Burger as part of this customizable menu. Additionally, Denny's is bringing back its annual No Kid Hungry campaign, marking its 16th year of partnership to combat childhood hunger.
Denny's Expands Into Catering with New National Platform
Denny's has launched a new national catering program in partnership with ezCater, making its breakfast favorites and comfort food available for workplaces and various group occasions. Over 400 locations are initially participating, with more to follow, creating a new growth channel for the brand and its franchisees. This initiative, part of Denny's "Project Grand Slam," aims to leverage strong demand for breakfast in workplace dining and expand customer reach.
Denny’s launches national catering program
Denny's has launched its first national catering program, making corporate catering options available at over 400 locations, with more to follow. The program aims to create a new growth channel for the brand and its franchisees, bolstering sales during slower weekday hours. The catering menu includes bundles like the Grand Slam Buffet Bundle and individually packaged meals, all available through EzCater's online platform.
Denny's Expands Into Catering with New National Platform
Denny's has launched a new national catering program, partnering with ezCater to bring its breakfast favorites and comfort food to workplaces and various group occasions nationwide. This initiative, part of Denny's "Project Grand Slam" growth roadmap, aims to create a significant new sales channel for franchisees, with over 400 locations already participating and more to follow. The catering menu includes popular items like the Grand Slam Buffet Bundle, Build-Your-Own Burger Bars, and individually packaged meals, designed to serve a high-demand market for workplace breakfast and other events.
Denny's Expands Into Catering with New National Platform
Denny's has launched a new national catering program, partnering with ezCater to offer its breakfast favorites and American comfort food to workplaces and group occasions nationwide. Over 400 Denny's locations are already available on ezCater, with more to follow, and customers can also place orders directly through Dennys.com. This initiative aims to create a significant new growth channel for the brand and its franchisees, leveraging breakfast's popularity in workplace dining and expanding into new dayparts and customer segments.
From Fry Cook to Denny’s Owner: Anil Yadav Brings His Story to Prosper Forum’s “A Better Table”
Anil Yadav, who started his restaurant career as a fry cook and later became a multi-brand owner, is now one of the new owners of Denny's. He will share his journey at Prosper Forum 2026, emphasizing the importance of creating opportunities for others and building strong businesses. Yadav's participation highlights his commitment to driving traffic, strengthening restaurant performance, and fostering growth for Denny's and its franchisees through initiatives like Project Grand Slam.
Denny’s Celebrates April Kelly-Drummond’s 32-year Legacy of Leadership, Service and Community Impact
Denny's celebrates April Kelly-Drummond's 32-year legacy of leadership, service, and community impact as she concludes her tenure with the company. Kelly-Drummond played a significant role in shaping Denny's community engagement, diversity, equity, and inclusion strategies. She is now launching AKD Enterprises, an independent consulting business, and will release her first book, "From Any Seat," in November.
Denny’s Celebrates April Kelly-Drummond’s 32-year Legacy of Leadership, Service and Community Impact
Denny's is celebrating April Kelly-Drummond's 32-year tenure, recognizing her significant impact on the company's diversity, equity, and inclusion strategies and community engagement. Kelly-Drummond is transitioning to lead her own consulting firm, AKD Enterprises, and is set to release a book in November titled "From Any Seat." Denny's acknowledges her legacy and the ongoing commitment to the initiatives she championed.
Denny's Number of Employees 2026 | Employee Count & Headcount Data
Denny's Corp. had approximately 3,747 total employees worldwide as of March 2026, representing a 3.5% decline from 2023. The company is actively hiring with 4,543 active job postings in 2026, though this is a 50.3% decline from 2025, indicating a slowdown in hiring velocity. Most of Denny's workforce is in North America, and the average salary is $35,163.
Denny’s Canada Expands in New Brunswick with New Moncton Diner Now Open
Denny's Canada has opened its second location in New Brunswick, and its first in Moncton, located at 70 Queensway Drive. This new diner, owned and operated by Fens Market Group, aims to provide its signature "Familiar Made Fresh" experience, offering all-day breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late-night dining. The expansion highlights Moncton's growth and Denny's commitment to Eastern Canada, with special promotions like Kids Eat Free Tuesdays and Sundays.
Denny’s Canada Expands in New Brunswick with New Moncton Diner Now Open
Denny's Canada has opened a new diner in Moncton, New Brunswick, marking its second location in the province and first in the city. Operated by Fens Market Group, the diner aims to serve locals and travelers with its "Familiar Made Fresh" experience, offering all-day breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This expansion reflects Denny's commitment to growth in Eastern Canada, strategically located off the Trans-Canada Highway in a rapidly growing community.
