Leisure Industry Shows Strength: 3 Stocks Set to Ride the Upswing

Core Insights - The Zacks Leisure and Recreation Services industry is experiencing growth due to optimized business processes, partnerships, and digital initiatives, with strong demand for concerts and cruise bookings supporting this trend [1] Industry Overview - The industry includes various recreation providers such as cruise operators, theme parks, and entertainment venues, thriving on economic growth that boosts consumer demand [2] Trends Influencing the Industry - The cruise sector is seeing strong demand and booking volumes, particularly in North America and Europe, with solid pricing and onboard spending contributing positively [3] - Theme parks are benefiting from increased visitation and consumer spending, enhanced by technology integration like augmented and virtual reality [4] - Digital tools are improving customer engagement and operational efficiency, with data analytics aiding in staffing and scheduling [5] - Leisure operators are increasing revenue through premium options and memberships, enhancing customer relationships while maintaining profitability [6] Industry Performance - The Zacks Leisure and Recreation Services industry ranks 104, placing it in the top 43% of 244 Zacks industries, indicating positive near-term prospects [7][8] - The industry has outperformed the broader sector with an 8.7% growth over the past year compared to the sector's 4.2% [11] Valuation Metrics - The industry trades at a forward 12-month P/S ratio of 2.38X, lower than the S&P 500's 5.67X, indicating potential value [14] Notable Companies - Trip.com Group (TCOM): Benefits from strong global travel demand and is enhancing customer engagement through AI integration. Shares have declined 4.6% in the past year, with earnings estimates for 2026 increasing to $4.24 [16][17] - Travel + Leisure (TNL): Experiences strong execution and demand, with a 41.3% share price increase over the past year. Expected sales and earnings growth of 4.1% and 16.8% respectively in fiscal 2026 [20][21] - Planet Fitness (PLNT): Benefits from franchise growth and digital transformation efforts, with a 5% decline in shares over the past year. Projected sales and earnings growth of 11.1% and 17.1% respectively in 2026 [24][25]