In early 2025, Dine Brands International announced plans for accelerate the international expansion of its dual-branded Applebee’s and IHOP concept. The first dual-brand location in Canada opened at 1445 Regent Ave West in Winnipeg in late 2025 and earlier this year, the second opened at 3698 Victoria Ave East in Regina. And later in July, franchisee Sanjay Patel opens the first Applebee’s/IHOP combo-restaurant, converting the existing freestanding Applebee’s at 155 Kingston Rd East in Ajax, according to INsauga online news service. The dual-brand Applebee’s/IHOP concept combines the company’s two flagship restaurant brands under one roof, allowing guests to order from either or both menus in a single dining experience. The format maximizes operational efficiencies, broadens daypart appeal from breakfast through late evening, and offers franchisees greater sales potential while optimizing real estate and development costs. Achieving sales much higher than single-brand restaurants, Dine Brands is planning to have over 80 or these hybrid locations operating by the end of 2026 and more than 900 over the next ten years. The typical combination location is in the 5200 to 7000 square foot range.
Dine Brands International, 10 W. Walnut St., Pasadena, California 91103 (866/995 -3463 www.dinebrands.com)