Pasadena-Based Parent Company of Applebee’s, IHOP Releases Environmental, Social, and Governance Report

Dine Brands Global, Inc., the Old Pasadena-based parent company of Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill + Bar and International House of Pancakes, reported this week that it has successfully transitioned to 100% Expanded Polystyrene (EPS)- free packaging a year ahead of schedule, according to its 2023 Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) report.

The report, which outlines the company’s commitment to its “Dine Better, Together” initiative, highlights various achievements in sustainability and corporate social responsibility.

In a statement, John Peyton, CEO of Dine Brands, emphasized the company’s dedication to combining business growth with environmental, social, and governance commitments.

“At Dine, we remain motivated to provide more than an exceptional dining experience, recognizing the opportunities to make meaningful impact in the communities that we serve,” Peyton said.

Among the notable accomplishments detailed in the report, achieving the “Great Place to Work” Certification for the second consecutive year stands out.

Additionally, Dine Brands has donated 13.6 metric tons of food, raised significant funds for charitable organizations, and served over 565,000 free meals to U.S. active-duty military and veterans on Veterans Day.

One of the report’s most significant achievements is the successful transition to 100% EPS-free packaging at Applebee’s and IHOP. This marks a major milestone in the company’s sustainability efforts, signaling its commitment to reducing environmental impact.

Other sustainability efforts reflected in the report include the transition of 11 million Applebee’s gift cards from plastic to paper stock, certified by the Forest Stewardship Council, and the transition of 48 million pieces of IHOP to-go packaging away from carbon black pigment.

Dine Brands’ dedication to sustainable sourcing practices is also evident in its commitment to cage-free eggs, with 35.2% of eggs for U.S. restaurants being cage-free, exceeding the 33% target set for 2023. The company aims to achieve 100% cage-free eggs in the U.S. by the end of 2025.

The 2023 ESG report shows Dine Brands’ momentum in operating with ESG at the core, with team members, franchisees, restaurant employees, suppliers, and communities playing their part as partners in the effort.

For more information on the 2023 Dine Better, Together report, visit https://www.dinebrands.com/en/social-good.