Bloomin’ Brands to Expand in Brazil, Asia and Mexico

Bloomin’ Brands Inc. (Tampa, Fla.), parent of restaurant brands such as Outback Steakhouse and Bonefish Grill, is plotting an international expansion of 55-60 new restaurants around the globe.

The Tampa Bay Business Journal said the company is looking especially at Brazil, where it acquired 90 percent ownership of its Brazil Outback Steakhouse chain last year.

“Brazil is one of the most vibrant, emerging consumer markets in the world,” said chairman and ceo Liz Smith.

She said Bloomin’ also plans to pursue opportunities in China and Mexico, and to revitalize its business in Korea.

On a domestic basis, Bonefish Grill will be the primary growth vehicle for Bloomin’, with Carrabba’s a second priority.

She said the focus would be “on innovation,” including new menus, remodels and “occasion expansion,” or the addition of dining options, such as more lunch options.

 “We expect the casual dining segment will remain challenged with negative traffic until there is a meaningful increase in our target consumers’ disposable income,” she said.