Bloomin Brands (NASDAQ:BLMN) Stock

Bloomin Brands

Bloomin Brands Inc operates as a casual dining restaurant company. The company's brand includes Outback Steakhouse, Carrabba's Italian Grill, Bonefish Grill, and Fleming's Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar. The company owns and operates its restaurants, and the remainder is franchised. It derives revenue mainly from the United States, but the company has a presence in Brazil and South Korea with company-owned Outbacks and Carrabbas. In addition, it also has exposure to several countries, predominantly in Asia, principally through franchising. The Company aggregates its operating segments into two reportable segments, U.S. and international. The U.S. segment includes all restaurants operating in the U.S. while restaurants operating outside the U.S. are included in the international segment.

Bloomin Brands Inc

U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has championed &#8220;medical freedom&#8221; while simultaneously limiting access to COVID-19 vaccines and restricting food stamp purchases, creating what public health experts call a dichotomy in his approach to healthcare policy.
What Happened: Kennedy announced last week that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention would remove COVID-19 vaccines from <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/05/45661031/robert-f-kennedy-jr-says-cdc-drops-covid-vaccine-for-healthy-pregnant-women-children">recommended </a>immunization schedules for healthy children and pregnant women.
The decision bypassed traditional advisory committee processes and shifted coverage from routine recommendations to shared clinical decision-making between doctors and patients.
&#8220;Regarding the vaccines, HHS is restoring the doctor-patient relationship,&#8221; HHS spokesperson Andrew Nixon said in a <a href="https://abcnews.go.com/Health/rfk-jr-promoted-freedom-choice-limiting-vaccines-food/story?id=122526364">statement</a> to ABC News. &#8220;We are encouraging those groups to consult with their health care provider to help them make an informed decision.&#8221;
Kennedy has also pushed to ban Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program recipients from purchasing candy and soda with food stamps. Ten state governors have submitted waivers to the Agriculture Department requesting permission for such restrictions, according to Kennedy&#8217;s statements at a Make America Healthy Again event in May.
The Food and Drug Administration began <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/05/45399804/robert-kennedy-jr-cheers-fda-plan-to-ban-fluoride-supplements-for-children-calls-move-long-overdue">removing fluoride supplements for children </a>from the market, earning Kennedy&#8217;s praise as &#8220;long overdue.&#8221; The agency cited a lack of FDA approval and evidence that these products alter gut microbiomes.
Kennedy&#8217;s broader MAHA initiative has influenced restaurant chains to eliminate seed oils. Biglari Holdings Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BH#NYSE">BH</a>) subsidiary Steak &#8216;n Shake switched to beef tallow for French fries, while Sweetgreen Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SG#NYSE">SG</a>), Bloomin&#8217; Brands Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLMN#NASDAQ">BLMN</a>), and Restaurant Brands International Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QSR#NYSE">QSR</a>) have initiated similar transitions.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/06/45809455/tesla-stock-climbed-nearly-5-in-friday-pre-market-whats-going-on">Tesla Stock Climbed Nearly 5% In Friday Pre-Market: What&#8217;s Going On?</a>
Why It Matters: Critics argue Kennedy&#8217;s policies contradict his &#8220;medical freedom&#8221; messaging by limiting choices. Removing COVID vaccines from CDC schedules restricts access while claiming to promote freedom.
&#8220;If you restrict access, you necessarily restrict choice,&#8221; Dr. Matthew Ferrari of Pennsylvania State University told ABC News. Public health experts warn Kennedy&#8217;s approach individualizes community health decisions. &#8220;We&#8217;re losing a lot of that underpinning, which has led to a lot of the gains in public health,&#8221; Dr. Craig Spencer of Brown University told ABC News.
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Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
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Health Care

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RFK Jr. Champions 'Medical Freedom' While Curtailing Access, Say Public Health Experts

