Olive Garden Parent Company Executive Sells Portion of Multi-Billion Dollar Shares

Darden Restaurants Inc. (Nasdaq: DRI) Group President Melvin John Martin sold 1,200 shares of the company’s common stock on the open market on January 6 at approximately $197.47 per share, generating about $237,000 (roughly KRW 300 million) in cash. After this sale, he still holds approximately 17,000 shares—valued at around $3.4 million (about KRW 4.4 billion) at current market prices—accumulated through the employee stock purchase plan and dividend reinvestment.

In its recently announced second-quarter fiscal 2026 results, the company reported quarterly revenue of about $3.1 billion and same-store sales growth of 4%. It also reaffirmed its quarterly dividend of $1.50 per share and confirmed plans for additional share repurchases.

Analysts say that Olive Garden’s low-priced unlimited pasta promotion and the expansion of new restaurant openings have contributed to revenue growth, reflecting continued strong demand in the U.S. dining market.

Headquartered in Orlando, Florida, Darden Restaurants is a leading casual and family-dining operator, running brands such as Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse and Ruth’s Chris Steak House.