Apple American Group Grows Again, Solidifying Its Position As Largest Casual Dining Franchisee

Apple American Group, the largest Applebee's Neighborhood Grill and Bar Franchisee, has solidified itself as a neighborhood staple by acquiring an additional 99 restaurants, tracking to exceed $1.1 billion in annual sales. Even before this transaction, Apple American Group was the largest casual dining franchisee and the second largest franchisee of any restaurant concept in the United States.

Apple American Group (AAG) began with eight Washington state restaurants purchased in 1998 and has experienced explosive growth the past 14 years. Through its latest expansion to 23 states, the group now numbers 436 restaurants and reaches nearly half the country.

"We are thrilled about our expansion into our new neighborhoods. For companies that have been smart and strategic over the years, the economic climate afforded many opportunities to invest in the future, and that's what we've done," said Greg Flynn, Founder, Chairman and CEO of Apple American Group. "We are incredibly confident in the momentum of the Applebee's brand, which is not only committed to delivering personal service and come-back cuisine, but also dedicated to supporting the communities we serve." Applebee's, the great American grill and bar, prides itself as a "come as you are" concept where customers are encouraged to connect over the food they love. And, with more than 70 unique menu items, franchisees like AAG are counting on customers coming back again and again.

"For a brand as large as Applebee's, some might find that brand promise a challenge," added Flynn. "But not Apple American Group - we see it as an opportunity to rise to the occasion." The franchisee bills much of its success to its decentralized business model. Each geographic region is led by a Market President who operates that market with considerable local autonomy while receiving administrative and financial support from the central organization. This model has been a key to effectively managing its growth.

"Greg's vision of a decentralized organization has greatly benefited us in our goal of maintaining a neighborhood grill and bar atmosphere," said Market President Gary Koch. "We believe we're in the people business first and foremost. The trust we put in our employees to deliver upon this belief has made our restaurant business a success." Apple American Group Grows Again, Solidifying its Position as Largest Casual Dining FranchiseeApple American Group's successful expansion to 23 states now includes restaurants in the following states: Alabama, California, Colorado, Delaware, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Wisconsin, Washington State and West Virginia.

Apple American Group owns and operates 436 Applebee's Neighborhood Grill and Bar restaurants in 23 states. With over 25,000 employees and $1.1 billion in sales, Apple American Group is the largest franchisee in the Applebee's system, the largest U.S. casual dining franchisee, and the second largest franchisee of any concept in the U.S. More information is available at www.appleamerican.com.

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