Applebee’s owners of Utah stores have been named the 2025 Franchisee of the Year. (Tom Haraldsen/Salt Lake Business Journal)
For the second time in the past six years, Apple Mountain LLC has been named Applebee’s 2025 Franchisee of the Year, the most prestigious annual award presented by Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar. It also earned the honor in 2020.
The Franchisee of the Year award recognizes the Applebee’s franchise organization that best demonstrates exceptional guest satisfaction, operational excellence, financial performance, community engagement, and a commitment to the Applebee’s brand. With an average Google rating of 4.4 stars across its restaurants, Apple Mountain continues to set the standard for hospitality and service. The group operates 10 Applebee’s restaurants across Utah and Wyoming, including in Cedar City, Layton, Orem, Riverdale, St. George, Taylorsville, Tooele, West Jordan and West Valley City. It is headquartered at 1935 E. Vine St., Murray.
“This recognition is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our entire team,” said Jim Long, president and CEO of Apple Mountain. “Winning this award once is an incredible honor — earning it twice in five years is truly special. Our team members are the heart of everything we do, and this achievement belongs to each and every one of them.”
Apple Mountain was selected from among all Applebee’s franchise organizations nationwide for its operational excellence and commitment to growth. Over the past year, the company has invested significantly in its restaurants, implementing advanced technology systems, remodeling every location to elevate the guest experience, and expanding community partnerships that support local causes.
“Apple Mountain’s leadership consistently embodies the values that make Applebee’s America’s favorite grill and bar,” John Peyton, Applebee’s president, said in a company release. “Their relentless focus on operational excellence, guest satisfaction and community engagement sets a standard for our entire system.”