Bank of America Securities analyst Sara Senatore explained that while the restaurant industry may seem simple due to its familiarity with consumers, investing in restaurant stocks remains complex, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/restaurants/25/05/45417777/lobster-life-sibling-entrepreneurs-see-trade-turmoil-as-a-business-edge" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">given the wide performance variation within the sector.</a>
According to Senatore, in today&#8217;s value-conscious environment, the restaurants seeing success are those offering standout products and experiences across multiple dimensions.
This consistent execution has allowed leading quick-service pizza chains to expand market share, and she highlights that Domino&#8217;s Pizza Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DPZ#NASDAQ">DPZ</a>) is positioned to continue outperforming, backed by its partnerships with delivery platforms like DoorDash, Inc.(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DASH#NASDAQ">DASH</a>)
and Uber Technologies, Inc.&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UBER#NYSE">UBER</a>) UberEats, value-oriented menu strategies, and technological strength. The analyst reiterated the Buy rating on Domino&#8217;s, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/DPZ/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener">with a price forecast of $549.</a>
Also Read:<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/restaurants/25/05/45400599/only-reasonable-profits-jdcom-takes-aim-at-global-food-delivery-economics-with-zero-commission-modelrevives-founders-035-principle" rel="noreferrer noopener"> &#8216;Only Reasonable Profits:&#8217; JD.com Takes Aim At Global Food Delivery Economics With Zero-Commission Model—Revives Founder&#8217;s &#8216;$0.35 Principle&#8217;</a>
The analyst expressed optimism about Papa John&#8217;s International, Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PZZA#NASDAQ">PZZA</a>), anticipating an improved earnings profile after the company&#8217;s planned investments in 2025. Senatore reiterated the Buy rating, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/PZZA/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener">with a price forecast of $52.</a>
Senatore noted that Yum! Brands, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/YUM#NYSE">YUM</a>), the parent company of Pizza Hut, has maintained stable returns on assets compared to the broader market, and she views the company&#8217;s historical performance range as a solid basis for future estimates. The analyst reiterated the Neutral rating <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/YUM/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener">with a price forecast of $159.</a>
Senatore highlighted market share dynamics among these top three pizza chains, noting that Domino&#8217;s has continued to gain share, Papa Johns has maintained its position, while Pizza Hut has seen a decline in share.
Out of the Pizza focus, the analyst sees Bloomin&#8217; Brands, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLMN#NASDAQ">BLMN</a>) &#8216;s same-store sales growth could be slower than expected if macro headwinds pressure restaurant consumption or sales-driving initiatives fail to resonate with customers. Senatore reiterated the company&#8217;s Underperform rating, with a price forecast of $7.
Senatore noted that McDonald&#8217;s Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MCD#NYSE">MCD</a>) could deliver better-than-expected margins and returns if it slows down its investment pace or uncovers unanticipated cost savings.
She also suggested that if investor sentiment turns more risk-averse, McDonald&#8217;s defensive profile could become increasingly appealing in the current market environment. The analyst reiterated the Neutral rating on McDonald&#8217;s with a price forecast of $327.
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Image: Shutterstock

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Pizza Power Play: Analyst Says Domino's Gains Share, Papa Johns Holds Steady, Pizza Hut Loses Ground

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. faces mounting pressure from Republican lawmakers and farming communities as his highly anticipated &#8220;Make America Healthy Again&#8221; report approaches Thursday&#8217;s release, with glyphosate pesticide regulations emerging as the primary flashpoint between public health advocates and agricultural interests.
What Happened: The MAHA Commission report, mandated by President Donald Trump within 100 days to analyze childhood disease factors, has sparked preemptive opposition from 79 Republican lawmakers representing farming states, <a href="https://apnews.com/article/rfk-jr-kennedy-farmers-maha-trump-pesticides-5d5a83bde6b88290cf9c3536e74523be">according</a> to AP. Iowa Republican Sen. Chuck Grassley warned Wednesday that farmers have expressed concerns about being excluded from the report&#8217;s input process.
Kennedy addressed Senate Appropriations Committee concerns from Mississippi Republican Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith, stating &#8220;there&#8217;s not a single word in them that should worry the American farmer&#8221; and promising not to &#8220;jeopardize that business model.&#8221; The commission, established by Trump&#8217;s February executive order, was tasked with examining prescription drugs, chemicals, and food ingredients affecting children.
The report comes alongside a proposed $500 million budget boost for Kennedy&#8217;s MAHA initiative, while simultaneously cutting infectious disease prevention, maternal health, and medical research programs. Kennedy supporters, including 360 MAHA advocates and former campaign staffers, have submitted pesticide studies pressing for chemical industry accountability.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45558200/advance-auto-parts-gears-up-for-q1-print-here-are-the-recent-forecast-changes-from-wall-streets-most-accurate-analysts">Advance Auto Parts Gears Up For Q1 Print; Here Are The Recent Forecast Changes From Wall Street&#8217;s Most Accurate Analysts</a>
Why It Matters: The report&#8217;s potential glyphosate restrictions could significantly impact agricultural productivity and food company operations. Kennedy&#8217;s broader MAHA agenda has already influenced restaurant industry practices, with Biglari Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BH#NASDAQ">BH</a>) subsidiary Steak &#8216;n Shake switching from seed oils to beef tallow for French fries, earning Kennedy&#8217;s public praise for <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/restaurants/25/03/44280041/rfk-jr-thanks-steak-n-shake-for-rfking-the-french-fries-restaurant-goes-all-in-on-make-america-healthy-again">&#8220;RFKing the French fries.&#8221;</a>
Other restaurant chains, including Sweetgreen Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SG#NYSE">SG</a>), Bloomin&#8217; Brands Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLMN#NASDAQ">BLMN</a>)-owned Outback Steakhouse, and Restaurant Brands International Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QSR#NYSE">QSR</a>)-owned Popeyes, have initiated similar transitions. Kennedy has scheduled meetings with food giants PepsiCo Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PEP#NASDAQ">PEP</a>) and General Mills Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GIS#NYSE">GIS</a>) to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/03/44209953/rfk-jr-takes-on-food-giants-calls-meeting-with-pepsico-and-general-mills">address processed food concerns.</a>
The MAHA initiative&#8217;s budget proposal threatens the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/05/45522362/we-have-no-details-says-food-program-director-as-trumps-maha-boxes-threaten-730000-seniors-grocery-lifeline">$425 million Commodity Supplemental Food Program</a>, potentially affecting 730,000 seniors&#8217; grocery access through replacement &#8220;MAHA boxes.&#8221; Food program directors report logistical challenges and communication gaps, with Connecticut Foodshare experiencing 34 canceled federal shipments affecting over 600 food banks statewide.
The World Health Organization classifies glyphosate as a probable human carcinogen, while farmers argue it remains essential for weed control without excessive soil tilling, creating a regulatory tension between public health priorities and agricultural economics.
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Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
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Politics

