Darden Restaurants Hits All-Time High on Strong Olive Garden Sales and $1 Billion Stock Buyback
Darden Restaurants, the parent company of popular chains like Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse, has announced an up to $1.0 billion stock buyback as it continues to outperform in the restaurant industry. The company reported fiscal 2025 fourth-quarter earnings per share (EPS) of $2.98, with revenue up 11% year-over-year to $3.27 billion. Both figures narrowly exceeded Visible Alpha forecasts, indicating strong financial performance. Darden's same-store sales climbed 4.6%, led by a 6.9% rise at Olive Garden and a 6.7% gain at LongHorn Steakhouse. The company added 25 net new restaurants in the quarter, plus it gained 103 Chuy's Tex Mex locations after its purchase of the chain last July. Revenue from Olive Garden increased more than 8% to $1.38 billion, while LongHorn Steakhouse saw a 9% increase to $833.8 million. Fine Dining chains, which includes Ruth's Chris, grew more than 2% to $334.6 million. Thanks to the Chuy's contribution, "Other Business" revenue jumped 22% to $722.3 million. In addition to its financial report, Darden said the board authorized a new share repurchase program of up to $1.0 billion. This move is part of the company's ongoing efforts to reward shareholders and maintain its strong financial position. Darden Restaurant shares have gained more than 20% so far this year, and hit a record $228.27 earlier in the session. The company's strong performance and positive outlook have investors excited about its future prospects in the restaurant industry. In conclusion, Darden Restaurants continues to show impressive growth and financial strength, with a new stock buyback program adding to its appeal as an investment opportunity. With its popular chains like Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse, the company is well-positioned to continue its success in the restaurant industry.

Applaud the recent milestones achieved by Darden Restaurants, reaching an all-time high on robust Olive Garden sales and completing a $1 billion stock buyback. This demonstrates both their financial strength in navigating through challenges while driving brand success for future expansion plans."

Darden Restaurants' reaching an all-time high due to robust Oliver Garden sales performance coupled with a billion dollar stock buyback方案反映出其强有力的财务策略以及对旗下品牌持续成功经营的信心,为业内树立了榜样。

The impressive performance of Darden Restaurants, driven by exceptional Olive Garden sales growth and a bold $1 billion stock buyback plan demonstrates how responsible investment decisions can leverage popular brand appeal to propel the company's overall success.

Darden Restaurants' recent surge in Olive Garden sales alongside a successful $1B stock buyback marks an astounding achievement, demonstrating the company’s resilience and investment strategy回来的成绩,令人印象深刻。

Impressive milestone achieved by Darden Restaurants, reaching an all-time high thanks to robust Olive Garden sales and a $1 billion stock buyback program – testament not only of the brand's resilience but also their commitment towards long term shareholder value.

The impressive growth of Darden Restaurants' Olive Garden brand, coupled with the company’s bold billion-dollar stock buyback plan signals an unwavering commitment to both taste and shareholder value – ultimately propelling them towards their all time high.

With record-breaking sales at Olive Garden and a successful billion dollar stock buyback, Darden Restaurants proves its resilience in the dining industry as it hits an all time high underpinned by unwavering consumer appeal.

Darden Restaurants' achievement of an all-time high boosted by exceptional Olive Garden sales and the company’s bold $1 billion stock buyback program underscores their strategic prowess in navigating market dynamics.

The unprecedented success achieved by Darden Restaurants through the surge in Olive Garden sales and its $1 billion stock buyback demonstrates a strong commitment to both customer satisfaction and corporate growth, setting new highs for not just one brand but their entire portfolio.

Darden Restaurants' achievement of an all-time high on the strength in Olive Garden sales, coupled with its $1 billion stock buyback strategy highlights a strong commitment to both customer satisfaction and financial stability underscored by outstanding fiscal discipline.