Former Denny’s CEO joins Byrider’s board
Byrider, a buy-here, pay-here dealership network, has appointed John Miller, former CEO of Denny’s Corp., to its board of directors. Miller brings extensive franchise experience, having led Denny's during a successful turnaround and held leadership roles at Brinker International and Taco Bueno. His appointment and the opening of a new Franchise Support Center underscore Byrider's commitment to growth and operational excellence.
Willowbrook Dennys Reveals Opening Date After 2½-Month Closure
The Denny's in Willowbrook, Illinois, is set to reopen at 7 a.m. on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, after being closed for 2½ months for extensive plumbing and electrical work. The chain initially expected to reopen sooner but faced delays. This reopening allows local residents to once again enjoy the restaurant's offerings like the Grand Slam breakfast.
Denny's Names Aaron Howard Chief Operating Officer; Chris Bode Comments
Denny's Corp. has announced the appointment of Aaron Howard as Chief Operating Officer. Howard brings decades of experience from recognized restaurant brands and will focus on improving operational execution, guest experience, and restaurant-level performance. This appointment is crucial as Denny's advances its "Project Grand Slam" operating agenda to drive stronger performance across its franchise system.
Denny's Names Aaron Howard Chief Operating Officer; Chris Bode Comments
Denny's Corp. has appointed Aaron Howard as its new Chief Operating Officer, a move aimed at enhancing execution, guest experience, and restaurant-level performance across its franchise system. Howard brings decades of operational leadership from other recognized restaurant brands and will focus on improving consistency and discipline in restaurant operations. CEO Chris Bode emphasized Howard's expertise in driving performance through strong teams and guest satisfaction as critical to Denny's "Project Grand Slam" initiatives.
No Target For Willowbrook Denny's Opening, With 'Coming Soon' Pledge
The Denny's restaurant in Willowbrook, Illinois, remains closed with no set reopening date, despite previous assurances. The restaurant, which closed over two months ago, displays a "Temporarily closed for maintenance" sign and "coming soon" notices, with shipping firms having left multiple "we missed you" notifications. The corporation previously expected an earlier reopening but now states it will open "as soon as possible."
Denny’s hires a Cracker Barrel veteran as COO
Denny's has appointed Aaron Howard, a veteran with extensive experience at Cracker Barrel and Wendy's, as its new Chief Operating Officer. Howard will be instrumental in the diner chain's turnaround plan, "Project Grand Slam," following its sale in January and the promotion of Christopher Bode to CEO. His role will focus on strengthening value, relevance, profitable traffic, and restaurant-level profitability.
Denny’s Names Aaron Howard Chief Operating Officer
Denny's has appointed Aaron Howard as its new Chief Operating Officer, aiming to enhance field execution, guest experience, and restaurant-level performance across its franchise system. Howard brings decades of operational leadership from other recognized restaurant brands and will focus on improving daily execution and guest satisfaction. His appointment comes as Denny's advances its "Project Grand Slam" initiative, which targets key areas like food innovation, value, and facilities modernization for stronger franchisee performance.
Denny's Names Aaron Howard Chief Operating Officer
Denny's Corporation has appointed Aaron Howard as its new Chief Operating Officer, effective July 7, 2026. Howard brings extensive experience from other major restaurant brands and will focus on strengthening field execution, improving guest experience, and driving performance across Denny's franchise system. His appointment comes as Denny's advances its "Project Grand Slam" initiative aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and profitability.
Denny's Names Aaron Howard Chief Operating Officer
Denny's Corporation has announced the appointment of Aaron Howard as Chief Operating Officer, effective July 7, 2026. Howard brings extensive operational leadership experience from prominent restaurant brands and will focus on strengthening field execution, improving guest experience, and driving performance within Denny's franchise system. His role is critical as Denny's advances its "Project Grand Slam" initiatives to enhance value, relevance, and profitability.
Denny's Names Aaron Howard Chief Operating Officer
Denny's Corp. has announced the appointment of Aaron Howard as Chief Operating Officer, effective July 7, 2026. Howard brings extensive experience from other major restaurant brands and will focus on strengthening field execution, improving guest experience, and driving performance across Denny's franchise system. His appointment comes as Denny's advances its "Project Grand Slam" initiative aimed at enhancing operational speed, discipline, and accountability.
After 60 Years, Denny’s in Point Loma Has Closed; Joins 150 Other Closures After Purchase of Chain by Investment Group
The Denny's in Point Loma, a 24-hour diner that had operated for 60 years, has permanently closed its doors in late June, directing customers to another nearby location. This closure is part of a larger trend, as the major breakfast chain has shut down 150 locations across the U.S. following its acquisition by a private investment group in January 2026. Financial pressures, including rising labor expenses and higher food prices, are impacting many restaurants and franchisees, leading to a net decline in customer visits and same-store sales in the wider industry.