RFK Jr.'s 'Make America Healthy Again' Report Stirs GOP, Farmers Over Glyphosate Concerns Ahead Of Release

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Shares of restaurant companies are trading higher after the US and China agreed to a temporary reduction in most tariffs on each other's goods. This could alleviate supply chain uncertainty in the sector.

Shares of Bloomin&#8217; Brands Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLMN#NASDAQ">BLMN</a>) climbed in early Monday trading despite the company reporting a decline in first-quarter sales on Friday.
CEO Mike Spanos is identifying various investments that are "necessary for the longer-term vitality" of the company's different businesses, according to JPMorgan. 
The Bloomin&#8217; Brands Analyst: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst/587e33185064ed0001730304/john-ivankoe">Analyst John Ivankoe</a> maintained a Neutral rating and price target of $9.
The Bloomin&#8217; Brands Thesis: While the estimates for fiscal 2026 and 2027 reflect significant reinvestment, not all of this may be needed to "recapture lost share from peers," Ivankoe said in the note.
Check out <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings">other analyst stock ratings</a>.
"The ongoing multi-market 14-store test is trying to assess the level of investment needed to drive traffic such as menu work (creating new menu items at a lower cost), making things easier and creating a more appealing environment," the analyst wrote.
While Bloomin&#8217; Brands aims to further simplify its menu, with the aim of doing "fewer things better," it recognizes Outback's variety of items drives incremental traffic, he added.
Management's second-quarter comp guidance of -2.5% to -1.5% reflects the "continuation of a choppy macro and cautious consumer," Ivankoe stated.
BLMN Price Action: At the time of publication on Monday, shares of Bloomin&#8217; Brands had risen by 14.18% to $8.34.
Read More: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/content/45335074/bloomin-brands-stock-drops-on-weak-guidance-and-demand-concerns">Bloomin&#8217; Brands Stock Drops on Weak Guidance and Demand Concerns</a>
Photo: Shutterstock

Analyst Color

Earnings Misses

Reiteration

Bloomin' Brands Invests For Longer-Term Growth, Will Do 'Fewer Things Better'

Barclays analyst Jeffrey Bernstein maintains Bloomin Brands (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLMN#NASDAQ">BLMN</a>) with a Equal-Weight and lowers the price target from $9 to $8.

