THE INDUSTRY

Prospects for continued growth in casual dining have never been better - creating a compelling investment opportunity.

The drivers of casual dining growth are powerful. People dine in casual dining restaurants more as they age and over the next decade the number of people in their peak casual dining years will surge. The participation of women in the workforce will continue to grow, another positive for casual dining. Disposable income growth is expected to remain healthy, which also bodes well for the segment.

DARDEN

Darden’s strategy capitalizes on the growth in casual dining.

The one constant in the casual dining business is change. As consumers dine out more, they become increasingly adventuresome and demanding.

To remain attractive and relevant to consumers, Darden operates with a culture of continuous improvement. The Company is focused on brilliance in:

Olive Garden’s new Tuscan Farmhouse design.

• In-restaurant operational excellence.
• Leadership development.
• Standard-setting hospitality and service levels.
• Casual dining culinary creativity.

By meeting the needs of today’s consumer, while always evolving, innovating and setting new standards for the future, Darden seeks to exceed casual dining industry growth. Focusing on what matters most to guests is essential to:

• Sustained long-term sales growth at existing restaurants.
• New restaurant growth at existing concepts.
• Development of attractive new concepts.