Item 1. Financial Statements (Unaudited)

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Item 1. Financial Statements (Unaudited)

DARDEN RESTAURANTS, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS

(In millions, except per share data)

(Unaudited)

Three Months EndedNine Months Ended
February 26, 2023February 27, 2022February 26, 2023February 27, 2022
Sales$2,786.2$2,448.9$7,718.8$7,027.1
Costs and expenses:
Food and beverage887.0752.72,500.62,132.2
Restaurant labor874.2798.72,476.52,279.5
Restaurant expenses440.3395.71,260.81,158.8
Marketing expenses28.227.289.673.0
General and administrative expenses107.083.3285.7289.7
Depreciation and amortization98.394.3290.7275.4
Impairments and disposal of assets, net1.3(3.8)(12.4)(5.5)
Total operating costs and expenses$2,436.3$2,148.1$6,891.5$6,203.1
Operating income349.9300.8827.3824.0
Interest, net19.617.559.249.8
Earnings before income taxes330.3283.3768.1774.2
Income tax expense43.535.4100.2101.2
Earnings from continuing operations$286.8$247.9$667.9$673.0
Losses from discontinued operations, net of tax benefit of $0.2, $0.0, $0.5 and $0.4, respectively(0.2)(0.9)(1.1)(1.9)
Net earnings$286.6$247.0$666.8$671.1
Basic net earnings per share:
Earnings from continuing operations$2.36$1.95$5.47$5.22
Losses from discontinued operations—(0.01)(0.01)(0.01)
Net earnings$2.36$1.94$5.46$5.21
Diluted net earnings per share:
Earnings from continuing operations$2.34$1.93$5.42$5.17
Losses from discontinued operations——(0.01)(0.01)
Net earnings$2.34$1.93$5.41$5.16
Average number of common shares outstanding:
Basic121.4127.0122.2128.9
Diluted122.5128.2123.2130.1

See accompanying notes to our unaudited consolidated financial statements.

DARDEN RESTAURANTS, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(In millions)

(Unaudited)

Three Months EndedNine Months Ended
February 26, 2023February 27, 2022February 26, 2023February 27, 2022
Net earnings$286.6$247.0$666.8$671.1
Foreign currency adjustment(0.1)0.1(0.3)(0.4)
Change in fair value of derivatives and amortization of unrecognized gains and losses on derivatives, net of taxes of $(1.3), $0.2, $(1.2) and $0.2, respectively(5.9)1.11.9(2.4)
Net unamortized gain (loss) arising during the period, including amortization of unrecognized net actuarial gain (loss), net of taxes of $0.1, $0.0, $0.2 and $0.2, respectively, related to pension and other post-employment benefits0.10.20.40.6
Other comprehensive income (loss)$(5.9)$1.4$2.0$(2.2)
Total comprehensive income$280.7$248.4$668.8$668.9

See accompanying notes to our unaudited consolidated financial statements.

DARDEN RESTAURANTS, INC.

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(In millions)

February 26, 2023May 29, 2022
(Unaudited)
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents$275.3$420.6
Receivables, net57.672.0
Inventories305.9270.6
Prepaid income taxes86.2274.8
Prepaid expenses and other current assets165.9141.4
Total current assets$890.9$1,179.4
Land, buildings and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation and amortization of $3,356.6 and $3,140.9, respectively3,611.13,356.0
Operating lease right-of-use assets3,435.53,465.1
Goodwill1,037.41,037.4
Trademarks806.3806.3
Other assets294.2291.6
Total assets$10,075.4$10,135.8
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable$423.8$366.9
Accrued payroll167.9181.5
Accrued income taxes23.532.1
Other accrued taxes64.664.5
Unearned revenues548.0498.0
Other current liabilities722.6704.5
Total current liabilities$1,950.4$1,847.5
Long-term debt880.9901.0
Deferred income taxes146.1201.1
Operating lease liabilities - non-current3,738.53,755.8
Other liabilities1,315.61,232.2
Total liabilities$8,031.5$7,937.6
Stockholders’ equity:
Common stock and surplus$2,213.2$2,226.0
Retained earnings (deficit)(169.4)(25.9)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)0.1(1.9)
Total stockholders’ equity$2,043.9$2,198.2
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity$10,075.4$10,135.8

See accompanying notes to our unaudited consolidated financial statements.

