Carlson operates Pick Up Stix, an Asian-themed fast-casual chain with more than 150 locations in California, Nevada, and Arizona. In 2015 the company sold off its interest in more than 900 T.G.I. Friday's casual dining locations across the US and in about 60 other countries. About 300 T.G.I. Friday's units were company-owned while the rest were franchised. Carlson is a subsidiary of travel and leisure conglomerate Carlson Companies and its parent is focusing more on its hotel business. The recession cut into the casual dining segment during recent years as consumers reined in spending on luxury items including dining and leisure.