Darden price target lowered to $240 from $252 at Truist

Truist analyst Jake Bartlett lowered the firm’s price target on Darden (DRI) to $240 from $252 but keeps a Buy rating on the shares after its Q1 earnings miss and guidance. The company’s increased FY26 sales outlook against the current uncertain macro backdrop highlights Olive Garden’s strong positioning and incremental sales drivers, including growing delivery sales, effective promotions and small portion menu test, the analyst tells investors in a research note. Truist adds that while the spiking beef costs are pressuring margin, the slightly increased menu pricing and labor productivity are still driving modest margin expansion.