ZACKS·2025-11-24 17:36Core Insights - Dutch Bros Inc. (BROS) and Starbucks Corporation (SBUX) are key players in the specialty coffee market, each adapting to changing consumer demands and market conditions [1][2] - The coffee category is stabilizing after a period of volatility, with Dutch Bros focusing on rapid expansion and digital engagement, while Starbucks is undergoing an operational reset to regain momentum in the U.S. [1][2] Dutch Bros Overview - Dutch Bros is committed to long-term growth through disciplined unit expansion and enhancing customer experience, with a focus on shop development and digital engagement [3] - The introduction of a hot food program is central to Dutch Bros' strategy, with approximately 160 shops offering food, resulting in a 4% comp benefit in participating locations [4] - Digital enhancements, such as Order Ahead functionality, have reached a 13% mix, driving loyalty and improving guest satisfaction [5] - Despite near-term margin pressures from rising coffee costs and labor expenses, Dutch Bros is making strides in cost efficiency and capital discipline [6] Starbucks Overview - Starbucks faces significant operational challenges, with U.S. traffic not stabilizing as expected and ongoing issues with service consistency and throughput [7][9] - The company's international performance is mixed, particularly in China, where recovery trends are volatile and competitive pressures are high [10] - Cost pressures from wage inflation and elevated input costs are constraining Starbucks' margin recovery, despite management's commitment to expense discipline [11] Financial Performance and Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Dutch Bros suggests year-over-year increases of 24.2% in sales and 27.6% in earnings per share (EPS) for 2026 [12] - In contrast, Starbucks' estimates indicate more modest year-over-year increases of 3.5% in sales and 13.6% in EPS for fiscal 2026, with a recent decline in earnings estimates [15] - Year-to-date, Dutch Bros stock has increased by 4.7%, while Starbucks shares have declined by 6.5% [8][18] Valuation Comparison - Dutch Bros trades at a forward price-to-sales (P/S) ratio of 4.58, above the industry average of 3.43, while Starbucks has a lower forward P/S of 2.5 [20] - Dutch Bros is viewed as better positioned for consistent growth and operational momentum, while Starbucks is navigating a complex turnaround with greater uncertainty [22][23]