Rating were assigned on April 9, 2002, to Brinker International's $388.5 million zero coupon convertible senior debentures due in 2021 and $375 million bank credit facility that matures on Dec. 12, 2005. A corporate credit rating was also assigned to the company at that time. The ratings on Brinker reflect the company's solid position in the casual dining industry, good track record as a restaurant operator, and satisfactory financial profile. The bank loan rating is the same as the corporate credit and senior unsecured debt ratings, reflecting the lenders' equal status with other senior unsecured creditors. Dallas, Texas-based Brinker owns, operates, or franchises more than 1,086 restaurants under the names Chili's Grill&Bar, Romano's Macaroni Grill, On The Border
