The ratings on Orlando, Fla.-based Darden Restaurants Inc. reflect the company's relatively good position in the casual-dining industry, geographic and concept diversity, and the good cash flow and profitability of its restaurants. The company's participation in the intensely competitive casual-dining sector of the restaurant industry partially offsets these strengths. Darden is the largest full-service, casual-dining restaurant company in the U.S., operating more than 1,750 units. Operating results have generally been good for many years because the company has successfully reinvested in its core businesses. Darden has improved the food, service, and atmosphere at its units. Nevertheless, it has reported a weakening in sales over the past year on poor fundamentals in the casual-dining sector, which is hurt by an oversupply
