From Nation's Restaurant News · · 1m 30s
Outback Launches 'Best Steaks Ever' Menu
Outback Steakhouse introduces juicier, more flavorful steaks to boost customer satisfaction and sales.
In brief
Outback Steakhouse introduces juicier, more flavorful steaks to boost customer satisfaction and sales. Outback Steakhouse launched 'Best Steaks Ever' steaks to improve customer satisfaction and sales after a turnaround effort under CEO Mike Spanos. Originally reported by Nation's Restaurant News.
Outback launches 'Best Steaks Ever' menu
Outback Steakhouse introduced a new steak lineup claiming juicier and more flavorful steaks than before.
“The steakhouse chain on Thursday launched “Best Steaks Ever,” a selection of steaks that Outback says are juicier and more flavorful than before.”
New steak cuts added
The lineup includes Down Under Delmonico Ribeye, New York Strip, Victoria’s Barrel-Cut Filet Mignon, Center-Cut Sirloin, and Rockhampton Ribeye.
“The lineup includes two new cuts, the Down Under Delmonico Ribeye and a New York Strip, as well as a Victoria’s Barrel-Cut Filet Mignon, Center-Cut Sirloin, and Rockhampton Ribeye.”
Turnaround under CEO Mike Spanos
Outback has improved steak quality through better meat selection, new seasoning, clamshell grills, and enhanced steak training.
“The 662-unit chain has been working to improve its signature menu item as part of a turnaround effort under CEO Mike Spanos. It has instituted tighter specs on the sizes of its steaks, created a new seasoning, and added clamshell grills. It has also boosted steak training, including a new certification test for field leaders.”
Customer satisfaction improves
Last quarter, customer satisfaction with Outback’s food rose 4 points and intent to return rose 5 points.
“Last quarter, customer satisfaction with Outback’s food rose 4 points, and their intent to return rose 5 points, the chain said in August, while same-store sales rose 1.4%.”
New chief steak officer
Efrem Cutler, VP of Research and Development, now holds the title of chief steak officer to oversee steak quality.
“As part of the Best Steaks Ever campaign, the chain has given VP of Research and Development Efrem Cutler the additional title of chief steak officer.”
Customer feedback initiative
Outback offers customers a chance to share first-bite reactions via Spokesbooth at select locations.
“Outback is also giving customers a chance to share their take on the new steaks in the Spokesbooth. At select locations, customers will be able to sit in one of Outback’s booths and have their first-bite reactions recorded on camera.”
Industry trend
Other chains like Burger King and Chili’s have improved food quality to boost sales and customer satisfaction.
“Tampa-based Outback is just the latest chain to publicize food quality improvements in an effort to appeal to choosy consumers. Burger King’s revamped Whopper, for instance, helped drive a same-store sales surge of 8.5% in the second quarter, and Chili’s has also seen success by upgrading many of its core menu items.”
Customer satisfaction results
Same-store sales rose 1.4% and customer satisfaction with food increased by 4 points last quarter.
“Last quarter, customer satisfaction with Outback’s food rose 4 points, and their intent to return rose 5 points, the chain said in August, while same-store sales rose 1.4%.”
Outlook for steak quality
Outback aims to maintain higher steak quality to keep customers returning and increasing sales.
“From the cuts we serve to the way we season and prepare our steaks, we are now serving a more tender, more flavorful steak and a better overall experience that gives guests more reasons to keep coming back”
The takeaway
Outback Steakhouse launched 'Best Steaks Ever' steaks to improve customer satisfaction and sales after a turnaround effort under CEO Mike Spanos.
