Group 1 - Denny's has experienced mixed results over the past five years, with growth in its off-premise channel and virtual brands, but a declining store count due to the closure of underperforming locations [3] - The company implemented a kitchen modernization initiative that included new equipment and a cloud-based point-of-sales system, enhancing efficiency and allowing for new menu items [3] - Consumer focus shifted towards value, leading Denny's to reintroduce its $2, $4, $6, $8 menu, although customers began combining menu items to create lower-priced meals [4] Group 2 - Denny's faced an increase in store closures and activist investor activity, ultimately selling itself to private investors for $620 million [5] - The leadership team is conducting a search for a new leader, evaluating both internal and external candidates following the departure of CEO Kelli Valade [6] - During Valade's tenure, Denny's achieved single-digit same-store sales growth in 2023, but anticipated declines in 2024 and 2025 due to inflation impacting consumer spending [8]