DENNY'S CORP, 10-K filed on 2/24/2025
Annual Report
v3.25.0.1
Cover - USD ($)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Feb. 20, 2025
Jun. 26, 2024
Cover [Abstract]      
Document Type 10-K    
Document Annual Report true    
Document Period End Date Dec. 25, 2024    
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-25    
Document Transition Report false    
Entity File Number 0-18051    
Entity Registrant Name DENNY’S CORPORATION    
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code DE    
Entity Tax Identification Number 13-3487402    
Entity Address, Address Line One 203 East Main Street    
Entity Address, City or Town Spartanburg,    
Entity Address, State or Province SC    
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code 29319-9966    
City Area Code 864    
Local Phone Number 597-8000    
Title of 12(b) Security $.01 Par Value, Common Stock    
Trading Symbol DENN    
Security Exchange Name NASDAQ    
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer No    
Entity Voluntary Filers No    
Entity Current Reporting Status Yes    
Entity Interactive Data Current Yes    
Entity Filer Category Accelerated Filer    
Entity Small Business false    
Entity Emerging Growth Company false    
Auditor Attestation Flag true    
Document Financial Statement Error Correction false    
Entity Shell Company false    
Entity Public Float     $ 290,174,732
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   51,611,066  
Documents Incorporated by Reference
Portions of the registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement for the 2025 Annual Meeting of Stockholders are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Form 10-K.
   
Entity Central Index Key 0000852772    
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2024    
Document Fiscal Period Focus FY    
Amendment Flag false    
v3.25.0.1
Audit Information
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Audit Information [Abstract]  
Auditor Name KPMG LLP
Auditor Location Charlotte, NC
Auditor Firm ID 185
v3.25.0.1
Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Current assets:    
Cash and cash equivalents $ 1,698 $ 4,893
Investments 1,106 1,281
Receivables, net 24,433 21,391
Inventories 1,747 2,175
Assets held for sale 381 1,455
Prepaid and other current assets 10,628 12,855
Total current assets 39,993 44,050
Property, net of accumulated depreciation of $159,588 and $159,879, respectively 111,417 93,494
Financing lease right-of-use assets, net of accumulated amortization of $6,783 and $8,220, respectively 6,200 6,098
Operating lease right-of-use assets, net 124,738 116,795
Goodwill 66,357 65,908
Intangible assets, net 91,739 93,428
Deferred financing costs, net 1,066 1,702
Other noncurrent assets 54,764 43,343
Total assets 496,274 464,818
Current liabilities:    
Current finance lease liabilities 1,284 1,383
Current operating lease liabilities 15,487 14,779
Accounts payable 19,985 24,070
Other current liabilities 58,842 63,068
Total current liabilities 95,598 103,300
Long-term liabilities:    
Long-term debt 261,300 255,500
Noncurrent finance lease liabilities 9,284 9,150
Noncurrent operating lease liabilities 120,841 114,451
Liability for insurance claims, less current portion 5,866 6,929
Deferred income taxes, net 9,964 6,582
Other noncurrent liabilities 27,446 31,592
Total long-term liabilities 434,701 424,204
Total liabilities 530,299 527,504
Commitments and contingencies (Note 18)
Shareholders’ deficit    
Common stock $0.01 par value; shares authorized - 135,000; December 25, 2024: 51,329 shares issued and outstanding; December 27, 2023: 52,906 shares issued and 52,239 shares outstanding 513 529
Paid-in capital 0 6,688
Deficit (2,499) (21,784)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net (32,039) (41,659)
Treasury stock, at cost, 0 and 667 shares, respectively 0 (6,460)
Total shareholders’ deficit (34,025) (62,686)
Total liabilities and shareholders’ deficit $ 496,274 $ 464,818
v3.25.0.1
Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Assets    
Less accumulated depreciation $ 159,588 $ 159,879
Accumulated amortization $ 6,783 $ 8,220
Shareholders’ deficit    
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) $ 0.01 $ 0.01
Common stock, authorized (in shares) 135,000,000 135,000,000
Common stock, issued (in shares) 51,329,000 52,906,000
Common stock, outstanding (in shares) 51,329,000 52,239,000
Treasury stock, at cost (in shares) 0 667,000
v3.25.0.1
Consolidated Statements of Income - USD ($)
shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Dec. 28, 2022
Revenue:      
Total operating revenue $ 452,334 $ 463,922 $ 456,429
Costs of company restaurant sales, excluding depreciation and amortization:      
Product costs 53,931 55,789 53,617
Payroll and benefits 80,605 80,666 76,412
Occupancy 18,129 16,809 15,154
Other operating expenses 37,079 34,335 34,275
Total costs of company restaurant sales, excluding depreciation and amortization 189,744 187,599 179,458
Costs of franchise and license revenue 120,226 122,452 135,327
General and administrative expenses 80,197 77,770 67,173
Depreciation and amortization 14,857 14,385 14,862
Goodwill impairment charges 20 6,363 0
Operating (gains), losses and other charges, net 1,974 2,530 (1,005)
Total operating costs and expenses, net 407,018 411,099 395,815
Operating income 45,316 52,823 60,614
Interest expense, net 17,974 17,597 13,769
Other nonoperating (income) expense, net (1,907) 8,288 (52,585)
Net income before income taxes 29,249 26,938 99,430
Provision for income taxes 7,678 6,993 24,718
Net income $ 21,571 $ 19,945 $ 74,712
Net income per share - basic (in dollars per share) $ 0.41 $ 0.36 $ 1.23
Net income per share - diluted (in dollars per share) $ 0.41 $ 0.35 $ 1.23
Basic weighted average shares outstanding (in shares) 52,499 55,984 60,771
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding (in shares) 52,614 56,196 60,879
Company restaurant sales      
Revenue:      
Total operating revenue $ 211,781 $ 215,532 $ 199,753
Franchise and license revenue      
Revenue:      
Total operating revenue $ 240,553 $ 248,390 $ 256,676
v3.25.0.1
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Dec. 28, 2022
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]      
Net income $ 21,571 $ 19,945 $ 74,712
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:      
Minimum pension liability adjustment, net of tax of $44, $(151) and $113, respectively 128 218 345
Changes in the fair value of cash flow derivatives, net of tax of $4,523, $1,927 and $3,214, respectively 13,346 4,335 10,405
Reclassification of cash flow derivatives to interest expense, net of tax of $(1,494), $(1,247) and $309, respectively (4,422) (3,781) 1,001
Amortization of unrealized losses related to dedesignated derivatives to interest expense, net of tax of $192, $87 and $7, respectively 568 266 22
Other comprehensive income 9,620 1,038 11,773
Total comprehensive income $ 31,191 $ 20,983 $ 86,485
v3.25.0.1
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Parenthetical) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Dec. 28, 2022
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]      
Minimum pension liability adjustment, tax $ 44 $ (151) $ 113
Changes in the fair value of cash flow derivatives, tax 4,523 1,927 3,214
Reclassification of cash flow derivatives to interest expense, tax (1,494) (1,247) 309
Amortization of unrealized losses related to dedesignated derivatives to interest expense, tax $ 192 $ 87 $ 7
v3.25.0.1
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Deficit - USD ($)
shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands
Total
Common Stock
Treasury Stock
Paid-in Capital
(Deficit)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss, Net
Balance as of beginning period (in shares) at Dec. 29, 2021   64,200        
Balance as of beginning period at Dec. 29, 2021 $ (65,265) $ 642 $ (30,592) $ 135,596 $ (116,441) $ (54,470)
Balance as of beginning of period, treasury stock (in shares) at Dec. 29, 2021     (1,990)      
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]            
Net income 74,712       74,712  
Other comprehensive income 11,773         11,773
Share-based compensation on equity classified awards, net of withholding tax 6,548     6,548    
Purchase of treasury stock, including excise tax (in shares)     (6,280)      
Purchase of treasury stock, including excise tax (64,884)   $ (64,884)      
Issuance of common stock for share-based compensation (in shares)   798        
Issuance of common stock for share-based compensation 0 $ 8   (8)    
Balance as of end of period (in shares) at Dec. 28, 2022   64,998        
Balance as of end of period at Dec. 28, 2022 (37,116) $ 650 $ (95,476) 142,136 (41,729) (42,697)
Balance as of end of period, treasury stock (in shares) at Dec. 28, 2022     (8,270)      
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]            
Net income 19,945       19,945  
Other comprehensive income 1,038         1,038
Share-based compensation on equity classified awards, net of withholding tax 5,546     5,546    
Purchase of treasury stock, including excise tax (in shares)     (5,202)      
Purchase of treasury stock, including excise tax (52,099)   $ (52,099)      
Retirement of treasury stock (in shares)   (12,805) 12,805      
Retirement of treasury stock 0 $ (128) $ 141,115 (140,987)    
Issuance of common stock for share-based compensation (in shares)   713        
Issuance of common stock for share-based compensation $ 0 $ 7   (7)    
Balance as of end of period (in shares) at Dec. 27, 2023 52,906 52,906        
Balance as of end of period at Dec. 27, 2023 $ (62,686) $ 529 $ (6,460) 6,688 (21,784) (41,659)
Balance as of end of period, treasury stock (in shares) at Dec. 27, 2023 (667)   (667)      
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]            
Net income $ 21,571       21,571  
Other comprehensive income 9,620         9,620
Share-based compensation on equity classified awards, net of withholding tax 8,701     8,701    
Purchase of treasury stock, including excise tax (in shares)     (1,349)      
Purchase of treasury stock, including excise tax (11,231)   $ (11,231)      
Retirement of treasury stock (in shares)   (2,016) 2,016      
Retirement of treasury stock 0 $ (20) $ 17,691 (15,385) (2,286)  
Issuance of common stock for share-based compensation (in shares)   439        
Issuance of common stock for share-based compensation $ 0 $ 4   (4)    
Balance as of end of period (in shares) at Dec. 25, 2024 51,329 51,329        
Balance as of end of period at Dec. 25, 2024 $ (34,025) $ 513 $ 0 $ 0 $ (2,499) $ (32,039)
Balance as of end of period, treasury stock (in shares) at Dec. 25, 2024 0   0      
v3.25.0.1
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Dec. 28, 2022
Cash flows from operating activities:      
Net income $ 21,571 $ 19,945 $ 74,712
Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash flows provided by operating activities:      
Depreciation and amortization 14,857 14,385 14,862
Goodwill impairment charges 20 6,363 0
Operating (gains), losses and other charges, net 1,974 2,530 (1,005)
Losses (gains) and amortization on interest rate swap derivatives, net 760 10,959 (54,989)
Amortization of deferred financing costs 636 635 634
(Gains) losses on investments (100) (85) 305
Losses (gains) on early termination of debt and leases 24 17 (37)
Deferred income tax (benefit) expense (267) (1,703) 14,732
Increase of tax valuation allowance 464 205 546
Share-based compensation expense 10,678 8,880 11,400
Changes in assets and liabilities, excluding acquisitions and dispositions:      
Receivables (3,287) 3,904 (5,892)
Inventories 428 3,362 (460)
Prepaids and other current assets 2,226 (325) (1,138)
Other assets (483) (2,509) (2,129)
Operating lease assets and liabilities (596) (628) (696)
Accounts payable (9,506) 4,032 3,918
Other accrued liabilities (5,094) 3,356 (8,798)
Other noncurrent liabilities (4,818) (1,198) (6,513)
Net cash flows provided by operating activities 29,487 72,125 39,452
Cash flows from investing activities:      
Capital expenditures (28,569) (9,978) (11,844)
Acquisitions of restaurant and real estate 0 (1,227) (750)
Acquisition of Keke’s Breakfast Cafe 0 0 (82,500)
Collection of real estate acquisition deposit 0 0 3,624
Initial operating lease direct costs 0 (400) 0
Proceeds from sales of real estate, restaurants and other assets 1,375 3,211 4,144
Investment purchases (1,500) (1,300) (1,200)
Proceeds from sale of investments 1,775 1,850 1,700
Collections on notes receivable 576 573 246
Issuance of notes receivable (330) (293) (16)
Net cash flows used in investing activities (26,673) (7,564) (86,596)
Cash flows from financing activities:      
Revolver borrowings 115,200 148,300 175,325
Revolver payments (109,400) (154,300) (83,825)
Long-term debt payments (1,411) (1,786) (2,020)
Tax withholding on share-based payments (1,893) (3,007) (4,781)
Purchase of treasury stock (11,721) (52,079) (64,975)
Net bank overdrafts 3,216 (319) 319
Net cash flows (used in) provided by financing activities (6,009) (63,191) 20,043
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents (3,195) 1,370 (27,101)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period 4,893 3,523 30,624
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period $ 1,698 $ 4,893 $ 3,523
v3.25.0.1
Introduction and Basis of Reporting
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]  
Introduction and Basis of Reporting Introduction and Basis of Reporting
 
Denny’s Corporation, or the Company, is one of America’s largest franchised full-service restaurant chains based on number of restaurants. As of December 25, 2024, the Company consisted of 1,568 restaurants, 1,493 of which were franchised/licensed restaurants and 75 of which were company operated. The Company consists of the Denny’s brand (“Denny’s”) and the Keke’s Breakfast Café brand (“Keke’s”). Keke’s was acquired on July 20, 2022. See Note 3 for details.

At December 25, 2024, the Denny’s brand consisted of 1,499 restaurants, 1,438 of which were franchised or licensed restaurants and 61 of which were company operated. Denny’s restaurants are operated in 50 states, the District of Columbia, two U.S. territories and 12 foreign countries with principal concentrations in California (24% of total restaurants), Texas (13%) and Florida (8%).
At December 25, 2024, the Keke's brand consisted of 69 restaurants, 55 of which were franchised restaurants and 14 of which were company operated. Keke’s restaurants are operated in six states with principal concentration in Florida (88% of total restaurants).
Certain reclassifications have been made in the 2023 consolidated financial statements to conform to the 2024 presentation. These reclassifications did not affect total revenues or net income.
v3.25.0.1
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
 
The following accounting policies significantly affect the preparation of our consolidated financial statements:
 
Use of Estimates. In preparing our consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), management is required to make certain assumptions and estimates that affect reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, expenses and the disclosure of contingencies. In making these assumptions and estimates, management may from time to time seek advice and consider information provided by actuaries and other experts in a particular area. Actual amounts could differ materially from these estimates.

Consolidation Policy. Our consolidated financial statements include the financial statements of Denny’s Corporation and its wholly-owned subsidiaries: Denny’s, Inc., DFO, LLC, Denny’s Realty, LLC, Keke’s Inc., Keke’s Franchise Organization and East Main Insurance Company. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
 
Fiscal Year. Our fiscal year ends on the last Wednesday in December. As a result, a fifty-third week is added to a fiscal year every five or six years. Fiscal 2024, 2023 and 2022 each included 52 weeks of operations. Our next 53-week year will be fiscal 2025.

Cash and Cash Equivalents. Our policy is to invest cash in excess of operating requirements in short-term highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or less, which we consider to be cash equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents include short-term investments of $0.1 million at December 25, 2024 and December 27, 2023, respectively. 
 
Receivables. Receivables, which are recorded at net realizable value, primarily consist of trade accounts receivables and financing receivables from franchisees, vendor receivables and credit card receivables. Trade accounts receivables from franchisees consist of royalties, advertising and rent. Financing receivables from franchisees primarily consist of notes from franchisees related to the roll-out of restaurant equipment. We accrue interest on notes receivable based on the contractual terms. The allowance for doubtful accounts is based on management’s estimates of expected credit losses based on the Company’s historical loss experience, adjusted for current and reasonable and supportable forecasts of economic conditions and other pertinent factors affecting the Company’s customers such as known credit risk or industry trends. Receivables that are ultimately deemed to be uncollectible, and for which collection efforts have been exhausted, are written off against the allowance for doubtful accounts.
 
Inventories. Inventories consist primarily of food, beverages and, in some periods, equipment and are valued at the lower of first-in, first-out cost or net realizable value.
Property and Depreciation. Owned property is stated at cost. Property under finance leases is stated at the lesser of its fair value or the net present value of the related minimum lease payments at the lease inception. Maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred. We depreciate owned property over its estimated useful life using the straight-line method. We amortize property held under finance leases (at capitalized value) over the lesser of its estimated useful life or the lease term. Building assets are assigned estimated useful lives that range from five to 30 years. Other property and equipment assets are assigned lives that range from two to ten years. Leasehold improvements are generally assigned lives between five and 15 years limited by the expected lease term.

Goodwill. Amounts recorded as goodwill primarily represent excess reorganization value recognized as a result of our 1998 bankruptcy and from our acquisition of Keke’s in 2022. We also record goodwill in connection with the acquisition of restaurants from franchisees. Likewise, upon the sale of restaurant operations to franchisees, goodwill is decremented. We test goodwill for impairment at each fiscal year end and more frequently if circumstances indicate impairment may exist. Such indicators include, but are not limited to, a significant decline in our expected future cash flows, a significant adverse decline in our stock price, significantly adverse legal developments or a significant change in the business climate.
 
Intangible Assets. Intangible assets consist primarily of trade names, franchise agreements and reacquired franchise rights. Trade names are considered indefinite-lived intangible assets and are not amortized. Franchise agreements are amortized using the straight-line basis over the term of the related franchise agreement. Reacquired franchise rights are amortized using the straight-line basis over the term of the related franchise agreement. Franchise agreements and reacquired franchise rights resulting from acquisitions are accounted for using the purchase method of accounting and are estimated by management based on the fair value of the assets received.

We test trade name assets for impairment at each fiscal year end, and more frequently if circumstances indicate impairment may exist. We assess impairment of reacquired franchise rights and franchise agreements whenever changes or events indicate that the carrying values may not be recoverable. Costs incurred to renew or extend the term of recognized intangible assets are recorded in general and administrative expenses in our Consolidated Statements of Income.
 
Marketable Securities. Marketable securities included in investments consist of available for sale equity instruments and are recorded at fair market value in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. The aggregate cost and fair value of these marketable securities was $1.1 million and $1.1 million, respectively, at December 25, 2024 and $1.2 million and $1.3 million, respectively, at December 27, 2023. Unrealized gains (losses) included in fair value were gains of less than $0.1 million, gains of $0.1 million and losses of $0.2 million at December 25, 2024, December 27, 2023 and December 28, 2022, respectively.

Marketable securities included in other noncurrent assets consist of trading debt and equity mutual funds and are recorded at fair market value in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. These securities represent the plan assets of our nonqualified deferred compensation plan (the “plan assets”). The plan assets are held in a rabbi trust. Each plan participant’s account consists of their contribution, our matching contribution (made prior to 2016) and each participant’s share of earnings or losses in the plan. We have recorded offsetting deferred compensation liabilities as a component of other noncurrent liabilities in our Consolidated Balance Sheets.

The realized and unrealized holding gains and losses related to marketable securities are recorded in other nonoperating income with an offsetting amount recorded in general and administrative expenses related to deferred compensation plan liabilities. During 2024, 2023 and 2022, we incurred a net gain of $1.7 million, a net gain of $2.1 million and a net loss of $2.2 million, respectively, related to marketable securities.
 
Deferred Financing Costs. Costs related to the issuance of debt are deferred and amortized as a component of interest expense using the effective interest method over the terms of the respective debt issuances.
 
Self-insurance Liabilities. We record liabilities for insurance claims during periods in which we have been insured under large deductible programs or have been self-insured for our medical claims and workers’ compensation, general, product and automobile insurance liabilities. The liabilities represent estimated incurred losses. These estimates include assumptions regarding claims frequency and severity as well as changes in our business environment, medical costs and the regulatory environment that could impact our overall self-insurance costs.

Total workers’ compensation, general, product and automobile insurance liabilities were $9.3 million and $9.7 million at December 25, 2024 and December 27, 2023, respectively.
Income Taxes. We account for income taxes under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. All deferred taxes are reported as noncurrent in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. A valuation allowance reduces our net deferred tax asset to the amount that is more likely than not to be realized. We make certain estimates and judgments in the calculation of our provision for incomes taxes, in the resulting tax liabilities, and in the recoverability of deferred tax assets.

We recognize positions taken or expected to be taken in a tax return in the consolidated financial statements when it is more-likely-than-not that the position would be sustained upon examination by tax authorities. A recognized tax position is then measured at the largest amount of benefit with greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. We recognize any interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense. Assessment of uncertain tax positions requires judgments relating to the amounts, timing and likelihood of resolution. 
Leases and Subleases.

Lessee

We lease certain real estate and equipment for our restaurants and support facilities. At contract inception, we determine whether a contract is, or contains, a lease by determining whether it conveys the right to control the use of the identified asset for a period of time. We recognize a lease liability and a right-of-use (“ROU”) asset at the lease commencement date.

For operating leases, the lease liability is initially and subsequently measured at the present value of the unpaid lease payments at the lease commencement date. For finance leases, the lease liability is initially measured in the same manner and date as for operating leases, and is subsequently measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method.

Operating lease ROU assets are initially and subsequently measured throughout the lease term at the carrying amount of the lease liability adjusted for initial direct costs, prepayments, accrued payments and lease incentives, if any. Lease cost is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Operating lease payments are classified as cash flows for operating activities with ROU asset amortization and the change in the lease liability combined as "Operating lease assets/liabilities" in the reconciliation of net income to net cash flows provided by operating activities in the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows. Finance lease ROU assets are initially measured at cost and subsequently amortized on a straight-line basis over the lesser of the useful life or the lease term. Finance lease principal payments are classified as cash flows used in financing activities in the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows. Operating and finance lease ROU assets are assessed for impairment using long-lived assets impairment guidance.

We use a consistent lease term for calculating the depreciation period for the related assets, classifying the lease and computing periodic rent expense where the lease terms include escalations in rent over the lease term.

The lease guidance provides for certain practical expedients and accounting elections. We elected the practical expedient to not separate nonlease components (such as common area maintenance) from lease components in regard to all leases and the portfolio approach in applying the discount rate to our leases.

Key estimates and judgments include how we determine (1) lease payments, (2) lease term and (3) the discount rate used to discount the unpaid lease payments to present value.

We have certain lease agreements structured with both a fixed base rent and a contingent rent based on a percentage of sales over contractual levels, others with only contingent rent based on a percentage of sales and some with a fixed base rent adjusted periodically for inflation or changes in the fair market rent rate. Contingent rent is recognized as sales occur. Our lease agreements do not contain any material residual value guarantees or material restrictive covenants.

The exercise of lease renewal options is at our sole discretion, except in certain sublease situations in which we have determined that it is reasonably certain that one or more options will be exercised, including where the exercise of a sublease option compels us to exercise the renewal option of the underlying master lease. Renewal option periods are included in the measurement of the lease ROU asset and lease liability where the exercise is reasonably certain to occur. 

The discount rate used to determine the present value of the lease payments is our estimated collateralized incremental borrowing rate, based on the yield curve for the respective lease terms, as we generally cannot determine the interest rate implicit in the lease.
Deferrals in rents received from landlords as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic are recognized as reductions in variable lease payments.

Lessor

We lease or sublease certain restaurant properties to our franchisees and occasionally to third parties. The lease descriptions, terms, variable lease payments and renewal options are the same as the lessee leases described above. Contingent rental income is recognized when earned. Similar to our lessee accounting, we elected the lessor practical expedient to not separate nonlease components from lease components in regard to all leases.

Employee Benefit Plans. Each year we measure and recognize the funded status of our defined benefit plans in our Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31. That date represents the month-end that is closest to our fiscal year-end. The funded status is adjusted for any contributions or significant events (such as a plan amendment, settlement, or curtailment that calls for a remeasurement) that occurs between our fiscal year-end and December 31.

Derivative Instruments. We use derivative financial instruments to manage our exposure to interest rate risk. We do not enter into derivative instruments for trading or speculative purposes. All derivatives are recognized on our Consolidated Balance Sheets at fair value. Changes in the fair values of derivatives are recorded in earnings or other comprehensive income (OCI), based on whether the instrument is designated as a hedge transaction. Gains or losses on derivative instruments reported in OCI are classified to earnings in the period the hedged item affects earnings. If the underlying hedge transaction ceases to exist, any associated amounts reported in OCI are reclassified to earnings. By entering into derivative instruments, we are exposed to counterparty credit risk. When the fair value of a derivative instrument is in an asset position, the counterparty has a liability to us, which creates credit risk for us. We manage our exposure to this risk by selecting counterparties with investment grade credit ratings and regularly monitoring our market position with each counterparty.
 
Contingencies and Litigation. We are subject to legal proceedings involving ordinary and routine claims incidental to our business, as well as legal proceedings that are nonroutine and include compensatory or punitive damage claims. Settlement costs are accrued when they are deemed estimable and probable. Our ultimate legal and financial liability with respect to such matters cannot be estimated with certainty and requires the use of estimates in recording liabilities for potential litigation settlements. When the reasonable estimate is a range, the recorded loss will be the best estimate within the range. We record legal settlement costs as other operating expenses in our Consolidated Statements of Income as those costs are incurred.
 
Comprehensive Income. Comprehensive income includes net income and OCI items that are excluded from net income under U.S. GAAP. OCI items include additional minimum pension liability adjustments, the effective unrealized portion of changes in the fair value of cash flow hedges, and the reclassification and amortization of loss related to the dedesignation of cash flow derivatives.

