Executives say the closures are part of a strategy to strengthen finances and concentrate resources on stronger locations.
WASHINGTON — Noodles & Company said it plans to close dozens of restaurants this year as part of an effort to strengthen its financial position, even as the chain reported solid sales growth to end 2025.
The Colorado-based company said in a preliminary earnings report released Monday that it expects to close 30 to 35 additional restaurants in 2026. The move follows the closure of 42 locations in 2025, including 33 company-owned restaurants and nine franchise sites.
As of Dec. 30, 2025, Noodles & Company operated 340 company-owned restaurants and 83 franchise locations, according to the report.
The announcement came alongside stronger-than-expected sales results for the fourth quarter.
Chief Executive Officer Joe Christina said the closures are part of a broader strategy to focus resources on higher-performing restaurants.
“Decisions like this are made thoughtfully and with a long-term view of the business,” Christina said in a statement. “When we concentrate our resources on restaurants with the strongest opportunity to perform, Noodles can drive meaningful top-line growth.
Christina said the company’s recent performance gives leadership confidence as it continues refining its restaurant portfolio this year. He added that the closures are intended to improve the overall health of the brand and position the company for profitable growth over the long term.
“These actions are intended to strengthen the overall health of the brand and our financial position, helping to ensure we are well-positioned for profitable growth and long-term value creation for our shareholders,” he added.