DARDEN RESTAURANTS, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

For the Three and Nine Months Ended February 26, 2023 and February 27, 2022

(In millions)

(Unaudited)

Common Stock And Surplus
SharesAmountRetained Earnings (Deficit)Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)Total Stockholders’ Equity
Balance at November 27, 2022121.9$2,214.6$(199.7)$6.0$2,020.9
Net earnings——286.6286.6
Other comprehensive income (loss)———(5.9)(5.9)
Dividends declared ($1.21 per share)——(147.8)—(147.8)
Stock option exercises0.13.8——3.8
Stock-based compensation—7.9——7.9
Repurchases of common stock(0.9)(15.8)(108.5)—(124.3)
Issuance of stock under Employee Stock Purchase Plan and other plans—2.8——2.8
Other—(0.1)——(0.1)
Balance at February 26, 2023121.1$2,213.2$(169.4)$0.1$2,043.9
Balance at May 29, 2022123.9$2,226.0$(25.9)$(1.9)$2,198.2
Net earnings——666.8—666.8
Other comprehensive income (loss)———2.02.0
Dividends declared ($3.63 per share)——(446.7)—(446.7)
Stock option exercises0.210.0——10.0
Stock-based compensation—27.8——27.8
Repurchases of common stock(3.3)(59.9)(363.6)—(423.5)
Issuance of stock under Employee Stock Purchase Plan and other plans0.38.3——8.3
Other—1.0——1.0
Balance at February 26, 2023121.1$2,213.2$(169.4)$0.1$2,043.9
Balance at November 28, 2021128.3$2,280.6$261.8$0.6$2,543.0
Net earnings——247.0—247.0
Other comprehensive income (loss)———1.41.4
Dividends declared ($1.10 per share)——(140.7)—(140.7)
Stock option exercises0.18.1——8.1
Stock-based compensation—6.1——6.1
Repurchases of common stock(2.7)(47.7)(334.1)—(381.8)
Issuance of stock under Employee Stock Purchase Plan and other plans—2.6——2.6
Other—0.1——0.1
Balance at February 27, 2022125.7$2,249.8$34.0$2.0$2,285.8
Balance at May 30, 2021130.8$2,286.6$522.3$4.2$2,813.1
Net earnings——671.1—671.1
Other comprehensive income (loss)———(2.2)(2.2)
Dividends declared ($3.30 per share)——(427.9)—(427.9)
Stock option exercises0.528.7——28.7
Stock-based compensation—28.0——28.0
Repurchases of common stock(5.8)(102.6)(731.5)—(834.1)
Issuance of stock under Employee Stock Purchase Plan and other plans0.27.7——7.7
Other—1.4——1.4
Balance at February 27, 2022125.7$2,249.8$34.0$2.0$2,285.8

See accompanying notes to our unaudited consolidated financial statements.

DARDEN RESTAURANTS, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(In millions)

(Unaudited)

Nine Months Ended
February 26, 2023February 27, 2022
Cash flows—operating activities
Net earnings$666.8$671.1
Losses from discontinued operations, net of tax1.11.9
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings from continuing operations to cash flows:
Depreciation and amortization290.7275.4
Impairments and disposal of assets, net(12.4)(5.5)
Stock-based compensation expense52.649.8
Change in current assets and liabilities192.7(83.0)
Contributions to pension and postretirement plans(1.6)(1.7)
Deferred income taxes(54.8)10.0
Change in other assets and liabilities1.9(6.0)
Other, net3.54.5
Net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations$1,140.5$916.5
Cash flows—investing activities
Purchases of land, buildings and equipment(410.5)(275.6)
Proceeds from disposal of land, buildings and equipment21.410.1
Purchases of capitalized software and other assets(20.9)(18.3)
Other, net0.52.9
Net cash used in investing activities of continuing operations$(409.5)$(280.9)
Cash flows—financing activities
Proceeds from issuance of common stock18.336.4
Dividends paid(443.3)(426.2)
Repurchases of common stock(423.5)(834.1)
Proceeds from issuance of short-term debt427.0—
Repayments of short-term debt(427.0)—
Principal payments on finance leases(14.2)(9.0)
Payments of debt issuance costs—(2.5)
Net cash used in financing activities of continuing operations$(862.7)$(1,235.4)
Cash flows—discontinued operations
Net cash used in operating activities of discontinued operations(5.5)(8.1)
Net cash used in discontinued operations$(5.5)$(8.1)
Decrease in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash(137.2)(607.9)
Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash - beginning of period472.11,214.7
Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash - end of period$334.9$606.8
Reconciliation of cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash:February 26, 2023February 27, 2022
Cash and cash equivalents$275.3$555.3
Restricted cash included in prepaid expenses and other current assets59.651.5
Total cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash shown in the statement of cash flows$334.9$606.8

DARDEN RESTAURANTS, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Continued)

(In millions)

(Unaudited)

Nine Months Ended
February 26, 2023February 27, 2022
Cash flows from changes in current assets and liabilities
Receivables, net14.415.6
Inventories(35.2)(52.9)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets(23.7)(19.3)
Accounts payable23.131.7
Accrued payroll(13.6)0.1
Prepaid/accrued income taxes180.08.1
Other accrued taxes0.1(0.8)
Unearned revenues50.063.1
Other current liabilities(2.4)(128.6)
Change in current assets and liabilities$192.7$(83.0)

See accompanying notes to our unaudited consolidated financial statements.

