Casual dining chain outlines four initiatives for coming year.

Parent Darden defended its transformational plans for the Italian chain in response to activist investor's complaints.

Consumers buying more natural and organic products

Three acquisitions and a major product launch deliver on consumer demand for ethnic flavors, protein and portability.

Perceptions of health and attitudes about eating out vary among consumers, according to Mintel.

Emerging concepts specialize in authentic, street-style preparations and gourmet toppings.

Chicken chain expanding seafood, boneless platforms.

Muscle Milk acquisition and snack wrap innovation were driven by demand for portability.

Companies may be faced with the decision to lower prices and lose margin or raise prices and lose volume.

Price First brand significantly lower in price compared to branded products.