Virtual restaurant platform Franklin Junction has forged an expansion agreement with Dine Brands International, an affiliate of Dine Brands Global Inc (NYSE:DIN).

The agreement will initially introduce Dine Brands into new markets in Japan, the Netherlands, France, and Belgium. 

IHOP and Applebee's will be introduced as virtual restaurants in key international markets, with the first launch set to take place in Japan by Q4 of 2023.

The Host Kitchen platform enables restaurant brands access to capital-free expansion in new markets as virtual restaurants.

Franklin Junction will also help IHOP and Applebee's to customize menus, offerings, and dining experiences to suit each market.

Price Action: DIN shares closed lower by 0.88% at $58.82 on Monday.