Denny’s has long been a beacon of opportunity in the restaurant industry, built on a foundation of passion for feeding people. With a remarkable 89% of our owners, multi-unit managers and field leaders having climbed the ranks from roles such as servers, cooks, bussers and managers, our brand epitomizes “the American dream” within the hospitality sector. This journey of growth and success stands as a testament to the life-changing experiences of many who have walked through Denny’s doors.

Today, Denny’s continues to thrive, 70 years on, fueled by a spirit of breakthroughs, real-world challenges, and a commitment to personal and professional development. Our initiatives, especially the GAIN program, underscore our dedication to empowering our team members, thereby reinforcing our status as an employer of choice. We are intentionally committed to ensuring that each program we offer is meticulously designed to support the whole individual, reinforcing our pledge to equitable and universal access to education, growth opportunities, and comprehensive well-being.

GAIN: Growth, Advancement and Inspiration for the Next Generation

GAIN, Denny’s latest initiative, is a pivotal program designed to unlock our team’s potential. It is built on four parts:

• GED offering: The GED high school equivalency process educates and encourages our people to prepare for and take the GED test.
• College credit for learning: We partner with colleges and universities to align Denny’s internal training with courses for academic credit and certificate programs. Currently, we are working with two universities and plan to add more.
• Life skills: GAIN adopts a whole-person approach to development, promoting essential life skills that impact diverse communities within and beyond our restaurants. Team members may earn certificates for completion.
• Career pathways: We are developing relationships with high schools to position Denny’s as an employer of choice within neighboring communities, bringing talent into the Denny’s family.

Prioritizing education can empower our teams to shape Denny’s future with innovative solutions and experiences for our guests. This dedication to nurturing education, confidence and success significantly enriches our employees’ lives, unlocking opportunities for growth and advancement that were once out of reach. More than merely boosting their skills and knowledge, this strategic investment lays the foundation for Denny’s future — a future where education is not just accessible but a fundamental pillar of our culture, propelling us toward a horizon of innovation and excellence.

“Programs like GAIN can open doors and provide access that may not have been available otherwise. GAIN essentially levels the playing field, offering a pathway to improvement for everyone, regardless of role or status,” says Clyde Rucker, a franchisee and member of the Denny’s Franchise Association Board of Directors.

The successful launch of our GAIN program is evident: Our GED program showcases 13 graduates and 113 active team members since enrollment began in August 2023. A survey of over 1,200 employees revealed that 91% would stay with Denny’s due to these types of programs, and 97% would recommend working at Denny’s because of partnerships like GEDWorks. These data points underscore the significant impact programs like these have on retention rates and highlight their role in attracting new talent. Such programs demonstrate the crucial link between access to education and Denny’s overall business success, influencing both employee retention and attraction, which are key factors in driving sales and profit growth.

“Reflecting on my time at Washington University, I found it enjoyable, but it was Denny’s training programs and workshops that shaped my career more,” shared Sam Wilensky, franchisee owner and chairman of the Denny’s Franchise Association Board of Directors. “Whether formal or informal, education that helps you grow and gain confidence is key. The GAIN initiative is invaluable, providing accessible ways to further education, especially for those with busy schedules.”

The Impact of GAIN on the Denny’s Brand

GAIN is more than a program; it’s a catalyst for change. It enables part-time employees to envision a future within Denny’s, growing to manage multimillion-dollar restaurants and driving our brand forward. This focus on learning and development (L&D) not only positions Denny’s as a top career choice but also addresses the challenges of engagement and retention in a competitive labor market.

Moreover, GAIN extends its benefits beyond the individual to uplift entire families and communities. By empowering our employees through education, we contribute to broader societal change, enhancing the quality of life and opportunities for underserved populations.

Financial and Cultural Benefits

Investing in our team members’ education can lead to significant financial returns through cost savings and increased profits. More engaged employees result in superior guest experiences, which in turn drive financial success. However, the impact of GAIN extends beyond dollars and cents; it fosters a culture of empowerment, inclusivity and belonging that benefits everyone associated with Denny’s.

Conclusion: Why We Invest in Our People

Denny’s dedication to the GAIN program reflects our overarching mission: to nourish not just the body but the mind and soul as well. Our goal goes beyond serving food; it’s about touching hearts and transforming lives with every meal, conversation and moment. This guiding philosophy forms the basis of our guest service and propels our drive for excellence at every corporate level.

Fostering our team members’ growth enables us to focus on creating an environment of inclusivity and belonging, safeguarding their well-being across all dimensions — physical, emotional, social, financial and professional. We are resolutely committed to ensuring that every individual at Denny’s has the opportunity to flourish, irrespective of their background. Investment in educational advancement is recognized as a powerful catalyst for positive change, impacting not just individuals but also families and entire communities. This commitment underscores our belief in the transformative power of education and development, solidifying Denny’s reputation as a top career choice and a nurturing space for all.