DARDEN RESTAURANTS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Unaudited)

**Note 1.**Basis of Presentation

Darden Restaurants, Inc. (we, our, Darden or the Company) owns and operates full-service dining restaurants in the United States and Canada under the trade names Olive Garden®, LongHorn Steakhouse®, Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen®, Yard House®, The Capital Grille®, Seasons 52®, Bahama Breeze®, Eddie V’s Prime Seafood® and The Capital Burger®. As of February 26, 2023, through subsidiaries, we own and operate all of our restaurants in the United States and Canada, except for 2 joint venture restaurants managed by us and 34 franchised restaurants. We also have 32 franchised restaurants in operation located in Latin America, the Caribbean, and Asia.

We have prepared these consolidated financial statements pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Certain information and footnote disclosures normally presented in annual financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) have been condensed or omitted pursuant to such rules and regulations. In the opinion of management, all adjustments considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included and are of a normal recurring nature. We operate on a 52/53-week fiscal year which ends on the last Sunday in May. Our fiscal year ending May 28, 2023 will contain 52 weeks of operation. Operating results for interim periods presented are not necessarily indicative of results that may be expected for the full fiscal year.

These statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related notes to consolidated financial statements included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended May 29, 2022. We prepare our consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP. The preparation of these financial statements requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of sales and costs and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

We have reclassified certain amounts in prior-period financial statements to conform to the current period’s presentation.

COVID-19 Pandemic and Other Impacts to our Operating Environment

During fiscal 2022, increases in the number of COVID-19 cases throughout the United States including the Omicron variant which significantly impacted our restaurants in the third quarter, mostly in January 2022, subjected some of our restaurants to COVID-19-related restrictions such as mask and/or vaccine requirements for team members, guests or both. During fiscal 2022, along with COVID-19, our operating results were impacted by geopolitical and other macroeconomic events, leading to higher than usual inflation on wages and other cost of goods sold. These events further impacted the availability of team members needed to staff our restaurants and caused additional disruptions in our product supply chain. During fiscal 2023, these events have continued to impact our operating results as wage and cost inflation continue to exceed recent norms.

The ongoing effects to our operating environment, along with other geopolitical and macroeconomic events, could lead to further wage inflation, staffing challenges, product cost inflation and disruptions in the supply chain that impact our restaurants’ ability to obtain the products needed to support their operations.

Recently Adopted Accounting Standards

In November 2021, the FASB issued ASU 2021-10, Government Assistance (Topic 832), which requires annual disclosures that increase the transparency of transactions involving government grants, including (i) information about the nature of the transactions and related accounting policy used to account for the transactions; (ii) the line items on the balance sheet and income statement affected by these transactions including amounts applicable to each line; and (iii) significant terms and conditions of the transactions, including commitments and contingencies. The guidance is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2021. The Company adopted this guidance in the first quarter of fiscal 2023, but the adoption did not have a material impact on our financial statements.

DARDEN RESTAURANTS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Unaudited)

**Note 2.**Revenue Recognition

Deferred revenue liabilities from contracts with customers included on our accompanying consolidated balance sheets was comprised of the following:

(in millions)February 26, 2023May 29, 2022
Unearned revenues
Deferred gift card revenue$577.9$521.1
Deferred gift card discounts(30.4)(23.5)
Other0.50.4
Total$548.0$498.0
Other liabilities
Deferred franchise fees - non-current$2.6$2.8

The following table presents a rollforward of deferred gift card revenue.

Three Months EndedNine Months Ended
(in millions)February 26, 2023February 27, 2022February 26, 2023February 27, 2022
Beginning balance$484.9$476.9$521.1$494.3
Activations343.1318.6577.4552.9
Redemptions and breakage(250.1)(231.2)(520.6)(482.9)
Ending balance$577.9$564.3$577.9$564.3

DARDEN RESTAURANTS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Unaudited)

**Note 3.**Additional Financial Information

Supplemental Balance Sheet Information

The components of lease assets and liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet were as follows:

(in millions)Balance Sheet ClassificationFebruary 26, 2023May 29, 2022
Operating lease right-of-use assetsOperating lease right-of-use assets$3,435.5$3,465.1
Finance lease right-of-use assetsLand, buildings and equipment, net896.1838.1
Total lease assets, net$4,331.6$4,303.2
Operating lease liabilities - currentOther current liabilities$180.4$185.8
Finance lease liabilities - currentOther current liabilities17.816.6
Operating lease liabilities - non-currentOperating lease liabilities - non-current3,738.53,755.8
Finance lease liabilities - non-currentOther liabilities1,095.71,018.6
Total lease liabilities$5,032.4$4,976.8

