Explore the detailed history of Outback Steakhouse, from its Australian origins to becoming a global dining giant with nearly 1,000 locations worldwide. The timeline highlights key milestones such as rapid expansion, franchise diversification, and international growth, culminating in over $1 billion in revenue by 2000. Discover how strategic innovations and global outreach elevated Outback to a leading name in the casual dining industry.

Trace the Development of Outback Steakhouse

Originally founded in Australia and now a prominent casual dining chain in the United States, Outback Steakhouse is headquartered in Tampa, Florida. It operates nearly 1,000 locations across 23 countries spanning the Americas, Asia, and Australia. Established in 1988 by Bob Basham, Chris T Sullivan, Trudy Cooper, and Tim Gannon, the brand has grown significantly, earning worldwide recognition as a top steakhouse.

Below is a timeline highlighting their key milestones:

Early 1990s: Going Public and Rapid Expansion

By 1992, Outback launched about 35 additional outlets, significantly increasing its reach. Its signature dishes gained popularity, and by year’s end, sales neared $200 million. The company's growth included reaching over 100 locations in 15 states, marking its entry into the stock market with impressive annual growth of 150%.

Mid-1990s: Launching Carrabba's and Menu Diversification

The introduction of Carrabba’s Italian Grill alongside other brands expanded Outback’s menu options. Collaborating with a Houston-based group facilitated international openings. In 1994, 70 Outback restaurants and 10 Carrabba’s outlets opened, bringing the totals to 300 Outback locations and 25 Carrabba’s by 1995. Revenue doubled, surpassing $665 million.

Late 1990s: Revenue Exceeds $1 Billion

International growth took off around 1996, with the first overseas restaurant in Canada, followed by outlets in Aruba, Brazil, China, Guam, Mexico, and South Korea. By the late 1990s, over 40 international Outback restaurants operated outside the U.S. The brand concentrated on global markets into the 2000s, exploring smaller formats like airport locations, and achieved over $1 billion in revenue by the turn of the century.