Can extended hours really improve store profits?

Can more hours generate more profit at restaurant chains?This week’s episode of the Restaurant Business podcast A Deeper Dive features Mark Wasilefsky, the head of restaurant and franchise finance with TD Bank.Wasilefsky talks a wide range of issues on this episode, including the state of franchise and restaurant lending and the overall state of the industry.But we get into a deep discussion about the impact extended hours can have on restaurants, particularly franchises. The discussion grew out of our recent story about Subway, which has started requiring franchisees to be open later in the day, and accept delivery.Can such moves improve profitability? Does it work for everybody? How does that extend to breakfast strategies, such as the one Wendy’s has pulled back on somewhat. It’s a fascinating discussion on this week’s podcast so please check it out.