Darden Restaurants Exceeds Expectations in First Quarter Report

Darden Restaurants' First Quarter Financial Performance

Darden Restaurants, Inc. (NYSE:DRI) has recently released its financial results for the first quarter, showcasing significant growth and a bright outlook ahead. The company has reported total sales reaching an impressive $3.0 billion, which marks an increase of 10.4% compared to the same quarter last year. This growth can be attributed to a blended same-restaurant sales increase of 4.7%, driven by the acquisition of 103 Chuy's Tex Mex restaurants and 22 net new establishments.

Key Financial Insights from the First Quarter

Among the highlights of the financial report, the same-restaurant sales were particularly strong across several segments:

• Olive Garden experienced a notable increase of 5.9% in same-restaurant sales.
• LongHorn Steakhouse reported a growth of 5.5% in the same category.
• Other segments saw a mixed performance, with Fine Dining noting a slight decline of 0.2%.

Furthermore, Darden announced a reported diluted net earnings per share from continuing operations of $2.19. When adjusted for certain costs, the adjusted diluted net earnings per share stood at $1.97, reflecting a commendable increase of 12.6% year-over-year. During the quarter, the company also repurchased approximately $183 million worth of its common stock, demonstrating confidence in its ongoing strategies and market position.

Thoughts from Leadership

"We had a strong start to the fiscal year with same-restaurant sales and earnings growth that exceeded our expectations," said Darden President & CEO Rick Cardenas. He emphasized that the company's successful strategies are not only increasing sales but also allowing them to invest significantly in their operations while simultaneously rewarding shareholders. Cardenas noted, "Our winning strategy is enabling us to grow sales and market share, while making meaningful investments in our business and returning capital to our shareholders."

Financial Outlook for Fiscal 2026

Darden Restaurants has adjusted its financial outlook for the remainder of fiscal 2026, which includes provisions for an additional 53rd week. The updated forecast is as follows:

• Total sales growth is projected at 7.5% to 8.5%, incorporating around 2% advertising growth attributed to the extra week.
• Same-restaurant sales growth is anticipated to be between 2.5% to 3.5%.
• Darden plans to open approximately 65 new restaurants.
• The total capital expenditure is estimated to be between $700 and $750 million.
• Inflation rates are projected to range from 3.0% to 3.5%.
• An effective tax rate is anticipated at about 13%.
• Adjusted diluted net earnings per share are expected to be between $10.50 and $10.70, which includes approximately $0.20 attributed to the additional week.
• Approximately 117 million weighted average diluted shares are anticipated outstanding.

Shareholder Benefits: Dividends and Repurchases

In addition to its strong financial results, Darden's Board of Directors has declared a quarterly cash dividend of $1.50 per share on its outstanding common stock. This dividend is set to be payable on November 3 to shareholders of record at the close of business on October 10.

In light of the company's performance, Darden's stock repurchase program has seen approximately 0.9 million shares repurchased during the quarter for a total of $183 million. The current repurchase authorization remains substantial with $865 million still available under the plan.

Investor Conference Call Insights

Darden will host an investor conference call to delve deeper into these results and the outlook ahead. The call is scheduled, providing an opportunity for investors and analysts to engage with management and gain further insights into the framework that continues to drive the company's growth.

About Darden Restaurants

Darden Restaurants is renowned for its diverse portfolio of restaurant brands, which includes Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, Yard House, and several others. Each brand contributes uniquely to Darden's overall success, helping to establish the company as a leader in the restaurant industry.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key financial highlights for Darden in Q1 2026?

Darden reported total sales of $3.0 billion, with a 10.4% increase year-over-year and diluted net earnings per share of $2.19.

How did Darden perform in terms of same-restaurant sales?

Same-restaurant sales increased by 4.7%, with Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse showing notable growth.

What is Darden's financial outlook for the rest of fiscal 2026?

Darden has predicted total sales growth of 7.5% to 8.5% and same-restaurant sales growth of 2.5% to 3.5% while planning to open approximately 65 new restaurants.

What dividend has Darden announced for shareholders?

The Board declared a quarterly cash dividend of $1.50 per share, payable on November 3.

How many shares has Darden repurchased this quarter?

During this quarter, Darden repurchased about 0.9 million shares for a total of $183 million.

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