Supplemental Cash Flow Information

Cash paid for interest and income taxes were as follows:Nine Months Ended
(in millions)February 26, 2023February 27, 2022
Interest, net of amounts capitalized$64.3$49.9
Income taxes, net of refunds(29.5)79.3
Non-cash investing and financing activities were as follows:Nine Months Ended
(in millions)February 26, 2023February 27, 2022
Increase in land, buildings and equipment through accrued purchases$82.1$42.9
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new operating lease liabilities131.513.9
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new finance lease liabilities41.5147.2
Net change in right-of-use assets mainly due to lease modifications resulting in reclassification of leases from operating to finance53.1137.3

We had restricted cash of $59.6 million and $51.5 million as of February 26, 2023 and May 29, 2022, respectively, which represents cash held as security for a standby letter of credit and cash held in escrow related to the sale of properties. Restricted cash is included in Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets on our consolidated balance sheet. See Note 12, Commitments and Contingencies, for further details around standby letters of credit.

**Note 4.**Income Taxes

The effective income tax rate for continuing operations for the quarter ended February 26, 2023 was 13.2 percent compared to an effective income tax rate for the quarter ended February 27, 2022 of 12.5 percent. This change was primarily driven by higher net earnings from continuing operations. The effective income tax rate for continuing operations for the nine months ended February 26, 2023 was 13.0 percent compared to an effective income tax rate for the nine months ended February 27, 2022 of 13.1 percent. This change was primarily driven by the impact of federal tax credits and lower net earnings from continuing operations.

Included in our remaining balance of unrecognized tax benefits is $6.1 million related to tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts could change within the next twelve months based on the outcome of examinations or as a result of the expiration of the statute of limitations for specific jurisdictions.

The Inflation Reduction Act (“IRA”) was enacted on August 16, 2022. The IRA includes provisions imposing a 1 percent excise tax on share repurchases that occur after December 31, 2022 and introduces a 15 percent corporate alternative minimum

DARDEN RESTAURANTS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Unaudited)

tax (“CAMT”) on adjusted financial statement income. We currently are not expecting either the new IRA excise tax or CAMT provisions to have a material adverse impact to our financial statements.

**Note 5.**Net Earnings per Share

Outstanding stock options, restricted stock and equity-settled performance stock units granted by us represent the only dilutive effect reflected in diluted weighted average shares outstanding, none of which impact the numerator of the diluted net earnings per share computation. Stock options, restricted stock and equity-settled performance stock units excluded from the calculation of diluted net earnings per share because the effect would have been anti-dilutive, were as follows:

Three Months EndedNine Months Ended
(in millions)February 26, 2023February 27, 2022February 26, 2023February 27, 2022
Anti-dilutive stock-based compensation awards0.10.20.30.1

Note 6. Segment Information

We manage our restaurant brands, Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen, Yard House, The Capital Grille, Seasons 52, Bahama Breeze, Eddie V’s and The Capital Burger in North America as operating segments. The brands operate principally in the U.S. within full-service dining. We aggregate our operating segments into reportable segments based on a combination of the size, economic characteristics and sub-segment of full-service dining within which each brand operates. We have four reportable segments: (1) Olive Garden, (2) LongHorn Steakhouse, (3) Fine Dining and (4) Other Business.

The Olive Garden segment includes the results of our company-owned Olive Garden restaurants in the U.S. and Canada. The LongHorn Steakhouse segment includes the results of our company-owned LongHorn Steakhouse restaurants in the U.S. The Fine Dining segment aggregates our premium brands that operate within the fine-dining sub-segment of full-service dining and includes the results of our company-owned The Capital Grille and Eddie V’s restaurants in the U.S. The Other Business segment aggregates our remaining brands and includes the results of our company-owned Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen, Yard House, Seasons 52, Bahama Breeze and The Capital Burger restaurants in the U.S and results from our franchise operations.

External sales are derived principally from food and beverage sales. We do not rely on any major customers as a source of sales, and the customers and long-lived assets of our reportable segments are predominantly in the U.S. There were no material transactions among reportable segments.

Our management uses segment profit as the measure for assessing performance of our segments. Segment profit includes revenues and expenses directly attributable to restaurant-level results of operations (sometimes referred to as restaurant-level earnings). These expenses include food and beverage costs, restaurant labor costs, restaurant expenses and marketing expenses (collectively “restaurant and marketing expenses”). Non-cash lease-related expenses included in restaurant expenses (which is a component of segment profit) and lease-related depreciation and amortization are reported at the corporate level as these are expenses for which our operating segments are not being evaluated. Additionally, our lease-related right-of-use assets are not managed or evaluated at the operating segment level, but rather at the corporate level.

DARDEN RESTAURANTS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Unaudited)

The following tables reconcile our segment results to our consolidated results reported in accordance with GAAP.

