Outback Steakhouse shuts down 21 locations with more coming

It doesn't seem like it was that long ago that steakhouses were all the rage, but times have clearly changed. Outback Steakhouse announces that it will permanently close 21 locations, and more closures are to come.

It's a new era for Outback Steakhouse

This isn't exactly the trend or era the restaurant chain wants to be in, but here we are.

Bloomin' Brands, which owns Outback Steakhouse, has confirmed the closure of 21 restaurants under its main umbrella. This includes brands like Outback Steakhouse, Carrabba's Italian Grill, and Bonefish Grill.

The exact number of Outback Steakhouses to close within the list of 21 isn't clear. What is clear is that the restaurant chain is going through a transition period.

The underlying causes of restaurants closing down

Outback Steakhouse isn't unique when it comes to closures. Each day, it seems like there's another standalone, chain, or fast-food restaurant that is downsizing and closing locations.

It's a tough time to be in the food industry as customer demands and habits change. Diners are looking for affordability above all else, so if a restaurant can't compete, it's in big trouble.

In the steakhouse category, Outback has struggled to compete. Rivals have been posting higher traffic and stronger sales growth.

The bleeding hasn't stopped

What is even more concerning is that Bloomin' Brands has said these 21 closures won't be enough. They've also said they won't renew leases for 22 additional restaurants in the U.S.

These additional closures will be more spaced out, taking place over four years. It's meant to be a longer-term approach that helps Bloomin' Brands consolidate and not rush the closures.

You may want to get your fill now

If you've got an Outback Steakhouse nearby that you enjoy dining at, now is a good time to go eat there in case yours is on the list of closures.

Source: AOL