Revenues.

Company Restaurant Revenue. Company restaurant revenue is recognized at the point in time when food and beverage products are sold at company restaurants. We present company restaurant sales net of sales-related taxes collected from customers and remitted to governmental taxing authorities.

Franchise Revenue. Franchise and license revenues consist primarily of royalties, advertising revenue, initial and other fees and occupancy revenue.

Under franchise agreements we provide franchisees with a license of our respective brands’ symbolic intellectual property, administration of advertising programs (including local co-operatives), and other ongoing support functions. These services are highly interrelated, so we do not consider them to be individually distinct performance obligations, and therefore account for them as a single performance obligation.

Royalty and advertising revenues represent sales-based royalties that are recognized in the period in which the sales occur. Sales-based royalties are variable consideration related to our performance obligation to our franchisees to maintain the intellectual property being licensed. Under our franchise agreements, franchisee advertising contributions must be spent on marketing and related activities. Advertising revenues and expenditures are recorded on a gross basis within the Consolidated Statements of Income.

Initial and other fees include initial, successor and assignment franchise fees (“initial franchise fees”). Initial franchise fees are billed and received upon the signing of the franchise agreement. Recognition of these fees is deferred until the commencement
date of the agreement and occurs over time based on the term of the underlying franchise agreement. Acquired initial franchise fees are recognized from the acquisition date over time based on the term of the underlying franchise agreement. In the event a franchise agreement is terminated, any remaining deferred fees are recognized in the period of termination.

Initial and other fees also include revenue that are distinct from the franchise agreement and are separate performance obligations. Training and other franchise services fees are billed and recognized at a point in time as services are rendered. Equipment revenues are billed and recognized as the equipment is installed. Similar to advertising revenue, equipment revenues and other franchise services fees are recorded on a gross basis within the Consolidated Statements of Income.

We record contract assets related to incentives and subsidies provided to franchisees related to new unit openings and/or equipment upgrades. These contract assets are presented within prepaid and other current assets and other noncurrent assets in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. These assets are amortized as a reduction to franchise and license revenue within our Consolidated Statements of Income over the remaining term of the underlying franchise agreement.

Occupancy revenue results from leasing or subleasing restaurants to franchisees and is recognized over the term of the lease agreement.

With the exception of initial and other franchise fees, revenues are typically billed and collected on a weekly basis. Our ten largest franchisees accounted for 38%, 38% and 37% of our franchise revenues for 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Gift cards. Company restaurants, franchised restaurants and certain third party retailers sell gift cards which have no stated expiration dates. We recognize revenue when a gift card is redeemed in one of our company restaurants. We maintain a gift card liability for cards sold in our company restaurants and for cards sold by third parties. Gift card breakage is recognized proportionally as redemptions occur. Our gift card breakage primarily relates to cards sold by third parties and is recorded as advertising revenue (included as a component of franchise and license revenue).

Advertising Costs. We expense production costs for radio and television advertising in the year in which the commercials are initially aired and other advertising costs as incurred. Advertising costs for company restaurants are recorded as a component of other operating expenses in our Consolidated Statements of Income and were $7.9 million, $5.6 million and $5.3 million for 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Advertising costs related to franchised restaurants are recorded as a component of franchise and license costs and were $80.0 million, $78.5 million and $75.9 million in 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Under our franchise agreements, advertising contributions received from franchisees must be spent on marketing and related activities. As the Company is contractually required to spend these contributions on advertising costs, the obligations are accrued and advertising costs expensed when the related revenues are recognized.
 
Restructuring and Exit Costs. Restructuring and exit costs are included as a component of operating (gains), losses and other charges, net in our Consolidated Statements of Income. Restructuring costs consist primarily of severance and other restructuring charges for terminated employees. Amounts recorded as exit costs include period costs related to closed units.
 
Disposal or Impairment of Long-lived Assets. We evaluate our long-lived assets for impairment at the restaurant level on a quarterly basis, when assets are identified as held for sale or whenever changes or events indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. For assets identified as held for sale, we use the market approach and consider proceeds from similar asset sales. We assess impairment of restaurant-level assets based on the operating cash flows of the restaurant, expected proceeds from the sale of assets and our plans for restaurant closings. For underperforming assets, we use the income approach to determine both the recoverability and estimated fair value of the assets. To estimate future cash flows, we make certain assumptions about expected future operating performance, such as revenue growth, operating margins, risk-adjusted discount rates, and future economic and market conditions. If the long-lived assets of a restaurant are not recoverable based upon estimated future, undiscounted cash flows, we write the assets down to their fair value. If these estimates or their related assumptions change in the future, we may be required to record additional impairment charges. These charges are included as a component of operating (gains), losses and other charges, net in our Consolidated Statements of Income.

Assets held for sale consist of real estate properties and/or restaurant operations that we expect to sell within the next year. The assets are reported at the lower of carrying amount or fair value less costs to sell. Fair value is based upon Level 2 inputs, which include sales agreements. We cease recording depreciation on assets that are classified as held for sale. If the determination is made that we no longer expect to sell an asset within the next year, the asset is reclassified out of held for sale.
Discontinued Operations. We evaluate restaurant closures and assets reclassified to assets held for sale for potential disclosure as discontinued operations. Only disposals resulting in a strategic shift that will have a major effect on our operations and financial results are reported as discontinued operations. There have been no such disposals, nor any disposals of individually significant components. The gains and losses related to restaurant closures and assets reclassified to assets held for sale are included as a component of operating (gains), losses and other charges, net in our Consolidated Statements of Income.
 
Gains and Losses on Sales of Restaurant Operations to Franchisees, Real Estate and Other Assets. Generally, gains and losses on sales of restaurant operations to franchisees (which may include real estate), real estate properties and other assets are recognized when the sales are consummated and certain other gain recognition criteria are met. Total gains and losses are included as a component of operating (gains), losses and other charges, net in our Consolidated Statements of Income.
 
Share-based Compensation. Share-based compensation cost is measured at the grant date, based on the fair value of the award, and is recognized as an expense over the requisite service period. Share-based compensation expense is included as a component of general and administrative expenses in our Consolidated Statements of Income. We account for forfeitures as they occur. Excess tax benefits recognized related to share-based compensation are included as a component of provision for income taxes in our Consolidated Statements of Income and are classified as operating activities in our Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.

Generally, compensation expense related to performance share units and restricted stock units is based on the number of units granted, the period over which they are expected to vest and the fair market value of our common stock on the date of the grant. For restricted stock units and performance share units that contain a market condition, compensation expense is based on the Monte Carlo valuation method, which utilizes multiple input variables to determine the probability of the Company achieving the market condition and the fair value of the award. The key assumptions used include expected volatility and risk-free interest rates over the term of the award.

We generally recognize compensation cost associated with performance share units over the entire performance period on a straight-line basis. For performance share units awarded to certain retirement eligible individuals with accelerated vesting terms, compensation cost is recognized on a graded-vesting basis. We generally recognize compensation cost associated restricted stock units on a straight-line basis over the entire performance period of the award.

Subsequent to the vesting period, earned stock-settled restricted stock units and performance share units (both of which are equity classified) are paid to the holder in shares of our common stock, provided the holder was still employed with the Company or an affiliate as of the vesting date or eligible for retirement at their termination date.
  
Earnings Per Share. Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share is calculated by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares and potential common shares outstanding during the period.

Business Combinations. We account for acquisitions using the acquisition method of accounting. Accordingly, assets acquired and liabilities assumed are recorded at their estimated fair values at the acquisition date. The excess of purchase price over fair value of net assets acquired, including the amount assigned to identifiable intangible assets, is recorded as goodwill.

Newly Adopted Accounting Standards

In March 2020, the FASB issued ASU 2020-04, “Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting” which was later clarified in January 2021 by ASU 2021-01, “Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Scope”. Additionally, in December 2022, the FASB issued ASU 2022-06, “Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Deferral of the Sunset Date of Topic 848”, which allows ASU 2020-04 to be adopted and applied prospectively to contract modifications made on or before December 31, 2024. The guidance provides optional guidance, for a limited time, to ease the potential burden in accounting for or recognizing the effects of reference rate reform on financial reporting. The Company adopted ASU 2020-04 on March 12, 2020. The adoption of and future elections under this new guidance did not and are not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial position or results of operations. The guidance is effective through December 31, 2024.
In November 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-07, “Segment Reporting (Topic 280): Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures”. The new guidance requires enhanced reportable segment disclosures to include significant segment expenses. ASU 2023-07 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2023 (our fiscal 2024) and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2024 (our fiscal 2025). The Company adopted ASU 2023-07 during the year ended December 25, 2024. The adoption of this guidance did not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. See Note 20 for further detail.

Additional new accounting guidance became effective for us as of December 25, 2024 that we reviewed and concluded was either not applicable to our operations or had no material effect on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.

Accounting Standards to be Adopted

In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-09, “Income Taxes (Topic 740): Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures”. The new guidance requires enhanced effective tax rate reconciliation and income taxes paid disclosures. ASU 2023-09 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2024 (our fiscal 2025). We are currently evaluating the impact that the adoption of this new guidance will have on our consolidated financial statements and will add necessary disclosures upon adoption.

In November 2024, the FASB issued ASU 2024-03, “Disaggregation of Income Statement Expenses (Subtopic 220-40)”. The new guidance requires disaggregation of certain relevant expenses included in the consolidated statements of income. ASU 2024-03 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2026 (our fiscal 2027) and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2027 (our fiscal 2028). We are currently evaluating the impact that the adoption of this new guidance will have on our consolidated financial statements and will add necessary disclosures upon adoption.

We reviewed all other newly issued accounting pronouncements and concluded that they are either not applicable to our business or are not expected to have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements as a result of future adoption.
v3.25.0.1
Acquisition of Keke's Breakfast Cafe
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Business Combination, Asset Acquisition, and Joint Venture Formation [Abstract]  
Acquisition of Keke's Breakfast Cafe Acquisition of Keke’s Breakfast Cafe
On July 20, 2022, the Company completed its acquisition of Keke's pursuant to that certain Asset Purchase Agreement (the "Purchase Agreement"), dated May 3, 2022, which was subsequently amended by the First Amendment to Asset Purchase Agreement (the "First Amendment"), dated July 11, 2022, by and between the Company, as purchaser, and K2 Restaurants, Inc. together with the other sellers and principals party thereto, for the acquisition of certain assets and assumption of certain liabilities of the franchise business, consisting of 44 franchised restaurants, and eight company owned and operated restaurants.

Pursuant to the Purchase Agreement, we agreed to purchase Keke's for a purchase price of $82.5 million. The purchase price was funded by utilizing cash on hand as well as funds from the Company's revolving credit facility.

The acquisition was accounted for as a business combination using the acquisition method of accounting. The allocation of the purchase price is based on management's analysis, including work performed by third party valuation specialists.

The components of the purchase price allocation were as follows:

(In thousands)
Total consideration paid$82,500 
Assets:
Property2,015 
Operating lease ROU assets7,908 
Franchise agreements10,700 
Trade name35,600 
Liabilities:
Operating lease liabilities7,908 
Deferred franchise revenue992 
Other liabilities36 
Net assets acquired, excluding goodwill47,287 
Goodwill$35,213 
The Keke's trade name has been assigned an indefinite life, and therefore, will not be amortized, but rather tested annually for impairment. At the acquisition date, franchise agreements had a weighted average useful life of approximately 15 years. Goodwill attributable to the Keke's acquisition will be deductible and amortized for tax purposes. Goodwill is considered to represent the value associated with the workforce and synergies anticipated to be realized as a combined company.

Acquisition transaction costs totaling approximately $0.6 million during the year ended December 28, 2022 were recorded in general and administrative expenses in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Income. Keke’s results are included in the Other segment results beginning with the fiscal 2022 third quarter.

Results of operations starting from the date of acquisition of Keke's have been included in our consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 28, 2022. The Keke's acquisition is not material to our consolidated financial statements, and therefore, supplemental pro forma financial information for the year ended December 28, 2022 related to the acquisition is not included herein.
v3.25.0.1
Receivables
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Receivables [Abstract]  
Receivables Receivables
 
Receivables, net consisted of the following:
 
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023
 (In thousands)
Receivables, net:  
Trade accounts receivable from franchisees$15,798 $14,092 
Notes and loan receivables from franchisees490 584 
Vendor receivables3,632 4,059 
Credit card receivables1,815 995 
Other3,140 1,862 
Allowance for doubtful accounts(442)(201)
Total receivables, net$24,433 $21,391 
  
During 2024, we recorded credit losses of $0.2 million, and during 2023 and 2022, we recorded reversals of credit losses of $0.1 million, respectively, based on actual and expected losses on franchise-related receivables.
v3.25.0.1
Property
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]  
Property Property
 
Property, net consisted of the following:
 
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023
 (In thousands)
Land$43,196 $43,577 
Buildings and leasehold improvements182,560 169,005 
Other property and equipment45,249 40,791 
Total property271,005 253,373 
Less accumulated depreciation159,588 159,879 
Property, net$111,417 $93,494 
  
The following table reflects the property assets, included in the table above, and buildings with finance leases which were leased to franchisees:
 
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023
 (In thousands)
Land$23,166 $23,825 
Buildings and leasehold improvements63,338 66,763 
Total property owned, leased to franchisees86,504 90,588 
Less accumulated depreciation55,699 58,006 
Property owned, leased to franchisees, net30,805 32,582 
Buildings held under finance leases, leased to franchisees5,233 5,505 
Less accumulated amortization3,024 3,218 
Property held under finance leases, leased to franchisees, net2,209 2,287 
Total property leased to franchisees, net$33,014 $34,869 
 
Depreciation expense, including amortization of property under finance leases, for 2024, 2023 and 2022 was $12.6 million, $12.2 million and $12.8 million, respectively. Substantially all owned property is pledged as collateral for our Credit Facility. See Note 10.
v3.25.0.1
Goodwill and Intangible Assets
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]  
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets
     
The following table reflects the changes in carrying amounts of goodwill and goodwill by segment:
 
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023
 (In thousands)
Balance, beginning of year$65,908 $72,740 
Reclassifications from (to) assets held for sale469 (469)
Impairment charges$(20)$(6,363)
Balance, end of year (1)
$66,357 $65,908 
Goodwill by segment
Denny’s$37,507 $37,527 
Other28,850 28,381 
Total goodwill$66,357 $65,908 
(1)
Net of accumulated impairment losses of $6.4 million.
Intangible assets consist of the following:
 
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023
 Gross Carrying AmountAccumulated AmortizationGross Carrying AmountAccumulated Amortization
 (In thousands)
Intangible assets with indefinite lives:    
Trade names$79,687 $— $79,687 $— 
Liquor licenses120 — 120 — 
Intangible assets with definite lives:  
Reacquired franchise rights9,135 6,188 9,470 5,614 
Franchise agreements10,603 1,618 10,700 935 
Intangible assets, net$99,545 $7,806 $99,977 $6,549 
 
The weighted-average life of reacquired franchise rights is five years. The weighted-average life of franchise agreements is 13 years. The amortization expense for definite-lived intangibles and other assets for 2024, 2023 and 2022 was $2.2 million, $2.2 million and $2.0 million, respectively. Estimated amortization expense for intangible assets with definite lives in the next five years is as follows: 
 (In thousands)
2025$1,442 
20261,274 
20271,235 
20281,085 
20291,017 

We performed an annual impairment test as of December 25, 2024 and determined that the fair value of the reporting units substantially exceeded their respective carrying values. No impairment charges related to goodwill or other intangible assets with indefinite lives were recorded. However, we recorded $0.1 million of impairment related to reacquired franchise rights and $0.1 million of impairment related to franchise agreements during the year ended December 25, 2024. See Note 14.
We performed an annual impairment test of goodwill and other intangible assets with indefinite lives as of December 27, 2023 and determined that a portion of the goodwill related to Keke’s was impaired as a result of lower than forecasted sales and cash flows. Near-term sales and cash flows in 2023 were impacted by reduced tourism in Florida as well as a slower pace of restaurant development than originally anticipated. In addition, investments in general and administrative expenses to support the growth of the brand and an extended development cycle have also impacted near-term cash flow projections. Accordingly, we recognized $6.4 million of impairment charges related to the Keke’s goodwill. See Note 8. The balance of this goodwill is included in the Other segment. As it relates to the remainder of goodwill and other intangible assets with indefinite lives, we concluded that the fair value of these assets substantially exceeded their carrying values. However, we recorded less than $0.1 million of impairment related to reacquired franchise rights during the year ended December 27, 2023. See Note 14.
v3.25.0.1
Other Current Liabilities
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract]  
Other Current Liabilities Other Current Liabilities
 
Other current liabilities consisted of the following:
 
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023
 (In thousands)
Accrued payroll$15,434 $16,400 
Accrued insurance, primarily current portion of liability for insurance claims
4,494 3,758 
Accrued taxes4,432 4,699 
Accrued advertising11,785 10,664 
Gift cards8,382 7,838 
Accrued legal settlements4,114 7,488 
Accrued interest4,368 4,530 
Other5,833 7,691 
Other current liabilities$58,842 $63,068 
v3.25.0.1
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]  
Fair Value of Financial Instruments Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities Measured on a Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis
 
Financial assets and (liabilities) measured at fair value on a recurring basis are summarized below:
 TotalQuoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets/Liabilities
(Level 1)
Significant Other Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
Significant Unobservable Inputs
(Level 3)
 
(In thousands)
Fair value measurements as of December 25, 2024:
Deferred compensation plan investments (1)
$10,400 $10,400 $— $— 
Interest rate swaps (2)
20,841 — 20,841 — 
Investments (3)
1,106 — 1,106 — 
Total$32,347 $10,400 $21,947 $— 
Fair value measurements as of December 27, 2023:
Deferred compensation plan investments (1)
$12,225 $12,225 $— $— 
Interest rate swaps (2)
8,888 — 8,888 — 
Investments (3)
1,281 — 1,281 — 
Total$22,394 $12,225 $10,169 $— 

(1)    The fair values of our deferred compensation plan investments are based on the closing market prices of the elected investments and are included in other noncurrent assets in our Consolidated Balance Sheets.
(2)    The fair values of our interest rate swaps are based upon Level 2 inputs, which include valuation models. The key inputs for the valuation models are quoted market prices, interest rates, forward yield curves and credit risk adjustments that are necessary to reflect the probability of default by the counterparty or us. For disclosures about the fair value measurements of our derivative instruments, see Note 10.
(3)    The fair value of investments is valued using a readily determinable net asset value per share based on the fair value of the underlying securities. There are no significant redemption restrictions associated with these investments.
 
Those assets and (liabilities) measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis are summarized below:
 
 Significant Unobservable Inputs
(Level 3)
Impairment Charges
 
Fair value measurements as of December 27, 2023:
Assets held and used, including other intangible assets (1)
$— $375 
Goodwill (2)
$28,381 $6,363 
(1)As of December 27, 2023, impaired assets were written down to their fair value. To determine fair value, we used the income approach, which assumes that the future cash flows reflect current market expectations. These fair value measurements require significant judgment using Level 3 inputs, such as discounted cash flows from operations, which are not observable from the market, directly or indirectly. There is uncertainty in the projected future cash flows used in the Company’s impairment analysis, which requires the use of estimates and assumptions. If actual performance does not achieve the projections, or if the assumptions used change in the future, the Company may be required to recognize impairment charges in future periods.
(2)As of December 27, 2023, impaired Keke’s goodwill was written down to fair value. To determine fair value, we used an income approach and market approach, with equal weighting given to each approach, to value the goodwill subject to the impairment. These fair value measurements require significant judgment using Level 3 inputs. The income approach involves the use of estimates and assumptions including forecasted future revenues and operating margins, including projected growth in restaurant unit counts and average unit volumes, royalty rate, and discount rates. Inputs used are generally obtained from historical data supplemented by current and anticipated market conditions and growth rates. The market approach involves the selection and application of cash flows multiples of a group of similar companies to the projected cash flows of the operating segment.

Assets that are measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis include property, operating right-of-use assets, finance right-of-use assets, goodwill and reacquired franchise rights. During the year ended December 25, 2024 and December 27, 2023, we recognized impairment charges of $0.8 million and $8.6 million, respectively, related to certain of these assets. See Note 6 and Note 14.

The carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivables, accounts payable and accrued expenses are deemed to approximate fair value due to the immediate or short-term maturity of these instruments. The fair value of notes receivable approximates the carrying value after consideration of recorded allowances and related risk-based interest rates. The liabilities under our credit facility are carried at historical cost, which approximates fair value. The fair value of our senior secured revolver approximates its carrying value since it is a variable rate facility (Level 2). The determinations of fair values of certain tangible and intangible assets for purposes of the application of the acquisition method of accounting to the acquisition of Keke’s were based on Level 3 inputs.
v3.25.0.1
Leases
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Leases [Abstract]  
Leases Leases
 
Lessee

Our operations utilize property, facilities and equipment leased from others. Buildings and facilities are primarily used for restaurants and support facilities. Many of our restaurants are operated under lease arrangements which generally provide for a fixed base rent, and, in many instances, contingent rent based on a percentage of gross revenues. Initial terms of land and restaurant building leases generally range from 10 to 20 years, exclusive of options to renew, which are typically for five year periods. Leases of equipment consist primarily of restaurant equipment, computer equipment and vehicles. Initial terms of equipment leases generally range from three to five years.

Lessor

We lease or sublease certain restaurant properties to our franchisees and occasionally to third parties. The lease descriptions, terms, variable lease payments and renewal options are generally the same as the lessee leases described above.
The components of lease costs were as follows:
 Fiscal Year Ended
 ClassificationDecember 25, 2024December 27, 2023December 28, 2022
 (In thousands)
Lease costs
Finance lease costs:
Amortization of right-of-use assets
Depreciation and amortization
$1,350 $1,451 $1,704 
Interest on lease liabilitiesInterest expense, net1,990 2,139 2,350 
Operating lease costs:
Operating lease costs
Occupancy
8,828 8,584 7,624 
Operating lease costs
Costs of franchise and license revenue
12,702 14,022 15,541 
Operating lease costsGeneral and administrative expenses739 629 564 
Operating lease costsOther operating expenses459 257 — 
Operating lease costsRestructuring charges and exit costs125 175 201 
Variable lease costs:
Variable lease costsOccupancy4,716 4,789 3,988 
Variable lease costsCosts of franchise and license revenue5,979 6,232 6,596 
Variable lease costs
General and administrative expenses
333 271 255 
Variable lease costsOther operating expenses14 — 
Variable lease costs
Restructuring charges and exit costs
65 46 34 
Sublease income:
Sublease income
Franchise and license revenue
(22,817)(24,966)(27,445)
Sublease incomeRestructuring charges and exit costs(192)(166)(229)
Total lease costs
$14,283 $13,477 $11,183 


Lease terms and discount rates were as follows:
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023
Weighted-average remaining lease term (in years):
Finance leases
8.78.0
Operating leases9.08.8
Weighted-average discount rate:
Finance leases21.4 %23.1 %
Operating leases6.1 %6.0 %
The components of lease income were as follows:
 Fiscal Year Ended
 ClassificationDecember 25, 2024December 27, 2023December 28, 2022
 (In thousands)
Lease income
Operating lease income
Franchise and license revenue
$24,269 $26,353 $28,473 
Operating lease income
Restructuring charges and exit costs
130 119 183 
Operating lease incomeGeneral and administrative expenses71 118 140 
Variable lease income
Franchise and license revenue
8,895 9,530 10,124 
Variable lease income
Restructuring charges and exit costs
61 47 46 
Total lease income$33,426 $36,167 $38,966 

Cash and supplemental noncash amounts were as follows:
 Fiscal Year Ended
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023December 28, 2022
(In thousands)
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:
Operating cash flows from finance leases
$1,990 $2,139 $2,350 
Operating cash flows from operating leases$23,055 $24,310 $24,626 
Financing cash flows from finance leases$1,411 $1,786 $2,020 
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new finance lease liabilities
$1,783 $1,071 $537 
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new operating lease liabilities (1)
$25,283 $7,047 $16,040 
(1)     Right-of-use assets obtained in 2022 includes $7.9 million from the acquisition of Keke’s. See Note 3.

Maturities of lease liabilities and receipts as of December 25, 2024 were as follows:
 Lease LiabilitiesLease Receipts
 FinanceOperatingOperating
 (In thousands)
2025$3,077 $23,243 $23,271 
20262,985 23,114 22,962 
20272,639 21,328 21,413 
20281,953 19,479 19,691 
20291,751 17,954 19,034 
Thereafter9,806 74,758 96,131 
Total undiscounted cash flows22,211 179,876 $202,502 
Less: interest11,643 43,548  
Present value of lease liabilities10,568 136,328  
Less: current lease liabilities1,284 15,487 
Long-term lease liabilities$9,284 $120,841 
Leases Leases
 
Lessee

Our operations utilize property, facilities and equipment leased from others. Buildings and facilities are primarily used for restaurants and support facilities. Many of our restaurants are operated under lease arrangements which generally provide for a fixed base rent, and, in many instances, contingent rent based on a percentage of gross revenues. Initial terms of land and restaurant building leases generally range from 10 to 20 years, exclusive of options to renew, which are typically for five year periods. Leases of equipment consist primarily of restaurant equipment, computer equipment and vehicles. Initial terms of equipment leases generally range from three to five years.

