TAMPA Fla. Outback Steakhouse has adopted a bolder, more contemporary look in three of its newest restaurants, with plans to revamp the rest of its 799 locations, according to media reports.
Paul Avery, chief operating officer of parent company OSI Restaurant Partners LLC, told the Associated Press that the new look features bolder colors, separate dining areas and a decor that moves away from the casual steakhouseÕs traditional Australian heritage.
Avery did not detail the costs for the upgrades, though he said the companyÕs private status has made it easier to move forward with plans to refresh the brand. OSI went private last year after being acquired for $3.5 billion by a consortium of private-equity firms and the steakhouse chainÕs founders. The companyÕs plans at that time included the revamping of the flagship Outback chain, including menu changes, and the divestures of secondary brands like RoyÕs or Bonefish Grill.
The Outback chain, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary, will grow by slightly less than 20 units this year, Avery told the AP. Company officials were unavailable by press time to confirm the reports.
Tampa-based OSI operates or franchises a total of 1,400 restaurants. Its other brands includes Carrabba's Italian Grill, Bonefish Grill, Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar, Roy's, Cheeseburger in Paradise and Blue Coral Seafood & Spirits.
