Core Viewpoint - The retail landscape is evolving, and store closures can be a strategic move for financial recovery rather than a sign of decline [2][11]. Group 1: Noodles & Company Store Closures - Noodles & Company plans to close up to 49 company-owned restaurants by the end of 2026, with 28-32 closures expected in 2025 [12]. - The closures are part of a strategy to enhance overall sales leverage and improve restaurant-level profitability, with an expectation to retain approximately 30% of sales through transfers to neighboring units [7][8]. - The CEO emphasized that these decisions are made thoughtfully, focusing on high-performing locations to strengthen operations and elevate guest experience [6][8]. Group 2: Financial Performance - In Q3 2025, Noodles & Company reported a total revenue decrease of 0.5% to $122.1 million compared to $122.8 million in Q3 2024, while comparable restaurant sales increased by 4.0% system-wide [12]. - The company experienced a net loss of $9.2 million, or $0.20 loss per diluted share, compared to a net loss of $6.8 million, or $0.15 loss per diluted share, in the same quarter of the previous year [12]. - Operating margin improved to 5.2% from 3.9% in Q3 2024, indicating a positive trend in operational efficiency despite the losses [12].