Price Target

Barclays Maintains Equal-Weight on Bloomin Brands, Lowers Price Target to $8

Bloomin&#8217; Brands, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLMN#NASDAQ">BLMN</a>) reported first quarter adjusted earnings per share of 59 cents on Wednesday, beating the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/05/b45248079/bloomin-brands-announces-2025-q1-financial-results" rel="noreferrer noopener">analyst consensus estimate of 56 cents.</a>
Quarterly sales of $1.05 billion (down 1.8% year over year) outpaced the street view of $1.03 billion.
The decrease in total revenues was primarily due to the net impact of restaurant closures and openings and a decrease in comparable restaurant sales.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/restaurants/25/04/45021992/us-restaurants-face-growth-hurdles-as-macro-headwinds-mount-says-analyst" rel="noreferrer noopener">US Restaurants Face Growth Hurdles As Macro Headwinds Mount, Says Analyst</a>
Adjusted operating income margin in the quarter under review contracted to 6.1% from 7.8% in the year-ago period.&nbsp;
Adjusted restaurant-level operating margin contracted to 13.9% from 15.5% a year ago, primarily due to lower revenues, higher operating, labor, and commodity costs, primarily due to inflation, and unfavorable product cost mix.
On April 23, the firm declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.15 per share, payable on June 4, to stockholders of record at the close of business on May 20.
The company exited the quarter with cash and equivalents worth $57.691 million, and total debt of $917.610 million.
Outlook: Bloomin&#8217; Brands expects the second quarter adjusted EPS of $0.22 and $0.27, which is far lower than the $0.36 consensus estimate. The company reaffirmed its full-year 2025 adjusted EPS guidance of $1.20 to $1.40, compared to the $1.30 estimate.
&#8220;We are navigating a choppy macro environment and are leaning in to our abundant everyday value offerings. This is reflected in our current guidance,&#8221; said Mike Spanos, CEO.
Price Action: BLMN shares are trading higher by 0.76% to $7.990&nbsp;premarket at last check Friday.
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Photo via Shutterstock

Guidance

Outback Steakhouse Parent Bloomin Brands Q1 Earnings: Margin Contraction, High Debt, Weak Q2 Outlook

Bloomin' Brands shares are trading lower after the company issued Q2 adjusted EPS guidance below estimates.

Bloomin Brands Affirms FY2025 Adj EPS Guidance of $1.20-$1.40 vs $1.30 Est

Bloomin Brands Sees Q2 Adj EPS $0.22-$0.27 vs $0.36 Est

Earnings

Earnings Beats

Bloomin Brands Q1 Adj. EPS $0.59 Beats $0.56 Estimate, Sales $1.05B Beat $1.03B Estimate

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Earnings Scheduled For May 7, 2025

UBS analyst Dennis Geiger maintains Bloomin Brands (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLMN#NASDAQ">BLMN</a>) with a Neutral and lowers the price target from $13 to $8.5.

UBS Maintains Neutral on Bloomin Brands, Lowers Price Target to $8.5

Goldman Sachs analyst Christine Cho on Wednesday provided a preview of the first quarter for U.S. restaurants.
What Happened: U.S. restaurant companies faced a tough start to 2025, with weaker consumer sentiment, weather impacts and tariff uncertainties affecting performance, except for a few like Brinker International Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EAT#NYSE">EAT</a>).
Although first-quarter softness was expected, risks remain on the downside due to macroeconomic and policy uncertainties, as reflected in Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc.&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CMG#NYSE">CMG</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44996394/chipotle-battles-slumping-sales-but-honey-chicken-boosts-hope-say-analysts">same-store sales growth miss and lowered guidance</a>.
These factors are likely to dominate investor attention during the earnings season, noted the analyst.
Despite no major changes in consumer intent for restaurant spending, recent adjustments to estimates reflect lower macroeconomic forecasts from GS economists, including slower GDP growth and a higher recession probability.
Restaurant sales trends are closely tied to consumer spending, and weaker macro conditions suggest lower comparable store-sales growth in the second half of 2025 and into 2026.
Inflation&#8217;s impact on margins is limited, and there&#8217;s a higher risk to global restaurant development plans, particularly in international markets, which could reduce long-term unit growth, the analyst said.
Economists predict a slowdown in U.S. GDP growth to 0.5% in 2025, down from 2.5% in 2024, with a 45% recession risk, up from 20% earlier in the year due to tightening financial conditions, foreign boycotts, and policy uncertainty.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/04/44977669/pepsico-ceo-warns-of-tariffs-led-increase-in-supply-chain-costs-cuts-annual-profit-outlook">PepsiCo CEO Warns Of Tariffs Led &#8216;Increase In Supply Chain Costs,&#8217; Cuts Annual Profit Outlook</a>
The deceleration in consumer spending and macro headwinds are putting pressure on restaurant top-line growth, with varying impacts across different restaurant types.
Fast food restaurants show the lowest sensitivity to macroeconomic conditions, with higher resiliency compared to fast casual and full-service restaurants, which are more correlated with GDP and consumer discretionary spending.
Recent surveys show no significant shifts in consumer purchase intent for restaurants, with full-service restaurants seeing improvement compared to grocery stores, while limited-service restaurants have contracted in recent months.
What&#8217;s Next: Companies like Wendy&#8217;s Co (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>), Bloomin&#8217; Brands Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLMN#NASDAQ">BLMN</a>), Domino&#8217;s Pizza Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DPZ#NASDAQ">DPZ</a>), Wingstop Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WING#NASDAQ">WING</a>), Yum! Brands Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/YUM#NYSE">YUM</a>), and Jack In The Box Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JACK#NASDAQ">JACK</a>) have higher lease-adjusted net leverage, with Starbucks Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SBUX#NASDAQ">SBUX</a>) and Domino&#8217;s facing notable near-term debt maturities.
Slower same-store sales growth and higher build costs are expected to hurt franchisee profitability and reduce demand for new stores.
Many fast food chains anticipate slower unit expansion in 2025, with Jack in The Box planning major cutbacks and closures, while fast casual/casual dining brands remain mostly on track.
Potential U.S. tariffs may raise domestic build costs, while international growth faces challenges from weaker global demand and rising anti-U.S. brand sentiment.
U.S. tariff actions and foreign policy stances have damaged international perceptions of the U.S., raising concerns about reduced demand for American brands.
While it&#8217;s too soon to measure definitive consumer pullback, monitoring sentiment is increasingly important for U.S. brands abroad.
Morning Consult data shows a YTD decline in U.S. favorability across most tracked countries, particularly Canada, Western Europe and Mexico.
Despite rising anti-U.S. sentiment globally, current data indicates no strong link between U.S. tariffs and Chinese consumer attitudes toward U.S. brands.
Read Next: • <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/04/45011035/meta-booz-allen-launch-space-llama-ai-system-for-space-station-operations">Meta, Booz Allen Launch &#8216;Space Llama&#8217; AI System For Space Station Operations</a>
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Restaurants

