McDonald's (NYSE:MCD) Stock Price Target Cut by KeyCorp
KeyCorp has reduced McDonald's price target from $305 to $280, while maintaining an "overweight" rating, indicating a potential upside of 20.33%. Despite this and other recent target cuts, McDonald's holds a "Moderate Buy" consensus rating and an average price target of $297.76. The company recently exceeded EPS expectations, but faces challenges from weak traffic, intense value competition, and execution risks in its turnaround strategy.
What's Going On With McDonald's Stock Tuesday? - McDonald's (NYSE:MCD)
McDonald's stock is nearing a 52-week low after analysts from Wells Fargo and Guggenheim cut their price targets due to soft U.S. sales, increased investment, and execution risks with its value strategy. The company is also facing a class-action lawsuit alleging illegal coordination of menu prices using an AI-powered system, which McDonald's denies. Investors are awaiting the Q3 earnings report, estimated for November 4, 2026, where U.S. comparable sales and the traction of value initiatives will be key focus points.
KeyBanc Adjusts Price Target on McDonald's to $280 From $305, Maintains Overweight Rating
KeyBanc has revised its price target for McDonald's (NYSE:MCD) shares to $280, down from the previous $305. Despite this adjustment, the firm has chosen to maintain its "Overweight" rating on the fast-food giant. This indicates that while the immediate price expectation has been lowered, KeyBanc still views McDonald's stock favorably.
MCD Stock’s Rough Year Gets Worse: AI Menu Pricing Claims Land McDonald’s In Antitrust Trouble
McDonald's is facing a proposed nationwide class-action lawsuit alleging illegal coordination of menu prices using an AI-powered system that influences pricing across its company-owned and franchised restaurants. This legal challenge, coupled with recent price target cuts from Wells Fargo and Guggenheim, contributes to MCD's year-to-date decline of nearly 25%, making it its worst annual performance since 2002. McDonald's denies the claims, stating that franchisees independently set prices, while the lawsuit argues the AI system uses non-public data to coerce franchisees into specific pricing.
McDonald's Accused Of Using AI To Hike Menu Prices
McDonald's is facing a potential class action lawsuit in Illinois federal court, accusing the company of violating antitrust laws. The lawsuit alleges that McDonald's used artificial intelligence to coordinate pricing among its independently owned restaurants, leading to a significant increase in menu prices—roughly 40% over five years—and causing customers to overpay.
CPI | McDonald’s Hit With Antitrust Suit Over AI-Assisted Menu Pricing
McDonald's is facing a proposed class-action antitrust lawsuit concerning its AI-assisted menu pricing technology. Consumers allege the system, which provides pricing recommendations to franchisees, facilitates illegal price coordination among individual McDonald's locations. McDonald's disputes the claims, stating franchisees retain pricing control and the AI does not independently set customer prices.
Starbucks enters Xinjiang in calculated geopolitical risk
Starbucks' recent expansion into China's Xinjiang region, following the sale of a majority stake in its China operations to Boyu Capital, has sparked geopolitical controversy. While the move is seen by some as a commercial strategy to tap into underserved markets and boost growth, it has drawn sharp criticism from the U.S. House Select Committee on China due to alleged human rights abuses in Xinjiang. The decision highlights the complex interplay between business opportunities and geopolitical risks for American companies operating in China.
McDonald’s vs Realty Income: Which Dividend Grows Faster Over the Next 10 Years?
This article compares the dividend growth potential of McDonald's (MCD) and Realty Income (O) over the next decade. While Realty Income offers a higher current yield, McDonald's dividend is projected to grow faster due to its strong free cash flow and increasing rental income from franchisees. The analysis highlights that despite Realty Income's frequent small raises, its share count expansion has constrained per-share AFFO growth.
McDonald's Corporation $MCD Shares Acquired by Park National Corp OH
Park National Corp OH increased its stake in McDonald's Corporation (MCD) by 10.4% in the third quarter, acquiring 14,588 additional shares for a total of 154,310 shares valued at approximately $35.6 million. McDonald's shares are trading near their 52-week low amidst concerns over weak traffic and intense value competition, despite the company raising its quarterly dividend to $1.93 per share, yielding 3.3%. Analysts maintain a "Moderate Buy" consensus with an average price target of $298.52.
McDonald’s Franchisee Model Is Under Pressure. Here’s Why Investors Should Stay Away
McDonald's stock dropped significantly after its investor day failed to reassure Wall Street about a quick U.S. turnaround, pushing shares to a four-year low. The company's "McDonald's > NEXT" plan involves up to $8.5 billion in franchisee support, including rent relief and AI integration, aiming for a low-to-mid 50% operating margin by 2030. Despite a seemingly attractive valuation and dividend history, weak traffic among lower-income consumers and the high cost of the turnaround present significant risks, making it less appealing for investors compared to other dividend or AI stocks.
Chipotle Sinks 4% as Selling Outruns the Restaurant Group; McDonald’s and Starbucks Dip
Chipotle stock has fallen 4% and is extending a month-long slide, dropping 19% over the past month and nearing its 52-week low. This decline is significantly sharper than that of its rivals, McDonald's and Starbucks, which saw drops of less than 1%. The selling is attributed to margin pressure from beef and freight inflation, despite revenue growth, and an options market signaling further potential downside.
