"Potential Merger: Applebee's and IHOP to Share Dining Spaces in the US Market"
Dine Brands Inc., the parent company of Applebee's and IHOP, is considering combining the two chain restaurants into dual-branded locations that share a back-of-house and a blended front-of-house, following successful tests in international markets. The concept aims to capitalize on the complementary nature of the two brands and has shown promising financial results. This move reflects a broader trend in the restaurant industry, with other companies also exploring the combination of multiple brands in shared spaces.