1003 Old Airport Rd
Bristol, VA 24201

Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen, a fast casual restaurant with 165 locations across 28 states, was recently purchased by Darden Restaurants (NYSE:DRI) for $780 Million. Darden is an American multi-brand operator that owns popular brands such as Olive Garden, LongHorn Steak House, Eddie V's Prime Seafood, The Capital Grill and Yard House. Following the news of the acquisition, Darden shares increased by 7.8% in after-hours trading and the stock price has steadily been progressing from $81.50 per share towards $84.00 per share (as of 3/31/17). Darden's CEO, Gene Lee, explained during a conference call with multiple media outlets that "Cheddar's is an undisputed casual dining value leader with broad appeal and strong average restaurant volumes." Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen was founded in 1979 by Aubrey & Doug Rogers, who believed that fresh cooked meals tasted better and also made their customers feel better. Strategically situated in the southeastern US, Bristol is a twin city located directly on thew Tennessee-Virginia state line. Bristol is part of the metropolitan statistical area of Bristol, Johnson City & Kingsport, commonly called the Tri-Cities. Interstate 81 ties Bristol to important population centers such as Knoxville, Tennessee & Roanoke, Virginia.