Restaurant Technology Trends in 2026
Explore restaurant technology trends in 2026, including AI, automation, digital ordering, workforce tools, connected kitchens, personalization, and profitability strategies today.
Aug 28, 2026
Explore restaurant technology trends in 2026, including AI, automation, digital ordering, workforce tools, connected kitchens, personalization, and profitability strategies today.
Aug 28, 2026
Understand how to evaluate a Kiosk system using key criteria including features, POS integration, hardware, pricing, customer experience, and support.
Aug 31, 2026
Learn how to calculate restaurant cost of goods using inventory, purchases, COGS percentage, variance reviews, and regular tracking for profitability.
Aug 31, 2026
Learn the startup costs of opening an ice cream shop, including rent, equipment, renovations, permits, inventory, labor, marketing, and reserves.
Aug 28, 2026
Learn practical ways to reduce labour costs through smarter scheduling, forecasting, productivity, cross-training, automation, overtime control, and performance monitoring strategies.
Aug 26, 2026
RaceTrac has appointed Jill Pemberton as chief financial officer, succeeding Karla Ahlert, who moves into the newly created role of chief administrative officer.
Aug 26, 2026
A restaurant P&L statement reveals sales, expenses, and profits, helping owners manage costs, improve margins, and plan finances more effectively.
Aug 26, 2026
Create a practical restaurant marketing plan by setting goals, targeting customers, choosing channels, budgeting wisely, scheduling campaigns, and measuring results.
Aug 24, 2026
Levain Bakery appoints Lorna Sommerville and Taya Stenson as co-CEOs, blending operational and marketing expertise to power national expansion and innovation while staying rooted in its brand values.
Aug 25, 2026
Blaze Pizza welcomes Tracy Stockard as Chief Marketing Officer, bringing decades of brand and franchise experience to drive strategic growth and guest engagement.
Aug 25, 2026
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Explore how Darden is considering strategic alternatives for its Bahama Breeze restaurants, assessing growth potential and portfolio strategy.
Photo by David Coney
Darden's recent announcement regarding strategic alternatives for its Bahama Breeze restaurants sheds light on the company's continuous evaluation of its portfolio. The closure of underperforming locations and the contemplation of selling or converting these restaurants indicate a strategic shift in focus towards optimizing performance and profitability. CEO Rick Cardenas' remarks during the earnings call highlight the importance of aligning the company's resources with its strategic priorities.
The decision to close underperforming Bahama Breeze restaurants and potentially divest from the brand stems from a rigorous analysis of growth potential and strategic fit within Darden's portfolio. While Cardenas acknowledges the growth potential of Bahama Breeze, he also emphasizes the potential benefits of having another owner who may be better positioned to unlock that growth.
Darden's approach to refining its portfolio reflects a proactive strategy aimed at enhancing overall performance. By reallocating resources and focusing on higher-performing units, the company aims to drive greater efficiencies and returns. The consideration of selling or converting Bahama Breeze restaurants underscores Darden's commitment to strategic flexibility and value creation.
Photo by David Coney
Darden's historical move to sell Red Lobster in 2014 serves as a precedent for adapting its portfolio to align with evolving market conditions and strategic objectives. The positive outcomes resulting from recent acquisitions, such as the expansion of revenue from Ruth's Chris franchises, demonstrate the effectiveness of Darden's portfolio management approach.
Looking ahead, Darden's exploration of strategic alternatives for Bahama Breeze restaurants presents an opportunity for the company to realign its focus and resources towards high-potential areas. Whether through divestment or brand conversion, the decision-making process underscores Darden's commitment to maximizing shareholder value and sustainable growth.