Topic: How To Invest

Q: Pat, what do you think are the prospects for Brinker International going forward? Thank you.

Article Excerpt

A: Brinker International Inc., $156.18, symbol EAT on New York (Shares outstanding: 44.4 million; Market cap: $6.9 billion; www.brinker.com), is a casual dining restaurant company. Norman Brinker started the company in Dallas, Texas, in 1975. Today, the company develops, operates and franchises the Chili’s Grill & Bar and Maggiano’s Little Italy restaurant brands. As of December 25, 2024, the company owns, operates or franchises 1,624 restaurants. That breaks down as 1,164 company-owned restaurants; and 460 franchised restaurants in the U.S., 27 other countries, and two U.S. territories. Chili’s Grill & Bar is Brinker’s flagship brand. Launched in 1977, Chili’s has operated for over 49 years and enjoys a global presence. It aims to provide a value-focused menu of delicious food and drink, with meals starting at $10.99. Chili’s features Southwest inspired American favourites. It has built a reputation for burgers, fajitas, crispy chicken, and hand-shaken margaritas. Average annual sales per restaurant during fiscal 2024 (fiscal years end June 30) were $3.6 million. The average…