Applebee’s appeal
What is Applebee’s appeal that makes it an immensely successful and profitable restaurant franchise, with over 2008 restaurants by 2012? What does it do well that other restaurants don’t that helped it become the No. 1 casual dining chain in America & abroad? Also, is there a problem with their popularity, or what they represent? Discuss.
Sample Solution
Applebee’s immense success and profitability, with over 2008 restaurants by 2012, is attributed to a variety of factors. Firstly, the restaurant chain understands its customers’ needs and uses this knowledge to create an atmosphere which both resonates with them as well as encourages further patronage. For instance, McMillan notes that “The focus on sports draws in a young crowd…while music videos or other programming fill out the rest” (Elliott). This strategy of providing entertainment through televisions combined with food creates a winning combination for customers who are looking for something casual yet enjoyable to do during their spare time.
Moreover, Applebee’s also appeals to budget conscious patrons by constantly offering promotions such as discounts on various dishes or two-for-one deals. These offers not only support more frequent visits but they also provide diners with an illusion of affordability; making them feel like they haven\’t made too much of a sacrifice in terms of cost compared to what could be spent when eating out elsewhere (Elliott).
Furthermore, another reason behind Applebee`s success is its ability to adapt according to changing trends and tastes within the culinary world. For example one significant shift has been towards healthier options which “has resulted in [the company] altering its menu…[with] entrees featuring grilled chicken instead of deep fried items. They offer several salads and side dishes prepared without added fats or salts” (Bizfluent). Thus being able to recognize customer preferences and adjust accordingly helps ensure that its offerings remain appealing throughout different eras.
Overall then, due to understanding customer desires through catering specifically towards their interests; using promotional tactics which make people feel financially satisfied despite spending more than grocery shopping would allow; plus adjusting according to current tastes related towards health consciousness; Applebee’s remains profitable because it knows how best utilize these strategies in order appeal effectively toward potential diners.