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US Restaurants Face Growth Hurdles As Macro Headwinds Mount, Says Analyst

<h3>Gainers</h3>
<ul>
<li>Wag Group (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PET#NASDAQ">PET</a>) shares increased by 58.6% to $0.17 during Wednesday's after-market session. The market value of their outstanding shares is at $8.8 million. </li>
<li>Linkage Global (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LGCB#NASDAQ">LGCB</a>) shares rose 26.7% to $2.42. The company's market cap stands at $7.4 million. </li>
<li>QVC Group (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QVCGA#NASDAQ">QVCGA</a>) shares increased by 11.86% to $0.17. The market value of their outstanding shares is at $67.6 million. </li>
<li>ZHONGCHAO (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ZCMD#NASDAQ">ZCMD</a>) shares increased by 10.18% to $1.19. The company's market cap stands at $30.0 million. </li>
<li>REE Automotive (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/REE#NASDAQ">REE</a>) stock moved upwards by 8.15% to $2.85. The company's market cap stands at $80.0 million. </li>
<li>Epsium Enterprise (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EPSM#NASDAQ">EPSM</a>) shares increased by 7.8% to $5.8. The market value of their outstanding shares is at $76.8 million. </li>
</ul>
<h3>Losers</h3>
<ul>
<li>SRM Entertainment (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SRM#NASDAQ">SRM</a>) shares declined by 8.2% to $0.42 during Wednesday's after-market session. The company's market cap stands at $6.7 million. </li>
<li>Jack In The Box (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JACK#NASDAQ">JACK</a>) shares declined by 6.57% to $23.75. The market value of their outstanding shares is at $447.8 million. </li>
<li>Bloomin Brands (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLMN#NASDAQ">BLMN</a>) stock decreased by 5.89% to $7.92. The market value of their outstanding shares is at $672.6 million. </li>
<li>Springview Holdings (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPHL#NASDAQ">SPHL</a>) shares fell 5.04% to $0.45. The company's market cap stands at $5.1 million. </li>
<li>Worksport (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WKSP#NASDAQ">WKSP</a>) shares declined by 4.92% to $2.71. The company's market cap stands at $12.9 million. </li>
<li>Top Win International (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TOPW#NASDAQ">TOPW</a>) shares declined by 4.88% to $2.66. The company's market cap stands at $66.2 million. 
See Also: <a href="http://www.benzinga.com/money/best-consumer-cyclical-stocks/" title="www.benzinga.com/money/best-consumer-cyclical-stocks/">www.benzinga.com/money/best-consumer-cyclical-stocks/</a></li>
</ul>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

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12 Consumer Discretionary Stocks Moving In Wednesday's After-Market Session

Barclays analyst Jeffrey Bernstein maintains Bloomin Brands (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLMN#NASDAQ">BLMN</a>) with a Equal-Weight and lowers the price target from $11 to $9.

