Core Insights - McDonald's reported a 2.4% growth in US same-store sales for Q3, but CEO Chris Kempczinski warned of reduced spending from low-income customers despite value meal offerings accounting for 30% of transactions [1] - Cava has lowered its same-store sales growth forecast to 3-4% from 4-6%, citing decreased visits from younger diners aged 25-34 due to economic pressures [2] Company Performance - Cava's same restaurant sales accelerated from 16.5% to 20% on a two-year basis, but saw a slight decline of 1.9% year-over-year [7] - Cava opened 17 new restaurants in the quarter, bringing the total to 415, marking an 18% year-over-year increase [9] - Cava maintains guidance for 68-70 net new restaurants this year and projects a compound annual unit growth rate of at least 16% for next year [11] Market Trends - The fast-casual dining sector is experiencing intense discounting, with 30% of restaurant transactions tied to discounts in the past year [12] - Cava has taken less than half the aggregate price increase compared to industry peers, with a 17% increase versus an average of 34% in the industry [13] Consumer Behavior - Younger diners are facing economic challenges such as student loan repayments and increased living costs, leading to reduced restaurant visits [8] - Cava has managed to grow its market share within the younger demographic despite a decrease in visit frequency [9]