Leadership Evolution Client Partner: Mike Leikam, President/CEO

Centralized Supply Chain Services, LLC (CSCS), a purchasing cooperativeknown as the Co-op, was launched on February 16, 2009 by DineEquity, Inc., whose subsidiaries franchise and operate Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar® and IHOP® restaurants, and by the franchisees of the Applebee’s and IHOP systems. With the formation of CSCS, DineEquity designated CSCS as the sole purchasing agent for the Applebee’s and IHOP systems.

CSCS is an independent company owned by its Members, comprised of Applebee’s and IHOP franchisee and company restaurant operators. CSCS is responsible for negotiating all purchasing agreements, distribution arrangements and determining the level of business awarded to each vendor. Applebee’s and IHOP retain the sole authority to define product specifications, develop quality standards for products and approve and disapprove suppliers and distributors.