A central Pennsylvania-based Applebee’s Grill & Bar franchise, Keystone Apple, has sold six of its restaurants to The Rose Group.  

The transaction expands The Rose Group's presence in the region and aligns with its existing operations.  

The six restaurants sold are located in Derry, Carlisle, Ephrata, Lancaster, Swatara and York, Pennsylvania.  

The Rose Group, based in Bucks County in Pennsylvania, operates 55 Applebee’s restaurants across eastern Pennsylvania, greater Baltimore, the Eastern Shore of Maryland and Delaware, and Mercer County, New Jersey. 

The Rose Group vice-president of real estate development Jason Rose was quoted by Pennlive.com as saying: “The Harrisburg market is vibrant and full of opportunity.  

“We are excited to welcome this group of managers, restaurant team members and guests into our Rose Group family and extend our eastern Pennsylvania footprint.” 

Keystone Apple originated from Davenports Inc, which managed local Hardee’s, Roy Rogers and Big Boy restaurants.  

The first central Pennsylvania Applebee’s was launched in 1994 on Jonestown Road in Lower Paxton township but ceased operations in 2020. 

In September 2024, Dine Brands International, the parent company of Applebee’s and IHOP [International House of Pancakes] restaurants, opened a dual-branded restaurant concept in San Pedro Sula, Honduras. 

The new restaurant opened under a multi-unit development agreement with franchisee BLT Global Brands. 

The dual-branded concept offers guests the choice between IHOP’s breakfast items and Applebee’s casual dining menu.