The ratings on Orlando-based Darden Restaurants Inc. reflect Standard&Poor's Ratings Services' expectations that the company's revenue and operating performance will improve modestly in 2011 as demand in the casual dining industry continues to stabilize. We also believe that credit metrics will remain in line with our expectations for the ratings, including debt to EBITDA at around 2x. We view Darden's business risk profile as satisfactory, based on the company's general outperformance as compared to the rest of the casual dining restaurant industry and its strong market shares. Nonetheless, a weak consumer and intense competition within the industry will still affect the company. Much of the casual dining industry experienced sales declines in recent years as a result of
