News Summary: Darden focuses on promotions

BRING ON THE BREADSTICKS: Darden Restaurants Inc. says it will continue touting deals and promotions to attract more customers to its Olive Garden and Red Lobster chains.

THE DISH: Even if it hurts profit margins, the company says winning back customers is key its future growth. It also says it will be working on offering dishes to better reflect the way people are eating — such as lighter dishes at Olive Garden.

BOTTOM LINE: The company said its profit fell 12 percent for its fiscal fourth quarter on rising costs and expenses. But sales at Olive Garden and Red Lobster restaurants open at least a year edged up, helped by customer traffic.