Lessor

We lease or sublease certain restaurant properties to our franchisees and occasionally to third parties. The lease descriptions, terms, variable lease payments and renewal options are generally the same as the lessee leases described above.
The components of lease costs were as follows:
 Fiscal Year Ended
 ClassificationDecember 25, 2024December 27, 2023December 28, 2022
 (In thousands)
Lease costs
Finance lease costs:
Amortization of right-of-use assets
Depreciation and amortization
$1,350 $1,451 $1,704 
Interest on lease liabilitiesInterest expense, net1,990 2,139 2,350 
Operating lease costs:
Operating lease costs
Occupancy
8,828 8,584 7,624 
Operating lease costs
Costs of franchise and license revenue
12,702 14,022 15,541 
Operating lease costsGeneral and administrative expenses739 629 564 
Operating lease costsOther operating expenses459 257 — 
Operating lease costsRestructuring charges and exit costs125 175 201 
Variable lease costs:
Variable lease costsOccupancy4,716 4,789 3,988 
Variable lease costsCosts of franchise and license revenue5,979 6,232 6,596 
Variable lease costs
General and administrative expenses
333 271 255 
Variable lease costsOther operating expenses14 — 
Variable lease costs
Restructuring charges and exit costs
65 46 34 
Sublease income:
Sublease income
Franchise and license revenue
(22,817)(24,966)(27,445)
Sublease incomeRestructuring charges and exit costs(192)(166)(229)
Total lease costs
$14,283 $13,477 $11,183 


Lease terms and discount rates were as follows:
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023
Weighted-average remaining lease term (in years):
Finance leases
8.78.0
Operating leases9.08.8
Weighted-average discount rate:
Finance leases21.4 %23.1 %
Operating leases6.1 %6.0 %
The components of lease income were as follows:
 Fiscal Year Ended
 ClassificationDecember 25, 2024December 27, 2023December 28, 2022
 (In thousands)
Lease income
Operating lease income
Franchise and license revenue
$24,269 $26,353 $28,473 
Operating lease income
Restructuring charges and exit costs
130 119 183 
Operating lease incomeGeneral and administrative expenses71 118 140 
Variable lease income
Franchise and license revenue
8,895 9,530 10,124 
Variable lease income
Restructuring charges and exit costs
61 47 46 
Total lease income$33,426 $36,167 $38,966 

Cash and supplemental noncash amounts were as follows:
 Fiscal Year Ended
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023December 28, 2022
(In thousands)
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:
Operating cash flows from finance leases
$1,990 $2,139 $2,350 
Operating cash flows from operating leases$23,055 $24,310 $24,626 
Financing cash flows from finance leases$1,411 $1,786 $2,020 
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new finance lease liabilities
$1,783 $1,071 $537 
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new operating lease liabilities (1)
$25,283 $7,047 $16,040 
(1)     Right-of-use assets obtained in 2022 includes $7.9 million from the acquisition of Keke’s. See Note 3.

Maturities of lease liabilities and receipts as of December 25, 2024 were as follows:
 Lease LiabilitiesLease Receipts
 FinanceOperatingOperating
 (In thousands)
2025$3,077 $23,243 $23,271 
20262,985 23,114 22,962 
20272,639 21,328 21,413 
20281,953 19,479 19,691 
20291,751 17,954 19,034 
Thereafter9,806 74,758 96,131 
Total undiscounted cash flows22,211 179,876 $202,502 
Less: interest11,643 43,548  
Present value of lease liabilities10,568 136,328  
Less: current lease liabilities1,284 15,487 
Long-term lease liabilities$9,284 $120,841 
Leases Leases
 
Lessee

Our operations utilize property, facilities and equipment leased from others. Buildings and facilities are primarily used for restaurants and support facilities. Many of our restaurants are operated under lease arrangements which generally provide for a fixed base rent, and, in many instances, contingent rent based on a percentage of gross revenues. Initial terms of land and restaurant building leases generally range from 10 to 20 years, exclusive of options to renew, which are typically for five year periods. Leases of equipment consist primarily of restaurant equipment, computer equipment and vehicles. Initial terms of equipment leases generally range from three to five years.

Lessor

We lease or sublease certain restaurant properties to our franchisees and occasionally to third parties. The lease descriptions, terms, variable lease payments and renewal options are generally the same as the lessee leases described above.
The components of lease costs were as follows:
 Fiscal Year Ended
 ClassificationDecember 25, 2024December 27, 2023December 28, 2022
 (In thousands)
Lease costs
Finance lease costs:
Amortization of right-of-use assets
Depreciation and amortization
$1,350 $1,451 $1,704 
Interest on lease liabilitiesInterest expense, net1,990 2,139 2,350 
Operating lease costs:
Operating lease costs
Occupancy
8,828 8,584 7,624 
Operating lease costs
Costs of franchise and license revenue
12,702 14,022 15,541 
Operating lease costsGeneral and administrative expenses739 629 564 
Operating lease costsOther operating expenses459 257 — 
Operating lease costsRestructuring charges and exit costs125 175 201 
Variable lease costs:
Variable lease costsOccupancy4,716 4,789 3,988 
Variable lease costsCosts of franchise and license revenue5,979 6,232 6,596 
Variable lease costs
General and administrative expenses
333 271 255 
Variable lease costsOther operating expenses14 — 
Variable lease costs
Restructuring charges and exit costs
65 46 34 
Sublease income:
Sublease income
Franchise and license revenue
(22,817)(24,966)(27,445)
Sublease incomeRestructuring charges and exit costs(192)(166)(229)
Total lease costs
$14,283 $13,477 $11,183 


Lease terms and discount rates were as follows:
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023
Weighted-average remaining lease term (in years):
Finance leases
8.78.0
Operating leases9.08.8
Weighted-average discount rate:
Finance leases21.4 %23.1 %
Operating leases6.1 %6.0 %
The components of lease income were as follows:
 Fiscal Year Ended
 ClassificationDecember 25, 2024December 27, 2023December 28, 2022
 (In thousands)
Lease income
Operating lease income
Franchise and license revenue
$24,269 $26,353 $28,473 
Operating lease income
Restructuring charges and exit costs
130 119 183 
Operating lease incomeGeneral and administrative expenses71 118 140 
Variable lease income
Franchise and license revenue
8,895 9,530 10,124 
Variable lease income
Restructuring charges and exit costs
61 47 46 
Total lease income$33,426 $36,167 $38,966 

Cash and supplemental noncash amounts were as follows:
 Fiscal Year Ended
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023December 28, 2022
(In thousands)
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:
Operating cash flows from finance leases
$1,990 $2,139 $2,350 
Operating cash flows from operating leases$23,055 $24,310 $24,626 
Financing cash flows from finance leases$1,411 $1,786 $2,020 
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new finance lease liabilities
$1,783 $1,071 $537 
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new operating lease liabilities (1)
$25,283 $7,047 $16,040 
(1)     Right-of-use assets obtained in 2022 includes $7.9 million from the acquisition of Keke’s. See Note 3.

Maturities of lease liabilities and receipts as of December 25, 2024 were as follows:
 Lease LiabilitiesLease Receipts
 FinanceOperatingOperating
 (In thousands)
2025$3,077 $23,243 $23,271 
20262,985 23,114 22,962 
20272,639 21,328 21,413 
20281,953 19,479 19,691 
20291,751 17,954 19,034 
Thereafter9,806 74,758 96,131 
Total undiscounted cash flows22,211 179,876 $202,502 
Less: interest11,643 43,548  
Present value of lease liabilities10,568 136,328  
Less: current lease liabilities1,284 15,487 
Long-term lease liabilities$9,284 $120,841 
v3.25.0.1
Long-Term Debt
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]  
Long-Term Debt Long-Term Debt
 
Long-term debt consisted of the following:
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023
 (In thousands)
Revolving loans$261,300 $255,500 
Finance lease obligations10,568 10,533 
Total long-term debt271,868 266,033 
Less current maturities of finance lease obligations1,284 1,383 
Noncurrent portion of long-term debt$270,584 $264,650 
 
There are no scheduled maturities of our revolving loans due in 2025. The $261.3 million of revolving loans are due August 26, 2026.

The Company and certain of its subsidiaries have a credit facility consisting of a five-year $400 million senior secured revolver (with a $25 million letter of credit sublimit). The credit facility includes an accordion feature that would allow us to increase the size of the revolver to $450 million. Borrowings bear a tiered interest rate, which is based on the Company's consolidated leverage ratio. The maturity date for the credit facility is August 26, 2026.

The credit facility is available for working capital, capital expenditures and other general corporate purposes. The credit facility is guaranteed by the Company and its material subsidiaries and is secured by assets of the Company and its subsidiaries, including the stock of its subsidiaries (other than its insurance captive subsidiary). It includes negative covenants that are usual for facilities and transactions of this type. The credit facility also contains certain financial covenants, including a maximum consolidated leverage ratio of 4.0 times and a minimum consolidated fixed charge coverage ratio of 1.5 times. As of December 25, 2024, our consolidated leverage ratio was 3.85 times and our consolidated fixed charge coverage ratio was 2.18 times. We were in compliance with all financial covenants as of December 25, 2024, and we expect to remain in compliance throughout 2025.

As of December 25, 2024, we had outstanding revolver loans of $261.3 million and outstanding letters of credit under the credit facility of $16.1 million. These balances resulted in unused commitments of $122.6 million as of December 25, 2024 under the credit facility.

As of December 25, 2024, borrowings under the credit facility bore interest at a rate of Adjusted Daily Simple SOFR plus 2.25%. Letters of credit under the credit facility bore interest at a rate of 2.38%. The commitment fee, paid on the unused portion of the credit facility, was set to 0.35%.

Prior to considering the impact of our interest rate swaps, described below, the weighted-average interest rate on outstanding revolver loans was 6.98% and 7.41% as of December 25, 2024 and December 27, 2023, respectively. Taking into consideration our interest rate swaps that are designated as cash flow hedges, the weighted-average interest rate of outstanding revolver loans was 5.01% and 5.04% as of December 25, 2024 and December 27, 2023, respectively.
Interest Rate Hedges

We have receive-variable, pay-fixed interest rate swaps to hedge the forecasted cash flows of our floating rate debt. A summary of our interest rate swaps as of December 25, 2024 is as follows:

Trade DateEffective DateMaturity DateNotional AmountFair ValueFixed Rate
(In thousands)
Swaps designated as
cash flow hedges
March 20, 2015March 29, 2018March 31, 2025$120,000 $618 2.34 %
October 1, 2015March 29, 2018March 31, 2026$50,000 $1,087 2.37 %
February 15, 2018March 31, 2020December 31, 2033$68,000 (1)$19,136 3.09 %
Total$238,000 $20,841 

(1)     The notional amounts of the swaps entered into on February 15, 2018 will increase by $120 million on March 31, 2025 when the swaps entered into on March 20, 2015 expire and will increase periodically until they reach the maximum notional amount of $335 million on August 31, 2033.

Termination and Designation of Certain Interest Rate Swaps

During the quarter ended March 29, 2023, we terminated a portion of our hedging relationship entered into in 2018 (“2018 Swaps”), reducing the previous maximum notional amount of $425 million on August 31, 2033 to $335 million. As a result, we expect our total swaps to approximate 80% of our outstanding debt prospectively. We received $1.5 million of cash as a result of the termination which is recorded as a component of operating activities in our Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows for the year ended December 27, 2023.

In addition, during the year ended December 27, 2023, we designated the remaining 2018 Swaps as cash flow hedges of our exposure to variability in future cash flows attributable to variable rate interest payments due on forecasted notional amounts.

Changes in Fair Value of Interest Rate Swaps

To the extent the swaps are highly effective in offsetting the variability of the hedged cash flows, changes in the fair value of the swaps are not included in the Consolidated Statements of Income but are reported as a component of other comprehensive income (loss). Our interest rate swaps are designated as cash flow hedges with unrealized gains and losses recorded as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss, net.

As of December 25, 2024, the fair value of swaps designated as cash flow hedges was an asset of $20.8 million and was recorded as a component of other noncurrent assets. The designated swaps have an offsetting amount (before taxes) recorded as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss, net in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. See Note 17 for the amounts recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss related to the interest rate swaps. During the year ended December 25, 2024, we reclassified $5.9 million from accumulated other comprehensive loss, net as a reduction to interest expense, net. We expect to reclassify approximately $4.5 million from accumulated other comprehensive loss, net as a reduction to interest expense, net in our Consolidated Statements of Income related to swaps designated as cash flow hedges during the next twelve months.

For the periods prior to their designation as cash flow hedges, changes in the fair value of the 2018 Swaps were recorded as a component of other nonoperating expense (income), net in our Consolidated Statements of Income. For the year ended December 27, 2023, we recorded expense of $10.6 million, and for the year ended December 28, 2022, we recorded income of $55.0 million, respectively, as a component of other nonoperating (income) expense, net related to the 2018 Swaps resulting from changes in fair value.
Amortization of Certain Amounts Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss, Net
At December 25, 2024, we had a total of $63.4 million (before taxes) included in accumulated other comprehensive loss, net related to (i) the discontinuance of hedge accounting treatment related to certain cash flow hedges in prior years and (ii) the fair value of certain swaps at the date of designation as cash flow hedges that are being amortized into our Consolidated Statements of Income as a component of interest expense, net over the remaining term of the related swap. We reclassified unrealized losses of $0.8 million, $0.4 million, and less than $0.1 million to interest expense, net related to the 2018 Swaps, for the years ended December 25, 2024, December 27, 2023, and December 28, 2022, respectively. We expect to amortize approximately $3.1 million from accumulated other comprehensive loss, net to interest expense, net in our Consolidated Statements of Income related to dedesignated interest rate swaps during the next twelve months.
v3.25.0.1
Revenues
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]  
Revenues Revenues
The following table disaggregates our revenue by sales channel and type of good or service:
 Fiscal Year Ended
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023December 28, 2022
 (In thousands)
Company restaurant sales$211,781 $215,532 $199,753 
Franchise and license revenue:
Royalties118,705 120,131 113,891 
Advertising revenue79,973 78,494 75,926 
Initial and other fees8,711 13,882 28,262 
Occupancy revenue 33,164 35,883 38,597 
Franchise and license revenue 
240,553 248,390 256,676 
Total operating revenue$452,334 $463,922 $456,429 

Balances related to contracts with customers consist of receivables, contract assets, deferred franchise revenue and deferred gift card revenue. See Note 4 for details on our receivables.

Deferred franchise revenue consists primarily of the unamortized portion of initial franchise fees that are currently being amortized into revenue and amounts related to development agreements and unopened restaurants that will begin amortizing into revenue when the related restaurants are opened. Deferred franchise revenue represents our remaining performance obligations to our franchisees, excluding amounts of variable consideration related to sales-based royalties and advertising.

The components of the change in deferred franchise revenue are as follows:
 (In thousands)
Balance, December 27, 2023$19,150 
Fees received from franchisees1,080 
Revenue recognized, net (1)
(3,262)
Balance, December 25, 202416,968 
Less current portion included in other current liabilities2,073 
Deferred franchise revenue included in other noncurrent liabilities$14,895 

(1) Of this amount $2.8 million was included in the deferred franchise revenue balance as of December 27, 2023.

We record contract assets related to incentives and subsidies provided to franchisees related to new unit openings and/or equipment upgrades. These amounts will be recognized as a component of franchise and license revenue over the remaining term of the related franchise agreements.
The components of the change in contract assets are as follows:
 (In thousands)
Balance, December 27, 2023$6,608 
Franchisee deferred costs1,417 
Contract asset amortization(1,319)
Balance, December 25, 20246,706 
Less current portion included in other current assets976 
Contract assets included in other noncurrent assets$5,730 
The Company purchases equipment related to various programs for franchise restaurants, including kitchen and point-of-sale system equipment. We bill our franchisees and recognize revenue when the related equipment is installed, less amounts contributed from the Company, which have been deferred as contract assets in the table above. We recognized $0.7 million, $4.8 million and $19.3 million of revenue related to the sale of equipment to franchisees during the years ended December 25, 2024, December 27, 2023 and December 28, 2022, respectively. As of December 25, 2024, we had $0.2 million in inventory and $0.4 million in receivables related to the purchased equipment. As of December 27, 2023, we had $0.6 million in inventory and $0.3 million in receivables related to the purchased equipment.

As of December 25, 2024, deferred franchise revenue, net of contract asset amortization, expected to be recognized in the future is as follows:
 (In thousands)
2025$1,097 
20261,072 
20271,041 
2028917 
2029813 
Thereafter5,322 
Deferred franchise revenue, net$10,262 

Deferred gift card liabilities consist of the unredeemed portion of gift cards sold in company restaurants and at third party locations. The balance of deferred gift card liabilities represents our remaining performance obligations to customers. The balance of deferred gift card liabilities as of December 25, 2024 and December 27, 2023 was $8.4 million and $7.8 million, respectively. During the year ended December 25, 2024, we recognized revenue of $0.6 million from gift card redemptions at company restaurants.
v3.25.0.1
Employee Benefit Plans
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]  
Employee Benefit Plans Employee Benefit Plans
 
We maintain defined contribution plans and defined benefit plans which cover a substantial number of employees.

Defined Contribution Plans

Eligible employees can elect to contribute up to 25% of their compensation to our 401(k) plan. Effective January 1, 2016, the plan was amended and restated to incorporate Safe Harbor Plan design features which included changes to participant eligibility, company contribution amounts and vesting. As a result, we match up to a maximum of 4% of compensation deferred by the participant.

In addition, a non-qualified deferred compensation plan is offered to certain employees. This plan allows participants to defer up to 50% of annual salary and up to 75% of bonuses and incentive compensation awards, on a pre-tax basis. There are no matching contributions made under this plan. 

We made total contributions of $2.0 million, $1.8 million and $1.7 million for 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively, under these plans.
Defined Benefit Plans
 
Benefits under our defined benefit plans are based upon each employee’s years of service and average salary. The following table provides a reconciliation of the changes in the benefit obligations, plan assets, and funded status of our defined benefit plans:
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023
 (In thousands)
Change in Benefit Obligation:  
Benefit obligation at beginning of year
$1,078 $1,606 
Interest cost31 53 
Actuarial gain(83)(29)
Benefits paid(106)(131)
Settlements(430)(421)
Benefit obligation at end of year
$490 $1,078 
Accumulated benefit obligation$490 $1,078 
Change in Plan Assets:  
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year
$— $— 
Employer contributions536 552 
Benefits paid(106)(131)
Settlements(430)(421)
Fair value of plan assets at end of year
$— $— 
Unfunded status at end of year$(490)$(1,078)
Amounts recognized on the balance sheet:
Other current liabilities $(105)$(582)
Other noncurrent liabilities(385)(496)
Net amount recognized $(490)$(1,078)
Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive loss not yet reflected in net period benefit cost:
Unamortized actuarial losses, net$(277)$(449)
Other changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss, net:
Benefit obligation actuarial gain (loss)$83 $(98)
Amortization of net loss63 56 
Settlement loss recognized26 35 
Plan closure loss— 74 
Other comprehensive income$172 $67 
 
The components of net periodic benefit cost, which are included in general and administrative expenses in our Consolidated Statements of Income, were as follows:
 Fiscal Year Ended
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023December 28, 2022
 (In thousands)
Interest cost$31 $53 $36 
Amortization of net loss63 56 123 
Settlement loss recognized26 35 74 
Plan experience gain— (53)— 
Net periodic benefit cost$120 $91 $233 
Assumptions

The discount rates used to determine the benefit obligations as of December 25, 2024 and December 27, 2023 were 5.08% and 4.93%, respectively. The discount rates used to determine net period pension costs for 2024, 2023 and 2022 were 4.93%, 5.26% and 1.99%, respectively.
 
In determining the discount rates, we have considered long-term bond indices of bonds having similar timing and amounts of cash flows as our estimated defined benefit payments. We use a yield curve based on high quality, long-term corporate bonds to calculate the single equivalent discount rate that results in the same present value as the sum of each of the plan’s estimated benefit payments discounted at their respective spot rates.

Contributions and Expected Future Benefit Payments

We made contributions of $0.5 million and $0.6 million to our defined benefit plans during the years ended December 25, 2024 and December 27, 2023, respectively. We expect to contribute $0.1 million to our defined benefit plans during 2025.

Benefits expected to be paid for each of the next five years and in the aggregate for the five fiscal years from 2030 through 2034 are as follows:
 Defined Benefit Plans
 (In thousands)
2025$105 
2026107 
202778 
202867 
2029117 
2030 though 2034116 
v3.25.0.1
Share-Based Compensation
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Share-Based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]  
Share-Based Compensation Share-Based Compensation
 
Share-Based Compensation Plans

The Denny’s Corporation 2021 Omnibus Incentive Plan (the “2021 Omnibus Plan”) is used to grant share-based compensation to selected employees, officers and directors of Denny’s and its affiliates. However, we reserve the right to pay discretionary bonuses, or other types of compensation, outside of this plan. At December 25, 2024, there were 0.9 million shares available for grant under the 2021 Omnibus Plan.
 
Share-Based Compensation Expense
 
Total share-based compensation expense included as a component of net income was as follows:
 
 Fiscal Year Ended
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023December 28, 2022
 (In thousands)
Employee share awards$9,792 $7,991 $10,470 
Restricted stock units for board members886 889 930 
Total share-based compensation$10,678 $8,880 $11,400 
 
The income tax benefits recognized as a component of the provision for income taxes in our Consolidated Statements of Income related to share-based compensation expense were $2.8 million, $2.3 million and $2.9 million during the years ended December 25, 2024, December 27, 2023 and December 28, 2022, respectively.
Employee Share Awards

Employee share awards consist of performance share units (“PSUs”) and restricted stock units ("RSUs") (which are equity classified). The number of shares that are ultimately issued is dependent upon the level of obtainment of the market and performance conditions. The following table summarizes the employee share awards activity during the year ended December 25, 2024:
 UnitsWeighted Average Grant Date
Fair Value
 
 (In thousands)
Outstanding, beginning of year1,990 $15.90 
Granted1,432 $12.55 
Converted(524)$17.57 
Performance shares adjustment(478)$18.35 
Forfeited(307)$13.59 
Outstanding, end of year2,113 $13.00 
Convertible, end of year461 $11.76 

During the year ended December 25, 2024, we granted certain employees 0.6 million performance share units ("PSUs") with a weighted average grant date fair value of $15.48 per share that vest based on the total shareholder return (“TSR”) of our common stock compared to the TSRs of a group of peer companies. As the TSR based PSUs contain a market condition, a Monte Carlo valuation was used to determine the grant date fair value. The performance period for these PSUs is the three year fiscal period beginning December 28, 2023 and ending December 30, 2026. The PSUs will vest and be earned at the end of the performance period at which point the relative TSR achievement percentage will be applied to the vested units (from 0% to 200% of the target award).

We also granted certain employees 0.8 million restricted stock units (“RSUs”) with a weighted average grant date fair value of $10.13 per share. These RSUs generally vest evenly over the three-year fiscal period beginning December 28, 2023 and ending December 30, 2026. We recognize compensation cost associated with these RSU awards on a straight-line basis over the entire performance period of the award.

For 2024, 2023 and 2022, the weighted average grant date fair value of awards granted was $12.55, $13.43 and $16.22, respectively.

The following table presents the weighted-average assumptions used in the Monte Carlo simulations to determine the fair value of PSU awards at the grant date, along with the related weighted-average grant date fair value of PSU awards:

 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023December 28, 2022
Risk-free interest rate4.14%3.75%1.96%
Expected term (in years)3.03.02.8
Expected volatility39.2%69.7%66.0%
Expected dividend yield0.0%0.0%0.0%
Grant date fair value per unit$15.48$18.39$21.05

The risk-free interest rate was based on U.S. Treasury bond yield with a term equal to the expected life assumed at the date of grant. The expected term represents the period of time the awards are expected to be outstanding. Expected volatility was based on historical volatility of the Company. The expected dividend yield is based on the Company’s history and expectations of dividend payouts at the time of grant.

We made payments of $0.3 million, $0.1 million and $0.4 million during 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively, related to converted performance and restricted share units. Payments relate to the payment of payroll taxes. The fair value of units converted was $5.7 million, $8.6 million and $13.8 million during 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively. As of December 25, 2024, we had $13.9 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested employee share awards, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted average of 1.8 years.
 
Restricted Stock Units for Board Members
 
During the year ended December 25, 2024, we granted 0.1 million RSUs (which are equity classified) with a weighted average grant date fair value of $8.09 per unit to non-employee members of our Board of Directors. The RSUs vest after a one-year service period. A director may elect to convert these awards into shares of common stock on a specific date in the future (while still serving as a member of our Board of Directors), upon termination as a member of our Board of Directors, or in three equal annual installments commencing after termination of service as a member of our Board of Directors.

