WASHINGTON — Noodles & Company is set to shutter numerous restaurants this year, a decision designed to enhance its fiscal stability, even as the restaurant chain posted impressive sales growth by the close of 2025.

According to a preliminary earnings report released on Monday, the Colorado-based business plans to close an additional 30 to 35 restaurants in 2026. This decision follows the closure of 42 sites in 2025, comprising 33 company-owned eateries and nine franchise-operated ones.

By December 30, 2025, Noodles & Company was managing 340 company-owned locations and 83 franchise-operated establishments, as detailed in the report.

This announcement was paired with unexpectedly strong sales figures 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.