Outback Steakhouse franchise locations flourish amid challenges

Recent news of more than 40 Outback Steakhouse locations closing across the country has caused the ownership group of Mississippi and West Tennessee restaurants to say they’re not closing.  

Early this week, the parent company for the restaurant chain announced that 41 locations would close. Bloomin’ Brands blamed under performance and declining sales for Outback Steakhouse, Carraba’s Italian Grill, and other properties behind the closings. A list of the locations being closed was not provided. 

However, JR Restaurant Group, which owns Outback Steakhouses in Mississippi and West Tennessee, released information on Friday, March 1, that their locations are doing well and will not be closing. The Outback Steakhouse on Goodman Road in Southaven is one the JR Restaurant Group properties.  

Local community involvement is a “secret” in the strong performance, according to JR Restaurant Group president Steve Grantham Jr. 

“If we take care of our people, customers, and communities, the Outback business will take care of itself,” Grantham said. “We have set a new precedent for how restaurants can and should operate. Our dedication to our communities is unwavering, and we believe that this is reflected in our ongoing success across Mississippi and West Tennessee.”

The group owns seven Mississippi Outback Steakhouse locations and one in Jackson, Tennessee.