(in millions)Olive GardenLongHorn SteakhouseFine DiningOther BusinessCorporateConsolidated
For the three months ended February 26, 2023
Sales$1,301.2$695.5$235.6$553.9$—$2,786.2
Restaurant and marketing expenses1,008.2574.3184.3476.1(13.2)2,229.7
Segment profit$293.0$121.2$51.3$77.8$13.2$556.5
Depreciation and amortization$37.2$17.2$9.1$24.5$10.3$98.3
Impairments and disposal of assets, net—(3.3)—(0.1)4.71.3
(in millions)Olive GardenLongHorn SteakhouseFine DiningOther BusinessCorporateConsolidated
For the nine months ended February 26, 2023
Sales$3,608.6$1,900.6$621.0$1,588.6$—$7,718.8
Restaurant and marketing expenses2,880.61,601.8500.81,379.5(35.2)6,327.5
Segment profit$728.0$298.8$120.2$209.1$35.2$1,391.3
Depreciation and amortization$109.3$50.5$27.0$73.4$30.5$290.7
Impairments and disposal of assets, net—(3.3)—(0.1)(9.0)(12.4)
Purchases of land, buildings and equipment183.277.840.293.016.3410.5
(in millions)Olive GardenLongHorn SteakhouseFine DiningOther BusinessCorporateConsolidated
For the three months ended February 27, 2022
Sales$1,142.6$612.7$208.2$485.4$—$2,448.9
Restaurant and marketing expenses902.6501.2160.5418.2(8.2)1,974.3
Segment profit$240.0$111.5$47.7$67.2$8.2$474.6
Depreciation and amortization$34.9$16.0$8.5$24.8$10.1$94.3
Impairments and disposal of assets, net(0.1)0.1——(3.8)(3.8)
(in millions)Olive GardenLongHorn SteakhouseFine DiningOther BusinessCorporateConsolidated
For the nine months ended February 27, 2022
Sales$3,310.2$1,727.0$565.7$1,424.2$—$7,027.1
Restaurant and marketing expenses2,581.81,424.4444.71,209.9(17.3)5,643.5
Segment profit$728.4$302.6$121.0$214.3$17.3$1,383.6
Depreciation and amortization$106.2$48.3$25.2$73.4$22.3$275.4
Impairments and disposal of assets, net1.00.1——(6.6)(5.5)
Purchases of land, buildings and equipment116.165.931.460.61.6275.6

DARDEN RESTAURANTS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Unaudited)

A reconciliation of segment profit to earnings from continuing operations before income taxes is below.

Three Months EndedNine Months Ended
(in millions)February 26, 2023February 27, 2022February 26, 2023February 27, 2022
Segment profit$556.5$474.6$1,391.3$1,383.6
Less general and administrative expenses(107.0)(83.3)(285.7)(289.7)
Less depreciation and amortization(98.3)(94.3)(290.7)(275.4)
Less impairments and disposal of assets, net(1.3)3.812.45.5
Less interest, net(19.6)(17.5)(59.2)(49.8)
Earnings before income taxes$330.3$283.3$768.1$774.2

**Note 7.**Impairments and Disposal of Assets, Net

Impairments and disposal of assets, net, in our accompanying consolidated statements of earnings were comprised of the following:

Three Months EndedNine Months Ended
(in millions)February 26, 2023February 27, 2022February 26, 2023February 27, 2022
Restaurant impairments$1.5$—$1.5$—
Disposal (gains) losses(2.3)(3.8)(16.0)(5.5)
Other2.1—2.1—
Impairments and disposal of assets, net$1.3$(3.8)$(12.4)$(5.5)

Restaurant impairments for the quarter and nine months ended February 26, 2023 were related to (i) one underperforming restaurant with projected cash flows insufficient to cover its respective carrying values and (ii) three restaurant closures. Disposal gains for the quarter and nine months ended February 26, 2023 and February 27, 2022 were primarily related to the sale of properties. Other impacts for the quarter and nine months ended February 26, 2023 related to cancelled projects.

Note 8. Stockholders’ Equity

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (AOCI)

The components of AOCI, net of tax, for the quarter and nine months ended February 26, 2023 were as follows:

(in millions)Foreign Currency Translation AdjustmentUnrealized Gains (Losses) on DerivativesBenefit Plan Funding PositionAccumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Balance at November 27, 2022$4.6$7.4$(6.0)$6.0
Gain (loss)(0.1)(7.8)—(7.9)
Reclassification realized in net earnings—1.90.12.0
Balance at February 26, 2023$4.5$1.5$(5.9)$0.1
Balance at May 29, 2022$4.8$(0.4)$(6.3)$(1.9)
Gain (loss)(0.3)(0.2)—(0.5)
Reclassification realized in net earnings—2.10.42.5
Balance at February 26, 2023$4.5$1.5$(5.9)$0.1

DARDEN RESTAURANTS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Unaudited)

The components of AOCI, net of tax, for the quarter and nine months ended February 27, 2022 were as follows:

(in millions)Foreign Currency Translation AdjustmentUnrealized Gains (Losses) on DerivativesBenefit Plan Funding PositionAccumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Balance at November 28, 2021$4.7$4.4$(8.5)$0.6
Gain (loss)0.11.5—1.6
Reclassification realized in net earnings—(0.4)0.2(0.2)
Balance at February 27, 2022$4.8$5.5$(8.3)$2.0
Balances at May 30, 2021$5.2$7.9$(8.9)$4.2
Gain (loss)(0.4)(1.1)—(1.5)
Reclassification realized in net earnings—(1.3)0.6(0.7)
Balance at February 27, 2022$4.8$5.5$(8.3)$2.0

The following table presents the amounts and line items in our consolidated statements of earnings where adjustments reclassified from AOCI into net earnings were recorded.