During the year ended December 25, 2024, 0.1 million restricted stock units were converted into shares of common stock.
There were 0.7 million RSUs outstanding as of December 25, 2024 and December 27, 2023, respectively. As of December 25, 2024, we had $0.4 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to all unvested RSU awards outstanding, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted average of 0.4 years.
v3.25.0.1
Operating (Gains), Losses and Other Charges, Net
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Other Income and Expenses [Abstract]  
Operating (Gains), Losses and Other Charges, Net Operating (Gains), Losses and Other Charges, Net
Operating (gains), losses and other charges, net consists of the following:
 Fiscal Year Ended
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023December 28, 2022
 (In thousands)
Gains on sales of assets and other, net$(137)$(2,220)$(3,378)
Impairment charges (1)
792 2,214 963 
Restructuring charges and exit costs1,319 2,536 1,410 
Operating (gains), losses and other charges, net$1,974 $2,530 $(1,005)
(1)
Impairment charges include impairments related to property, operating lease right-of-use assets, finance lease right-of-use assets, franchise agreements, and reacquired franchise rights.

Gains on sales of assets and other, net for the years ended December 25, 2024, December 27, 2023, and December 28, 2022, were primarily related to the sales of restaurants and real estate.

We recorded impairment charges of $0.8 million for the year ended December 25, 2024 primarily related to assets held for sale and resulting from our assessments of underperforming and closed units. The $0.8 million included $0.6 million related to property, $0.1 million related to reacquired franchise rights, and $0.1 million related to a franchise agreement. We recorded impairment charges of $2.2 million for the year ended December 27, 2023 primarily resulting from underperforming units. The $2.2 million included $1.3 million related to property and $0.9 million related to operating lease right-of-use assets, less than $0.1 million related to finance lease right-of-use assets, and less than $0.1 million related to reacquired franchise rights. We recorded impairment charges of $1.0 million for the year ended December 28, 2022 primarily resulting from underperforming units. The $1.0 million included $0.6 million related to property, $0.3 million related to operating lease right-of-use assets, and less than $0.1 million related to finance lease right-of-use assets.

Restructuring charges and exit costs consists of the following: 
 Fiscal Year Ended
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023December 28, 2022
 (In thousands)
Exit costs$307 $190 $86 
Severance and other restructuring charges1,012 2,346 1,324 
Total restructuring charges and exit costs$1,319 $2,536 $1,410 

Exit costs primarily consist of costs related to closed restaurants. Exit cost liabilities related to lease costs are included as a component of operating lease liabilities in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. See Note 9.
Severance and other restructuring charges primarily consist of severance costs for the years ended December 25, 2024, December 27, 2023, and December 28, 2022. As of December 25, 2024 and December 27, 2023, we had accrued severance and other restructuring charges of $0.3 million and $1.4 million, respectively. The balance as of December 25, 2024 is expected to be paid during the next 12 months.
v3.25.0.1
Income Taxes
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]  
Income Taxes Income Taxes
 
The provisions for (benefits from) income taxes were as follows:
 Fiscal Year Ended
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023December 28, 2022
 (In thousands)
Current:   
Federal$4,925 $4,649 $6,128 
State and local1,078 2,409 2,160 
Foreign1,478 1,433 1,152 
Deferred:   
Federal(1,079)(1,876)11,043 
State and local812 173 3,689 
 Increase (decrease) of valuation allowance464 205 546 
Total provision for income taxes$7,678 $6,993 $24,718 
 
The reconciliation of income taxes at the U.S. federal statutory tax rate to our effective tax rate was as follows: 
 
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023December 28, 2022
Statutory provision rate21 %21 %21 %
State and local taxes, net of federal income tax benefit
Foreign taxes
Change in state valuation allowance— 
General business credits generated(6)(5)(1)
Foreign tax credits generated(5)(5)(1)
Section 162(m) and share-based compensation— 
Insurance premiums(2)(2)— 
Other(2)(2)— 
Effective tax rate26 %26 %25 %

For 2024, the difference in the overall effective rate from the U.S. statutory rate was primarily due to state and foreign taxes, partially offset by the generation of employment and foreign tax credits. The 2024 rate was also impacted by $1.8 million of disallowed compensation deductions.

For 2023, the difference in the overall effective rate from the U.S. statutory rate was primarily due to state and foreign taxes, partially offset by the generation of employment and foreign tax credits. The 2023 rate was also impacted by $1.9 million of disallowed compensation deductions.

For 2022, the difference in the overall effective rate from the U.S. statutory rate was primarily due to state and foreign taxes, partially offset by the generation of employment and foreign tax credits.
The following table represents the approximate tax effect of each significant type of temporary difference that resulted in deferred income tax assets or liabilities.  
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023
 (In thousands)
Deferred tax assets:  
Self-insurance accruals$2,398 $2,536 
Finance lease liabilities1,102 1,119 
Operating lease liabilities34,468 30,445 
Accrued exit costs — 
Pension, other retirement and compensation plans5,922 7,127 
Deferred income3,868 4,617 
Other accruals1,824 478 
General business and foreign tax credit carryforwards - state and federal3,612 3,472 
Net operating loss carryforwards - state534 848 
Total deferred tax assets before valuation allowance53,728 50,647 
Less: valuation allowance(3,407)(2,943)
Total deferred tax assets50,321 47,704 
Deferred tax liabilities:  
Intangible assets(16,140)(15,044)
Contract assets(1,212)(1,460)
Deferred finance costs— (181)
Operating lease right-of-use assets(31,544)(27,307)
Fixed assets(6,135)(8,074)
Interest rate swaps(5,254)(2,220)
Total deferred tax liabilities(60,285)(54,286)
Net deferred tax liabilities$(9,964)$(6,582)
 
The Company’s state net operating loss tax asset of $0.5 million includes $0.3 million related to Louisiana, Pennsylvania, Tennessee and South Carolina.
Of the $3.4 million valuation allowance, $0.2 million relates to Pennsylvania and South Carolina net operating loss carryforwards, $1.1 million relates to California enterprise zone credits and $2.1 million relates to foreign tax credit carryforwards, all of which may never be utilized, prior to their expiration.
It is more likely than not that we will be able to utilize all of our existing temporary differences and most of our remaining state tax net operating losses and state credit tax carryforwards, net of existing valuation allowance, prior to their expiration.
The following table provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits:

 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023
 (In thousands)
Balance, beginning of year$445 $869 
Increase (decrease) related to prior year tax positions13 (424)
Balance, end of year$458 $445 

There was less than $0.1 million of interest expense for the year ended December 25, 2024 and no interest expense for the year ended December 27, 2023 associated with unrecognized tax benefits.
 
We file income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdictions and various state jurisdictions. With few exceptions, we are no longer subject to U.S. federal, state and local, or non-U.S. income tax examinations by tax authorities for years before 2021. We remain subject to examination for U.S. federal taxes from 2021 onward, and in the following major state jurisdictions: California (2019 onward), Florida (2021 onward) and Texas (2020 onward).
v3.25.0.1
Net Income Per Share
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]  
Net Income Per Share Net Income Per Share
The amounts used for the basic and diluted net income per share calculations are summarized below: 
 Fiscal Year Ended
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023December 28, 2022
 (In thousands, except per share amounts)
Net income$21,571 $19,945 $74,712 
Weighted average shares outstanding - basic52,499 55,984 60,771 
Effect of dilutive share-based compensation awards115 212 108 
Weighted average shares outstanding - diluted52,614 56,196 60,879 
Net income per share - basic$0.41 $0.36 $1.23 
Net income per share - diluted$0.41 $0.35 $1.23 
Anti-dilutive share-based compensation awards 713 726 709 
v3.25.0.1
Shareholders' Equity
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Equity [Abstract]  
Shareholders' Equity Shareholders’ Equity
Share Repurchases

Our credit facility permits the repurchase of Denny’s stock and the payment of cash dividends subject to certain limitations. Our Board of Directors approves share repurchases of our common stock. Under these authorizations, we may, from time to time, purchase shares in the open market (including pre-arranged stock trading plans in accordance with the guidelines specified in Rule 10b5-1 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) or in privately negotiated transactions, subject to market and business conditions. Currently, we are operating under a $250 million share repurchase authorization approved by the Board of Directors in December 2019.

The following table summarizes share repurchase activity:
Fiscal Year Ended
December 25, 2024December 27, 2023December 28, 2022
(In thousands)
Amount repurchased (1)
$11,231 $52,099 $64,884 
Total number of shares repurchased1,349 5,202 6,280 

(1) Amount repurchased includes excise taxes of $0.1 million and $0.4 million for the years ended December 25, 2024 and December 27, 2023, respectively.

Repurchased shares are included as treasury stock in our Consolidated Balance Sheets and our Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Deficit.

Retirement of Treasury Stock

In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2024, the Board of Directors approved the retirement of 2.0 million shares of treasury stock at a weighted average share price of $8.78, including excise taxes. As of the year ended December 25, 2024, no shares remained in treasury.

In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2023, the Board of Directors approved the retirement of 12.8 million shares of treasury stock at a weighted average share price of $11.02, including excise taxes. As of the year ended December 27, 2023, 0.7 million shares remained in treasury.
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss

The components of the change in accumulated other comprehensive loss were as follows:

PensionsDerivativesAccumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
(In thousands)
Balance as of December 29, 2021$(900)$(53,570)$(54,470)
Benefit obligation actuarial gain261 — 261 
Amortization of net loss (1)
123 — 123 
Settlement loss recognized
74 — 74 
Changes in the fair value of cash flow derivatives— 13,619 13,619 
Reclassification of cash flow derivatives to interest expense, net (2)
— 1,310 1,310 
Amortization of unrealized losses related to dedesignated derivatives to interest expense, net — 29 29 
Income tax expense(113)(3,530)(3,643)
Balance as of December 28, 2022$(555)$(42,142)$(42,697)
Benefit obligation actuarial loss(98)— (98)
Amortization of net loss (1)
56 — 56 
Settlement loss recognized35 — 35 
Plan closure loss74 — 74 
Changes in the fair value of cash flow derivatives— 6,262 6,262 
Reclassification of cash flow derivatives to interest expense, net (2)
— (5,028)(5,028)
Amortization of unrealized losses related to dedesignated derivatives to interest expense, net— 353 353 
Income tax benefit (expense)151 (767)(616)
Balance as of December 27, 2023$(337)$(41,322)$(41,659)
Benefit obligation actuarial gain83 — 83 
Amortization of net loss (1)
63 — 63 
Settlement loss recognized26 — 26 
Changes in the fair value of cash flow derivatives— 17,869 17,869 
Reclassification of cash flow derivatives to interest expense, net (2)
— (5,916)(5,916)
Amortization of unrealized losses related to dedesignated derivatives to interest expense, net — 760 760 
Income tax expense(44)(3,221)(3,265)
Balance as of December 25, 2024$(209)$(31,830)$(32,039)

(1)    Before-tax amount that was reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss and included as a component of pension expense within general and administrative expenses in our Consolidated Statements of Income. See Note 12 for additional details.
(2)    Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss into income represent payments made to (received from) the counterparty for the effective portions of the interest rate swaps. These amounts are included as a component of interest expense, net in our Consolidated Statements of Income. We expect to receive payments from the counterparty and reclassify $4.5 million from accumulated other comprehensive loss related to our interest rate swaps during the next twelve months. See Note 10 for additional details.
v3.25.0.1
Commitments and Contingencies
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]  
Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies
 
Legal Proceedings
There are various claims and pending legal actions against or indirectly involving us, incidental to and arising out of the ordinary course of the business. In the opinion of management, based upon information currently available, the ultimate liability with respect to these proceedings and claims will not materially affect the Company’s consolidated results of operations or financial position.  
Purchase Obligations

We have commitments related to company and franchised restaurants under purchase contracts for food and non-food products. Many of these agreements do not obligate us to purchase any specific volumes and include provisions that would allow us to cancel such agreements with appropriate notice. Our future purchase obligation payments due by period for both company and franchised restaurants at December 25, 2024 consist of the following:
 (In thousands)
Less than 1 year$195,923 
1-2 years— 
3-4 years— 
5 years and thereafter— 
Total$195,923 
 
For agreements with cancellation provisions, the amounts included in the table above represent our estimate of purchase obligations during the periods presented if we were to cancel these contracts with appropriate notice.
v3.25.0.1
Supplemental Cash Flow Information
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]  
Supplemental Cash Flow Information Supplemental Cash Flow Information
 Fiscal Year Ended
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023December 28, 2022
 (In thousands)
Income taxes paid, net$6,178 $9,195 $9,296 
Interest paid$16,978 $13,390 $12,939 
Noncash investing and financing activities:
Receipt of real estate receivable$— $— $3,000 
Accrued purchase of property$2,961 $756 $283 
Issuance of common stock, pursuant to share-based compensation plans$3,830 $5,638 $9,547 
Execution of finance leases$1,783 $1,071 $537 
Treasury stock payable$— $109 $542 
Treasury stock excise tax payable$73 $454 $— 
v3.25.0.1
Segment Information
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Segment Reporting [Abstract]  
Segment Information Segment Information
We manage our business by brand and as a result have identified two operating segments, Denny’s and Keke’s. In addition, we have identified Denny’s as a reportable segment. The Denny’s reportable segment includes the results of all company and franchised and licensed Denny’s restaurants. Our Keke’s operating segment, which includes the results of all company and franchise restaurants, is included in Other.

The primary sources of revenues for all operating segments are the sale of food and beverages at our company restaurants and the collection of royalties, advertising revenue, initial and other fees, including occupancy revenue, from restaurants operated by our franchisees. We do not rely on any major customer as a source of sales and the customers and assets of all operating segments are located predominantly in the United States. There are no material transactions between segments.

Management’s measure of segment income is restaurant-level operating margin. The Company defines restaurant-level operating margin as operating income excluding the following four items: general and administrative expenses, depreciation and amortization, goodwill impairment charges, and operating (gains), losses and other charges, net. The Company excludes general and administrative expenses, which include primarily non restaurant-level costs associated with support of company and franchised restaurants and other activities at their corporate office. The Company excludes depreciation and amortization expense, substantially all of which is related to company restaurant-level assets, because such expenses represent historical sunk costs which do not reflect current cash outlays for the restaurants. The Company excludes goodwill impairment charges and operating (gains), losses and other charges, net, to provide a clearer perspective of its ongoing operating performance and a more relevant comparison to prior period results. The Company’s chief operating decision maker (“CODM”) is our Chief Executive Officer. Restaurant-level operating margin is used by our CODM to evaluate restaurant-level operating efficiency and performance and make key operating decisions.
The following tables present revenues by segment and a reconciliation of restaurant-level operating margin to net income:

Fiscal Year Ended December 25, 2024
Denny’sOtherTotal
Revenues(In thousands)
Company restaurant sales$193,572 $18,209 $211,781 
Franchise and license revenue:
Royalties113,804 4,901 118,705 
Advertising revenue78,192 1,781 79,973 
Initial and other fees8,351 360 8,711 
Occupancy revenue33,075 89 33,164 
Total franchise and license revenue233,422 7,131 240,553 
Total operating revenue426,994 25,340 452,334 
Costs and expenses
Costs of company restaurant sales, excluding depreciation and amortization:
Product costs48,976 4,955 53,931 
Payroll and benefits72,828 7,777 80,605 
Occupancy costs15,680 2,449 18,129 
Other operating expenses:
Utilities6,404 550 6,954 
Repairs and maintenance3,806 217 4,023 
Marketing7,098 752 7,850 
Legal settlements1,670 30 1,700 
Pre-opening costs— 1,548 1,548 
Other direct costs13,267 1,737 15,004 
Total costs of company restaurant sales, excluding depreciation and amortization169,729 20,015 189,744 
Costs of franchise and license revenue, excluding depreciation and amortization:
Advertising costs78,192 1,781 79,973 
Occupancy costs20,451 88 20,539 
Other direct costs18,675 1,039 19,714 
Total costs of franchise and license revenue, excluding depreciation and amortization117,318 2,908 120,226 
Total restaurant-level operating margin$139,947 $2,417 $142,364 
Reconciliation of restaurant-level operating margin to net income
General and administrative expenses$80,197 
Depreciation and amortization14,857 
Goodwill impairment charges20 
Operating (gains), losses and other charges, net1,974 
Total other operating expenses97,048 
Operating income45,316 
Interest expense, net17,974 
Other nonoperating income, net(1,907)
Net income before income taxes29,249 
Provision for income taxes7,678 
Net income $21,571 
Fiscal Year Ended December 27, 2023
Denny’sOtherTotal
Revenues(In thousands)
Company restaurant sales$201,175 $14,357 $215,532 
Franchise and license revenue:
Royalties115,004 5,127 120,131 
Advertising revenue77,932 562 78,494 
Initial and other fees13,112 770 13,882 
Occupancy revenue35,883 — 35,883 
Total franchise and license revenue241,931 6,459 248,390 
Total operating revenue443,106 20,816 463,922 
Costs and expenses
Costs of company restaurant sales, excluding depreciation and amortization:
Product costs51,939 3,850 55,789 
Payroll and benefits75,407 5,259 80,666 
Occupancy costs14,875 1,934 16,809 
Other operating expenses:
Utilities7,418 430 7,848 
Repairs and maintenance3,486 175 3,661 
Marketing5,524 79 5,603 
Legal settlements2,302 — 2,302 
Pre-opening costs— 288 288 
Other direct costs13,452 1,181 14,633 
Total costs of company restaurant sales, excluding depreciation and amortization174,403 13,196 187,599 
Costs of franchise and license revenue, excluding depreciation and amortization:
Advertising costs77,932 562 78,494 
Occupancy costs22,160 — 22,160 
Other direct costs21,778 20 21,798 
Total costs of franchise and license revenue, excluding depreciation and amortization121,870 582 122,452 
Total restaurant-level operating margin$146,833 $7,038 $153,871 
Reconciliation of restaurant-level operating margin to net income
General and administrative expenses$77,770 
Depreciation and amortization14,385 
Goodwill impairment charges6,363 
Operating (gains), losses and other charges, net2,530 
Total other operating expenses101,048 
Operating income52,823 
Interest expense, net17,597 
Other nonoperating expense, net8,288 
Net income before income taxes26,938 
Provision for income taxes6,993 
Net income $19,945 
Fiscal Year Ended December 28, 2022
Denny’sOtherTotal
Revenues(In thousands)
Company restaurant sales$193,576 $6,177 $199,753 
Franchise and license revenue:
Royalties111,718 2,173 113,891 
Advertising revenue75,926 — 75,926 
Initial and other fees27,870 392 28,262 
Occupancy revenue38,597 — 38,597 
Total franchise and license revenue254,111 2,565 256,676 
Total operating revenue447,687 8,742 456,429 
Costs and expenses
Costs of company restaurant sales, excluding depreciation and amortization:
Product costs51,705 1,912 53,617 
Payroll and benefits74,157 2,255 76,412 
Occupancy costs14,310 844 15,154 
Other operating expenses
Utilities7,075 198 7,273 
Repairs and maintenance3,803 71 3,874 
Marketing5,294 — 5,294 
Legal settlements4,224 — 4,224 
Other direct costs13,243 367 13,610 
Total costs of company restaurant sales, excluding depreciation and amortization173,811 5,647 179,458 
Costs of franchise and license revenue, excluding depreciation and amortization:
Advertising costs75,926 — 75,926 
Occupancy costs24,090 — 24,090 
Other direct costs35,305 35,311 
Total costs of franchise and license revenue, excluding depreciation and amortization135,321 135,327 
Total restaurant-level operating margin$138,555 $3,089 $141,644 
Reconciliation of restaurant-level operating margin to net income
General and administrative expenses$67,173 
Depreciation and amortization14,862 
Operating (gains), losses and other charges, net(1,005)
Total other operating expenses81,030 
Operating income60,614 
Interest expense, net13,769 
Other nonoperating expense (income), net(52,585)
Net income before income taxes99,430 
Provision for income taxes24,718 
Net income $74,712 
Fiscal Year Ended
December 25, 2024December 27, 2023
Segment assets:(In thousands)
Denny’s$344,986 $340,136 
Other151,288 124,682 
Total assets$496,274 $464,818 
v3.25.0.1
Subsequent Events
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Subsequent Events [Abstract]  
Subsequent Events Subsequent EventsDuring January 2025, as part of a cost savings initiative, the Company eliminated approximately 40 positions and announced the relocation of certain support functions to our support center in Spartanburg, South Carolina. As a result, the Company expects to record between $3.0 million and $3.5 million in severance and other restructuring charges during the quarter ending March 26, 2025.
v3.25.0.1
Pay vs Performance Disclosure - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Dec. 28, 2022
Pay vs Performance Disclosure      
Net income $ 21,571 $ 19,945 $ 74,712
v3.25.0.1
Insider Trading Arrangements
3 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Trading Arrangements, by Individual  
Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Adopted false
Non-Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Adopted false
Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Terminated false
Non-Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Terminated false
v3.25.0.1
Insider Trading Policies and Procedures
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Insider Trading Policies and Procedures [Line Items]  
Insider Trading Policies and Procedures Adopted true
v3.25.0.1
Cybersecurity Risk Management and Strategy Disclosure
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Cybersecurity Risk Management, Strategy, and Governance [Line Items]  
Cybersecurity Risk Management Processes for Assessing, Identifying, and Managing Threats [Text Block]
Denny’s recognizes that cybersecurity is a critical aspect of our business operations and that the protection of sensitive data and information systems is of paramount importance.

We have implemented cybersecurity measures and processes to address and mitigate material risks from cybersecurity threats. On an annual basis, we perform a cybersecurity risk assessment to identify and evaluate risks and potential vulnerabilities that could impact our business. Cybersecurity is also assessed as part of our compliance program. In addition, we have preventative and detective monitoring controls that include robust access controls, privileged access management, vulnerability scanning, penetration testing of our online systems and internal networks, annual employee-wide awareness education, data encryption and incident response plans. These controls help to ensure our cybersecurity program reduces the cyber risk for our environment.

We utilize third-party providers and acknowledge that these providers and partners may pose cybersecurity risks. We have implemented due diligence and oversight processes to ensure our third-party providers adhere to our cybersecurity standards when handling our data and accessing our systems. This includes a risk assessment before acceptance as a provider and continued monitoring through our third-party risk management program.

Denny’s faces various risks associated with cybersecurity threats that could materially affect our business. In the event of a material cybersecurity incident, we are committed to promptly informing our shareholders, customers, and regulatory authorities, as required by applicable law and regulations.
We have not identified any risks from cybersecurity threats (including as a result of any previous cybersecurity incidents) that have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect our business strategy, results of operations or financial condition.
Cybersecurity Risk Management Processes Integrated [Flag] true
Cybersecurity Risk Management Processes Integrated [Text Block]
Denny’s recognizes that cybersecurity is a critical aspect of our business operations and that the protection of sensitive data and information systems is of paramount importance.

We have implemented cybersecurity measures and processes to address and mitigate material risks from cybersecurity threats. On an annual basis, we perform a cybersecurity risk assessment to identify and evaluate risks and potential vulnerabilities that could impact our business. Cybersecurity is also assessed as part of our compliance program. In addition, we have preventative and detective monitoring controls that include robust access controls, privileged access management, vulnerability scanning, penetration testing of our online systems and internal networks, annual employee-wide awareness education, data encryption and incident response plans. These controls help to ensure our cybersecurity program reduces the cyber risk for our environment.
Cybersecurity Risk Management Third Party Engaged [Flag] true
Cybersecurity Risk Third Party Oversight and Identification Processes [Flag] true
Cybersecurity Risk Materially Affected or Reasonably Likely to Materially Affect Registrant [Flag] false
Cybersecurity Risk Board of Directors Oversight [Text Block] Our Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer leads our cybersecurity efforts with periodic updates that include certain metrics, data privacy, and other information technology risks, provided to the Audit and Finance Committee of our Board of Directors.
Cybersecurity Risk Board Committee or Subcommittee Responsible for Oversight [Text Block] Our Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer leads our cybersecurity efforts with periodic updates that include certain metrics, data privacy, and other information technology risks, provided to the Audit and Finance Committee of our Board of Directors. Cybersecurity is a top priority for our Audit and Finance Committee.
Cybersecurity Risk Process for Informing Board Committee or Subcommittee Responsible for Oversight [Text Block]
Our Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer leads our cybersecurity efforts with periodic updates that include certain metrics, data privacy, and other information technology risks, provided to the Audit and Finance Committee of our Board of Directors. Cybersecurity is a top priority for our Audit and Finance Committee.
In addition, the Company has a Compliance Committee comprised of members of management from our IT Security & Compliance, Legal and Internal Audit teams who work cross-functionally to assess and manage enterprise-wide risks, including cybersecurity. Our Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer leads a team of qualified individuals with decades of combined experience in cybersecurity risk management and compliance.
Cybersecurity Risk Role of Management [Text Block]
Our Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer leads our cybersecurity efforts with periodic updates that include certain metrics, data privacy, and other information technology risks, provided to the Audit and Finance Committee of our Board of Directors. Cybersecurity is a top priority for our Audit and Finance Committee.

