Red Lobster said, “We listen, we don’t judge, and we make changes!” The restaurant giant is proving that the customer really is always right, especially when your CEO is a millennial who actually reads the comments.
Under the leadership of CEO Damola Adamolekun, Red Lobster has made quick moves to update its newly launched seafood boil offerings, just two weeks after their release. The decision? Fueled entirely by customer feedback.
And instead of releasing a statement through a PR rep, Adamolekun took to social media himself to speak directly to the people, something more companies could learn from.
“Hello Lobster Nation, Damola here,” he begins in a now-viral clip. “We dropped our new seafood boils and you guys really, really, really showed up. We appreciate all the love and all the excitement. Also, we heard you in the comments. You want even more heat, you want even more flavors. So we’re turning it up.”
The upgrades? Diners now get their choice of original, spicy, or extra spicy, and for those looking for a flavor twist, there’s a new Old Bay and Parmesan option. You want sausage in your boil? It’s on the menu now too.
You pick the heat 🔥
— Red Lobster (@redlobster) July 9, 2025
We bring the feast 🦀 pic.twitter.com/mNqXwuNzHY
He also made sure to give flowers to the people making it happen behind the scenes: “Shout out to the team—our servers, managers, chefs, and operators who were able to make all these changes happen in just one week.”
Let that sink in: one week.
This isn’t just about food; it’s about leadership. It’s rare to see a major national chain pivot this fast in response to customer feedback.
And it’s even rarer to see the CEO personally hop on camera to acknowledge the comments and shout out the staff. But that’s exactly the kind of new day leadership that’s reshaping how legacy brands survive—and thrive—in a new era.
Other businesses should be taking notes. In a world where consumers are more vocal, connected, and empowered than ever before, the brands that listen, adapt, and engage will win.