Amount Reclassified from AOCI into Net Earnings
Three Months EndedNine Months Ended
(in millions) AOCI ComponentsLocation of Gain (Loss) Recognized in EarningsFebruary 26, 2023February 27, 2022February 26, 2023February 27, 2022
Derivatives
Commodity contracts(1)$(2.3)$0.7$(1.5)$0.8
Equity contracts(2)—(0.1)(0.8)0.8
Interest rate contracts(3)——(0.1)(0.1)
Total before tax$(2.3)$0.6$(2.4)$1.5
Tax (expense) benefit0.4(0.2)0.3(0.2)
Net of tax$(1.9)$0.4$(2.1)$1.3
Benefit plan funding position
Recognized net actuarial loss - pension/postretirement plans(4)$—$(0.1)$(0.1)$(0.4)
Recognized net actuarial gain (loss) - other plans(4)(0.2)(0.1)(0.5)(0.4)
Total before tax$(0.2)$(0.2)$(0.6)$(0.8)
Tax (expense) benefit0.1—0.20.2
Net of tax$(0.1)$(0.2)$(0.4)$(0.6)

(1)Primarily included in food and beverage costs and restaurant expenses. See Note 10 for additional details.

(2)Included in general and administrative expenses. See Note 10 for additional details.

(3)Included in interest, net on our consolidated statement of earnings.

(4)Included in the computation of net periodic benefit costs, which is a component of general and administrative expenses.

Note 9. Stock-Based Compensation

We grant stock options for a fixed number of shares to certain employees with an exercise price equal to the fair value of the shares at the date of grant. We also grant restricted stock, restricted stock units and performance stock units with a fair value

DARDEN RESTAURANTS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Unaudited)

generally determined based on our closing stock price on the date of grant. In addition, we grant cash-settled stock units (Darden stock units) which are classified as liabilities and are marked to market as of the end of each period.

The weighted-average fair value of non-qualified stock options and the related assumptions used in the Black-Scholes option pricing model for options granted during the periods presented, were as follows:

Nine Months Ended
February 26, 2023February 27, 2022
Weighted-average fair value$36.20$41.02
Dividend yield3.8%3.2%
Expected volatility of stock42.0%39.6%
Risk-free interest rate2.8%0.9%
Expected option life (in years)5.96.3
Weighted-average exercise price per share$121.47$148.20

The weighted-average grant date fair value of market-based performance stock units and the related assumptions used in the Monte Carlo simulation to record stock-based compensation for units granted during the periods presented, were as follows:

Nine Months Ended
February 26, 2023February 27, 2022
Dividend yield (1)0.0%0.0%
Expected volatility of stock55.5%53.4%
Risk-free interest rate2.9%0.4%
Expected life (in years)2.82.8
Weighted-average grant date fair value per unit$137.73$172.34

(1)Assumes a reinvestment of dividends.

The following table presents a summary of our stock-based compensation activity for the nine months ended February 26, 2023.

(in millions)Stock OptionsRestricted Stock/ Restricted Stock UnitsEquity-Settled Performance Stock UnitsCash-Settled Darden Stock Units
Outstanding beginning of period1.810.250.410.82
Awards granted0.180.080.100.21
Awards granted performance impact——(0.04)—
Awards exercised/vested(0.19)(0.05)(0.11)(0.15)
Awards forfeited———(0.05)
Outstanding end of period1.800.280.360.83

DARDEN RESTAURANTS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Unaudited)

We recognized expense from stock-based compensation as follows:

Three Months EndedNine Months Ended
(in millions)February 26, 2023February 27, 2022February 26, 2023February 27, 2022
Stock options$1.5$1.1$5.6$5.6
Restricted stock/restricted stock units1.71.46.36.3
Equity-settled performance stock units3.52.612.413.1
Cash-settled Darden stock units6.35.624.821.8
Employee stock purchase plan0.70.72.12.0
Director compensation program/other0.50.31.41.0
Total stock-based compensation expense$14.2$11.7$52.6$49.8

Note 10. Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities

We enter into derivative instruments for risk management purposes only, including derivatives designated as hedging instruments as provided by FASB ASC Topic 815, Derivatives and Hedging, and those utilized as economic hedges. We use financial derivatives to manage interest rate, commodity and compensation risks inherent in our business operations. Cash flows related to derivatives are included in operating activities.