In addition, the Company has a Compliance Committee comprised of members of management from our IT Security & Compliance, Legal and Internal Audit teams who work cross-functionally to assess and manage enterprise-wide risks, including cybersecurity. Our Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer leads a team of qualified individuals with decades of combined experience in cybersecurity risk management and compliance.
Our cybersecurity program and leadership strive to appropriately protect our brands, employees and guests.
Cybersecurity Risk Management Positions or Committees Responsible [Flag] true
Cybersecurity Risk Management Positions or Committees Responsible [Text Block] Our Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer leads our cybersecurity efforts with periodic updates that include certain metrics, data privacy, and other information technology risks, provided to the Audit and Finance Committee of our Board of Directors.
Cybersecurity Risk Management Expertise of Management Responsible [Text Block] Our Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer leads a team of qualified individuals with decades of combined experience in cybersecurity risk management and compliance.
Cybersecurity Risk Process for Informing Management or Committees Responsible [Text Block]
Our Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer leads our cybersecurity efforts with periodic updates that include certain metrics, data privacy, and other information technology risks, provided to the Audit and Finance Committee of our Board of Directors. Cybersecurity is a top priority for our Audit and Finance Committee.
In addition, the Company has a Compliance Committee comprised of members of management from our IT Security & Compliance, Legal and Internal Audit teams who work cross-functionally to assess and manage enterprise-wide risks, including cybersecurity. Our Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer leads a team of qualified individuals with decades of combined experience in cybersecurity risk management and compliance.
Cybersecurity Risk Management Positions or Committees Responsible Report to Board [Flag] true
v3.25.0.1
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Use of Estimates
Use of Estimates. In preparing our consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), management is required to make certain assumptions and estimates that affect reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, expenses and the disclosure of contingencies. In making these assumptions and estimates, management may from time to time seek advice and consider information provided by actuaries and other experts in a particular area. Actual amounts could differ materially from these estimates.
Consolidation Policy
Consolidation Policy. Our consolidated financial statements include the financial statements of Denny’s Corporation and its wholly-owned subsidiaries: Denny’s, Inc., DFO, LLC, Denny’s Realty, LLC, Keke’s Inc., Keke’s Franchise Organization and East Main Insurance Company. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
Fiscal Year Fiscal Year. Our fiscal year ends on the last Wednesday in December. As a result, a fifty-third week is added to a fiscal year every five or six years.
Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents. Our policy is to invest cash in excess of operating requirements in short-term highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or less, which we consider to be cash equivalents.
Receivables Receivables. Receivables, which are recorded at net realizable value, primarily consist of trade accounts receivables and financing receivables from franchisees, vendor receivables and credit card receivables. Trade accounts receivables from franchisees consist of royalties, advertising and rent. Financing receivables from franchisees primarily consist of notes from franchisees related to the roll-out of restaurant equipment. We accrue interest on notes receivable based on the contractual terms. The allowance for doubtful accounts is based on management’s estimates of expected credit losses based on the Company’s historical loss experience, adjusted for current and reasonable and supportable forecasts of economic conditions and other pertinent factors affecting the Company’s customers such as known credit risk or industry trends. Receivables that are ultimately deemed to be uncollectible, and for which collection efforts have been exhausted, are written off against the allowance for doubtful accounts.
Inventories
Inventories. Inventories consist primarily of food, beverages and, in some periods, equipment and are valued at the lower of first-in, first-out cost or net realizable value.
Property and Depreciation
Property and Depreciation. Owned property is stated at cost. Property under finance leases is stated at the lesser of its fair value or the net present value of the related minimum lease payments at the lease inception. Maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred. We depreciate owned property over its estimated useful life using the straight-line method. We amortize property held under finance leases (at capitalized value) over the lesser of its estimated useful life or the lease term. Building assets are assigned estimated useful lives that range from five to 30 years. Other property and equipment assets are assigned lives that range from two to ten years. Leasehold improvements are generally assigned lives between five and 15 years limited by the expected lease term.
Goodwill
Goodwill. Amounts recorded as goodwill primarily represent excess reorganization value recognized as a result of our 1998 bankruptcy and from our acquisition of Keke’s in 2022. We also record goodwill in connection with the acquisition of restaurants from franchisees. Likewise, upon the sale of restaurant operations to franchisees, goodwill is decremented. We test goodwill for impairment at each fiscal year end and more frequently if circumstances indicate impairment may exist. Such indicators include, but are not limited to, a significant decline in our expected future cash flows, a significant adverse decline in our stock price, significantly adverse legal developments or a significant change in the business climate.
Intangible Assets
Intangible Assets. Intangible assets consist primarily of trade names, franchise agreements and reacquired franchise rights. Trade names are considered indefinite-lived intangible assets and are not amortized. Franchise agreements are amortized using the straight-line basis over the term of the related franchise agreement. Reacquired franchise rights are amortized using the straight-line basis over the term of the related franchise agreement. Franchise agreements and reacquired franchise rights resulting from acquisitions are accounted for using the purchase method of accounting and are estimated by management based on the fair value of the assets received.

We test trade name assets for impairment at each fiscal year end, and more frequently if circumstances indicate impairment may exist. We assess impairment of reacquired franchise rights and franchise agreements whenever changes or events indicate that the carrying values may not be recoverable. Costs incurred to renew or extend the term of recognized intangible assets are recorded in general and administrative expenses in our Consolidated Statements of Income.
Marketable Securities Marketable Securities. Marketable securities included in investments consist of available for sale equity instruments and are recorded at fair market value in our Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Marketable securities included in other noncurrent assets consist of trading debt and equity mutual funds and are recorded at fair market value in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. These securities represent the plan assets of our nonqualified deferred compensation plan (the “plan assets”). The plan assets are held in a rabbi trust. Each plan participant’s account consists of their contribution, our matching contribution (made prior to 2016) and each participant’s share of earnings or losses in the plan. We have recorded offsetting deferred compensation liabilities as a component of other noncurrent liabilities in our Consolidated Balance Sheets.
The realized and unrealized holding gains and losses related to marketable securities are recorded in other nonoperating income with an offsetting amount recorded in general and administrative expenses related to deferred compensation plan liabilities.
Deferred Financing Costs
Deferred Financing Costs. Costs related to the issuance of debt are deferred and amortized as a component of interest expense using the effective interest method over the terms of the respective debt issuances.
Self-insurance Liabilities
Self-insurance Liabilities. We record liabilities for insurance claims during periods in which we have been insured under large deductible programs or have been self-insured for our medical claims and workers’ compensation, general, product and automobile insurance liabilities. The liabilities represent estimated incurred losses. These estimates include assumptions regarding claims frequency and severity as well as changes in our business environment, medical costs and the regulatory environment that could impact our overall self-insurance costs.
Income Taxes
Income Taxes. We account for income taxes under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. All deferred taxes are reported as noncurrent in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. A valuation allowance reduces our net deferred tax asset to the amount that is more likely than not to be realized. We make certain estimates and judgments in the calculation of our provision for incomes taxes, in the resulting tax liabilities, and in the recoverability of deferred tax assets.
We recognize positions taken or expected to be taken in a tax return in the consolidated financial statements when it is more-likely-than-not that the position would be sustained upon examination by tax authorities. A recognized tax position is then measured at the largest amount of benefit with greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. We recognize any interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense. Assessment of uncertain tax positions requires judgments relating to the amounts, timing and likelihood of resolution.
Leases and Subleases, Lessee
Leases and Subleases.

Lessee

We lease certain real estate and equipment for our restaurants and support facilities. At contract inception, we determine whether a contract is, or contains, a lease by determining whether it conveys the right to control the use of the identified asset for a period of time. We recognize a lease liability and a right-of-use (“ROU”) asset at the lease commencement date.

For operating leases, the lease liability is initially and subsequently measured at the present value of the unpaid lease payments at the lease commencement date. For finance leases, the lease liability is initially measured in the same manner and date as for operating leases, and is subsequently measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method.

Operating lease ROU assets are initially and subsequently measured throughout the lease term at the carrying amount of the lease liability adjusted for initial direct costs, prepayments, accrued payments and lease incentives, if any. Lease cost is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Operating lease payments are classified as cash flows for operating activities with ROU asset amortization and the change in the lease liability combined as "Operating lease assets/liabilities" in the reconciliation of net income to net cash flows provided by operating activities in the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows. Finance lease ROU assets are initially measured at cost and subsequently amortized on a straight-line basis over the lesser of the useful life or the lease term. Finance lease principal payments are classified as cash flows used in financing activities in the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows. Operating and finance lease ROU assets are assessed for impairment using long-lived assets impairment guidance.

We use a consistent lease term for calculating the depreciation period for the related assets, classifying the lease and computing periodic rent expense where the lease terms include escalations in rent over the lease term.

The lease guidance provides for certain practical expedients and accounting elections. We elected the practical expedient to not separate nonlease components (such as common area maintenance) from lease components in regard to all leases and the portfolio approach in applying the discount rate to our leases.

Key estimates and judgments include how we determine (1) lease payments, (2) lease term and (3) the discount rate used to discount the unpaid lease payments to present value.

We have certain lease agreements structured with both a fixed base rent and a contingent rent based on a percentage of sales over contractual levels, others with only contingent rent based on a percentage of sales and some with a fixed base rent adjusted periodically for inflation or changes in the fair market rent rate. Contingent rent is recognized as sales occur. Our lease agreements do not contain any material residual value guarantees or material restrictive covenants.

The exercise of lease renewal options is at our sole discretion, except in certain sublease situations in which we have determined that it is reasonably certain that one or more options will be exercised, including where the exercise of a sublease option compels us to exercise the renewal option of the underlying master lease. Renewal option periods are included in the measurement of the lease ROU asset and lease liability where the exercise is reasonably certain to occur. 

The discount rate used to determine the present value of the lease payments is our estimated collateralized incremental borrowing rate, based on the yield curve for the respective lease terms, as we generally cannot determine the interest rate implicit in the lease.
Deferrals in rents received from landlords as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic are recognized as reductions in variable lease payments.
Lessor
Lessor
We lease or sublease certain restaurant properties to our franchisees and occasionally to third parties. The lease descriptions, terms, variable lease payments and renewal options are the same as the lessee leases described above. Contingent rental income is recognized when earned. Similar to our lessee accounting, we elected the lessor practical expedient to not separate nonlease components from lease components in regard to all leases.
Employee Benefit Plans
Employee Benefit Plans. Each year we measure and recognize the funded status of our defined benefit plans in our Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31. That date represents the month-end that is closest to our fiscal year-end. The funded status is adjusted for any contributions or significant events (such as a plan amendment, settlement, or curtailment that calls for a remeasurement) that occurs between our fiscal year-end and December 31.
Derivative Instruments Derivative Instruments. We use derivative financial instruments to manage our exposure to interest rate risk. We do not enter into derivative instruments for trading or speculative purposes. All derivatives are recognized on our Consolidated Balance Sheets at fair value. Changes in the fair values of derivatives are recorded in earnings or other comprehensive income (OCI), based on whether the instrument is designated as a hedge transaction. Gains or losses on derivative instruments reported in OCI are classified to earnings in the period the hedged item affects earnings. If the underlying hedge transaction ceases to exist, any associated amounts reported in OCI are reclassified to earnings. By entering into derivative instruments, we are exposed to counterparty credit risk. When the fair value of a derivative instrument is in an asset position, the counterparty has a liability to us, which creates credit risk for us. We manage our exposure to this risk by selecting counterparties with investment grade credit ratings and regularly monitoring our market position with each counterparty.
Contingencies and Litigation
Contingencies and Litigation. We are subject to legal proceedings involving ordinary and routine claims incidental to our business, as well as legal proceedings that are nonroutine and include compensatory or punitive damage claims. Settlement costs are accrued when they are deemed estimable and probable. Our ultimate legal and financial liability with respect to such matters cannot be estimated with certainty and requires the use of estimates in recording liabilities for potential litigation settlements. When the reasonable estimate is a range, the recorded loss will be the best estimate within the range. We record legal settlement costs as other operating expenses in our Consolidated Statements of Income as those costs are incurred.
Comprehensive Income
Comprehensive Income. Comprehensive income includes net income and OCI items that are excluded from net income under U.S. GAAP. OCI items include additional minimum pension liability adjustments, the effective unrealized portion of changes in the fair value of cash flow hedges, and the reclassification and amortization of loss related to the dedesignation of cash flow derivatives.
Revenues
Revenues.

Company Restaurant Revenue. Company restaurant revenue is recognized at the point in time when food and beverage products are sold at company restaurants. We present company restaurant sales net of sales-related taxes collected from customers and remitted to governmental taxing authorities.

Franchise Revenue. Franchise and license revenues consist primarily of royalties, advertising revenue, initial and other fees and occupancy revenue.

Under franchise agreements we provide franchisees with a license of our respective brands’ symbolic intellectual property, administration of advertising programs (including local co-operatives), and other ongoing support functions. These services are highly interrelated, so we do not consider them to be individually distinct performance obligations, and therefore account for them as a single performance obligation.

Royalty and advertising revenues represent sales-based royalties that are recognized in the period in which the sales occur. Sales-based royalties are variable consideration related to our performance obligation to our franchisees to maintain the intellectual property being licensed. Under our franchise agreements, franchisee advertising contributions must be spent on marketing and related activities. Advertising revenues and expenditures are recorded on a gross basis within the Consolidated Statements of Income.

Initial and other fees include initial, successor and assignment franchise fees (“initial franchise fees”). Initial franchise fees are billed and received upon the signing of the franchise agreement. Recognition of these fees is deferred until the commencement
date of the agreement and occurs over time based on the term of the underlying franchise agreement. Acquired initial franchise fees are recognized from the acquisition date over time based on the term of the underlying franchise agreement. In the event a franchise agreement is terminated, any remaining deferred fees are recognized in the period of termination.

Initial and other fees also include revenue that are distinct from the franchise agreement and are separate performance obligations. Training and other franchise services fees are billed and recognized at a point in time as services are rendered. Equipment revenues are billed and recognized as the equipment is installed. Similar to advertising revenue, equipment revenues and other franchise services fees are recorded on a gross basis within the Consolidated Statements of Income.

We record contract assets related to incentives and subsidies provided to franchisees related to new unit openings and/or equipment upgrades. These contract assets are presented within prepaid and other current assets and other noncurrent assets in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. These assets are amortized as a reduction to franchise and license revenue within our Consolidated Statements of Income over the remaining term of the underlying franchise agreement.

Occupancy revenue results from leasing or subleasing restaurants to franchisees and is recognized over the term of the lease agreement.
With the exception of initial and other franchise fees, revenues are typically billed and collected on a weekly basis.Gift cards. Company restaurants, franchised restaurants and certain third party retailers sell gift cards which have no stated expiration dates. We recognize revenue when a gift card is redeemed in one of our company restaurants. We maintain a gift card liability for cards sold in our company restaurants and for cards sold by third parties. Gift card breakage is recognized proportionally as redemptions occur. Our gift card breakage primarily relates to cards sold by third parties and is recorded as advertising revenue (included as a component of franchise and license revenue).
Advertising Costs Advertising Costs. We expense production costs for radio and television advertising in the year in which the commercials are initially aired and other advertising costs as incurred. Advertising costs for company restaurants are recorded as a component of other operating expenses in our Consolidated Statements of Income. Advertising costs related to franchised restaurants are recorded as a component of franchise and license costs. Under our franchise agreements, advertising contributions received from franchisees must be spent on marketing and related activities. As the Company is contractually required to spend these contributions on advertising costs, the obligations are accrued and advertising costs expensed when the related revenues are recognized.
Restructuring and Exit Costs
Restructuring and Exit Costs. Restructuring and exit costs are included as a component of operating (gains), losses and other charges, net in our Consolidated Statements of Income. Restructuring costs consist primarily of severance and other restructuring charges for terminated employees. Amounts recorded as exit costs include period costs related to closed units.
Disposal or Impairment of Long-lived Assets
Disposal or Impairment of Long-lived Assets. We evaluate our long-lived assets for impairment at the restaurant level on a quarterly basis, when assets are identified as held for sale or whenever changes or events indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. For assets identified as held for sale, we use the market approach and consider proceeds from similar asset sales. We assess impairment of restaurant-level assets based on the operating cash flows of the restaurant, expected proceeds from the sale of assets and our plans for restaurant closings. For underperforming assets, we use the income approach to determine both the recoverability and estimated fair value of the assets. To estimate future cash flows, we make certain assumptions about expected future operating performance, such as revenue growth, operating margins, risk-adjusted discount rates, and future economic and market conditions. If the long-lived assets of a restaurant are not recoverable based upon estimated future, undiscounted cash flows, we write the assets down to their fair value. If these estimates or their related assumptions change in the future, we may be required to record additional impairment charges. These charges are included as a component of operating (gains), losses and other charges, net in our Consolidated Statements of Income.
Assets held for sale consist of real estate properties and/or restaurant operations that we expect to sell within the next year. The assets are reported at the lower of carrying amount or fair value less costs to sell. Fair value is based upon Level 2 inputs, which include sales agreements. We cease recording depreciation on assets that are classified as held for sale. If the determination is made that we no longer expect to sell an asset within the next year, the asset is reclassified out of held for sale.
Discontinued Operations
Discontinued Operations. We evaluate restaurant closures and assets reclassified to assets held for sale for potential disclosure as discontinued operations. Only disposals resulting in a strategic shift that will have a major effect on our operations and financial results are reported as discontinued operations. There have been no such disposals, nor any disposals of individually significant components. The gains and losses related to restaurant closures and assets reclassified to assets held for sale are included as a component of operating (gains), losses and other charges, net in our Consolidated Statements of Income.
Gains and Losses on Sales of Restaurants Operations to Franchisees, Real Estate and Other Assets
Gains and Losses on Sales of Restaurant Operations to Franchisees, Real Estate and Other Assets. Generally, gains and losses on sales of restaurant operations to franchisees (which may include real estate), real estate properties and other assets are recognized when the sales are consummated and certain other gain recognition criteria are met. Total gains and losses are included as a component of operating (gains), losses and other charges, net in our Consolidated Statements of Income.
Share-based Compensation
Share-based Compensation. Share-based compensation cost is measured at the grant date, based on the fair value of the award, and is recognized as an expense over the requisite service period. Share-based compensation expense is included as a component of general and administrative expenses in our Consolidated Statements of Income. We account for forfeitures as they occur. Excess tax benefits recognized related to share-based compensation are included as a component of provision for income taxes in our Consolidated Statements of Income and are classified as operating activities in our Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.

Generally, compensation expense related to performance share units and restricted stock units is based on the number of units granted, the period over which they are expected to vest and the fair market value of our common stock on the date of the grant. For restricted stock units and performance share units that contain a market condition, compensation expense is based on the Monte Carlo valuation method, which utilizes multiple input variables to determine the probability of the Company achieving the market condition and the fair value of the award. The key assumptions used include expected volatility and risk-free interest rates over the term of the award.

We generally recognize compensation cost associated with performance share units over the entire performance period on a straight-line basis. For performance share units awarded to certain retirement eligible individuals with accelerated vesting terms, compensation cost is recognized on a graded-vesting basis. We generally recognize compensation cost associated restricted stock units on a straight-line basis over the entire performance period of the award.

Subsequent to the vesting period, earned stock-settled restricted stock units and performance share units (both of which are equity classified) are paid to the holder in shares of our common stock, provided the holder was still employed with the Company or an affiliate as of the vesting date or eligible for retirement at their termination date.
Earnings Per Share
Earnings Per Share. Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share is calculated by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares and potential common shares outstanding during the period.
Business Combinations
Business Combinations. We account for acquisitions using the acquisition method of accounting. Accordingly, assets acquired and liabilities assumed are recorded at their estimated fair values at the acquisition date. The excess of purchase price over fair value of net assets acquired, including the amount assigned to identifiable intangible assets, is recorded as goodwill.
Newly Adopted Accounting Standards and Accounting Standards to be Adopted
Newly Adopted Accounting Standards

In March 2020, the FASB issued ASU 2020-04, “Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting” which was later clarified in January 2021 by ASU 2021-01, “Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Scope”. Additionally, in December 2022, the FASB issued ASU 2022-06, “Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Deferral of the Sunset Date of Topic 848”, which allows ASU 2020-04 to be adopted and applied prospectively to contract modifications made on or before December 31, 2024. The guidance provides optional guidance, for a limited time, to ease the potential burden in accounting for or recognizing the effects of reference rate reform on financial reporting. The Company adopted ASU 2020-04 on March 12, 2020. The adoption of and future elections under this new guidance did not and are not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial position or results of operations. The guidance is effective through December 31, 2024.
In November 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-07, “Segment Reporting (Topic 280): Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures”. The new guidance requires enhanced reportable segment disclosures to include significant segment expenses. ASU 2023-07 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2023 (our fiscal 2024) and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2024 (our fiscal 2025). The Company adopted ASU 2023-07 during the year ended December 25, 2024. The adoption of this guidance did not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. See Note 20 for further detail.

Additional new accounting guidance became effective for us as of December 25, 2024 that we reviewed and concluded was either not applicable to our operations or had no material effect on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.

Accounting Standards to be Adopted

In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-09, “Income Taxes (Topic 740): Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures”. The new guidance requires enhanced effective tax rate reconciliation and income taxes paid disclosures. ASU 2023-09 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2024 (our fiscal 2025). We are currently evaluating the impact that the adoption of this new guidance will have on our consolidated financial statements and will add necessary disclosures upon adoption.

In November 2024, the FASB issued ASU 2024-03, “Disaggregation of Income Statement Expenses (Subtopic 220-40)”. The new guidance requires disaggregation of certain relevant expenses included in the consolidated statements of income. ASU 2024-03 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2026 (our fiscal 2027) and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2027 (our fiscal 2028). We are currently evaluating the impact that the adoption of this new guidance will have on our consolidated financial statements and will add necessary disclosures upon adoption.

