Casual US dining chain Applebee’s has chosen Toast, a comprehensive digital technology platform for the hospitality sector, as its new partner for point of sale (POS) and kitchen display systems.
The agreement was signed by Dine Brands Global, parent company of Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill + Bar, International House of Pancakes (IHOP) and Fuzzy’s Taco Shop restaurants to enhance operational efficiency and modernise in-restaurant technology.
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The deal will see the deployment of Toast POS terminals, Toast Go handhelds, Toast’s Kitchen Display Systems (KDS) and its Restaurant Management Suite Enterprise across Applebee’s locations nationwide.
Dine Brands chief information officer Justin Skelton stated: “This is a crucial step in the evolution of our 45-year-old brand. POS and KDS systems are essential to efficient operations and can have major impacts on both the guest and team member experience. We look forward to working with Toast to enhance Applebee’s technology capabilities.”
The integration of Toast’s advanced technology will significantly enhance labour efficiency within the restaurant chain.
Toast is known for its collaboration with numerous multi-unit brands, including Caribou Coffee, Choice Hotels, Potbelly Sandwich Shop, Craveworthy Brands and Costa Vida Fresh Mexican Grill.
Applebee’s operations services vice-president Tom Finocchiaro stated: “Delivering a great guest experience requires that our restaurants have exceptional tools and technology. By leveraging technology touchpoints, like handhelds to improve efficiency, our team members will have more time to interact with guests.”
In March 2025, Dine Brands International unveiled expansion plans for its dual-branded Applebee’s and IHOP concept.
The strategy includes penetrating new international markets such as Costa Rica, in partnership with BLT UK Holdings, and Mexico, with franchise agreements with Grupo Shogua and ATH Group.
