Douglas Comings on pricing power
From Brinker CEO on Chili's strength and growth strategy · · CNBC Television
“We believe we do have pricing power. The thing we're really proud of, we're making sure we meet all guest needs. There are some guests that come in and that's all the money they have to spend on a meal out of home. We're going to meet with a $6 margarita made with great spirits and great ingredients or $10.99 Three For Me lunch menu.”
On , Douglas Comings, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for Chili's Grill & Bar at BRINKER INTL INC, spoke about pricing power during Brinker CEO on Chili's strength and growth strategy on CNBC Television.
About Douglas Comings
Douglas Comings, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for Chili's Grill & Bar at Brinker International, has been involved in the company's recent strategic initiatives. In October 2024, Brinker CEO Kevin Hochman discussed Chili's performance, noting that comparable sales grew 13.5% in the most recent quarter. Hochman attributed this to investments in the guest experience, better service levels, and menu tightening. He also mentioned the company's use of TikTok to reach new customers and the introduction of value-oriented menu items such as the $10.99 Three For Me lunch menu and a $6 margarita. Hochman stated that the company aims to meet a range of guest needs, from value to premium options. In September 2023, Hochman described the company's turnaround as "well underway," with a focus on reinvesting $55 to $60 million in advertising to drive traffic. He emphasized a strategy of simplifying operations by listening to restaurant teams and implementing their ideas to improve the guest experience and profitability. Hochman noted that the company is focused on improving restaurant operating margins and managing labor, and that regardless of macroeconomic conditions, the priority is to provide the best possible guest experience to win market share.