Bloomin' Brands Announces Appointment of Gregg Scarlett as President of Bonefish Grill(R)

TAMPA, Fla., March 12, 2015 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bloomin' Brands, Inc. (Nasdaq:BLMN) today announced the appointment of Gregg Scarlett as Executive Vice President of Bloomin' Brands, and President of Bonefish Grill. In this role, Scarlett will be responsible for leading the operations and development of Bonefish Grill restaurants across the United States.

Scarlett most recently served as the Senior Vice President of Casual Dining Restaurant (CDR) Operations for Bloomin' Brands and was responsible for capturing and implementing operational best practices across the three CDR brands. 

"Bonefish Grill is our top domestic development priority. Gregg's extensive operations experience, ability to effectively develop and lead teams, and familiarity with the brand makes this a natural fit," said Liz Smith, CEO of Bloomin' Brands. "As a member of our team for more than 20 years, he brings a passion and respect for the legacy of Bonefish Grill, coupled with proven leadership to ensure we continue to deliver a superior brand experience and new unit growth."

"I am excited and honored to rejoin this founder-inspired brand," said Scarlett. "Bonefish Grill has a rich history and I look forward to working with its team of talented leaders as we grow the business."  

Scarlett joined Bloomin' Brands in 1994 as a Managing Partner for Outback Steakhouse in Wappingers Falls, NY.  He was promoted to Joint Venture Partner for Bonefish Grill shortly after it was acquired by Bloomin' Brands, and later became Vice President of Operations for the brand. Under his leadership, he led the rapid expansion of new units across the U.S. and worked closely with Bonefish Grill founders, Chris Parker and Tim Curci, to create the polished, casual experience that Bonefish Grill is known for today. During his tenure, Scarlett also has served as the Senior Vice President of Operations for Outback Steakhouse and Carrabba's Italian Grill.

Scarlett is replacing Stephen Judge who will be leaving Bonefish Grill after a transition period to pursue other interests.

"We thank Stephen for his many contributions and leadership over the past two years. During this time, Stephen oversaw the development and implementation of our new menu that launched last year, as well as the opening of more than 40 new restaurants," said Smith.

About Bloomin' Brands, Inc.

Bloomin' Brands, Inc. is one of the largest casual dining restaurant companies in the world with a portfolio of leading, differentiated restaurant concepts. The Company has four founder-inspired brands: Outback Steakhouse, Carrabba's Italian Grill, Bonefish Grill and Fleming's Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar. The Company owns and operates approximately 1,500 restaurants in 48 states, Puerto Rico, Guam and 21 countries, some of which are franchise locations. For more information, please visit bloominbrands.com.

CONTACT: Cathie Koch

         Vice President, Corporate Communications

         (813) 830-5127

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