BROOMFIELD — Closing underperforming restaurants appears to be paying off for Noodles & Co. (Nasdaq: NDLS). The Broomfield-based fast-casual chain reported a strong third-quarter performance ending September 30, showing systemwide same-store sales growth.
Company-owned restaurant sales climbed 4%, while franchised locations rose by 4.3%. The improvement marks a sharp turnaround for the company, which had previously been considering strategic options, including a potential sale.
Over the past two years, Noodles & Co. focused on revitalizing sales by closing weaker restaurants and overhauling its menu. These measures appear to have yielded results. As a result, the company raised its 2025 forecast, now expecting same-store sales growth between 3.6% and 4.2%, up from earlier guidance of 2.5% to 4%.
“I am very pleased with our recent sales trends, with comparable sales up 4% in the third quarter, which significantly outperformed the fast-casual benchmark,” said CEO Joseph Christina.
Noodles & Co.’s strategic decisions to close weaker stores and refresh its menu are driving renewed growth, lifting same-store sales and boosting investor confidence.