History

July 26, 2011 at 2:57 am (Business Analysis Report, Red Lobster)

Red Lobster is a casual seafood dining restaurant that was started by Bill Darden. The first Red Lobster was opened in Lakeland, Florida in 1968. During the early 70’s, Red Lobster started to move south-easterly through the United States. Currently there are over 680 locations in Canada, United States and Japan.

In 1970, General Mills acquired Red Lobster. In 1995, Darden Restaurants, a spin-off from General Mills took over Red Lobster. Darden Restaurants currently owns Red Lobster, Olive Garden, Bahama Breeze, Longhorn Steakhouse, The Capital Grille and Seasons 52. In 1975, Darden Restaurants named Joe Lee as President and CEO.

Darden is now operating with Clarence Otis Jr.  as Chairman and CEO. Andrew H. Madsen is President and COO.

Our History. Red Lobster Website. http://www.redlobster.com/our_quality_story/our_history/ 2011