The BIG News
OUTBACK Steakhouse Returns to Roots for $3.2 Billion!
The three partners who opened the first Outback Steakhouse will join Bain Capital to buy back the empire.
FYI
Welcome to the New Executive Connection
We are delighted to present our new version of Executive Connection, the monthly electronic newsletter produced by the DW Group to keep executives and management in the restaurant, foodservice and hospitality industry informed about current developments and trends that affect their arena, segment and respective disciplines.
Viewpoint
Better Execution to Drive Diversity and Inclusion
We have certainly come a long way in recognizing the need for aggressive programs to ensure workforce diversity. Attracting and retaining a diverse group of people, however, requires a welcoming and inclusive environment as well as a culture that embraces differences. The ultimate goal is to get beyond the need to mirror the communities served and to create a talented team of varied race, gender, age, lifestyle and cultural background. Organizations that welcome, value and encourage divergence in thought and perspective are usually the industry leaders.
In the talent acquisition process, it is not enough to merely indicate a preference for diversity in candidates. Thinking outside the box is also required.
Executive Movements
DUNKIN' BRANDS INC., named MARGERY B. MYERS to the newly created position of senior vice president of communications.
TANGEE GIBSON was named senior vice president of human resources by ARAMARK CORP., for its domestic food, hospitality and facility services division.
Financial Overview
This month's financial overview has a few stunning winners and losers. BRINKER INTERNATIONAL INC. is the big winner with a 50 percent increase in first-quarter profits. While LONE STAR STEAKHOUSE & SALOON INC. is alone with a drop of almost 80 percent in third quarter earnings. The big players STARBUCKS CORP. and MCDONALD'S CORP. are still showing consistent growth.