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Christopher Thomas O'Cull

Managing Director and Senior Analyst at Stifel

Christopher Thomas O'Cull is a Managing Director and Senior Analyst at Stifel, specializing in equity research coverage of the restaurant industry. He closely follows and provides investment analysis on major public restaurant companies such as Portillo's and Mister Car Wash, regularly participating in earnings calls and conducting in-depth research as a leading sell-side restaurant analyst. His career at Stifel has spanned several years in this senior role, building on prior industry experience and a longstanding focus on consumer sectors. O'Cull holds multiple FINRA securities licenses consistent with his regulatory responsibilities as a senior equity analyst at a major investment bank.

Christopher Thomas O'Cull's questions to DARDEN RESTAURANTS (DRI) leadership

Christopher Thomas O'Cull's questions to DARDEN RESTAURANTS (DRI) leadership • Q1 2026

Question

Christopher Thomas O'Cull asked about the perceived risk of eliminating the tip wage and any potential impact it could have on Darden's business.

Answer

CEO Rick Cardenas emphasized that the industry has diverse business models, and policy should reflect this. He believes Darden's full-service operating model is the best choice for guests and team members, and that Darden would be able to adapt and navigate any changes successfully.

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Christopher Thomas O'Cull's questions to DARDEN RESTAURANTS (DRI) leadership • Q1 2026

Question

Christopher Thomas O'Cull asked about the perceived risk of eliminating the tip wage and its potential impact on Darden's business.

Answer

Rick Cardenas, President, CEO & Director, stated that the industry's diverse business models should be reflected in policy. He expressed confidence that Darden's full-service model is optimal for guests and team members, and that the company would adapt and 'be OK' regardless of any changes to tip wage policy.

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