2013 Annual Report - Investor Relations - Darden Restaurants

Our Leading BrandsOur Newest BrandBeer is the hook,but the soul of Yard House is the food.To successfully compete in the New Era, we know change is required,and we’re committed to thoughtful change. One of our most visiblechanges is the reshaping of our brand portfolio. Today, Darden’sportfolio is well-positioned to drive profitable market share growthand generate competitively superior returns for the next decade.Adding Yard House ® to our Specialty Restaurant Group (SRG) providesus with greater exposure to new guests and new occasions. And itgives SRG the scale and scope to make an even more meaningfulcontribution to our sales and earnings growth going forward.130handles of draft beerYard House combines contemporary American cuisine based onchef-inspired recipes and ethnic flavors with a wide range of draftbeers and other beverages in a stylish and energetic setting. It’s oneof the most distinctive and exciting restaurant brands in Americatoday, and has average unit volumes and returns on capital thatare among the highest in the industry.