CAVA's Q2 Earnings Call: Our Top 5 Analyst Questions

CAVA’s second quarter saw a steep negative market reaction following results that missed Wall Street’s revenue expectations, despite non-GAAP earnings per share outpacing analyst forecasts. Management pointed to a challenging comparison with last year’s steak launch, which had boosted prior results, as well as the impact of a “honeymoon effect” from recently opened restaurants. CFO Tricia Tolivar described the macroeconomic backdrop as “a fog for consumers,” noting that while guest traffic remained flat, menu price and product mix drove modest same-store sales growth. CEO Brett Schulman emphasized the strength of new openings and the resilience of the brand even amid these headwinds.

Is now the time to buy CAVA? Find out in our full research report (it’s free).

While we enjoy listening to the management's commentary, our favorite part of earnings calls are the analyst questions. Those are unscripted and can often highlight topics that management teams would rather avoid or topics where the answer is complicated. Here is what has caught our attention.

Our Top 5 Analyst Questions From CAVA’s Q2 Earnings Call

• Brian James Harbour (Morgan Stanley): Asked whether macroeconomic pressures or the honeymoon effect from new stores most affected same-store sales. CFO Tricia Tolivar explained both factors contributed, with strong new restaurant performance offsetting softer sales in older units.
• Christopher Thomas O'Cull (Stifel): Sought clarity on the acceleration in same-store sales into Q3. Tolivar confirmed the trend was improving, attributing it to easier comparisons and operational adjustments.
• Sara Harkavy Senatore (Bank of America): Questioned whether the Harissa Meal was intended as a value offering. CEO Brett Schulman clarified that it was designed for brand engagement rather than as a value meal.
• Andrew Michael Charles (TD Cowen): Asked about the sustainability of higher first-year sales volumes and long-term same-store sales growth. Tolivar indicated ongoing monitoring but expressed no current concerns about business fundamentals.
• Jon Michael Tower (Citi): Inquired about the impact of technology rollouts on store profitability. Schulman shared that improvements in accuracy and productivity were observed, though full quantification is pending.

Catalysts in Upcoming Quarters

Looking ahead, the StockStory team will be watching (1) the performance of new menu additions like chicken shawarma and their impact on guest frequency, (2) the pace and productivity of new store openings in emerging markets, and (3) the rollout and effectiveness of operational technologies like kitchen display systems and automated make lines. Execution on loyalty program enhancements and continued margin discipline will also be key to assessing CAVA’s progress.

CAVA currently trades at $69.75, down from $84.63 just before the earnings. In the wake of this quarter, is it a buy or sell? See for yourself in our full research report (it’s free).

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