Brinker, whose stable of brands includes Chili's Grill & Bar, Romano's Macaroni Grill, On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina and Maggiano's Little Italy, signed agreements with Shoot the Moon LLC and Bighorn Associates.

Shoot the Moon acquired a franchise territory in Washington, Idaho and Montana, including seven corporate-owned Chili's restaurants in Washington and Idaho. Over the next five years, Shoot the Moon will develop seven new locations, including the first Chili's and Macaroni Grill restaurants to be built in Montana. According to a company statement: "Development of the Montana restaurants marks a milestone for Brinker, which previously had restaurants in 49 of the 50 states."

The agreement with Bighorn Associates will significantly increase Chili's brand penetration in Wyoming. The franchisee purchased one corporate-owned restaurant in Cheyenne, WY and plans to develop four more Chili's locations in the surrounding area.

Brinker has one of the most active franchise programs in the casual dining segment. So far this year, franchisees have purchased 16 corporate-owned restaurants and signed agreements to develop an additional 104 restaurants over the next 10 years. Currently, Brinker owns or franchises more than 1,500 restaurants in 24 countries. Most recently, the company signed a franchise agreement to expand in the Middle East.