Investors agree to buyout and privatize Denny’s restaurants

Investors have finally given their seal of approval to the deal that will see Denny’s become a privately-owned company. The take-private transaction has been valued at $6.25 per share, and shareholders are on board with the move.

The decision was made during a special meeting where investors voted on the proposal to take the restaurant chain private. John Miller, who has been serving as the chief executive officer of Denny’s since 2011, expressed his satisfaction with the outcome of the vote. It was revealed that approximately 99.3% of the votes cast were in favor of taking Denny’s private, signifying overwhelming support from the shareholders.

This milestone has been part of a plan that was announced in October 2025 when Denny’s revealed its intentions to go private. Ardent Financial, a New York-based investment firm, has been instrumental in facilitating this transition. Through this deal, the transaction will be completed through a merger between Dunkin’ and Denny’s.

The $6.25 per share evaluation was determined to be a fair price by two independent proxy advisory firms, Institutional Shareholder Services and Glass Lewis. Additionally, these firms had endorsed the deal, which ultimately resulted in the strong backing by a majority of investors.

This transformation will allow Denny’s to operate outside the public market domain, wherein companies have to comply with strict reporting requirements and scrutiny from the investing public. By going private, Denny’s can focus on carrying out its strategies in a more flexible and confidential manner.

The development will also permit Denny’s to make longer-term strategic decisions that may be beneficial to its growth and business operations. The company will have more freedom to explore new avenues, invest in innovations, and plan for the long term without the short-term pressure of public markets.

The move to go private has been seen as an opportunity to drive operational efficiencies, improve profitability, and enhance shareholder value. The acquisition by Ardent Financial is a testament to the investor’s belief in Denny’s potential for growth and success.

In conclusion, the successful approval of the take-private deal by shareholders indicates a significant step in Denny’s journey towards becoming a privately-owned entity. With the support of investors, the restaurant chain aims to create a new chapter in its growth story as it transitions into a private company. The move is expected to bring about positive changes that will benefit the company, its shareholders, and stakeholders in the long run.