Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q1 2025, consolidated comparable sales increased by 0.1% or just over 1% excluding Leap Day, with net restaurant growth at 3.3% [6][7] - System-wide sales growth was reported at 2.8%, while organic adjusted operating income growth was 2.6% [6][32] - Adjusted EPS rose to $0.75 per share from $0.73, reflecting nominal growth of 3.3% and organic growth of 9.9% [34] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Tim Hortons Canada experienced flat comparable sales of 0.1% or approximately 1.2% after adjusting for Leap Day [8] - Burger King U.S. saw a 1.1% decrease in comparable sales, but continued to outperform the broader QSR category [17] - Popeyes in the U.S. and Canada reported a 4% decline in comparable sales, following a 5.7% increase in the prior year [21] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - International segment comparable sales grew by 2.6% or roughly 3.7% excluding Leap Day, with system-wide sales growth of 8.6% [12] - Strong growth was noted in key markets such as the UK, Germany, Brazil, Japan, and Australia [12][13] - Burger King India crossed the 500 restaurant milestone, indicating significant growth potential [14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to deliver at least 8% organic adjusted operating income growth in 2025, focusing on improving the value proposition for guests [7] - A strategic shift towards refranchising Carrols and enhancing operational excellence across brands is underway [40] - The company is actively working to secure a new local partner for Burger King China, with plans for a portfolio cleanup to reposition the business for long-term success [16][28] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged a challenging macro environment but expressed confidence in the underlying strength of the brands and operational plans [6][7] - There is optimism regarding improved sales momentum in April and a stronger start to Q2 [7][32] - The company expects to maintain targets for 3% plus comparable sales and 8% plus organic AOI growth on average through 2028 [27] Other Important Information - The company generated $89 million in free cash flow in Q1, impacted by $77 million in cash tax payments [35] - Capital expenditures are expected to be in the $400 million to $450 million range for 2025 and 2026, up from over $330 million in 2024 [37] - The company is focusing on operational efficiency and has revised segment G&A guidance to $600 million to $620 million for 2025 [39] Q&A Session Summary Question: Impact of Canadian macro environment on Tim Hortons - Management noted a slight dip in consumer confidence but observed improvements in Q2, with confidence in Tim Hortons' performance due to strong marketing initiatives [47][50] Question: Trends in international markets - Management expressed satisfaction with international performance, highlighting positive same-store sales and strong brand positioning in key markets [52][56] Question: Performance of Burger King U.S. - Management attributed Burger King's relative outperformance to improved operations and ongoing remodels, with plans for continued enhancements throughout the year [65][68]