Popular fast-casual chain plans dozens of restaurant closures as turnaround efforts continue

Noodles & Company is planning to close dozens of restaurants as the fast-casual chain works to improve profitability and strengthen its long-term performance.

The Colorado-based restaurant brand, known for serving globally inspired noodle dishes, disclosed plans to close approximately 30 to 35 underperforming locations in 2026. The move comes as the company continues efforts to streamline operations and focus resources on restaurants with stronger growth potential.

Closures target underperforming locations

Company executives have indicated that the planned closures are primarily focused on restaurants that have struggled to generate sustainable sales or profits. While specific locations have not been widely identified, the closures represent a relatively small portion of the chain’s overall footprint.

Noodles & Company operates hundreds of restaurants across the United States, and the company has emphasized that the closures are part of a broader strategy to improve overall system performance rather than a sign of widespread retrenchment.

Restaurant industry pressures persist

Like many restaurant operators, Noodles & Company has faced ongoing challenges tied to labor costs, food inflation, and changing consumer spending habits. Fast-casual chains across the industry have increasingly evaluated their portfolios, leading some brands to close weaker locations while investing in stronger markets.

The company has also worked to improve menu offerings, enhance digital ordering capabilities, and increase operational efficiency in an effort to attract customers and boost restaurant-level profitability.

Growth remains part of the strategy

Despite the planned closures, Noodles & Company is not abandoning expansion altogether. Company leaders have continued to express confidence in the brand’s long-term potential and have identified opportunities to grow in select markets.

The restaurant chain’s strategy reflects a broader trend within the industry, where operators are prioritizing quality over quantity. By closing underperforming restaurants and focusing on stronger locations, Noodles & Company hopes to create a more sustainable foundation for future growth while continuing to serve customers across the country.

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