We reviewed all other newly issued accounting pronouncements and concluded that they are either not applicable to our business or are not expected to have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements as a result of future adoption.
v3.25.0.1
Acquisition of Keke's Breakfast Cafe (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Business Combination, Asset Acquisition, and Joint Venture Formation [Abstract]  
Schedule of Purchase Price Allocation
The components of the purchase price allocation were as follows:

(In thousands)
Total consideration paid$82,500 
Assets:
Property2,015 
Operating lease ROU assets7,908 
Franchise agreements10,700 
Trade name35,600 
Liabilities:
Operating lease liabilities7,908 
Deferred franchise revenue992 
Other liabilities36 
Net assets acquired, excluding goodwill47,287 
Goodwill$35,213 
v3.25.0.1
Receivables (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Receivables [Abstract]  
Schedule of Receivables, Net
Receivables, net consisted of the following:
 
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023
 (In thousands)
Receivables, net:  
Trade accounts receivable from franchisees$15,798 $14,092 
Notes and loan receivables from franchisees490 584 
Vendor receivables3,632 4,059 
Credit card receivables1,815 995 
Other3,140 1,862 
Allowance for doubtful accounts(442)(201)
Total receivables, net$24,433 $21,391 
v3.25.0.1
Property (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]  
Schedule of Property, Net
Property, net consisted of the following:
 
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023
 (In thousands)
Land$43,196 $43,577 
Buildings and leasehold improvements182,560 169,005 
Other property and equipment45,249 40,791 
Total property271,005 253,373 
Less accumulated depreciation159,588 159,879 
Property, net$111,417 $93,494 
  
The following table reflects the property assets, included in the table above, and buildings with finance leases which were leased to franchisees:
 
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023
 (In thousands)
Land$23,166 $23,825 
Buildings and leasehold improvements63,338 66,763 
Total property owned, leased to franchisees86,504 90,588 
Less accumulated depreciation55,699 58,006 
Property owned, leased to franchisees, net30,805 32,582 
Buildings held under finance leases, leased to franchisees5,233 5,505 
Less accumulated amortization3,024 3,218 
Property held under finance leases, leased to franchisees, net2,209 2,287 
Total property leased to franchisees, net$33,014 $34,869 
v3.25.0.1
Goodwill and Intangible Assets (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]  
Schedule of Changes in Carrying Amounts of Goodwill
The following table reflects the changes in carrying amounts of goodwill and goodwill by segment:
 
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023
 (In thousands)
Balance, beginning of year$65,908 $72,740 
Reclassifications from (to) assets held for sale469 (469)
Impairment charges$(20)$(6,363)
Balance, end of year (1)
$66,357 $65,908 
Goodwill by segment
Denny’s$37,507 $37,527 
Other28,850 28,381 
Total goodwill$66,357 $65,908 
(1)
Net of accumulated impairment losses of $6.4 million.
Schedule of Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets
Intangible assets consist of the following:
 
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023
 Gross Carrying AmountAccumulated AmortizationGross Carrying AmountAccumulated Amortization
 (In thousands)
Intangible assets with indefinite lives:    
Trade names$79,687 $— $79,687 $— 
Liquor licenses120 — 120 — 
Intangible assets with definite lives:  
Reacquired franchise rights9,135 6,188 9,470 5,614 
Franchise agreements10,603 1,618 10,700 935 
Intangible assets, net$99,545 $7,806 $99,977 $6,549 
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets
Intangible assets consist of the following:
 
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023
 Gross Carrying AmountAccumulated AmortizationGross Carrying AmountAccumulated Amortization
 (In thousands)
Intangible assets with indefinite lives:    
Trade names$79,687 $— $79,687 $— 
Liquor licenses120 — 120 — 
Intangible assets with definite lives:  
Reacquired franchise rights9,135 6,188 9,470 5,614 
Franchise agreements10,603 1,618 10,700 935 
Intangible assets, net$99,545 $7,806 $99,977 $6,549 
Schedule of Estimated Amortization Expense for Intangible Assets With Definite Lives Estimated amortization expense for intangible assets with definite lives in the next five years is as follows: 
 (In thousands)
2025$1,442 
20261,274 
20271,235 
20281,085 
20291,017 
v3.25.0.1
Other Current Liabilities (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract]  
Schedule of Other Current Liabilities
Other current liabilities consisted of the following:
 
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023
 (In thousands)
Accrued payroll$15,434 $16,400 
Accrued insurance, primarily current portion of liability for insurance claims
4,494 3,758 
Accrued taxes4,432 4,699 
Accrued advertising11,785 10,664 
Gift cards8,382 7,838 
Accrued legal settlements4,114 7,488 
Accrued interest4,368 4,530 
Other5,833 7,691 
Other current liabilities$58,842 $63,068 
v3.25.0.1
Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]  
Schedule of Financial Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
Financial assets and (liabilities) measured at fair value on a recurring basis are summarized below:
 TotalQuoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets/Liabilities
(Level 1)
Significant Other Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
Significant Unobservable Inputs
(Level 3)
 
(In thousands)
Fair value measurements as of December 25, 2024:
Deferred compensation plan investments (1)
$10,400 $10,400 $— $— 
Interest rate swaps (2)
20,841 — 20,841 — 
Investments (3)
1,106 — 1,106 — 
Total$32,347 $10,400 $21,947 $— 
Fair value measurements as of December 27, 2023:
Deferred compensation plan investments (1)
$12,225 $12,225 $— $— 
Interest rate swaps (2)
8,888 — 8,888 — 
Investments (3)
1,281 — 1,281 — 
Total$22,394 $12,225 $10,169 $— 

(1)    The fair values of our deferred compensation plan investments are based on the closing market prices of the elected investments and are included in other noncurrent assets in our Consolidated Balance Sheets.
(2)    The fair values of our interest rate swaps are based upon Level 2 inputs, which include valuation models. The key inputs for the valuation models are quoted market prices, interest rates, forward yield curves and credit risk adjustments that are necessary to reflect the probability of default by the counterparty or us. For disclosures about the fair value measurements of our derivative instruments, see Note 10.
(3)    The fair value of investments is valued using a readily determinable net asset value per share based on the fair value of the underlying securities. There are no significant redemption restrictions associated with these investments.
Schedule of Financial Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Non - Recurring Basis
Those assets and (liabilities) measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis are summarized below:
 
 Significant Unobservable Inputs
(Level 3)
Impairment Charges
 
Fair value measurements as of December 27, 2023:
Assets held and used, including other intangible assets (1)
$— $375 
Goodwill (2)
$28,381 $6,363 
(1)As of December 27, 2023, impaired assets were written down to their fair value. To determine fair value, we used the income approach, which assumes that the future cash flows reflect current market expectations. These fair value measurements require significant judgment using Level 3 inputs, such as discounted cash flows from operations, which are not observable from the market, directly or indirectly. There is uncertainty in the projected future cash flows used in the Company’s impairment analysis, which requires the use of estimates and assumptions. If actual performance does not achieve the projections, or if the assumptions used change in the future, the Company may be required to recognize impairment charges in future periods.
(2)As of December 27, 2023, impaired Keke’s goodwill was written down to fair value. To determine fair value, we used an income approach and market approach, with equal weighting given to each approach, to value the goodwill subject to the impairment. These fair value measurements require significant judgment using Level 3 inputs. The income approach involves the use of estimates and assumptions including forecasted future revenues and operating margins, including projected growth in restaurant unit counts and average unit volumes, royalty rate, and discount rates. Inputs used are generally obtained from historical data supplemented by current and anticipated market conditions and growth rates. The market approach involves the selection and application of cash flows multiples of a group of similar companies to the projected cash flows of the operating segment.
v3.25.0.1
Leases (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Leases [Abstract]  
Schedule of Components of Lease Costs and Lease Terms and Discount Rates
The components of lease costs were as follows:
 Fiscal Year Ended
 ClassificationDecember 25, 2024December 27, 2023December 28, 2022
 (In thousands)
Lease costs
Finance lease costs:
Amortization of right-of-use assets
Depreciation and amortization
$1,350 $1,451 $1,704 
Interest on lease liabilitiesInterest expense, net1,990 2,139 2,350 
Operating lease costs:
Operating lease costs
Occupancy
8,828 8,584 7,624 
Operating lease costs
Costs of franchise and license revenue
12,702 14,022 15,541 
Operating lease costsGeneral and administrative expenses739 629 564 
Operating lease costsOther operating expenses459 257 — 
Operating lease costsRestructuring charges and exit costs125 175 201 
Variable lease costs:
Variable lease costsOccupancy4,716 4,789 3,988 
Variable lease costsCosts of franchise and license revenue5,979 6,232 6,596 
Variable lease costs
General and administrative expenses
333 271 255 
Variable lease costsOther operating expenses14 — 
Variable lease costs
Restructuring charges and exit costs
65 46 34 
Sublease income:
Sublease income
Franchise and license revenue
(22,817)(24,966)(27,445)
Sublease incomeRestructuring charges and exit costs(192)(166)(229)
Total lease costs
$14,283 $13,477 $11,183 


Lease terms and discount rates were as follows:
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023
Weighted-average remaining lease term (in years):
Finance leases
8.78.0
Operating leases9.08.8
Weighted-average discount rate:
Finance leases21.4 %23.1 %
Operating leases6.1 %6.0 %
Cash and supplemental noncash amounts were as follows:
 Fiscal Year Ended
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023December 28, 2022
(In thousands)
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:
Operating cash flows from finance leases
$1,990 $2,139 $2,350 
Operating cash flows from operating leases$23,055 $24,310 $24,626 
Financing cash flows from finance leases$1,411 $1,786 $2,020 
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new finance lease liabilities
$1,783 $1,071 $537 
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new operating lease liabilities (1)
$25,283 $7,047 $16,040 
(1)     Right-of-use assets obtained in 2022 includes $7.9 million from the acquisition of Keke’s. See Note 3.
Schedule of Components of Lease Income
The components of lease income were as follows:
 Fiscal Year Ended
 ClassificationDecember 25, 2024December 27, 2023December 28, 2022
 (In thousands)
Lease income
Operating lease income
Franchise and license revenue
$24,269 $26,353 $28,473 
Operating lease income
Restructuring charges and exit costs
130 119 183 
Operating lease incomeGeneral and administrative expenses71 118 140 
Variable lease income
Franchise and license revenue
8,895 9,530 10,124 
Variable lease income
Restructuring charges and exit costs
61 47 46 
Total lease income$33,426 $36,167 $38,966 
Schedule of Finance Lease Liability Maturity
Maturities of lease liabilities and receipts as of December 25, 2024 were as follows:
 Lease LiabilitiesLease Receipts
 FinanceOperatingOperating
 (In thousands)
2025$3,077 $23,243 $23,271 
20262,985 23,114 22,962 
20272,639 21,328 21,413 
20281,953 19,479 19,691 
20291,751 17,954 19,034 
Thereafter9,806 74,758 96,131 
Total undiscounted cash flows22,211 179,876 $202,502 
Less: interest11,643 43,548  
Present value of lease liabilities10,568 136,328  
Less: current lease liabilities1,284 15,487 
Long-term lease liabilities$9,284 $120,841 
Schedule of Lessee Lease Liability Maturity
Maturities of lease liabilities and receipts as of December 25, 2024 were as follows:
 Lease LiabilitiesLease Receipts
 FinanceOperatingOperating
 (In thousands)
2025$3,077 $23,243 $23,271 
20262,985 23,114 22,962 
20272,639 21,328 21,413 
20281,953 19,479 19,691 
20291,751 17,954 19,034 
Thereafter9,806 74,758 96,131 
Total undiscounted cash flows22,211 179,876 $202,502 
Less: interest11,643 43,548  
Present value of lease liabilities10,568 136,328  
Less: current lease liabilities1,284 15,487 
Long-term lease liabilities$9,284 $120,841 
Schedule of Lessor Operating Lease Payments to be Received Maturity
Maturities of lease liabilities and receipts as of December 25, 2024 were as follows:
 Lease LiabilitiesLease Receipts
 FinanceOperatingOperating
 (In thousands)
2025$3,077 $23,243 $23,271 
20262,985 23,114 22,962 
20272,639 21,328 21,413 
20281,953 19,479 19,691 
20291,751 17,954 19,034 
Thereafter9,806 74,758 96,131 
Total undiscounted cash flows22,211 179,876 $202,502 
Less: interest11,643 43,548  
Present value of lease liabilities10,568 136,328  
Less: current lease liabilities1,284 15,487 
Long-term lease liabilities$9,284 $120,841 
v3.25.0.1
Long-Term Debt (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]  
Schedule of Long-Term Debt
Long-term debt consisted of the following:
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023
 (In thousands)
Revolving loans$261,300 $255,500 
Finance lease obligations10,568 10,533 
Total long-term debt271,868 266,033 
Less current maturities of finance lease obligations1,284 1,383 
Noncurrent portion of long-term debt$270,584 $264,650 
Schedule of Interest Rate Swaps A summary of our interest rate swaps as of December 25, 2024 is as follows:
Trade DateEffective DateMaturity DateNotional AmountFair ValueFixed Rate
(In thousands)
Swaps designated as
cash flow hedges
March 20, 2015March 29, 2018March 31, 2025$120,000 $618 2.34 %
October 1, 2015March 29, 2018March 31, 2026$50,000 $1,087 2.37 %
February 15, 2018March 31, 2020December 31, 2033$68,000 (1)$19,136 3.09 %
Total$238,000 $20,841 

(1)     The notional amounts of the swaps entered into on February 15, 2018 will increase by $120 million on March 31, 2025 when the swaps entered into on March 20, 2015 expire and will increase periodically until they reach the maximum notional amount of $335 million on August 31, 2033.
v3.25.0.1
Revenues (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]  
Schedule of Disaggregation of Revenue
The following table disaggregates our revenue by sales channel and type of good or service:
 Fiscal Year Ended
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023December 28, 2022
 (In thousands)
Company restaurant sales$211,781 $215,532 $199,753 
Franchise and license revenue:
Royalties118,705 120,131 113,891 
Advertising revenue79,973 78,494 75,926 
Initial and other fees8,711 13,882 28,262 
Occupancy revenue 33,164 35,883 38,597 
Franchise and license revenue 
240,553 248,390 256,676 
Total operating revenue$452,334 $463,922 $456,429 
Schedule of Components of the Change in Contract Asset and Contract Liability The components of the change in deferred franchise revenue are as follows:
 (In thousands)
Balance, December 27, 2023$19,150 
Fees received from franchisees1,080 
Revenue recognized, net (1)
(3,262)
Balance, December 25, 202416,968 
Less current portion included in other current liabilities2,073 
Deferred franchise revenue included in other noncurrent liabilities$14,895 

(1) Of this amount $2.8 million was included in the deferred franchise revenue balance as of December 27, 2023.
The components of the change in contract assets are as follows:
 (In thousands)
Balance, December 27, 2023$6,608 
Franchisee deferred costs1,417 
Contract asset amortization(1,319)
Balance, December 25, 20246,706 
Less current portion included in other current assets976 
Contract assets included in other noncurrent assets$5,730 
Schedule of Deferred Franchise Revenue Recognition
As of December 25, 2024, deferred franchise revenue, net of contract asset amortization, expected to be recognized in the future is as follows:
 (In thousands)
2025$1,097 
20261,072 
20271,041 
2028917 
2029813 
Thereafter5,322 
Deferred franchise revenue, net$10,262 
v3.25.0.1
Employee Benefit Plans (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]  
Schedule of Pension and Other Defined Benefit Plan Obligations and Funded Status The following table provides a reconciliation of the changes in the benefit obligations, plan assets, and funded status of our defined benefit plans:
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023
 (In thousands)
Change in Benefit Obligation:  
Benefit obligation at beginning of year
$1,078 $1,606 
Interest cost31 53 
Actuarial gain(83)(29)
Benefits paid(106)(131)
Settlements(430)(421)
Benefit obligation at end of year
$490 $1,078 
Accumulated benefit obligation$490 $1,078 
Change in Plan Assets:  
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year
$— $— 
Employer contributions536 552 
Benefits paid(106)(131)
Settlements(430)(421)
Fair value of plan assets at end of year
$— $— 
Unfunded status at end of year$(490)$(1,078)
Amounts recognized on the balance sheet:
Other current liabilities $(105)$(582)
Other noncurrent liabilities(385)(496)
Net amount recognized $(490)$(1,078)
Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive loss not yet reflected in net period benefit cost:
Unamortized actuarial losses, net$(277)$(449)
Other changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss, net:
Benefit obligation actuarial gain (loss)$83 $(98)
Amortization of net loss63 56 
Settlement loss recognized26 35 
Plan closure loss— 74 
Other comprehensive income$172 $67 
Schedule of Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost
The components of net periodic benefit cost, which are included in general and administrative expenses in our Consolidated Statements of Income, were as follows:
 Fiscal Year Ended
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023December 28, 2022
 (In thousands)
Interest cost$31 $53 $36 
Amortization of net loss63 56 123 
Settlement loss recognized26 35 74 
Plan experience gain— (53)— 
Net periodic benefit cost$120 $91 $233 
Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments
Benefits expected to be paid for each of the next five years and in the aggregate for the five fiscal years from 2030 through 2034 are as follows:
 Defined Benefit Plans
 (In thousands)
2025$105 
2026107 
202778 
202867 
2029117 
2030 though 2034116 
v3.25.0.1
Share-Based Compensation (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Share-Based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]  
Schedule of Total Share-Based Compensation
Total share-based compensation expense included as a component of net income was as follows:
 
 Fiscal Year Ended
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023December 28, 2022
 (In thousands)
Employee share awards$9,792 $7,991 $10,470 
Restricted stock units for board members886 889 930 
Total share-based compensation$10,678 $8,880 $11,400 
Schedule of Restricted Stock Units Activity The following table summarizes the employee share awards activity during the year ended December 25, 2024:
 UnitsWeighted Average Grant Date
Fair Value
 
 (In thousands)
Outstanding, beginning of year1,990 $15.90 
Granted1,432 $12.55 
Converted(524)$17.57 
Performance shares adjustment(478)$18.35 
Forfeited(307)$13.59 
Outstanding, end of year2,113 $13.00 
Convertible, end of year461 $11.76 
Schedule of Grant Date Fair Value and Related Assumptions of PSUs
The following table presents the weighted-average assumptions used in the Monte Carlo simulations to determine the fair value of PSU awards at the grant date, along with the related weighted-average grant date fair value of PSU awards:

 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023December 28, 2022
Risk-free interest rate4.14%3.75%1.96%
Expected term (in years)3.03.02.8
Expected volatility39.2%69.7%66.0%
Expected dividend yield0.0%0.0%0.0%
Grant date fair value per unit$15.48$18.39$21.05
v3.25.0.1
Operating (Gains), Losses and Other Charges, Net (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Other Income and Expenses [Abstract]  
Schedule of Operating (Gains) Losses and Other Charges Net
Operating (gains), losses and other charges, net consists of the following:
 Fiscal Year Ended
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023December 28, 2022
 (In thousands)
Gains on sales of assets and other, net$(137)$(2,220)$(3,378)
Impairment charges (1)
792 2,214 963 
Restructuring charges and exit costs1,319 2,536 1,410 
Operating (gains), losses and other charges, net$1,974 $2,530 $(1,005)
(1)
Impairment charges include impairments related to property, operating lease right-of-use assets, finance lease right-of-use assets, franchise agreements, and reacquired franchise rights.
Schedule of Restructuring Charges and Exit Costs
Restructuring charges and exit costs consists of the following: 
 Fiscal Year Ended
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023December 28, 2022
 (In thousands)
Exit costs$307 $190 $86 
Severance and other restructuring charges1,012 2,346 1,324 
Total restructuring charges and exit costs$1,319 $2,536 $1,410 
v3.25.0.1
Income Taxes (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]  
Schedule of Provisions for (Benefits From) Income Taxes
The provisions for (benefits from) income taxes were as follows:
 Fiscal Year Ended
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023December 28, 2022
 (In thousands)
Current:   
Federal$4,925 $4,649 $6,128 
State and local1,078 2,409 2,160 
Foreign1,478 1,433 1,152 
Deferred:   
Federal(1,079)(1,876)11,043 
State and local812 173 3,689 
 Increase (decrease) of valuation allowance464 205 546 
Total provision for income taxes$7,678 $6,993 $24,718 
Schedule of Reconciliation of Income Taxes U.S. Federal Statutory Tax Rate
The reconciliation of income taxes at the U.S. federal statutory tax rate to our effective tax rate was as follows: 
 
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023December 28, 2022
Statutory provision rate21 %21 %21 %
State and local taxes, net of federal income tax benefit
Foreign taxes
Change in state valuation allowance— 
General business credits generated(6)(5)(1)
Foreign tax credits generated(5)(5)(1)
Section 162(m) and share-based compensation— 
Insurance premiums(2)(2)— 
Other(2)(2)— 
Effective tax rate26 %26 %25 %
Schedule of Deferred Income Tax Assets or Liabilities
The following table represents the approximate tax effect of each significant type of temporary difference that resulted in deferred income tax assets or liabilities.  
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023
 (In thousands)
Deferred tax assets:  
Self-insurance accruals$2,398 $2,536 
Finance lease liabilities1,102 1,119 
Operating lease liabilities34,468 30,445 
Accrued exit costs — 
Pension, other retirement and compensation plans5,922 7,127 
Deferred income3,868 4,617 
Other accruals1,824 478 
General business and foreign tax credit carryforwards - state and federal3,612 3,472 
Net operating loss carryforwards - state534 848 
Total deferred tax assets before valuation allowance53,728 50,647 
Less: valuation allowance(3,407)(2,943)
Total deferred tax assets50,321 47,704 
Deferred tax liabilities:  
Intangible assets(16,140)(15,044)
Contract assets(1,212)(1,460)
Deferred finance costs— (181)
Operating lease right-of-use assets(31,544)(27,307)
Fixed assets(6,135)(8,074)
Interest rate swaps(5,254)(2,220)
Total deferred tax liabilities(60,285)(54,286)
Net deferred tax liabilities$(9,964)$(6,582)
Schedule of Unrecognized Tax Benefits
The following table provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits:

 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023
 (In thousands)
Balance, beginning of year$445 $869 
Increase (decrease) related to prior year tax positions13 (424)
Balance, end of year$458 $445 
v3.25.0.1
Net Income Per Share (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]  
Schedule of Basic and Diluted Net Income Per Share
The amounts used for the basic and diluted net income per share calculations are summarized below: 
 Fiscal Year Ended
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023December 28, 2022
 (In thousands, except per share amounts)
Net income$21,571 $19,945 $74,712 
Weighted average shares outstanding - basic52,499 55,984 60,771 
Effect of dilutive share-based compensation awards115 212 108 
Weighted average shares outstanding - diluted52,614 56,196 60,879 
Net income per share - basic$0.41 $0.36 $1.23 
Net income per share - diluted$0.41 $0.35 $1.23 
Anti-dilutive share-based compensation awards 713 726 709 
v3.25.0.1
Shareholders' Equity (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Equity [Abstract]  
Schedule of Share Repurchases
The following table summarizes share repurchase activity:
Fiscal Year Ended
December 25, 2024December 27, 2023December 28, 2022
(In thousands)
Amount repurchased (1)
$11,231 $52,099 $64,884 
Total number of shares repurchased1,349 5,202 6,280 
(1) Amount repurchased includes excise taxes of $0.1 million and $0.4 million for the years ended December 25, 2024 and December 27, 2023, respectively.
Schedule of Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
The components of the change in accumulated other comprehensive loss were as follows:

PensionsDerivativesAccumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
(In thousands)
Balance as of December 29, 2021$(900)$(53,570)$(54,470)
Benefit obligation actuarial gain261 — 261 
Amortization of net loss (1)
123 — 123 
Settlement loss recognized
74 — 74 
Changes in the fair value of cash flow derivatives— 13,619 13,619 
Reclassification of cash flow derivatives to interest expense, net (2)
— 1,310 1,310 
Amortization of unrealized losses related to dedesignated derivatives to interest expense, net — 29 29 
Income tax expense(113)(3,530)(3,643)
Balance as of December 28, 2022$(555)$(42,142)$(42,697)
Benefit obligation actuarial loss(98)— (98)
Amortization of net loss (1)
56 — 56 
Settlement loss recognized35 — 35 
Plan closure loss74 — 74 
Changes in the fair value of cash flow derivatives— 6,262 6,262 
Reclassification of cash flow derivatives to interest expense, net (2)
— (5,028)(5,028)
Amortization of unrealized losses related to dedesignated derivatives to interest expense, net— 353 353 
Income tax benefit (expense)151 (767)(616)
Balance as of December 27, 2023$(337)$(41,322)$(41,659)
Benefit obligation actuarial gain83 — 83 
Amortization of net loss (1)
63 — 63 
Settlement loss recognized26 — 26 
Changes in the fair value of cash flow derivatives— 17,869 17,869 
Reclassification of cash flow derivatives to interest expense, net (2)
— (5,916)(5,916)
Amortization of unrealized losses related to dedesignated derivatives to interest expense, net — 760 760 
Income tax expense(44)(3,221)(3,265)
Balance as of December 25, 2024$(209)$(31,830)$(32,039)

(1)    Before-tax amount that was reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss and included as a component of pension expense within general and administrative expenses in our Consolidated Statements of Income. See Note 12 for additional details.
(2)    Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss into income represent payments made to (received from) the counterparty for the effective portions of the interest rate swaps. These amounts are included as a component of interest expense, net in our Consolidated Statements of Income. We expect to receive payments from the counterparty and reclassify $4.5 million from accumulated other comprehensive loss related to our interest rate swaps during the next twelve months. See Note 10 for additional details.
v3.25.0.1
Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]  
Schedule of Future Commitments Under Contracts for Food and Non-Food Products Our future purchase obligation payments due by period for both company and franchised restaurants at December 25, 2024 consist of the following:
 (In thousands)
Less than 1 year$195,923 
1-2 years— 
3-4 years— 
5 years and thereafter— 
Total$195,923 
v3.25.0.1
Supplemental Cash Flow Information (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]  
Schedule of Supplemental Cash Flow Information
 Fiscal Year Ended
 December 25, 2024December 27, 2023December 28, 2022
 (In thousands)
Income taxes paid, net$6,178 $9,195 $9,296 
Interest paid$16,978 $13,390 $12,939 
Noncash investing and financing activities:
Receipt of real estate receivable$— $— $3,000 
Accrued purchase of property$2,961 $756 $283 
Issuance of common stock, pursuant to share-based compensation plans$3,830 $5,638 $9,547 
Execution of finance leases$1,783 $1,071 $537 
Treasury stock payable$— $109 $542 
Treasury stock excise tax payable$73 $454 $— 
v3.25.0.1
Segment Information (Tables)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Segment Reporting [Abstract]  
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment
The following tables present revenues by segment and a reconciliation of restaurant-level operating margin to net income:

