Outback Steakhouse’s largest US franchisee files for bankruptcy

A franchisee of the Australian-themed restaurant chain Outback Steakhouse has filed for bankruptcy in Delaware, meaning dozens of its restaurants could soon change ownership.

On Monday, Out West Restaurant Group filed for bankruptcy protection in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware. Both assets and liabilities were in an estimated range of $10 million to $50 million, and the filing listed 30 current creditors.

Court records state that the group operates 61 Outback restaurants across California, Arizona, Colorado, Nevada and New Mexico, all of which the parent company—Bloomin’ Brands—is now poised to acquire.

Newsweek has contacted the parent company via email for comment.

This is a developing story. More to follow.