Darden may buy chains

Darden Restaurants, a restaurant group based in Orlando, is considering
the purchase of a new chain, although it may not keep Bahama Breeze,
which has several locations in South Florida, much longer. The chain put
its growth on hold for several years and closed restaurants before
opening two in 2009. BJ’s, a brew house and grill chain, could be added
to the portfolio, according to some analysts. Bahama Breeze, meanwhile,
has its days numbered, according to analyst Mark Kalinowski of Janney
Capital Markets, and could potentially close in the next 24 months. Darden also owns
Olive Garden and Red Lobster among other restaurants.