Brinker Intl Inc - EAT STOCK NEWS

Maggiano's Little Italy, owned by Brinker International (NYSE: EAT), has appointed Michelin-starred Chef Anthony Amoroso as Vice President of Innovation and Growth. This move marks a significant step in the brand's culinary evolution, introducing eight new Italian-American classics to the menu. The new offerings include appetizers like the Antipasto Board and Truffle & Honey Whipped Ricotta, entrees such as the 'Riserva' Veal Parmesan and Rigatoni alla Vodka, and a Dessert Trio Platter.

These additions complement Maggiano's recently released Master Sommelier Selection, a curated collection of six wines chosen by Master Sommelier Jason Smith. The menu enhancements aim to blend tradition with innovation, catering to both longtime guests and newcomers. This initiative aligns with Maggiano's commitment to providing exceptional dining experiences and elevating its culinary offerings.

Chili's Grill & Bar introduces 3 For Lunch Combos, offering 11 options starting at $10.99 on weekdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The combo includes bottomless chips and salsa, choice of entrée, and a bottomless non-alcoholic drink. Menu features elevated versions of popular lunch items like burgers, chicken tenders, and sandwiches.

To highlight the value, Chili's challenges professional eater Joey Chestnut to finish a 3 For Lunch Combo on October 1, 2024. If Chestnut wins, he gets the 3 for Lunch Golden Basket Belt and lunch money for a year. If he loses, Chili's guests can win free 3 For Lunch Combos for a year.

Chili's Grill & Bar has announced the return of its Create-A-Pepper program in partnership with St. Jude Children's Research Hospital®. This initiative, celebrating its 22nd year, has raised over $110 million to date. Throughout September, which is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, guests can purchase coloring sheets at Chili's locations for $1, $5, $10, or $25, with 100% of proceeds going to St. Jude.

The program supports St. Jude's mission of advancing treatment and research for cancer and other life-threatening diseases. Chili's was recently named the 2024 St. Jude Corporate Champion in recognition of their long-standing partnership. The Create-A-Pepper campaign began in 2002 in Memphis and has since grown into a nationwide initiative.

Brinker International (NYSE: EAT) reported strong Q4 fiscal 2024 results, with Company sales increasing to $1,196.5 million, up from $1,064.8 million in Q4 fiscal 2023. Comparable restaurant sales rose 13.5%, driven by a 14.8% increase at Chili's and 2.5% at Maggiano's. The company's operating income margin improved to 6.1%, while restaurant operating margin (non-GAAP) increased to 15.2%.

Diluted net income per share reached $1.24, compared to $1.19 in the previous year. For fiscal 2025, Brinker expects total revenues between $4.55 billion and $4.62 billion, with net income per diluted share (excluding special items) projected at $4.35 to $4.75. The company ended fiscal 2024 with no outstanding borrowings on its $900.0 million revolving credit facility and $64.6 million in cash.

Brinker International (NYSE: EAT) has announced its upcoming fourth quarter fiscal 2024 earnings call, scheduled for Wednesday, August 14, 2024, at 10 a.m. Eastern Time. The company will release its earnings report before the market opens on the same day. Investors and interested parties can access the live audio webcast through Brinker's investor relations website. The call may include additional business updates beyond the earnings report. For those unable to attend the live event, a replay will be available on the company's website for two weeks following the call. Thomson StreetEvents subscribers will also have access to the replay through their service.

Maggiano's Little Italy is launching a new era of classic Italian-American dining with a series of enhanced offerings, beginning with a revamped cocktail menu. Under the new leadership of President Dominique Bertolone, who brings over 20 years of experience from notable destinations like MGM Resorts and Monte Carlo Beach, the restaurant aims to blend its cherished traditions with new, luxurious experiences. The updated cocktail menu, named the Mixologist Collection, features premium ingredients and dramatic tableside presentations, with prices ranging from $14 to $17. Key offerings include the Smoked Old Fashioned, Pomegranate Martini, Rosa Spritz, and Grand Margarita. Maggiano's is also enhancing its food menu by sourcing high-quality ingredients and collaborating with industry experts like Master Sommelier Jason Smith. More updates will be revealed throughout the summer and fall.

Brinker International has appointed Frank Liberio to its Board of Directors. Liberio, a seasoned technology leader in the restaurant industry, previously served as EVP and Global CIO for Restaurant Brands International. He also worked at McDonald's for over 16 years, including as Senior VP and Global CIO, where he spearheaded their digital transformation. Joe DePinto, Brinker's Chairman, emphasized that Liberio's expertise will be instrumental in supporting Brinker's growth strategies, particularly in enhancing the guest experience.

Chili's Grill & Bar has unveiled a revamped version of the classic BurgerTime arcade game called Chili's Big Smasher BurgerTime. Players, assuming the role of Joe ChiliHead, can win free burgers for life by building Big Smasher Burgers and defeating fast-food villains across six levels. The game, available until July 14, is part of Chili's strategy to attract customers with better value compared to rising fast-food prices. The Big Smasher burger, featured on the 3 For Me menu at $10.99, includes classic fast-food flavors. High scorers in the game can win lifetime burgers, -edition arcade cabinets, and gift cards.

Brinker International (NYSE: EAT) has promoted Jeremy Linker to Senior Vice President, Brand Finance, effective June 27, 2024.

Linker has been with Brinker for over 20 years, most recently serving as VP, Brand Finance and Construction.

In his previous role, he led the brand's pricing strategy and reinvestment efforts to enhance restaurant facilities.

Brinker CEO Kevin Hochman emphasized Linker's significant contributions to financial and operational progress.

Linker has played a vital role in several initiatives, including the Chili's Core 4 team, and will report to Mika Ware, the new EVP and CFO, also effective June 27.