Denny's Express Format Goes to School

The diner has eight locations on or near university campuses and will add to those in the coming years.

May 06, 2011

SPARTANBURG, S.C. - Denny??s is betting on higher education to boost sales and traffic. The diner chain has opened eight of its express formatted restaurants in or near universities and is planning on more locations in the future, Nation??s Restaurant News reports.

The smaller diners boast a streamlined menu featuring breakfast served all day and burgers. Earlier this year, Denny??s launched restaurants at Auburn University and Kansas State University.

Denny??s has been exploring non-traditional locations for its growth for a few years, such as its conversion units in Flying J Travel Centers. During 2011, Denny??s will open 70 to 75 new restaurants, which include 10 franchised college locations and 25 Flying J diners.

The chain experienced a drop in same-store sales during the first quarter of 2011. "In the first quarter [of 2011], same-store guest trends continued to improve as we executed on our marketing strategies that emphasize everyday affordability combined with attractive limited time offers," said John Miller, president and CEO. "We are pleased that our efforts resulted in continued progress despite inflationary pressures and economic uncertainty impacting our customers."

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