Bloomin’ Brands, the parent company of Outback Restaurants, is closing 41 underperforming restaurants across the U.S. With its signature blend of Australian-inspired cuisine and warm hospitality, Outback has carved out a unique niche in the restaurant industry, captivating the taste buds and hearts of diners around the globe.
The closures were announced during a fourth-quarter earnings call, with factors such as sales, traffic, and necessary investments considered in the decision.
“This decision considered a variety of factors, including sales and traffic, trade areas and the investments that would have to be made to improve the restaurants,” Bloomin’ Brands CEO Dave Deno said.
Most of the closures will be Outback locations, with the majority being older stores operating since the 1990s and early 2000s.
The closures are expected to cost the company approximately $100 million in revenue in 2024.
Despite this, Bloomin’ Brands plans to open up to 45 new restaurants in the U.S. this year.
Outback Steakhouse was founded in 1988 by Bob Basham, Tim Gannon, Chris Sullivan, and Trudy Cooper in Tampa, Florida.
Inspired by their travels to the Australian Outback, the founders sought to create a dining experience that reflected the rugged yet inviting spirit of the land down under. Thus, Outback Steakhouse was born, offering a menu that featured hearty steaks, grilled seafood, and other Australian-inspired dishes, all served in a relaxed, casual atmosphere.
The company’s commitment to quality, value, and hospitality soon earned it a loyal following, paving the way for rapid growth across the United States and beyond.
One of the key factors behind Outback’s success is its unwavering dedication to delivering an exceptional dining experience to every guest. From the moment diners walk through the door, they are greeted with a warm welcome and treated to attentive service that reflects the company’s commitment to hospitality.
Central to the Outback experience is, of course, the food. The restaurant’s menu features a mouthwatering array of dishes, from juicy steaks and tender ribs to fresh seafood and flavorful chicken.
But Outback Steakhouse is more than just a restaurant – it’s a company with a strong sense of corporate responsibility and community involvement. Over the years, Outback has been actively involved in various charitable initiatives and philanthropic endeavors, supporting causes ranging from hunger relief to disaster relief efforts.
In addition to its flagship Outback Steakhouse brand, the company operates several other restaurant concepts, including Carrabba’s Italian Grill, Bonefish Grill, and Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar.
From its humble beginnings as a single restaurant, Outback Steakhouse quickly expanded, fueled by its popularity among diners seeking a unique and flavorful dining experience.
Whether it’s a family celebration, a casual dinner with friends, or a special occasion, Outback strives to create memorable moments that keep customers coming back for more.
Each item is carefully crafted using high-quality ingredients and prepared with care to ensure maximum flavor and satisfaction. And let’s not forget Outback’s famous Bloomin’ Onion – a crispy, golden-brown masterpiece that has become a must-try appetizer for many diners.
Through its “Dine for a Cause” events and partnerships with local charities, Outback demonstrates its commitment to giving back and making a positive impact in the communities it serves.
Each brand offers its own unique dining experience, but all share the same commitment to quality, hospitality, and value that have made Outback Steakhouse a household name.
As Outback Steakhouse continues to thrive and evolve, it remains true to its roots, staying true to the principles of quality, value, and hospitality that have guided it from the beginning.
With its mouthwatering menu, warm atmosphere, and commitment to community, Outback Steakhouse and its parent company continue to set the standard for casual dining, delighting diners and leaving them craving more with each visit.
