Darden Restaurants controversies
Controversies tied to this brand in public sources. A listing is not a finding of fault.
Back to profile3 entries
2022
Criticism over cage-free egg progress
The Open Wing Alliance criticized Darden for what it regarded as insufficient progress toward the company's cage-free egg commitment. Darden subsequently broadened the stated commitment to cover international locations by 2027.
2021
One Fair Wage sues Darden over wage policies
Lawsuit filed
One Fair Wage filed a lawsuit against Darden Restaurants, alleging that its tipped-wage policies increase sexual harassment and contribute to wage disparities across racial groups. Darden responded that the lawsuit's objections concern wage laws, not its practices, and said it has policies against harassment and discrimination.
Company response
Denial — Darden Restaurants
The complaint makes clear that their objections are with federal and state wage laws – not with our practice
Source excerpt
The complaint makes clear that their objections are with federal and state wage laws – not with our practice
“Darden’s wage policies result in increased sexual harassment of workers and disparate wages for workers across racial groups,” the lawsuit said.
One Fair Wage filed the lawsuit Thursday in the U.S. Northern District Court of California.
2014
Dispute over the Red Lobster sale and financial disclosures
Investors criticized the Red Lobster transaction as undervaluing the brand and its real estate. A union pension fund later filed suit alleging that management had materially misrepresented Red Lobster's financial condition, citing differences between public statements and a leaked document reportedly prepared for potential lenders or buyers. The allegations and management's defenses were reported in connection with the contested sale.