Thu Aug 06 12:00:00 -0400 2009

The Wall Street Journal (New York)

- Brinker International Inc. reported weak sales at its three restaurant brands, and the casual-dining chain offered a disappointing outlook that highlights the earnings challenges restaurants face even after rigorous cost cuts.

While that helped Brinker top estimates in its latest quarter, the company and other restaurant chains could be hard-pressed to find additional efficiencies over the next year. Brinker’s outlook offers a sobering glimpse of the challenge of bolstering earnings in the face of weak sales, said Telsey Advisory Group analyst Tom Forte.

To view the full article, download the PDF here: The Wall Street Journal , August 6, 2009