By using these instruments, we expose ourselves, from time to time, to credit risk and market risk. Credit risk is the failure of the counterparty to perform under the terms of the derivative contract. When the fair value of a derivative contract is positive, the counterparty owes us, which creates credit risk for us. We minimize this credit risk by entering into transactions with high quality counterparties. Market risk is the adverse effect on the value of a financial instrument that results from a change in interest rates, commodity prices, or the market price of our common stock. We minimize this market risk by establishing and monitoring parameters that limit the types and degree of market risk that may be undertaken.

We designate commodity contracts and equity forward contracts as cash flow hedging instruments. Our interest rate swap agreements are designated as fair value hedges of the related debt. Further, we entered into equity forward contracts to hedge the risk of changes in future cash flows associated with recognized, employee-directed investments in our common stock within the non-qualified deferred compensation plan. We did not elect hedge accounting with the expectation that changes in the fair value of the equity forward contracts would offset changes in the fair value of our common stock investments in the non-qualified deferred compensation plan.

DARDEN RESTAURANTS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Unaudited)

The notional and fair values of our derivative contracts were as follows:

Fair Values
(in millions, except per share data)Number of Shares OutstandingWeighted-Average Per Share Forward RatesNotional ValuesDerivative Assets (1)Derivative Liabilities (1)
February 26, 2023February 26, 2023May 29, 2022February 26, 2023May 29, 2022
Equity forwards:
Designated0.3$125.51$34.6$—$—$0.6$0.1
Not designated0.5125.0562.5——1.10.2
Total equity forwards (2)$—$—$1.7$0.3
Commodity contracts:
DesignatedN/AN/A$18.2$—$0.6$4.5$—
Not designatedN/AN/A—————
Total commodity contracts (3)$—$0.6$4.5$—
Interest rate related
DesignatedN/AN/A$300.0$—$—$49.2$28.0
Not designatedN/AN/A————
Total interest rate related$—$—$49.2$28.0
Total derivative contracts$—$0.6$55.4$28.3

(1)Derivative assets and liabilities are included in receivables, net and other current liabilities, as applicable, on our consolidated balance sheets.

(2)Designated and undesignated equity forwards extend through July 2026 and April 2027, respectively.

(3)Commodity contracts extend through February 2024.

DARDEN RESTAURANTS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Unaudited)

The effects of derivative instruments accounted for as cash flow hedging instruments in the consolidated statements of earnings were as follows:

Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in AOCIAmount of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI to Earnings
Three Months EndedThree Months Ended
(in millions)February 26, 2023February 27, 2022February 26, 2023February 27, 2022
Equity (1)$(2.0)$0.6$—$(0.1)
Commodity (2)(7.6)1.1(2.3)0.7
Interest rate (3)————
Total$(9.6)$1.7$(2.3)$0.6
Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in AOCIAmount of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI to Earnings
Nine Months EndedNine Months Ended
(in millions)February 26, 2023February 27, 2022February 26, 2023February 27, 2022
Equity (1)$4.8$(2.1)$(0.8)$0.8
Commodity (2)(6.6)1.2(1.5)0.8
Interest rate (3)——(0.1)(0.1)
Total$(1.8)$(0.9)$(2.4)$1.5

(1)Location of the gain (loss) reclassified from AOCI to earnings is general and administrative expenses.

(2)Location of the gain (loss) reclassified from AOCI to earnings is food and beverage costs and restaurant expenses.

(3)Location of the gain (loss) reclassified from AOCI to earnings is interest, net.

The effects of derivative instruments in fair value hedging relationships in the consolidated statement of earnings were as follows:

Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Earnings on DerivativesAmount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Earnings on Related Hedged Item
Three Months EndedThree Months Ended
(in millions)February 26, 2023February 27, 2022February 26, 2023February 27, 2022
Interest rate (1)(2)$(5.2)$(13.1)$5.2$13.1
Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Earnings on DerivativesAmount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Earnings on Related Hedged Item
Nine Months EndedNine Months Ended
(in millions)February 26, 2023February 27, 2022February 26, 2023February 27, 2022
Interest rate (1)(2)$(21.2)$(11.9)$21.2$11.9

(1) Location of the gain (loss) recognized in earnings on derivatives and related hedged item is interest, net.

(2) Hedged item in fair value hedge relationship is debt.

DARDEN RESTAURANTS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Unaudited)

The effects of derivatives not designated as hedging instruments in the consolidated statements of earnings were as follows:

Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Earnings
(in millions)Three Months EndedNine Months Ended
Location of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Earnings on DerivativesFebruary 26, 2023February 27, 2022February 26, 2023February 27, 2022
Food and beverage costs and restaurant expenses$—$(0.1)$—$—
General and administrative expenses(1.1)2.78.64.3
Total$(1.1)$2.6$8.6$4.3

Based on the fair value of our derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges as of February 26, 2023, we expect to reclassify $(4.2) million of net losses on derivative instruments from AOCI to earnings during the next 12 months based on the maturity of our contracts. However, the amounts ultimately realized in earnings may change and will be dependent on the fair value of the contracts on the respective settlement dates.