Barclays Maintains Equal-Weight on Bloomin Brands, Lowers Price Target to $9

BofA Securities analyst Sara Senatore provides an analysis for restaurant sector performance in the first <a href="https://trello.com/c/f3PFGoRF/331021-restaurants-q1-previewbofa">quarter</a>.
Restaurant demand showed mixed results due to weather and a calendar shift, said the analyst. 
Black Box industry data revealed a deceleration in same-store sales growth (SSSG) across all segments from January to February, but March saw improvement, excluding Fine Dining. 
Restaurant spending growth improved in March, with chain spending recovering from -7.5% in February to -3.5%.
Independent restaurants saw a rise in spending, from -2.7% in February to +1.3%. The rebound was attributed to better weather and the impact of the calendar shift in February. 
In the first quarter, prices for soybeans, wheat and soybean oil continued to deflate, though at a slower rate than in the fourth quarter of FY24. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/04/44897010/chipotle-to-open-first-mexico-restaurant-by-2026">Chipotle To Open First Mexico Restaurant By 2026</a>
Coffee prices surged, increasing by 96.8% year-over-year, up from 56.8% in the fourth quarter. Beef inflation rose to 5.5%, compared to 1.3% in the previous quarter.
Cheese prices decreased by 1.8%, while dairy inflation slowed to 1.3%. Futures markets predict deflation in several commodities in the second quarter of 2025, but coffee, natural gas and beef are expected to see inflation, noted the analyst.
Restaurants index in the S&amp;P 500 is trading at 1.2x forward EPS, below its 5-year, 10-year and 15-year averages of 1.4x.
Industry data indicates a demand recovery in March after weak months in January and February. While consensus expectations for restaurants remain high, first-quarter results may fall short of estimates. 
Investors are focused on April trends and the potential impact of tariffs on consumer sentiment, traffic and COGS inflation.
So, keeping the above points in mind, the analyst has lowered the price targets for Bloomin&#8217; Brands Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLMN#NASDAQ">BLMN</a>), Dutch Bros Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BROS#NYSE">BROS</a>), Cheesecake Factory Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CAKE#NASDAQ">CAKE</a>), Cracker Barrel Old Country Store Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CBRL#NASDAQ">CBRL</a>), Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CMG#NYSE">CMG</a>), Krispy Kreme Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DNUT#NASDAQ">DNUT</a>), Domino&#8217;s Pizza Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DPZ#NASDAQ">DPZ</a>), Brinker International Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EAT#NYSE">EAT</a>), Jack In The Box Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JACK#NASDAQ">JACK</a>), McDonald&#8217;s Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MCD#NYSE">MCD</a>), Papa John&#8217;s International Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PZZA#NASDAQ">PZZA</a>), Restaurant Brands International Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QSR#NYSE">QSR</a>), Starbucks Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SBUX#NASDAQ">SBUX</a>), Sweetgreen Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SG#NYSE">SG</a>), Shake Shack Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SHAK#NYSE">SHAK</a>), Sysco Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SYY#NYSE">SYY</a>), Texas Roadhouse Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TXRH#NASDAQ">TXRH</a>), Wendy&#8217;s Co (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WEN#NASDAQ">WEN</a>), Wingstop Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WING#NASDAQ">WING</a>), and Yum! Brands Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/YUM#NYSE">YUM</a>).
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Photo: <a href="https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Rawpixel">Rawpixel.com</a> via Shutterstock

Restaurant Sector Q1 Volatilty From Weather, Inflation — Analyst Lowers Price Targets

