The landscape of fast-casual dining is in flux as Noodles & Company, known for its array of pasta dishes, has announced a reduction in its brick-and-mortar presence in 2025. According to ABC7 Chicago, the company will shutter between 13 to 17 company-owned restaurants, upping the stakes from an earlier estimate of 12 to 15 closures. Additionally, four franchised locations are slated to close their doors.
Despite these closures, the Noodles & Company brand isn't retreating completely; the company has indicated plans to open two new company-owned restaurants before the end of the year. This information comes on the heels of the company unveiling a retooled menu, filled with inventive items like Cajun Shrimp Fettucine and a variety of macaroni and cheese options. These changes have seemingly paid off, with NBC Chicago reporting a 5% uptick in sales since the March debut of these new offerings.
As for the company's financial health, CEO Drew Madsen has offered a positive outlook. "Combined with a significant reduction in capital spending and continued emphasis on smart cost savings, we are well-positioned to strengthen our balance sheet as well," he told ABC7 Chicago. As reported, total revenue edged up from $121.4 million in the first quarter of 2024 to $123.8 million in the same quarter of 2025, marking a 2% increase amidst the larger context of restructuring.
In a statement obtained by NBC Chicago, Noodles & Company asserted the closures are part of an "ongoing strategy to optimize our restaurant portfolio and strengthen overall performance." They acknowledged, "These decisions are never taken lightly, and we’re committed to supporting our impacted team members throughout the process." Specifics about which locations will close remain undisclosed, with the company citing that decisions are "still in progress."