Note 11. Fair Value Measurements

The fair values of cash equivalents, receivables, net, accounts payable and short-term debt approximate their carrying amounts due to their short duration.

The following tables summarize the fair values of financial instruments measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of February 26, 2023 and May 29, 2022.

Items Measured at Fair Value at February 26, 2023
(in millions)Fair value of assets (liabilities)Quoted prices in active market for identical assets (liabilities) (Level 1)Significant other observable inputs (Level 2)Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
Derivatives:
Commodities futures, swaps & options(1)$(4.5)$—$(4.5)$—
Equity forwards(2)$(1.7)$—$(1.7)$—
Interest rate swaps(3)(49.2)—(49.2)—
Total$(55.4)$—$(55.4)$—
Items Measured at Fair Value at May 29, 2022
(in millions)Fair value of assets (liabilities)Quoted prices in active market for identical assets (liabilities) (Level 1)Significant other observable inputs (Level 2)Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
Derivatives:
Commodities futures, swaps & options(1)$0.6$—$0.6$—
Equity forwards(2)(0.3)—(0.3)—
Interest rate swaps(3)(28.0)—(28.0)—
Total$(27.7)$—$(27.7)$—

(1)The fair value of our commodities futures, swaps and options is based on closing market prices of the contracts, inclusive of the risk of nonperformance.

(2)The fair value of equity forwards is based on the closing market value of Darden stock, inclusive of the risk of nonperformance.

(3)The fair value of our interest rate swap agreements is based on current and expected market interest rates, inclusive of the risk of nonperformance.

DARDEN RESTAURANTS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Unaudited)

The carrying value and fair value of long-term debt as of February 26, 2023, was $880.9 million and $850.8 million, respectively. The carrying value and fair value of long-term debt as of May 29, 2022, was $901.0 million and $896.9 million, respectively. The fair value of long-term debt, classified as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy, is determined based on market prices or, if market prices are not available, the present value of the underlying cash flows discounted at our incremental borrowing rates.

The fair value of non-financial assets measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis, classified as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy, is determined based on third-party market appraisals. As of February 26, 2023 and May 29, 2022, adjustments to the fair values of non-financial assets measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis, classified as Level 2, were not material.

The fair value of non-financial assets measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis, classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy, is determined based on appraisals, sales prices of comparable assets, or estimates of discounted future cash flows. As of February 26, 2023, adjustments to the fair values of non-financial assets, classified as Level 3, were not material. As of May 29, 2022, long-lived assets held and used with a carrying amount of $4.9 million, primarily related to one underperforming restaurant, were determined to have a fair value of $0.9 million resulting in an impairment charge of $4.0 million.

Note 12. Commitments and Contingencies

As collateral for performance on contracts and as credit guarantees to banks and insurers, we are contingently liable for guarantees of subsidiary obligations under standby letters of credit. As of February 26, 2023 and May 29, 2022, we had $85.3 million and $104.8 million, respectively, of standby letters of credit related to workers’ compensation and general liabilities accrued in our consolidated financial statements. As of February 26, 2023 and May 29, 2022, we had $15.4 million and $18.8 million, respectively, of surety bonds related to other payments. Most surety bonds are renewable annually.

As of February 26, 2023 and May 29, 2022, we had $85.7 million and $101.0 million, respectively, of guarantees associated with leased properties that have been assigned to third parties. These amounts represent the maximum potential amount of future payments under the guarantees. The fair value of the maximum potential future payments discounted at our weighted-average cost of capital as of February 26, 2023 and May 29, 2022, amounted to $71.2 million and $83.6 million, respectively. In the event of default by a third party, the indemnity and default clauses in our assignment agreements govern our ability to recover from and pursue the third party for damages incurred as a result of its default. We do not hold any third-party assets as collateral related to these assignment agreements, except to the extent that the assignment allows us to repossess the building and personal property. These guarantees expire over their respective lease terms, which range from fiscal 2023 through fiscal 2034.

We are subject to private lawsuits, administrative proceedings and claims that arise in the ordinary course of our business. A number of these lawsuits, proceedings and claims may exist at any given time. These matters typically involve claims from guests, employees and others related to operational issues common to the restaurant industry, and can also involve infringement of, or challenges to, our trademarks. While the resolution of a lawsuit, proceeding or claim may have an impact on our financial results for the period in which it is resolved, we believe that the final disposition of the lawsuits, proceedings and claims in which we are currently involved, either individually or in the aggregate, will not have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

Note 13. Subsequent Events

On March 21, 2023, the Board of Directors declared a cash dividend of $1.21 per share payable on May 1, 2023 to all shareholders of record as of the close of business on April 10, 2023.

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