<h3>Gainers</h3>
<ul>
<li>Birks Group (AMEX:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BGI#AMEX">BGI</a>) shares rose 12.2% to $1.01 during Wednesday's pre-market session. The market value of their outstanding shares is at $19.3 million. </li>
<li>Algorhythm Holdings (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RIME#NASDAQ">RIME</a>) shares increased by 10.67% to $2.8. The market value of their outstanding shares is at $6.6 million. </li>
<li>Allurion Technologies (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALUR#NYSE">ALUR</a>) shares rose 9.29% to $2.62. The company's market cap stands at $15.6 million. </li>
<li>SAG Holdings (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SAG#NASDAQ">SAG</a>) shares increased by 9.25% to $1.18. The company's market cap stands at $11.6 million. </li>
<li>TH International (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/THCH#NASDAQ">THCH</a>) shares rose 8.13% to $2.79. The market value of their outstanding shares is at $88.1 million. The company's, Q4 earnings came out yesterday. </li>
<li>LiveWire Gr (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LVWR#NYSE">LVWR</a>) shares increased by 7.37% to $2.33. The company's market cap stands at $474.0 million. </li>
</ul>
<h3>Losers</h3>
<ul>
<li>Lifetime Brands (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LCUT#NASDAQ">LCUT</a>) stock declined by 38.0% to $2.4 during Wednesday's pre-market session. The company's market cap stands at $53.1 million. </li>
<li>Cricut (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRCT#NASDAQ">CRCT</a>) shares declined by 16.46% to $4.01. The company's market cap stands at $852.3 million. </li>
<li>Bloomin Brands (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLMN#NASDAQ">BLMN</a>) stock fell 12.69% to $6.61. The company's market cap stands at $561.3 million. </li>
<li>Bassett Furniture Indus (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BSET#NASDAQ">BSET</a>) stock fell 9.25% to $15.42. The market value of their outstanding shares is at $135.7 million. </li>
<li>Aterian (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ATER#NASDAQ">ATER</a>) stock decreased by 7.48% to $1.61. The company's market cap stands at $14.0 million. 
See Also: <a href="http://www.benzinga.com/money/best-consumer-cyclical-stocks/" title="www.benzinga.com/money/best-consumer-cyclical-stocks/">www.benzinga.com/money/best-consumer-cyclical-stocks/</a></li>
</ul>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

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11 Consumer Discretionary Stocks Moving In Wednesday's Pre-Market Session

Several restaurant stocks are taking a beating on Thursday as broader markets tumble in reaction to sweeping reciprocal tariffs from <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/25/04/44632479/retail-stocks-slammed-as-trumps-tariff-plan-sends-shockwaves-through-sector">the Trump administration</a>.
What Happened: President Donald Trump announced new tariffs on several countries across the world on Wednesday, sending markets into a tailspin.
Restaurant stocks are getting hit particularly hard as restaurant chains typically source food machinery and packaging from China. Trump announced 34% tariffs on China this week. 
According to a Wall Street Journal <a href="https://www.wsj.com/livecoverage/trump-tariffs-trade-war-stock-market-04-03-2025/card/restaurant-stocks-slide-on-trump-s-new-duties-IrOe9ndIoLz9heJhUlgk">report</a>, many restaurant chains buy potatoes from Canada and often import meats from other countries. 
Starbucks Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SBUX#NASDAQ">SBUX</a>) has significant exposure to China as the company operates thousands of stores in the country. Starbucks had a total of 7,685 stores in China as of the end of 2024. The company is also a big coffee importer. Shares were down more than 11% at last check, per <a href="http://pro.benzinga.com">Benzinga Pro</a>.
Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CMG#NYSE">CMG</a>) is also facing selling pressure as the company imports avocados from Mexico, Columbia and other countries globally. Chipotle shares were down about 3.5% at the time of writing.
Here&#8217;s a look at some other restaurant stocks moving lower Thursday:
<ul>
<li>Dutch Bros Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BROS#NYSE">BROS</a>) down 9.05% at $56.24</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Shake Shack Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SHAK#NYSE">SHAK</a>) down 11.7% at $83.69</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>CAVA Group Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CAVA#NYSE">CAVA</a>) down 7.49% at $83.01</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Bloomin&#8217; Brands Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLMN#NASDAQ">BLMN</a>) down 8.25% at $7.15</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Cracker Barrel Old Country Store Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CBRL#NASDAQ">CBRL</a>) down 13.5% at $35.48</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Portillo&#8217;s Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PTLO#NASDAQ">PTLO</a>) down 8.24% at $11.50</li>
</ul>
Read Next:
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Photo: Shutterstock.

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Restaurant Stocks Are Getting Cooked Thursday As Trump Tariffs Rattle Markets

