Strong Adjusted EBITDA and Profitability Gains
Full-year adjusted EBITDA of $69.7 million, representing 53% growth versus 2024; fourth-quarter adjusted EBITDA of $11.8 million, which was ahead of expectations.
Restaurant-Level Margin and Labor Efficiency Improvements
RLOP margin grew by 190 basis points for the year; labor-efficiency initiatives contributed approximately 180 basis points to restaurant-level margin and total labor costs were reduced by ~250 basis points in 2025 while maintaining guest satisfaction.
Effective Pricing and New Menu Strategy
Minimal net pricing in 2025 (net pricing contributed ~1.6% in Q4). New menu launched Jan 26 with a 3.2% menu price increase (expected to carry through 2026) and an expanded Big Yummm platform (6 meal options, $9.99–$16.99). Early results show average check increases and healthy guest engagement.
Traffic Momentum from Value Offer and Targeted Marketing
December outpaced the Black Box casual dining traffic index; Big Yummm $9.99 delivered 10% guest mix in dine-in in Q4. Company has implemented data-driven, micro-targeted marketing (about two-thirds complete), improving message relevancy and marketing efficiency.
G&A and Cost Savings Progress
General & administrative expenses reduced by over $4 million in 2025 excluding stock-based compensation. 2026 G&A guidance is ~$65–67 million (versus $71 million in 2025 excluding stock comp), indicating continued structural savings.
Improved Liquidity and Capital-Structure Actions
Ended Q4 with $19.9 million cash, $9.6 million restricted cash, and $37 million availability on revolver. ATM program terminated (no shares issued) and tactical refranchising discussions progressing to reduce debt and strengthen the balance sheet.
Operational Investments and Workforce Improvements
Completed 20 light-touch restaurant refreshes in 2025; 2026 capex guidance $25–30 million. Rolling out new server handhelds and upgraded Ziosk devices; launched enterprise ChatGPT with restaurant-level GPT tools. Hourly turnover is at its lowest level since 2017 and engagement scores are improving.
2026 Financial Guidance
Provided 2026 guidance: comparable restaurant revenues +0.5% to +1.5% (ex-deferred loyalty), restaurant-level operating margin ~13%, adjusted EBITDA $70–73 million, and capex $25–30 million, signaling expected continued progress.