Brinker International, Inc. (or simply Brinker) is an American multinationalhospitality industry company that owns Chili's and Maggiano's Little Italyrestaurant chains. Founded in 1975 and based in Dallas, Texas, Brinker currently owns, operates, or franchises 1,672 restaurants under the names Chili's Grill & Bar and Maggiano's Little Italy worldwide.[4][1]
History
Norman Brinker with Mohamed Abdelnabi Director Of Operation Chili's UAE/OMAN
Larry Lavine opens the first Chili's Grill & Bar in Dallas, Texas.[5] The company was renamed Chili's Inc. in 1976.
In 1991, Chili's Inc. became Brinker International, Inc.[8] In 1992, the company entered into an agreement with Pac-Am Food Concepts to expand the Chili's brand to the Far East.[9]
Chili's, Inc. became Brinker International, Inc. (Brinker) in 1991.[10] In 1992, the company entered into an agreement with Pac-Am Food Concepts to expand the Chili's brand to the Far East.[11]
In 2000, Norman Brinker stepped down as company chairman, he passed away in June 2009.[12]
In May 2012, the Supreme Court of California issued its much-awaited decision in Brinker Restaurant Corp. v. Superior Court. The Brinker decision gave important guidance to employers regarding meal breaks, rest periods, and class certification.[13]
On February 7, 2013, Brinker announced the election of Wyman Roberts to its board of directors. Roberts served as CEO and President of Brinker International, and President of Chili's Grill & Bar until his retirement in June of 2022. Roberts' Brinker tenure includes his role as President of Chili's since 2009. Previously, Roberts also served as Brinker's Chief Marketing Officer and President of the Maggiano's Little Italy brand.[4]
In June 2024, CFO Joe Taylor retired and was succeeded by Mika Ware.[14]
In December 2008, Mac Acquisition LLC, an affiliate of Golden Gate Capital, purchased a majority interest in Romano's Macaroni Grill for $131.5 million.[3][17]