Red Robin Cuts More Stores | Raleigh News

Red Robin is accelerating its store-closure strategy, shutting down another location in Cary, NC — sold for $3.3M — as part of a bold “First Choice Plan” to streamline operations, cut costs, and pay down debt. Launched in July 2025, the plan initially targeted 70 closures, with 23 already shuttered last year. Despite the closures, EBITDA surged 53%, and over 100 restaurants have been refranchised. Adjusted targets now include 20 more closures in 2026, bringing the total to 70, plus 27 more planned over the next few years. Amid a brutal casual dining market — where chains like Smokey Bones and On The Border are folding — Red Robin is betting on strong franchise partners to steer the brand back to profitability. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/921cc6f833a7402c