Fiscal Year Ended December 25, 2024
Denny’sOtherTotal
Revenues(In thousands)
Company restaurant sales$193,572 $18,209 $211,781 
Franchise and license revenue:
Royalties113,804 4,901 118,705 
Advertising revenue78,192 1,781 79,973 
Initial and other fees8,351 360 8,711 
Occupancy revenue33,075 89 33,164 
Total franchise and license revenue233,422 7,131 240,553 
Total operating revenue426,994 25,340 452,334 
Costs and expenses
Costs of company restaurant sales, excluding depreciation and amortization:
Product costs48,976 4,955 53,931 
Payroll and benefits72,828 7,777 80,605 
Occupancy costs15,680 2,449 18,129 
Other operating expenses:
Utilities6,404 550 6,954 
Repairs and maintenance3,806 217 4,023 
Marketing7,098 752 7,850 
Legal settlements1,670 30 1,700 
Pre-opening costs— 1,548 1,548 
Other direct costs13,267 1,737 15,004 
Total costs of company restaurant sales, excluding depreciation and amortization169,729 20,015 189,744 
Costs of franchise and license revenue, excluding depreciation and amortization:
Advertising costs78,192 1,781 79,973 
Occupancy costs20,451 88 20,539 
Other direct costs18,675 1,039 19,714 
Total costs of franchise and license revenue, excluding depreciation and amortization117,318 2,908 120,226 
Total restaurant-level operating margin$139,947 $2,417 $142,364 
Reconciliation of restaurant-level operating margin to net income
General and administrative expenses$80,197 
Depreciation and amortization14,857 
Goodwill impairment charges20 
Operating (gains), losses and other charges, net1,974 
Total other operating expenses97,048 
Operating income45,316 
Interest expense, net17,974 
Other nonoperating income, net(1,907)
Net income before income taxes29,249 
Provision for income taxes7,678 
Net income $21,571 
Fiscal Year Ended December 27, 2023
Denny’sOtherTotal
Revenues(In thousands)
Company restaurant sales$201,175 $14,357 $215,532 
Franchise and license revenue:
Royalties115,004 5,127 120,131 
Advertising revenue77,932 562 78,494 
Initial and other fees13,112 770 13,882 
Occupancy revenue35,883 — 35,883 
Total franchise and license revenue241,931 6,459 248,390 
Total operating revenue443,106 20,816 463,922 
Costs and expenses
Costs of company restaurant sales, excluding depreciation and amortization:
Product costs51,939 3,850 55,789 
Payroll and benefits75,407 5,259 80,666 
Occupancy costs14,875 1,934 16,809 
Other operating expenses:
Utilities7,418 430 7,848 
Repairs and maintenance3,486 175 3,661 
Marketing5,524 79 5,603 
Legal settlements2,302 — 2,302 
Pre-opening costs— 288 288 
Other direct costs13,452 1,181 14,633 
Total costs of company restaurant sales, excluding depreciation and amortization174,403 13,196 187,599 
Costs of franchise and license revenue, excluding depreciation and amortization:
Advertising costs77,932 562 78,494 
Occupancy costs22,160 — 22,160 
Other direct costs21,778 20 21,798 
Total costs of franchise and license revenue, excluding depreciation and amortization121,870 582 122,452 
Total restaurant-level operating margin$146,833 $7,038 $153,871 
Reconciliation of restaurant-level operating margin to net income
General and administrative expenses$77,770 
Depreciation and amortization14,385 
Goodwill impairment charges6,363 
Operating (gains), losses and other charges, net2,530 
Total other operating expenses101,048 
Operating income52,823 
Interest expense, net17,597 
Other nonoperating expense, net8,288 
Net income before income taxes26,938 
Provision for income taxes6,993 
Net income $19,945 
Fiscal Year Ended December 28, 2022
Denny’sOtherTotal
Revenues(In thousands)
Company restaurant sales$193,576 $6,177 $199,753 
Franchise and license revenue:
Royalties111,718 2,173 113,891 
Advertising revenue75,926 — 75,926 
Initial and other fees27,870 392 28,262 
Occupancy revenue38,597 — 38,597 
Total franchise and license revenue254,111 2,565 256,676 
Total operating revenue447,687 8,742 456,429 
Costs and expenses
Costs of company restaurant sales, excluding depreciation and amortization:
Product costs51,705 1,912 53,617 
Payroll and benefits74,157 2,255 76,412 
Occupancy costs14,310 844 15,154 
Other operating expenses
Utilities7,075 198 7,273 
Repairs and maintenance3,803 71 3,874 
Marketing5,294 — 5,294 
Legal settlements4,224 — 4,224 
Other direct costs13,243 367 13,610 
Total costs of company restaurant sales, excluding depreciation and amortization173,811 5,647 179,458 
Costs of franchise and license revenue, excluding depreciation and amortization:
Advertising costs75,926 — 75,926 
Occupancy costs24,090 — 24,090 
Other direct costs35,305 35,311 
Total costs of franchise and license revenue, excluding depreciation and amortization135,321 135,327 
Total restaurant-level operating margin$138,555 $3,089 $141,644 
Reconciliation of restaurant-level operating margin to net income
General and administrative expenses$67,173 
Depreciation and amortization14,862 
Operating (gains), losses and other charges, net(1,005)
Total other operating expenses81,030 
Operating income60,614 
Interest expense, net13,769 
Other nonoperating expense (income), net(52,585)
Net income before income taxes99,430 
Provision for income taxes24,718 
Net income $74,712 
Fiscal Year Ended
December 25, 2024December 27, 2023
Segment assets:(In thousands)
Denny’s$344,986 $340,136 
Other151,288 124,682 
Total assets$496,274 $464,818 
v3.25.0.1
Introduction and Basis of Reporting - (Narrative) (Details)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
state
territory
restaurant
country
Franchisor Disclosure [Line Items]  
Number of restaurants 1,568
Denny's Brand  
Franchisor Disclosure [Line Items]  
Number of restaurants 1,499
Number of states in which entity operates | state 50
Number of territories in which entity operates | territory 2
Number of foreign countries in which entity operates | country 12
Denny's Brand | Geographic Concentration Risk | Geographic Area | California  
Franchisor Disclosure [Line Items]  
Percentage of restaurants operated by geographic region 24.00%
Denny's Brand | Geographic Concentration Risk | Geographic Area | Texas  
Franchisor Disclosure [Line Items]  
Percentage of restaurants operated by geographic region 13.00%
Denny's Brand | Geographic Concentration Risk | Geographic Area | Florida  
Franchisor Disclosure [Line Items]  
Percentage of restaurants operated by geographic region 8.00%
Keke's  
Franchisor Disclosure [Line Items]  
Number of restaurants 69
Number of states in which entity operates | state 6
Keke's | Geographic Concentration Risk | Geographic Area | Florida  
Franchisor Disclosure [Line Items]  
Percentage of restaurants operated by geographic region 88.00%
Franchise  
Franchisor Disclosure [Line Items]  
Number of restaurants 1,493
Franchise | Denny's Brand  
Franchisor Disclosure [Line Items]  
Number of restaurants 1,438
Franchise | Keke's  
Franchisor Disclosure [Line Items]  
Number of restaurants 55
Company Restaurants  
Franchisor Disclosure [Line Items]  
Number of restaurants 75
Company Restaurants | Denny's Brand  
Franchisor Disclosure [Line Items]  
Number of restaurants 61
Company Restaurants | Keke's  
Franchisor Disclosure [Line Items]  
Number of restaurants 14
v3.25.0.1
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Cash and Cash Equivalents (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Accounting Policies [Abstract]    
Short-term investments $ 0.1 $ 0.1
v3.25.0.1
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Property and Depreciation (Details)
Dec. 25, 2024
Building Assets | Minimum  
Property, Plant and Equipment  
Property and equipment, useful life 5 years
Building Assets | Maximum  
Property, Plant and Equipment  
Property and equipment, useful life 30 years
Equipment | Minimum  
Property, Plant and Equipment  
Property and equipment, useful life 2 years
Equipment | Maximum  
Property, Plant and Equipment  
Property and equipment, useful life 10 years
Leasehold Improvements | Minimum  
Property, Plant and Equipment  
Property and equipment, useful life 5 years
Leasehold Improvements | Maximum  
Property, Plant and Equipment  
Property and equipment, useful life 15 years
v3.25.0.1
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Marketable Securities (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Dec. 28, 2022
Investment [Line Items]      
Marketable securities $ 1,106 $ 1,281  
Unrealized gain (loss) on marketable securities 1,700 2,100 $ (2,200)
Investments      
Investment [Line Items]      
Unrealized gain (loss) on marketable securities 100 100 $ (200)
Aggregated Cost      
Investment [Line Items]      
Marketable securities 1,100 1,200  
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement      
Investment [Line Items]      
Marketable securities $ 1,100 $ 1,300  
v3.25.0.1
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Self-insurance Liabilities (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Accounting Policies [Abstract]    
Workers' compensation, general, product and automobile insurance liabilities $ 9.3 $ 9.7
v3.25.0.1
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Derivative Instruments (Details)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Derivative Asset, Statement Of Financial Position, Extensible Enumeration Not Disclosed Flag Consolidated Balance Sheets
Derivative Liability, Statement Of Financial Position, Extensible Enumeration Not Disclosed Flag Consolidated Balance Sheets
v3.25.0.1
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Concentration Risk (Details)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Dec. 28, 2022
Revenue from franchises and licenses risk | Revenue Benchmark | Ten Largest Franchises      
Concentration Risk      
Franchise revenue, percentage 38.00% 38.00% 37.00%
v3.25.0.1
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Advertising Costs (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Dec. 28, 2022
Entity Operated Units      
Franchisor Disclosure [Line Items]      
Advertising expense $ 7.9 $ 5.6 $ 5.3
Franchise      
Franchisor Disclosure [Line Items]      
Advertising expense $ 80.0 $ 78.5 $ 75.9
v3.25.0.1
Acquisition of Keke's Breakfast Cafe - Narrative (Details)
$ in Thousands
12 Months Ended
Jul. 20, 2022
USD ($)
restaurant
Dec. 25, 2024
restaurant
Dec. 28, 2022
USD ($)
Business Acquisition [Line Items]      
Number of restaurants   1,568  
Franchise agreements      
Business Acquisition [Line Items]      
Weighted average useful life   13 years  
Company Restaurants      
Business Acquisition [Line Items]      
Number of restaurants   75  
Keke's      
Business Acquisition [Line Items]      
Total purchase price | $ $ 82,500    
Acquisition, transaction costs | $     $ 600
Keke's | Franchise agreements      
Business Acquisition [Line Items]      
Weighted average useful life 15 years    
Keke's | Franchised Location      
Business Acquisition [Line Items]      
Number of restaurants 44    
Keke's | Company Restaurants      
Business Acquisition [Line Items]      
Number of restaurants 8    
v3.25.0.1
Acquisition of Keke's Breakfast Cafe - Purchase Price Allocation (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Jul. 20, 2022
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Dec. 28, 2022
Liabilities:        
Goodwill   $ 66,357 $ 65,908 $ 72,740
Keke's        
Business Acquisition [Line Items]        
Total consideration paid $ 82,500      
Assets:        
Property 2,015      
Operating lease ROU assets 7,908      
Liabilities:        
Operating lease liabilities 7,908      
Deferred franchise revenue 992      
Other liabilities 36      
Net assets acquired, excluding goodwill 47,287      
Goodwill 35,213      
Keke's | Trade name        
Assets:        
Purchase price allocated to intangible assets 35,600      
Keke's | Franchise agreements        
Assets:        
Purchase price allocated to intangible assets $ 10,700      
v3.25.0.1
Receivables - Schedule of Receivables, Net (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Dec. 28, 2022
Receivables, net:      
Trade accounts receivable from franchisees $ 15,798 $ 14,092  
Notes and loan receivables from franchisees 490 584  
Allowance for doubtful accounts (442) (201)  
Total receivables, net 24,433 21,391  
Expected credit expense (reversal) 200 (100) $ (100)
Vendor receivables      
Receivables, net:      
Other receivable, gross, current 3,632 4,059  
Credit card receivables      
Receivables, net:      
Other receivable, gross, current 1,815 995  
Other      
Receivables, net:      
Other receivable, gross, current $ 3,140 $ 1,862  
v3.25.0.1
Property (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Dec. 28, 2022
Property, Plant and Equipment      
Total property $ 271,005 $ 253,373  
Less accumulated depreciation 159,588 159,879  
Property, net 111,417 93,494  
Property held under finance leases, leased to franchisees, net 6,200 6,098  
Depreciation expense, including amortization of property under finance leases 12,600 12,200 $ 12,800
Franchise      
Property, Plant and Equipment      
Total property 86,504 90,588  
Less accumulated depreciation 55,699 58,006  
Property, net 30,805 32,582  
Buildings held under finance leases, leased to franchisees 5,233 5,505  
Less accumulated amortization 3,024 3,218  
Property held under finance leases, leased to franchisees, net 2,209 2,287  
Total property leased to franchisees, net 33,014 34,869  
Land      
Property, Plant and Equipment      
Total property 43,196 43,577  
Land | Franchise      
Property, Plant and Equipment      
Total property 23,166 23,825  
Buildings and leasehold improvements      
Property, Plant and Equipment      
Total property 182,560 169,005  
Buildings and leasehold improvements | Franchise      
Property, Plant and Equipment      
Total property 63,338 66,763  
Other property and equipment      
Property, Plant and Equipment      
Total property $ 45,249 $ 40,791  
v3.25.0.1
Goodwill and Intangible Assets - Goodwill (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Dec. 28, 2022
Jul. 20, 2022
Goodwill [Roll Forward]        
Balance, beginning of year $ 65,908 $ 72,740    
Reclassifications from (to) assets held for sale 469 (469)    
Impairment charges (20) (6,363) $ 0  
Balance, end of year 66,357 65,908 72,740  
Goodwill 66,357 65,908 $ 72,740  
Accumulated impairment losses 6,400      
Denny’s        
Goodwill [Roll Forward]        
Balance, beginning of year 37,527      
Balance, end of year 37,507 37,527    
Goodwill 37,507 37,527    
Other        
Goodwill [Roll Forward]        
Balance, beginning of year 28,381      
Balance, end of year 28,850 28,381    
Goodwill $ 28,850 $ 28,381    
Keke's        
Goodwill [Roll Forward]        
Goodwill       $ 35,213
v3.25.0.1
Goodwill and Intangible Assets - Finite-Lived and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Intangible Assets    
Trade names $ 79,687 $ 79,687
Liquor licenses 120 120
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Accumulated Amortization 7,806 6,549
Intangible assets 99,545 99,977
Reacquired franchise rights    
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Gross Carrying Amount 9,135 9,470
Accumulated Amortization 6,188 5,614
Franchise agreements    
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Gross Carrying Amount 10,603 10,700
Accumulated Amortization $ 1,618 $ 935
v3.25.0.1
Goodwill and Intangible Assets - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Dec. 28, 2022
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]      
Amortization expense of definite-lived intangible assets and other assets $ 2,200 $ 2,200 $ 2,000
Goodwill impairment charges 20 6,363 $ 0
Keke's      
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]      
Goodwill impairment charges $ 6,400    
Reacquired franchise rights      
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]      
Weighted average useful life 5 years    
Impairment of franchisee rights $ 100 $ 100  
Franchise agreements      
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]      
Weighted average useful life 13 years    
Impairment of franchisee rights $ 100    
v3.25.0.1
Goodwill and Intangible Assets - Estimated Amortization Expense (Details)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 25, 2024
USD ($)
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]  
2025 $ 1,442
2026 1,274
2027 1,235
2028 1,085
2029 $ 1,017
v3.25.0.1
Other Current Liabilities (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract]    
Accrued payroll $ 15,434 $ 16,400
Accrued insurance, primarily current portion of liability for insurance claims 4,494 3,758
Accrued taxes 4,432 4,699
Accrued advertising 11,785 10,664
Gift cards 8,382 7,838
Accrued legal settlements 4,114 7,488
Accrued interest 4,368 4,530
Other 5,833 7,691
Other current liabilities $ 58,842 $ 63,068
v3.25.0.1
Fair Value of Financial Instruments - Schedule of Assets and Liabilities on Recurring Basis (Details) - Recurring - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Deferred compensation plan investments $ 10,400 $ 12,225
Interest rate swaps, net 20,841 8,888
Investments 1,106 1,281
Total 32,347 22,394
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets/Liabilities (Level 1)    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Deferred compensation plan investments 10,400 12,225
Interest rate swaps, net 0 0
Investments 0 0
Total 10,400 12,225
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Deferred compensation plan investments 0 0
Interest rate swaps, net 20,841 8,888
Investments 1,106 1,281
Total 21,947 10,169
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis    
Deferred compensation plan investments 0 0
Interest rate swaps, net 0 0
Investments 0 0
Total $ 0 $ 0
v3.25.0.1
Fair Value of Financial Instruments - Schedule of Assets and Liabilities Measured on Nonrecurring Basis (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Dec. 28, 2022
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis      
Asset impairment charges $ 792 $ 2,214 $ 963
Goodwill 66,357 65,908 72,740
Goodwill impairment charges 20 6,363 $ 0
Fair Value, Nonrecurring      
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis      
Asset impairment charges $ 800 8,600  
Fair Value, Nonrecurring | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)      
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis      
Assets held and used, including other assets   0  
Asset impairment charges   375  
Goodwill   28,381  
Goodwill impairment charges   $ 6,363  
v3.25.0.1
Fair Value of Financial Instruments - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Dec. 28, 2022
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]      
Impairment charges $ 792 $ 2,214 $ 963
v3.25.0.1
Leases - General (Details)
Dec. 25, 2024
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]  
Lessee, operating lease, renewal term 5 years
Real Estate | Minimum  
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]  
Lessee, operating lease, term of contract 10 years
Real Estate | Maximum  
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]  
Lessee, operating lease, term of contract 20 years
Equipment | Minimum  
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]  
Lessee, operating lease, term of contract 3 years
Equipment | Maximum  
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]  
Lessee, operating lease, term of contract 5 years
v3.25.0.1
Leases - Lease Costs (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Dec. 28, 2022
Finance lease costs:      
Amortization of right-of-use assets $ 1,350 $ 1,451 $ 1,704
Interest on lease liabilities 1,990 2,139 2,350
Sublease income:      
Total lease costs 14,283 13,477 11,183
Occupancy      
Operating lease costs:      
Operating lease costs 8,828 8,584 7,624
Variable lease costs:      
Variable lease costs 4,716 4,789 3,988
Costs of franchise and license revenue      
Operating lease costs:      
Operating lease costs 12,702 14,022 15,541
Variable lease costs:      
Variable lease costs 5,979 6,232 6,596
General and administrative expenses      
Operating lease costs:      
Operating lease costs 739 629 564
Variable lease costs:      
Variable lease costs 333 271 255
Other operating expenses      
Operating lease costs:      
Operating lease costs 459 257 0
Variable lease costs:      
Variable lease costs 6 14 0
Restructuring charges and exit costs      
Operating lease costs:      
Operating lease costs 125 175 201
Variable lease costs:      
Variable lease costs 65 46 34
Sublease income:      
Sublease income (192) (166) (229)
Franchise and license revenue      
Sublease income:      
Sublease income $ (22,817) $ (24,966) $ (27,445)
v3.25.0.1
Leases - Lease Terms and Discount Rates (Details)
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Weighted-average remaining lease term (in years):    
Finance leases 8 years 8 months 12 days 8 years
Operating leases 9 years 8 years 9 months 18 days
Weighted-average discount rate:    
Finance leases 21.40% 23.10%
Operating leases 6.10% 6.00%
v3.25.0.1
Leases - Lease Income (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Dec. 28, 2022
Lease income      
Total lease income $ 33,426 $ 36,167 $ 38,966
Restructuring charges and exit costs      
Lease income      
Operating lease income 130 119 183
Variable lease income $ 61 47 46
Operating lease, lease income, statement of income or comprehensive income Other Operating Income (Expense), Net    
General and administrative expenses      
Lease income      
Operating lease income $ 71 118 140
Operating lease, lease income, statement of income or comprehensive income General and administrative expenses    
Franchise and license revenue      
Lease income      
Operating lease income $ 24,269 26,353 28,473
Variable lease income $ 8,895 $ 9,530 $ 10,124
Operating lease, lease income, statement of income or comprehensive income Revenue recognized    
v3.25.0.1
Leases - Cash and Supplemental Noncash (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Dec. 28, 2022
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:      
Operating cash flows from finance leases $ 1,990 $ 2,139 $ 2,350
Operating cash flows from operating leases 23,055 24,310 24,626
Financing cash flows from finance leases 1,411 1,786 2,020
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new finance lease liabilities 1,783 1,071 537
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new operating lease liabilities $ 25,283 $ 7,047 16,040
Keke's      
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:      
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new operating lease liabilities     $ 7,900
v3.25.0.1
Leases - Maturities of Lease Labilities (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Lease Liabilities, Finance    
2025 $ 3,077  
2026 2,985  
2027 2,639  
2028 1,953  
2029 1,751  
Thereafter 9,806  
Total undiscounted cash flows 22,211  
Less: interest 11,643  
Present value of lease liabilities 10,568 $ 10,533
Less: current lease liabilities 1,284 1,383
Long-term lease liabilities 9,284 9,150
Lease Liabilities, Operating    
2025 23,243  
2026 23,114  
2027 21,328  
2028 19,479  
2029 17,954  
Thereafter 74,758  
Total undiscounted cash flows 179,876  
Less: interest 43,548  
Present value of lease liabilities 136,328  
Less: current lease liabilities 15,487 14,779
Long-term lease liabilities 120,841 $ 114,451
Lease Receipts, Operating    
2025 23,271  
2026 22,962  
2027 21,413  
2028 19,691  
2029 19,034  
Thereafter 96,131  
Total undiscounted cash flows $ 202,502  
v3.25.0.1
Long-term Debt - Schedule of Long-term Debt (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]    
Revolving loans $ 261,300 $ 255,500
Finance lease obligations 10,568 10,533
Total long-term debt 271,868 266,033
Less current maturities of finance lease obligations 1,284 1,383
Noncurrent portion of long-term debt $ 270,584 $ 264,650
v3.25.0.1
Long-Term Debt - Narrative (Details)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
USD ($)
Dec. 27, 2023
USD ($)
Dec. 28, 2022
USD ($)
Mar. 29, 2023
USD ($)
Dec. 29, 2021
USD ($)
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]          
Revolving loans maturity, amount $ 261,300,000        
Notional Amount $ 238,000,000        
Outstanding debt percentage 80.00%        
Shareholders’ deficit $ (34,025,000) $ (62,686,000) $ (37,116,000)   $ (65,265,000)
Interest Rate Swaps Maturity 2033          
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]          
Termination fee   1,500,000      
Interest Rate Swaps Maturity 2033 | Maximum          
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]          
Notional Amount 335,000,000     $ 425,000,000  
Derivatives          
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]          
Reclassification (5,916,000) (5,028,000) 1,310,000    
Shareholders’ deficit (31,830,000) (41,322,000) (42,142,000)   $ (53,570,000)
Derivatives          
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]          
Reclassification 760,000 353,000 29,000    
Effective Interest Rate Swaps          
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]          
Derivative asset 20,800,000        
Reclassification 5,900,000        
Expect reclassification within next twelve months 4,500,000        
Dedesignated Interest Rate Swaps Member | Other Nonoperating Income (Expense)          
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]          
Unrealized gain (loss) on derivatives   (10,600,000) 55,000,000    
Dedesignated Interest Rate Swaps Member | Derivatives          
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]          
Shareholders’ deficit 63,400,000        
Dedesignated Interest Rate Swaps Member | Derivatives          
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]          
Reclassification 800,000 $ 400,000 $ 100,000    
Expect reclassification within next twelve months $ 3,100,000        
Senior Secured Revolver          
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]          
Debt instrument, term 5 years        
Maximum borrowing capacity $ 400,000,000        
Line of credit facility, accordion feature, increase limit $ 450,000,000        
Line of credit facility, covenant, minimum, fixed charge leverage ratio 3.85        
Fixed charge coverage ratio 2.18        
Outstanding amount under credit facility $ 261,300,000        
Availability under the revolving facility $ 122,600,000        
Basis spread on variable rate debt 2.25%        
Commitment fee, percent 0.35%        
Weighted-average interest rate 6.98% 7.41%      
Senior Secured Revolver | Maximum          
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]          
Line of credit facility, covenant, minimum, fixed charge leverage ratio 4.0        
Fixed charge coverage ratio 1.5        
Senior Secured Revolver | Interest Rate Swaps, Net          
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]          
Weighted-average interest rate 5.01% 5.04%      
Letter of Credit          
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]          
Maximum borrowing capacity $ 25,000,000        
Outstanding amount under letter of credit $ 16,100,000        
Interest rate 2.38%        
v3.25.0.1
Long-Term Debt - Schedule of Interest Rate Swaps (Details) - USD ($)
Mar. 31, 2025
Dec. 25, 2024
Derivative [Line Items]    
Notional Amount   $ 238,000,000
Fair Value   20,841,000
Interest Rate Swaps Maturity 2025    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Notional Amount   120,000,000
Fair Value   $ 618,000
Fixed Rate   2.34%
Interest Rate Swaps Maturity 2026    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Notional Amount   $ 50,000,000
Fair Value   $ 1,087,000
Fixed Rate   2.37%
Interest Rate Swaps Maturity 2033    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Notional Amount   $ 68,000,000
Fair Value   $ 19,136,000
Fixed Rate   3.09%
Interest Rate Swaps Maturity 2033 | Forecast    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Notional Amount $ 120,000,000  
Maximum | Interest Rate Swaps Maturity 2033    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Notional Amount   $ 335,000,000
v3.25.0.1
Revenues - Schedule of Disaggregation of Revenue (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Dec. 28, 2022
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Total operating revenue $ 452,334 $ 463,922 $ 456,429
Company restaurant sales      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Total operating revenue 211,781 215,532 199,753
Royalties      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Total operating revenue 118,705 120,131 113,891
Advertising revenue      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Total operating revenue 79,973 78,494 75,926
