Red Lobster is a popular seafood restaurant chain that has been serving customers since it first opened its doors in 1968. Known for its delicious seafood dishes and warm, inviting atmosphere, Red Lobster has become a household name when it comes to dining out.
But have you ever wondered who owns Red Lobster? The ownership of Red Lobster has gone through a few changes over the years. Until July 2014, it was owned by Darden Restaurants, a well-known company that also owns other restaurant chains such as Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, Bahama Breeze, and more.
However, in 2014, Darden Restaurants made the decision to sell Red Lobster to Golden Gate Capital, a private equity firm. Golden Gate Capital took over ownership of Red Lobster and operated the restaurant chain for a few years. During this time, they made efforts to revamp the menu and enhance the overall dining experience at Red Lobster.
Then, in 2021, another change in ownership occurred. Golden Gate Capital sold its remaining equity stake in Red Lobster to Thai Union Group, a group of investors under the banner Seafood Alliance. Thai Union Group is a global seafood company and one of the world’s largest producers of seafood products. With their expertise in the seafood industry, Thai Union Group aims to bring new opportunities and innovations to Red Lobster.
In addition to Thai Union Group, Red Lobster’s management team also became part owners of the company. This means that the people who have been working hard behind the scenes to ensure that Red Lobster continues to provide exceptional dining experiences now have a stake in the company’s success.
The change in ownership brings excitement and potential for growth for Red Lobster. With the backing of Thai Union Group and the dedication of its management team, Red Lobster is well-positioned to continue serving its customers with delicious seafood dishes and excellent service.
So, the next time you visit a Red Lobster restaurant, you can appreciate the fact that it is now owned by Thai Union Group and a team of passionate individuals who are committed to making your dining experience truly memorable.
Are Olive Garden And Red Lobster Owned By The Same Company?
Olive Garden and Red Lobster are owned by the same company. They are both part of Darden Restaurants, Inc., which is a Florida corporation. Darden Restaurants, Inc. operates several restaurant chains, including Red Lobster, Olive Garden, and Bahama Breeze. Red Lobster and Olive Garden are also operated under GMRI, Inc., which is a direct wholly owned subsidiary of Darden Restaurants, Inc. Additionally, Darden SW LLC, a Florida limited liability company, is the sole member of GMRI, Inc., and it also operates Red Lobster and Olive Garden.
Does Golden Gate Capital Still Own Red Lobster?
Golden Gate Capital no longer owns Red Lobster. They sold their remaining equity stake in the company to existing investor Thai Union Group. The sale was made to a group of investors called Seafood Alliance, which includes global restaurateurs and hospitality executives, as well as Red Lobster management. This means that Golden Gate Capital no longer has any ownership in Red Lobster.
Is Red Lobster Part Of Olive Garden?
Red Lobster is not part of Olive Garden. Both Red Lobster and Olive Garden are separate restaurant chains owned by Darden Restaurants. Darden Restaurants is a public company that operates multiple restaurant brands, including Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen, Yard House, The Capital Grille, Seasons 52, Bahama Breeze, and Eddie V’s. Red Lobster was once a part of Darden Restaurants, but it was sold off in 2014.
Conclusion
Red Lobster is a popular seafood restaurant chain that is owned by Darden Restaurants. Red Lobster is known for its wide variety of seafood dishes, including lobster, shrimp, crab, and fish. They also offer non-seafood options for those who prefer land-based dishes.
Red Lobster is part of a larger parent organization, N and D Restaurants, Inc., which is a wholly owned subsidiary of GMRI, Inc. GMRI, Inc., also known as Red Lobster, Olive Garden, and Bahama Breeze, is further owned by Darden SW LLC, a limited liability company.
It is worth mentioning that in 2014, Golden Gate Capital sold its equity stake in Red Lobster to existing investor Thai Union Group, along with a group of investors called Seafood Alliance and Red Lobster management. This change in ownership demonstrates the continued investment and interest in the success of Red Lobster.
Red Lobster is a well-established and popular seafood restaurant chain that offers a diverse menu and is backed by a strong parent organization. With its commitment to providing high-quality seafood dishes and a pleasant dining experience, it continues to be a favored choice for seafood enthusiasts and those looking for a unique dining experience.
