Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Denny's reported Q1 domestic system-wide same restaurant sales decreased by 3% [18] - Domestic franchise restaurants had same restaurant sales of negative 3.2%, while company same restaurant sales were negative 0.9% [19] - Total operating revenue was $111.6 million compared to $110 million for the prior year quarter [25] - Adjusted net income per share was $0.08 in the current year quarter [31] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Kiki's Breakfast Cafe achieved same restaurant sales growth of 3.9% for the quarter, outperforming the BBI Family Dining Index in Florida by nearly 400 basis points [13][22] - Denny's off-premise sales contributed a 1% improvement in same restaurant sales during Q1, representing approximately 22% of total sales [20] - Kiki's average check increased by approximately 6.5% during the first quarter, driven by pricing and off-premise growth [23] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - California and Florida were the strongest markets for Denny's, with California outperforming BBI family dining sales for the fifth consecutive quarter [18] - Consumer sentiment remains negative, impacting spending, particularly among households earning less than $50,000 [19][7] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Denny's is focusing on value-driven initiatives and promotional offers to attract customers, such as the "Buy One Slam, Get One for $1" deal [9][21] - The company is also investing in digital enhancements and remodel programs to improve guest experience and drive sales [17][35] - Kiki's is expanding beyond Florida, with plans for 12 to 20 new openings this year [24] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed cautious optimism about the second quarter, noting improvements in sales trends and consumer sentiment [32][54] - The company anticipates being in the lower half of its same restaurant sales guidance range for the year of negative 2% to positive 1% [33] - Management highlighted the importance of monitoring consumer behavior and adjusting strategies accordingly [40][56] Other Important Information - Denny's completed six remodels during the quarter, with over 50% of the company fleet remodeled under the new image [21] - The company is facing commodity inflation, particularly in egg prices, which significantly impacted margins [27][28] Q&A Session Summary Question: How is the new promotional strategy shaping the outlook for the rest of the year? - Management is pleased with the results of the promotional strategy and will continue to refine their everyday value offerings while monitoring consumer needs [39][40] Question: Are there signs of improvement in consumer sentiment across different cohorts? - Management noted that all income cohorts improved in April, particularly those earning above $60,000 [55] Question: What is the franchisee appetite for promotions like the BOGO offer? - Franchisees are pleased with the traffic driven by the BOGO offer, and management is monitoring its impact on margins [61][58] Question: What is the forward outlook for menu pricing? - The company expects approximately 4% to 4.5% of pricing to be implemented in 2025, with a cautious approach to future pricing adjustments [67] Question: How is the company managing inefficiencies from new cafe openings? - Management indicated that inefficiencies are expected in the first six months of new cafe openings, but they aim to improve operational efficiency over time [101] Question: What is the impact of egg prices on margins? - Egg prices have significantly impacted margins, but management expects the situation to improve as prices stabilize [104]