I'm here right now with Brian Nichols, fresh off his Investor Day here in New York City and fresh off an earnings report that actually seemed to please a lot of investors for five quarters right now into your tenure as CEO of Starbucks. And you put together a couple of quarters of growth, something that the company hadn't seen in quite some time. Yeah, it was it was a great quarter for us.You know, the thing that was really exciting to see the growth was driven by transactions and also the fact that the ini ...

Core Insights - The company has reported a strong quarter, marking growth in transactions and customer visits, which has pleased investors [1][2][3] - The growth is attributed to initiatives focused on customer service and operational support for partners, particularly through the Green Apron service model [2][12] Transaction Growth - Growth in transactions was driven by both existing customers in the rewards program and new customers, indicating a recovery in customer engagement [3][4] - The company experienced a slight increase in ticket growth, attributed to new product offerings, such as a protein foam option [4][5] In-Store Experience - The company emphasizes the importance of the in-store experience, which accounts for over 20% of revenue, despite the growth in drive-thru and mobile orders [6][8] - A significant portion of customers still prefer the café experience, highlighting the brand's identity as a community space [7][8] Competitive Landscape - The company acknowledges competition from new entrants in the coffee market but believes its multi-channel approach and café experience provide a competitive edge [9][10] - The drive-thru business alone generates over $10 billion, showcasing the scale and efficiency of the company's operations [10] Rewards Program - The rewards program is being revamped to enhance personalization and attract new customers, with three tiers introduced to encourage engagement [17][19] - Feedback indicated that the previous program lacked personalization, prompting changes to make it more appealing to infrequent customers [18] Financial Performance - The company aims for consistent revenue growth of 3% or better and earnings growth exceeding that, positioning itself as a growth company at scale [21][22] - Margin improvements are expected in the latter half of the year, with a target of achieving 13% to 15% margins by 2028 [23] Cost Management - The company has invested $500 million to $600 million in labor to enhance the customer experience, which is seen as essential for driving earnings [24][26] - A focus on smart cost management is expected to yield close to $2 billion in savings over the next two years while maintaining revenue growth [25] International Strategy - The company views China as a significant growth market, with plans to expand from over 8,000 coffeehouses to potentially 15,000 to 20,000 through a partnership with a local firm [38][39] - The partnership is structured to be asset-light, allowing for growth without heavy capital investment, while still maintaining margin accretion [40][41] Future Growth Opportunities - The company sees potential for growth in the afternoon daypart, aiming to enhance the café experience to attract customers during these hours [50][51] - Menu changes are being implemented to cater to diverse customer preferences, including non-caffeinated options for the afternoon [52][53]

Core Insights - Starbucks is showing signs of a turnaround under CEO Brian Niccol, with positive same-store sales growth in the US and strong growth in China [1][2] Group 1: Turnaround Strategies - The company reported same-store sales growth in the US due to new product offerings like protein coffee, improved food options, and faster service [1] - At the NYC Investor Day, Starbucks announced plans for new drinks, an upgraded rewards program, and remodeled stores to enhance customer experience [2] - Niccol emphasized improved ordering times and better execution by employees as key factors in the turnaround [3] Group 2: Investor Day Highlights - Starbucks committed to adding 25,000 seats to US stores by the end of the fiscal year [5] - The company aims to create a new afternoon business peak supported by new energy drinks and food options [5] - A revised rewards program will launch on March 10, featuring three membership levels: Green, Gold, and Reserve, each with distinct benefits [5] Group 3: Growth and Financial Outlook - Starbucks sees potential to double its international store footprint, primarily through growth in China [6] - The company plans to cut $2 billion in expenses over the next two years [6] - Fiscal year 2028 earnings per share guidance is set at $3.35-$4.00, aligning with analyst estimates [6]

