DineEquity Inc. (NYSE: DIN) reported second quarter of fiscal 2017 financial results. Through its subsidiaries the company owns and franchises the Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar (Applebee's) concept in the bar and grill segment within the casual dining category of the restaurant industry, and owns, franchises and operates the International House of Pancakes (IHOP) concept in the family dining category of the restaurant industry.

Dine Equity reported GAAP net income available to common stockholders was $35.0 million for the first six months of fiscal 2017, or earnings per diluted share of $1.98. This compares to net income available to common stockholders of $51.6 million, or earnings per diluted share of $2.82, for the first six months of fiscal 2016. The decrease in GAAP net income was primarily due to lower gross profit.

The company did provide an update regarding the number of locations it plans to close this year. The adjusted range is now roughly 105 to 135 Applebee’s locations to be closed this year, significantly more than the previous estimates of about 40 to 60 restaurants.

"We are investing in the empowerment of our brands by improving overall franchisee financial health, closing underperforming restaurants and enhancing the supply chain. We are focusing on operations and elevating the guest experience, whether in our restaurants or off-premise. We believe 2017 will be a transitional year for Applebee's and we are making the necessary investments for overall long-term brand health and expect to see improvement over the next year," said Richard J. Dahl, Chairman and interim Chief Executive Officer of DineEquity, Inc.

"IHOP remains on solid ground, despite soft sales this quarter. I am optimistic about the growth in both effective franchise restaurants and system-wide sales. IHOP is currently rolling out initiatives to address the convenience needs of our guests, which are inclusive of online ordering as well as accelerating tests for delivery and development of an IHOP mobile application. We believe these will create enhanced revenue channels," Dahl added.