Initial and other fees      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Total operating revenue 8,711 13,882 28,262
Occupancy revenue       
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Total operating revenue 33,164 35,883 38,597
Franchise and license revenue      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Total operating revenue $ 240,553 $ 248,390 $ 256,676
v3.25.0.1
Revenues - Schedule of Components of the Change in Deferred Franchise Revenue (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Contract With Customer Liability [Roll Forward]    
Balance, December 27, 2023 $ 19,150  
Fees received from franchisees 1,080  
Revenue recognized, net (3,262)  
Balance, December 25, 2024 16,968 $ 19,150
Less current portion included in other current liabilities 2,073  
Deferred franchise revenue included in other noncurrent liabilities $ 14,895  
Amount of revenue recognized that was previously included in balance of obligation   $ 2,800
v3.25.0.1
Revenues - Schedule of Components of the Change in Contract Assets (Details)
$ in Thousands
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
USD ($)
Contract with Customer, Asset, Allowance for Credit Loss [Roll Forward]  
Balance, December 27, 2023 $ 6,608
Franchisee deferred costs 1,417
Contract asset amortization (1,319)
Balance, December 25, 2024 6,706
Less current portion included in other current assets 976
Contract assets included in other noncurrent assets $ 5,730
v3.25.0.1
Revenues - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Dec. 28, 2022
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue recognized $ 452,334 $ 463,922 $ 456,429
Receivables, net 24,433 21,391  
Contract with customer 2,073    
Amount of revenue recognized that was previously included in balance of obligation   2,800  
Gift Card Redemption      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Contract with customer 8,400 7,800  
Amount of revenue recognized that was previously included in balance of obligation 600    
Franchise Equipment Programs      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue recognized 700 4,800 $ 19,300
Inventory related to kitchen equipment rollout 200 600  
Receivables, net $ 400 $ 300  
v3.25.0.1
Revenues - Deferred Revenue (Details)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 25, 2024
USD ($)
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]  
Deferred franchise revenue expected to be recognized $ 10,262
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2024-12-26  
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]  
Deferred franchise revenue expected to be recognized $ 1,097
Revenue, remaining performance obligation, expected timing of satisfaction, period 1 year
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2026-01-01  
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]  
Deferred franchise revenue expected to be recognized $ 1,072
Revenue, remaining performance obligation, expected timing of satisfaction, period 1 year
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2026-12-31  
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]  
Deferred franchise revenue expected to be recognized $ 1,041
Revenue, remaining performance obligation, expected timing of satisfaction, period 1 year
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2027-12-30  
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]  
Deferred franchise revenue expected to be recognized $ 917
Revenue, remaining performance obligation, expected timing of satisfaction, period 1 year
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2028-12-28  
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]  
Deferred franchise revenue expected to be recognized $ 813
Revenue, remaining performance obligation, expected timing of satisfaction, period 1 year
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2029-12-27  
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]  
Deferred franchise revenue expected to be recognized $ 5,322
Revenue, remaining performance obligation, expected timing of satisfaction, period
v3.25.0.1
Employee Benefit Plans - Defined Contribution Plans (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Dec. 28, 2022
Defined Contribution Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Employer contributions $ 2.0 $ 1.8 $ 1.7
Qualified Plan      
Defined Contribution Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Maximum annual contribution per employee 25.00%    
Employer matching contribution 4.00%    
Nonqualified Plan      
Defined Contribution Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Maximum annual contribution per employee 50.00%    
Maximum incentive compensation deferral 75.00%    
v3.25.0.1
Employee Benefit Plans - Change in Benefit Obligation and Plan Assets (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Dec. 28, 2022
Change in Benefit Obligation:      
Benefit obligation at beginning of year $ 1,078 $ 1,606  
Interest cost 31 53 $ 36
Actuarial gain (83) (29)  
Benefits paid (106) (131)  
Settlements (430) (421)  
Benefit obligation at end of year 490 1,078 1,606
Accumulated benefit obligation 490 1,078  
Change in Plan Assets:      
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year 0 0  
Employer contributions 536 552  
Benefits paid (106) (131)  
Settlements (430) (421)  
Fair value of plan assets at end of year 0 0 $ 0
Unfunded status at end of year (490) (1,078)  
Amounts recognized on the balance sheet:      
Other current liabilities  (105) (582)  
Other noncurrent liabilities (385) (496)  
Net amount recognized  (490) (1,078)  
Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive loss not yet reflected in net period benefit cost:      
Unamortized actuarial losses, net (277) (449)  
Other changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss, net:      
Benefit obligation actuarial gain (loss) 83 (98)  
Amortization of net loss 63 56  
Settlement loss recognized 26 35  
Plan closure loss 0 74  
Other comprehensive income $ 172 $ 67  
v3.25.0.1
Employee Benefit Plans - Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Dec. 28, 2022
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]      
Net periodic benefit cost (credit) excluding service cost, statement of income or comprehensive income General and administrative expenses    
Components of net periodic benefit cost [Abstract]      
Interest cost $ 31 $ 53 $ 36
Amortization of net loss 63 56 123
Settlement loss recognized 26 35 74
Plan experience gain 0 (53) 0
Net periodic benefit cost $ 120 $ 91 $ 233
v3.25.0.1
Employee Benefit Plans - Assumptions (Details)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Dec. 28, 2022
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]      
Discount rate used to determine the benefit obligations 5.08% 4.93%  
Discount rate used to determine net period pension costs 4.93% 5.26% 1.99%
v3.25.0.1
Employee Benefit Plans - Benefits Expected to be Paid in Future Years (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]    
Employer contributions $ 536 $ 552
Estimated employer contributions, next fiscal year 100  
Benefits expected to be paid:    
2025 105  
2026 107  
2027 78  
2028 67  
2029 117  
2030 though 2034 $ 116  
v3.25.0.1
Share-Based Compensation - Narrative (Details)
$ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Millions
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
USD ($)
installment
$ / shares
shares
Dec. 27, 2023
USD ($)
$ / shares
shares
Dec. 28, 2022
USD ($)
$ / shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Income tax benefits recognized related to share-based compensation | $ $ 2.8 $ 2.3 $ 2.9
Unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested awards outstanding | $ $ 13.9    
Unrecognized compensation cost, expected weighted average period 1 year 9 months 18 days    
Employee share awards      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Grant date fair value per unit (in dollars per share) | $ / shares $ 12.55 $ 13.43 $ 16.22
Cash payments | $ $ 0.3 $ 0.1 $ 0.4
Intrinsic value of units converted | $ $ 5.7 $ 8.6 $ 13.8
Stock units outstanding (in shares) 2,113 1,990  
Certain Employees | Performance Shares Total Shareholder Return      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Equity awards granted (in shares) 600    
Grant date fair value per unit (in dollars per share) | $ / shares $ 15.48    
Certain Employees | Employee share awards      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Grant date fair value per unit (in dollars per share) | $ / shares $ 15.48 $ 18.39 $ 21.05
Certain Employees | Employee share awards | Minimum      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Percentage of target achievement 0.00%    
Certain Employees | Employee share awards | Maximum      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Percentage of target achievement 200.00%    
Certain Employees | Restricted stock units      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Equity awards granted (in shares) 800    
Grant date fair value per unit (in dollars per share) | $ / shares $ 10.13    
Vesting period 3 years    
Board Members | Restricted stock units      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Equity awards granted (in shares) 100    
Grant date fair value per unit (in dollars per share) | $ / shares $ 8.09    
Unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested awards outstanding | $ $ 0.4    
Vesting period 1 year    
Unrecognized compensation cost, expected weighted average period 4 months 24 days    
Number of equal annual installments | installment 3    
Stock units converted into common stock (in shares) 100    
Stock units outstanding (in shares) 700 700  
2021 Omnibus Plan      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Shares available for grant (in shares) 900    
v3.25.0.1
Share-Based Compensation - Schedule of Total Share-based Compensation (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Dec. 28, 2022
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Total share-based compensation $ 10,678 $ 8,880 $ 11,400
Employee share awards      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Total share-based compensation 9,792 7,991 10,470
Restricted stock units for board members      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Total share-based compensation $ 886 $ 889 $ 930
v3.25.0.1
Share-Based Compensation - Schedule of Restricted Stock Units Activity (Details) - Employee share awards - $ / shares
shares in Thousands
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Dec. 28, 2022
Units      
Outstanding, beginning of year (in shares) 1,990    
Granted (in shares) 1,432    
Converted (in shares) (524)    
Performance shares adjustment (in shares) (478)    
Forfeited (in shares) (307)    
Outstanding, end of year (in shares) 2,113 1,990  
Convertible, end of year (in shares) 461    
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value      
Outstanding, beginning of year (in dollars per share) $ 15.90    
Granted (in dollars per share) 12.55 $ 13.43 $ 16.22
Converted (in dollars per share) 17.57    
Performance shares adjustment (in dollars per share) 18.35    
Forfeited (in dollars per share) 13.59    
Outstanding, end of year (in dollars per share) 13.00 $ 15.90  
Convertible, end of year, weighted-average grant date fair value (in dollars per share) $ 11.76    
v3.25.0.1
Share-Based Compensation - Schedule of Grant Date Fair Value and Related Assumptions of PSUs (Details) - Employee share awards - $ / shares
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Dec. 28, 2022
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Grant date fair value per unit (in dollars per share) $ 12.55 $ 13.43 $ 16.22
Certain Employees      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Risk-free interest rate 4.14% 3.75% 1.96%
Expected term (in years) 3 years 3 years 2 years 9 months 18 days
Expected volatility 39.20% 69.70% 66.00%
Expected dividend yield 0.00% 0.00% 0.00%
Grant date fair value per unit (in dollars per share) $ 15.48 $ 18.39 $ 21.05
v3.25.0.1
Operating (Gains), Losses and Other Charges, Net - Schedule of Operating (Gains) Losses and Other Charges Net (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Dec. 28, 2022
Other Income and Expenses [Abstract]      
Gains on sales of assets and other, net $ (137) $ (2,220) $ (3,378)
Impairment, Intangible Asset, Finite-Lived, Statement of Income or Comprehensive Income [Extensible Enumeration] Operating (gains), losses and other charges, net Operating (gains), losses and other charges, net Operating (gains), losses and other charges, net
Impairment charges $ 792 $ 2,214 $ 963
Restructuring charges and exit costs 1,319 2,536 1,410
Operating (gains), losses and other charges, net $ 1,974 $ 2,530 $ (1,005)
v3.25.0.1
Operating (Gains), Losses and Other Charges, Net - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Dec. 28, 2022
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]      
Asset impairment charges $ 792 $ 2,214 $ 963
Tangible asset impairment charges 600 1,300 600
Operating lease, impairment loss   900 300
Impairment related to finance lease ROU assets   100 $ 100
Accrued severance and other restructuring charges 300 1,400  
Reacquired franchise rights      
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]      
Impairment of franchisee rights 100 $ 100  
Franchise agreements      
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]      
Impairment of franchisee rights $ 100    
v3.25.0.1
Operating (Gains), Losses and Other Charges, Net - Schedule of Restructuring Charges and Exit Costs (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Dec. 28, 2022
Restructuring charges and exit costs [Abstract]      
Exit costs $ 307 $ 190 $ 86
Severance and other restructuring charges 1,012 2,346 1,324
Total restructuring charges and exit costs $ 1,319 $ 2,536 $ 1,410
v3.25.0.1
Income Taxes - Provisions for Benefits from Income Taxes (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Dec. 28, 2022
Current:      
Federal $ 4,925 $ 4,649 $ 6,128
State and local 1,078 2,409 2,160
Foreign 1,478 1,433 1,152
Deferred:      
Federal (1,079) (1,876) 11,043
State and local 812 173 3,689
Increase (decrease) of valuation allowance 464 205 546
Total provision for income taxes $ 7,678 $ 6,993 $ 24,718
v3.25.0.1
Income Taxes - Reconciliation of Income Taxes (Details)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Dec. 28, 2022
Reconciliation of income taxes at the U.S. federal statutory tax rate to effective tax rate:      
Statutory provision rate 21.00% 21.00% 21.00%
State and local taxes, net of federal income tax benefit 7.00% 6.00% 5.00%
Foreign taxes 5.00% 5.00% 1.00%
Change in state valuation allowance 2.00% 1.00% 0.00%
General business credits generated (6.00%) (5.00%) (1.00%)
Foreign tax credits generated (5.00%) (5.00%) (1.00%)
Section 162(m) and share-based compensation 6.00% 7.00% 0.00%
Insurance premiums (2.00%) (2.00%) 0.00%
Other (2.00%) (2.00%) 0.00%
Effective tax rate 26.00% 26.00% 25.00%
v3.25.0.1
Income Taxes - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Valuation Allowance [Line Items]    
Disallowed compensation deductions $ 1,800,000 $ 1,900,000
Net operating loss carryforwards - state 534,000 848,000
Valuation allowance 3,407,000 2,943,000
Interest and penalties recognized on unrecognized tax benefits 100,000 $ 0
Pennsylvania and South Carolina NOL Carryforwards    
Valuation Allowance [Line Items]    
Net operating loss carryforwards - state 300,000  
Valuation allowance 200,000  
State Enterprise Zone Credits    
Valuation Allowance [Line Items]    
Valuation allowance 1,100,000  
Foreign Tax Credit Carryforward    
Valuation Allowance [Line Items]    
Valuation allowance $ 2,100,000  
v3.25.0.1
Income Taxes - Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Deferred tax assets:    
Self-insurance accruals $ 2,398 $ 2,536
Finance lease liabilities 1,102 1,119
Operating lease liabilities 34,468 30,445
Accrued exit costs 0 5
Pension, other retirement and compensation plans 5,922 7,127
Deferred income 3,868 4,617
Other accruals 1,824 478
General business and foreign tax credit carryforwards - state and federal 3,612 3,472
Net operating loss carryforwards - state 534 848
Total deferred tax assets before valuation allowance 53,728 50,647
Less: valuation allowance (3,407) (2,943)
Total deferred tax assets 50,321 47,704
Deferred tax liabilities:    
Intangible assets (16,140) (15,044)
Contract assets (1,212) (1,460)
Deferred finance costs 0 (181)
Operating lease right-of-use assets (31,544) (27,307)
Fixed assets (6,135) (8,074)
Interest rate swaps (5,254) (2,220)
Total deferred tax liabilities (60,285) (54,286)
Net deferred tax liabilities $ (9,964) $ (6,582)
v3.25.0.1
Income Taxes - Unrecognized Tax Benefits (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Unrecognized Tax Benefits [Roll Forward]    
Balance, beginning of year $ 445 $ 869
Increase (decrease) related to prior year tax positions 13  
Decreases related to prior year tax positions   (424)
Balance, end of year $ 458 $ 445
v3.25.0.1
Net Income Per Share (Details) - USD ($)
$ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Dec. 28, 2022
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]      
Net income $ 21,571 $ 19,945 $ 74,712
Weighted average shares outstanding - basic (in shares) 52,499 55,984 60,771
Effect of dilutive share-based compensation awards (in shares) 115 212 108
Weighted average shares outstanding - diluted (in shares) 52,614 56,196 60,879
Net income per share - basic (in dollars per share) $ 0.41 $ 0.36 $ 1.23
Net income per share - diluted (in dollars per share) $ 0.41 $ 0.35 $ 1.23
Anti-dilutive share-based compensation awards (in shares) 713 726 709
v3.25.0.1
Shareholders' Deficit - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)
$ / shares in Units, shares in Millions, $ in Millions
3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Dec. 25, 2019
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items]          
Retirement of shares (in shares) 2.0 12.8      
Weighted average share price (in dollars per share) $ 8.78 $ 11.02      
Remaining number of treasury shares (in shares)     0.0 0.7  
Share Repurchase Program 2019          
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items]          
Share repurchase, authorized amount         $ 250
v3.25.0.1
Shareholders' Deficit - Schedule Of Stock Repurchases (Details) - USD ($)
shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Dec. 28, 2022
Equity [Abstract]      
Amount repurchased $ 11,231 $ 52,099 $ 64,884
Total number of shares repurchased 1,349 5,202 6,280
Excise taxes for share repurchases $ 100 $ 400  
v3.25.0.1
Shareholders' Deficit - Schedule of Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Dec. 28, 2022
AOCI Attributable To Parent, Net Of Tax [Roll Forward]      
Balance as of beginning period $ (62,686) $ (37,116) $ (65,265)
Settlement loss recognized 26 35  
Plan closure loss 0 (74)  
Income tax (expense) benefit (3,265) (616) (3,643)
Balance as of end of period (34,025) (62,686) (37,116)
Effective Interest Rate Swaps      
AOCI Attributable To Parent, Net Of Tax [Roll Forward]      
Amortization of net loss 5,900    
Expect reclassification within next twelve months 4,500    
Pensions      
AOCI Attributable To Parent, Net Of Tax [Roll Forward]      
Balance as of beginning period (337) (555) (900)
Benefit obligation actuarial gain (loss) 83 (98) 261
Settlement loss recognized 26 35 74
Income tax (expense) benefit (44) 151 (113)
Balance as of end of period (209) (337) (555)
Amortization of net loss      
AOCI Attributable To Parent, Net Of Tax [Roll Forward]      
Amortization of net loss 63 56 123
Plan closure loss   74  
Derivatives      
AOCI Attributable To Parent, Net Of Tax [Roll Forward]      
Balance as of beginning period (41,322) (42,142) (53,570)
Amortization of net loss (5,916) (5,028) 1,310
Changes in the fair value of cash flow derivatives 17,869 6,262 13,619
Income tax (expense) benefit (3,221) (767) (3,530)
Balance as of end of period (31,830) (41,322) (42,142)
Derivatives | Dedesignated Interest Rate Swaps Member      
AOCI Attributable To Parent, Net Of Tax [Roll Forward]      
Balance as of end of period 63,400    
Derivatives      
AOCI Attributable To Parent, Net Of Tax [Roll Forward]      
Amortization of net loss 760 353 29
Derivatives | Dedesignated Interest Rate Swaps Member      
AOCI Attributable To Parent, Net Of Tax [Roll Forward]      
Amortization of net loss 800 400 100
Expect reclassification within next twelve months 3,100    
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss      
AOCI Attributable To Parent, Net Of Tax [Roll Forward]      
Balance as of beginning period (41,659) (42,697) (54,470)
Balance as of end of period $ (32,039) $ (41,659) $ (42,697)
v3.25.0.1
Commitments and Contingencies - Purchase Obligations (Details)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 25, 2024
USD ($)
Payments due by period:  
Less than 1 year $ 195,923
1-2 years 0
3-4 years 0
5 years and thereafter 0
Total $ 195,923
v3.25.0.1
Supplemental Cash Flow Information (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
Dec. 27, 2023
Dec. 28, 2022
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]      
Income taxes paid, net $ 6,178 $ 9,195 $ 9,296
Interest paid 16,978 13,390 12,939
Noncash investing and financing activities:      
Receipt of real estate receivable 0 0 3,000
Accrued purchase of property 2,961 756 283
Issuance of common stock, pursuant to share-based compensation plans 3,830 5,638 9,547
Execution of finance leases 1,783 1,071 537
Treasury stock payable 0 109 542
Treasury stock excise tax payable $ 73 $ 454 $ 0
v3.25.0.1
Segment Information (Details)
$ in Thousands
12 Months Ended
Dec. 25, 2024
USD ($)
segment
Dec. 27, 2023
USD ($)
Dec. 28, 2022
USD ($)
Segment Reporting [Abstract]      
Number of operating segments | segment 2    
Revenues      
Revenue recognized $ 452,334 $ 463,922 $ 456,429
Costs and expenses      
Product costs 53,931 55,789 53,617
Payroll and benefits 80,605 80,666 76,412
Occupancy costs 18,129 16,809 15,154
Utilities 6,954 7,848 7,273
Repairs and maintenance 4,023 3,661 3,874
Marketing 7,850 5,603 5,294
Legal settlements 1,700 2,302 4,224
Pre-opening costs 1,548 288  
Other direct costs 15,004 14,633 13,610
Total costs of company restaurant sales, excluding depreciation and amortization 189,744 187,599 179,458
Costs of franchise and license revenue, excluding depreciation and amortization:      
Costs of franchise and license revenue 120,226 122,452 135,327
Total restaurant-level operating margin 142,364 153,871 141,644
Reconciliation of restaurant-level operating margin to net income      
General and administrative expenses 80,197 77,770 67,173
Depreciation and amortization 14,857 14,385 14,862
Goodwill impairment charges 20 6,363 0
Operating (gains), losses and other charges, net 1,974 2,530 (1,005)
Total operating costs and expenses, net 97,048 101,048 81,030
Operating income 45,316 52,823 60,614
Interest expense, net 17,974 17,597 13,769
Other nonoperating (income) expense, net (1,907) 8,288 (52,585)
Net income before income taxes 29,249 26,938 99,430
Provision for income taxes 7,678 6,993 24,718
Net income 21,571 19,945 74,712
Total assets 496,274 464,818  
Company restaurant sales      
Revenues      
Revenue recognized 211,781 215,532 199,753
Royalties      
Revenues      
Revenue recognized 118,705 120,131 113,891
Advertising costs      
Revenues      
Revenue recognized 79,973 78,494 75,926
Costs of franchise and license revenue, excluding depreciation and amortization:      
Costs of franchise and license revenue 79,973 78,494 75,926
Initial and other fees      
Revenues      
Revenue recognized 8,711 13,882 28,262
Occupancy costs      
Revenues      
Revenue recognized 33,164 35,883 38,597
Costs of franchise and license revenue, excluding depreciation and amortization:      
Costs of franchise and license revenue 20,539 22,160 24,090
Franchise and license revenue      
Revenues      
Revenue recognized 240,553 248,390 256,676
Other direct costs      
Costs of franchise and license revenue, excluding depreciation and amortization:      
Costs of franchise and license revenue 19,714 21,798 35,311
Denny’s      
Revenues      
Revenue recognized 426,994 443,106 447,687
Costs and expenses      
Product costs 48,976 51,939 51,705
Payroll and benefits 72,828 75,407 74,157
Occupancy costs 15,680 14,875 14,310
Utilities 6,404 7,418 7,075
Repairs and maintenance 3,806 3,486 3,803
Marketing 7,098 5,524 5,294
Legal settlements 1,670 2,302 4,224
Pre-opening costs 0 0  
Other direct costs 13,267 13,452 13,243
Total costs of company restaurant sales, excluding depreciation and amortization 169,729 174,403 173,811
Costs of franchise and license revenue, excluding depreciation and amortization:      
Costs of franchise and license revenue 117,318 121,870 135,321
Total restaurant-level operating margin 139,947 146,833 138,555
Reconciliation of restaurant-level operating margin to net income      
Total assets 344,986 340,136  
Denny’s | Company restaurant sales      
Revenues      
Revenue recognized 193,572 201,175 193,576
Denny’s | Royalties      
Revenues      
Revenue recognized 113,804 115,004 111,718
Denny’s | Advertising costs      
Revenues      
Revenue recognized 78,192 77,932 75,926
Costs of franchise and license revenue, excluding depreciation and amortization:      
Costs of franchise and license revenue 78,192 77,932 75,926
Denny’s | Initial and other fees      
Revenues      
Revenue recognized 8,351 13,112 27,870
Denny’s | Occupancy costs      
Revenues      
Revenue recognized 33,075 35,883 38,597
Costs of franchise and license revenue, excluding depreciation and amortization:      
Costs of franchise and license revenue 20,451 22,160 24,090
Denny’s | Franchise and license revenue      
Revenues      
Revenue recognized 233,422 241,931 254,111
Denny’s | Other direct costs      
Costs of franchise and license revenue, excluding depreciation and amortization:      
Costs of franchise and license revenue 18,675 21,778 35,305
Other      
Revenues      
Revenue recognized 25,340 20,816 8,742
Costs and expenses      
Product costs 4,955 3,850 1,912
Payroll and benefits 7,777 5,259 2,255
Occupancy costs 2,449 1,934 844
Utilities 550 430 198
Repairs and maintenance 217 175 71
Marketing 752 79 0
Legal settlements 30 0 0
Pre-opening costs 1,548 288  
Other direct costs 1,737 1,181 367
Total costs of company restaurant sales, excluding depreciation and amortization 20,015 13,196 5,647
Costs of franchise and license revenue, excluding depreciation and amortization:      
Costs of franchise and license revenue 2,908 582 6
Total restaurant-level operating margin 2,417 7,038 3,089
Reconciliation of restaurant-level operating margin to net income      
Total assets 151,288 124,682  
Other | Company restaurant sales      
Revenues      
Revenue recognized 18,209 14,357 6,177
Other | Royalties      
Revenues      
Revenue recognized 4,901 5,127 2,173
Other | Advertising costs      
Revenues      
Revenue recognized 1,781 562 0
Costs of franchise and license revenue, excluding depreciation and amortization:      
Costs of franchise and license revenue 1,781 562 0
Other | Initial and other fees      
Revenues      
Revenue recognized 360 770 392
Other | Occupancy costs      
Revenues      
Revenue recognized 89 0 0
Costs of franchise and license revenue, excluding depreciation and amortization:      
Costs of franchise and license revenue 88 0 0
Other | Franchise and license revenue      
Revenues      
Revenue recognized 7,131 6,459 2,565
Other | Other direct costs      
Costs of franchise and license revenue, excluding depreciation and amortization:      
Costs of franchise and license revenue $ 1,039 $ 20 $ 6
v3.25.0.1
Subsequent Events (Details)
$ in Thousands
1 Months Ended 3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Jan. 31, 2025
position
Mar. 26, 2025
USD ($)
Dec. 25, 2024
USD ($)
Dec. 27, 2023
USD ($)
Dec. 28, 2022
USD ($)
Subsequent Event [Line Items]          
Severance and other restructuring charges     $ 1,319 $ 2,536 $ 1,410
Minimum | Employee Severance | Relocation Of Support Functions | Forecast          
Subsequent Event [Line Items]          
Severance and other restructuring charges   $ 3,000      
Maximum | Employee Severance | Relocation Of Support Functions | Forecast          
Subsequent Event [Line Items]          
Severance and other restructuring charges   $ 3,500      
Subsequent Event | Employee Severance | Relocation Of Support Functions          
Subsequent Event [Line Items]          
Number of positions eliminated | position 40