Core Viewpoint - Yum Brands (YUM) is expected to report quarterly earnings of $1.78 per share, reflecting a year-over-year increase of 10.6%, with revenues projected at $2.47 billion, up 4.4% from the previous year [1]. Earnings Projections - Analysts have adjusted the consensus EPS estimate upward by 0.2% over the past 30 days, indicating a reassessment of initial projections [1][2]. Revenue Estimates - Total revenues from company sales are estimated to be $948.02 million, representing a year-over-year increase of 7.1% [4]. - Franchise and property revenues are projected to reach $987.03 million, indicating a 4.5% increase year-over-year [4]. - Franchise contributions for advertising and other services are expected to be $536.69 million, showing a 0.9% increase from the prior year [5]. - KFC Division's franchise contributions for advertising and other services are forecasted at $200.77 million, reflecting a 7.9% increase year-over-year [5]. Restaurant Metrics - The number of franchise and license restaurants in the KFC Division is expected to reach 33,411, up from 31,513 in the same quarter last year [6]. - Total restaurants in the Taco Bell Division are projected at 8,984, compared to 8,757 in the previous year [6]. - Company-owned Taco Bell restaurants are expected to total 642, up from 504 year-over-year [7]. - Franchise and license Taco Bell restaurants are estimated at 8,342, compared to 8,253 last year [7]. - Total restaurants in the Pizza Hut Division are expected to be 20,190, slightly down from 20,225 year-over-year [7]. - The total number of restaurants across all divisions is projected to reach 63,461, up from 61,346 in the previous year [8]. - Company-owned KFC restaurants are estimated at 488, compared to 468 last year [8]. Same-Store Sales - The consensus estimate for same-store sales growth in the Taco Bell Division is 5.8%, up from 5.0% year-over-year [8]. Stock Performance - Over the past month, Yum shares have returned +2.8%, outperforming the Zacks S&P 500 composite's +0.9% change [10].

Core Viewpoint - Some investors believe that Starbucks Corp. (NASDAQ: SBUX) earnings indicate a potential turnaround for the company [1] Company Summary - Starbucks Corp. has reported earnings that have led some investors to view the results as a sign of recovery [1]

Core Insights - Starbucks has launched its "Back to Starbucks" turnaround plan, focusing on core differentiators such as coffee craft, partner-led service, and a welcoming coffeehouse experience [4][22] - The company aims for financial targets including ≥3% comparable sales growth, ≥5% net revenue growth, operating margins of 13.5%–15%, and EPS of $3.35–$4.00 by fiscal 2028 [5][21] Operational Changes - The "Back to Starbucks" plan includes operational resets based on customer feedback, emphasizing timely service and simplified store operations [2][7] - Investments are being made in customer experience, including the rollout of Green Apron Service, which is the largest investment in this area to date [2][12] - Starbucks is shifting from costly remodels to lower-cost overnight store "uplifts" costing approximately $150,000 per store, aiming to add over 25,000 seats across the U.S. by the end of fiscal 2026 [13] Product and Menu Innovations - A new dark roast blend called 1971 Roast and Clover Coffee equipment for freshly ground coffee will be introduced [3][7] - Menu innovations include new espresso, matcha, and chai beverages, with a focus on customization, which has become a significant revenue driver [8][15] - The company plans to expand its bakery offerings and introduce a $2 billion platform for Refreshers, including Energy Refreshers [15] Loyalty Program Revamp - Starbucks will relaunch its loyalty program as "Reimagine" on March 10, featuring three tiers and faster earning potential [6][10] - The program has over 35 million active members and accounts for nearly 60% of U.S. company-operated revenue [10] International Strategy - Starbucks is transitioning approximately 8,000 coffeehouses in China to a licensed model, which is expected to increase international operating margins to the high teens [18] - The international segment includes over 22,000 coffeehouses in 88 markets, contributing about 20% of total company revenue in fiscal 2025 [17] Financial Framework - The company has invested over $500 million in labor, store uplifts, and partner benefits while streamlining non-retail G&A [20] - For fiscal 2026, Starbucks anticipates global comparable sales growth of 3% or better and EPS guidance of $2.15–$2.40 [21]

