Along with debuting new units, IHOP is also undergoing a remodeling initiative of existing restaurants to bring a fresh look to the brand. Under the Rise ‘N Shine remodel program, IHOP franchisees completed 71 remodels, bringing the total of remodeled domestic restaurants close to 800, or 47 percent of domestic units.
Rebelez expects to continue restaurant remodeling at a rate of about 250–300 restaurants per year until all restaurants are updated.
“Just as new unit development is important to keeping the unit base revitalized with newly imaged restaurants, the remodeling of existing restaurants is equally relevant to significantly enhancing the guest experience,” Rebelez said. “Keeping the atmosphere in our restaurants contemporary and appealing is conducive to driving incremental visits from guests and therefore sustainable positive sales and traffic.”
Modernizing the look of the restaurant is just one aspect of the remodel. Rise ‘N Shine 2.0 restaurants that recently opened in California and New Jersey are equipped with new technology that will help improve operations and guest experience.
Some of the new technology that will be used includes server tablets to improve speed and order accuracy; wireless credit card devices, allowing guests to quickly pay at the table; and a no-wait tool to provide guests with more accurate wait times and lessen overall waits on busy days. Overtime, all restaurants will be updated with this new technology.
“The introduction of these technology platforms and the latest iteration of the Rise 'N Shine remodel ties in all aspects of enhancing the guest experience,” Rebelez said. “We believe this will be a real differentiator in the category and drive the sustainability of the brand as the leader in family dining. I will continue to update you on progress as we learn more from these initial test restaurants.”
“Our guests crave our food and they want it whenever and wherever it suits them,” said Steve Joyce, Dine Brands chief executive officer. “We know that technology plays an increasingly important role in consumers' dining decisions, so we're making greater use of technology to ensure that their needs are met.”