Darden’s four largest brands all generated positive same-restaurant sales for the quarter. 

Sales and volume for the potato processor declined due to continued foodservice struggles.

Michael Smith is the company’s current COO and will replace outgoing CEO Thomas Werner in January.

Food labeling is also a challenge for many shoppers, according to Datassential’s 2025 Trends Report.

Indulgent items also are trending as consumers seek comfort from uncertainty.

Activist investor Jana Partners also urges massive Board and leadership changes at Lamb Weston.

Functional health claims on packaging help shoppers make consistent choices.