You can find original article here Nrn. Subscribe to our free daily Nrn newsletters. P.F. Chang’s has hired Holly Smith as its new chief marketing officer. She will report directly to CEO Jim Mazany, who took the helm at the Arizona-based casual-dining chain in November.  In her role, Smith will oversee all of P.F. Chang’s marketing functions, including campaigns, loyalty, and “amplifying the brand’s global presence,” a company release said.  P.F. Chang’s executives said at the ICR Conference ...

Population Growth and Economic Implications - The latest U.S. Census Bureau estimates indicate very low population growth from June 30, 2024, to July 1, 2025, suggesting potential future weaknesses in economic growth [2] - Natural population increase has been low, with fluctuations primarily driven by net migration, which is not perfectly measured [4] - Population growth in the coming years is expected to be lower than the recent gains, with net migration showing significant fluctuations during different presidential administrations [7] Labor Market and Productivity - Most immigrants are of working age but tend to be lower-skilled and earn lower wages, which means a drop in immigration has a less significant impact compared to a decline in native-born workers [5] - Low-skilled workers complement high-skilled workers, affecting overall productivity and earnings in various sectors [6] - Labor productivity growth is beginning to reflect advancements in artificial intelligence, with historical productivity gains showing variability [8] Economic Growth Forecast - With approximately zero population growth and an expected productivity growth of around two percent, inflation-adjusted GDP is projected to increase by slightly more than two percent in the near term [9] - Business planning should be slightly less optimistic than in previous years, particularly for sectors serving low-wage consumers, which will experience slower growth [10] - The economy can remain healthy with low immigration, but its size and characteristics will differ from scenarios with higher immigration levels [11]

Core Insights - Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® is celebrating its 56-year legacy by partnering with America250 to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, focusing on American traditions and community [1][5] Company Initiatives - The partnership with America250 reflects Cracker Barrel's heritage of bringing people together through food and shared experiences, aiming to create new memories for families [2] - Throughout the year, Cracker Barrel will offer in-store experiences, limited-time menu items, and storytelling that highlight American traditions and moments [2][3] - New menu items inspired by classic American favorites will be introduced, along with the return of popular summertime dishes to enhance family gatherings [3] Commemorative Efforts - Cracker Barrel will reimagine its iconic rocking chair with commemorative designs that celebrate the spirit of American communities, available at select locations and events [4] - The company will also launch limited edition merchandise that honors the nation's heritage, providing guests with souvenirs for this significant event [4] Community Engagement - America250 aims to engage 350 million Americans in the commemoration, with Cracker Barrel playing a vital role in inviting people to share stories and celebrate over meals [5] - Cracker Barrel is committed to preserving the traditions and flavors that have united people for generations as the nation looks forward to its next 250 years [5]

Core Insights - Starbucks' 2026 Investor Day highlighted the company's positive same-store sales growth, indicating strong business momentum under CEO Brian Niccol's leadership since late 2024 [1][6] - The company aims to expand its store footprint significantly, planning to open 400 net new units in North America by the end of fiscal 2028, following a strategic review that led to the closure of about 400 stores in September 2025 [3][5] - Starbucks is focusing on menu innovation and technology integration, including artificial intelligence, to enhance customer experience and drive sales growth [2][7] Expansion Plans - The Chief Operating Officer, Mike Grams, projected the potential for approximately 5,000 new coffeehouses in the U.S. in the long term, particularly targeting Central U.S., the South, and parts of the Northeast [4] - The brand's strategy includes extending its presence into afternoon dayparts, supported by menu innovation and changing consumer behavior [4] Menu Innovation - To leverage recent sales growth, Starbucks is set to expand its menu, which had previously undergone rationalization through cuts during Niccol's early tenure [7]