Last week, J.P. Morgan analyst John Ivankoe hosted Bloomin&#8217; Brands Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLMN#NASDAQ">BLMN</a>), CAVA Group Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CAVA#NYSE">CAVA</a>), Brinker International Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EAT#NYSE">EAT</a>), and Sweetgreen Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SG#NYSE">SG</a>) at the J.P. Morgan Las Vegas forum.
The analyst noted that the key takeaway from all four companies was the focus on doing &#8220;fewer things better&#8221; and consistently reinvesting in customer and employee experiences.
According to the analyst, stock volatility has created opportunities, with the current 10-year yield of 4.3% helping global QSR valuations, easing fears of a 5-6% yield.
The analyst recommended adding fresh investments in Dutch Bros Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BROS#NYSE">BROS</a>), Starbucks Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SBUX#NASDAQ">SBUX</a>), and CAVA.
While McDonald&#8217;s Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MCD#NYSE">MCD</a>) and Restaurant Brands International Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QSR#NYSE">QSR</a>) are fairly valued, slower U.S. data and international growth may present better buying opportunities, per the analyst.
Yum! Brands Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/YUM#NYSE">YUM</a>) exceeded expectations, benefiting from tech-fee recapture. Domino&#8217;s Pizza Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DPZ#NASDAQ">DPZ</a>) is fairly valued due to high expectations. It remains uncertain if the Middle East conflict&#8217;s impact will drive sustained sales growth or just a leveling out.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44420034/d-waves-new-blockchain-architecture-could-slash-energy-usage-by-1000x" rel="noreferrer noopener">D-Wave Unveils New Blockchain Architecture To Slash Energy Usage</a>
The analyst upgraded the shares of CAVA to Overweight. CAVA has significant potential for expansion in the U.S., with impressive free cash flow generation and a strong pipeline of operational and brand initiatives to drive sales and profits.
The analyst reiterated a Neutral rating on Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CMG#NYSE">CMG</a>) and EAT due to high valuations and peak comps, but remain cautiously optimistic and would consider adding on volatility.
Overweight-rated SG and Krispy Kreme Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DNUT#NASDAQ">DNUT</a>) face sales and profit challenges, with SG offering near-term potential through seasonal menus and loyalty programs.
Following YUM&#8217;s Taco Bell analyst day on March 4, which highlighted the &#8220;Byte by YUM!&#8221; platform and improving KFC international trends, the analyst conducted a full model review and a valuation reset.
Projections include Taco Bell U.S. growing to 9,000 units by 2030 and Taco Bell International expanding to 2,000 units. The analyst assumes KFC international (excluding China) will increase to 22,300 units, while KFC China will reach 19,400.
Compared to previous expectations, only BROS, DPZ, and Taco Bell (YUM) are performing ahead, while high-growth brands like CAVA, SG, Chili&#8217;s, and SBUX are on track.
Larger QSR brands like MCD, BK (QSR), KFC/PH (YUM), and fast-casual chains such as CMG and Shake Shack Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SHAK#NYSE">SHAK</a>) are underperforming. Casual dining brands like Darden Restaurants Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DRI#NYSE">DRI</a>) (Olive Garden), Texas Roadhouse Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TXRH#NASDAQ">TXRH</a>) (Roadhouse), and BLMN (Outback) are also tracking lower.
The U.S. restaurant labor market remains stable, with open positions at 6.2% of total employment, close to the 20-year average of 4.4%. The quits rate stands at 3.8%, near the historical average of 4.0%.
Consumer confidence has declined, with a focus on the &#8220;expectations&#8221; component, as cautious consumers become more selective in discretionary spending.
Large QSR brands, like MCD and DPZ, report weaker performance among low-income consumers. In contrast, high-growth brands like CAVA are seeing strong growth in the lowest income quartiles, suggesting a shift toward QSR trade-ups and growing brand awareness.
According to the analyst, sourcing talent and retention remain key to building strong brands and scaling operations, mainly during the rapid adoption of in/out-of-store tech.
Total industry supply growth has remained surprisingly resilient, up 12% from third-quarter FY18 to third-quarter FY24 for a CAGR of ~2%, opined the analyst.
So much attention is placed on future AI driven opportunities, but the reality is 40% of the industry sales are from the top 500 chains with a very large addressable market of another 60% are considered to be independents, the analyst noted.
Tariffs are less of an issue for this sector than other industries but related inflation could impact several daily consumer staple commodities including avocados, seasonal produce/fruit and coffee, said the analyst.
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Image via Shutterstock.

Upgrades

Is Tariff An Issue For Restaurant Sector? J.P. Morgan Highlights Winners & Losers

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Bloomin' Brands Names Michael L. Spanos As Chief Executive Officer

Bloomin' Brands, Inc. to Host Fiscal 2024 Third Quarter Earnings
Conference Call at 8:30 AM EST on November 8, 2024

Bloomin' Brands Announces 2024 Q3 Financial Results

Pat Hafner Promoted to Executive Vice President, President of Outback Steakhouse

Bloomin' Brands, Inc. to Host Fiscal 2024 Fourth Quarter Earnings Conference Call at 8:30 AM EST on February 26, 2025

Jim Dinkins Joins Company Board of Directors

Kelia Bazile To Lead Carrabba's Italian Grill

Bloomin' Brands Announces 2024 Q4 Financial Results

Bloomin' Brands, Inc. to Host Fiscal 2025 First Quarter Earnings Conference Call at 8:30 AM EST on May 7, 2025

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