McDonald's Bottles Pickle Brine as a Fix for Marathon Runners: Meet Pickle Boost – Company Announcement
McDonald's is introducing "Pickle Boost," bottled pickle brine, as a solution for marathon runners experiencing cramps. This initiative will be available in Chicago during marathon weekend from October 9-11, offering samples at the Lakefront Trail and select McDonald's restaurants. The company aims to provide athletes and spectators with this rumored cramp-relief remedy.
Guggenheim cuts McDonald’s stock price target to $250 on weaker U.S. sales
Guggenheim has lowered its price target for McDonald’s (NYSE: MCD) to $250 from $290, maintaining a Neutral rating due to concerns over softer U.S. same-store sales and decelerating global unit growth. This adjustment aligns with other analysts like Wells Fargo, Morgan Stanley, and Baird, who have also reduced their price targets, citing similar challenges and the company's NEXT strategy investments. Despite these revisions, InvestingPro analysis suggests the stock may be undervalued, offering potential upside.
Krispy Kreme Q2 2026 Earnings Call Transcript
Krispy Kreme reported a 2.6% system-wide sales growth in Q2 2026, driven by demand in the U.S. and international markets, with adjusted EBITDA margin increasing by 340 basis points. The company is executing a turnaround strategy focused on refranchising, improving returns on capital, expanding margins, and driving U.S. growth, leading to a 43% increase in adjusted EBITDA. Krispy Kreme maintains its full-year guidance, expecting net revenue of $1.25 to $1.35 billion and adjusted EBITDA of $140 to $150 million, while also focusing on digital expansion and strategic retail partnerships.
Wells Fargo Adjusts Price Target on McDonald's to $270 From $300, Maintains Overweight Rating
Wells Fargo has revised its price target for McDonald's (MCD) shares to $270 from $300, while reaffirming an Overweight rating on the stock. This adjustment comes amidst other analyst revisions, including Guggenheim lowering its target to $250 with a Neutral rating and Baird cutting its target to $245, maintaining a Neutral rating. The article also provides a company profile, financial data, and recent news related to McDonald's.
Wells Fargo cuts McDonald’s stock price target on franchisee deal concerns
Wells Fargo has lowered its price target for McDonald's (NYSE:MCD) stock from $300 to $270, citing concerns about the company's pricing and value strategy, particularly following its "Accelerating the Arches Day" presentation. The firm also adjusted its earnings per share estimates for 2026-2028 downwards, expecting headwinds from McDonald's NEXT initiative to peak in fiscal 2030. McDonald's stock has seen a 24% decline year-to-date, contrasting with a 13% gain in the S&P 500, with several other analyst firms also revising their outlooks due to investment costs and consumer headwinds.
Wells Fargo cuts McDonald’s stock price target on franchisee deal concerns
Wells Fargo has lowered its price target for McDonald's (NYSE: MCD) to $270 from $300, while maintaining an Overweight rating, due to concerns about the company's pricing and value strategy following its recent Accelerating the Arches Day presentation. The firm also reduced its earnings per share estimates for 2026-2028, anticipating that its "NEXT" initiative investments will lead to peak headwinds in fiscal 2030, benefiting franchisees more than shareholders. McDonald's stock has underperformed the S&P 500 year-to-date, and other analysts like Morgan Stanley, Bernstein SocGen Group, Baird, and BTIG have also adjusted their outlooks downward, citing investment costs and consumer headwinds.
McDonald’s Stock Draws Fresh Target Cuts – Wells Fargo Says Analyst Day Message Is Still ‘Hard To Digest’
Wells Fargo and Guggenheim have cut their price targets for McDonald's stock following the company's recent Analyst Day, citing concerns about unresolved pricing, trend visibility, and the quick-service restaurant environment. Despite the target cuts, Wells Fargo maintains an 'Overweight' rating, seeing long-term value, while Guggenheim has a 'Neutral' rating. McDonald's is implementing its NEXT strategy, targeting a low-to-mid-50% operating margin by 2030 and expanding its use of AI for menu pricing.
Why Are Investors Revisiting Range Resources (NYSE:RRC) Now?
Range Resources (NYSE:RRC) is currently attracting investor attention due to energy-market uncertainty, which favors producers maintaining capital discipline and operational flexibility. The key for the company is to demonstrate repeatable execution in Appalachian natural-gas production. While the NYSE Composite provides broad context, Range Resources' specific company performance and disclosures will be crucial in determining its long-term investment viability.
Fossil Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:FOSL) Stock Now Rated "Moderate Buy" by Wall Street Analysts
Wall Street analysts have issued a consensus "Moderate Buy" rating for Fossil Group (NASDAQ:FOSL), with an average 12-month price target of $9.00, exceeding its $6.80 opening price. The company recently surpassed earnings expectations, reporting an adjusted loss of $0.13 per share against a projected $0.29 loss, and revenue of $209.69 million, above the $199.33 million consensus. Notably, institutional ownership stands at 61.14%, and a company director recently increased her stake by 16.75%.
Corient Private Wealth LP Sells 28,548 Shares of Freshpet, Inc. $FRPT
Corient Private Wealth LP significantly reduced its stake in Freshpet, Inc. by selling 28,548 shares, decreasing its holdings by 87.1%. This move leaves the firm with 4,239 shares valued at $251,000. Despite this institutional sell-off, Freshpet reported strong Q2 results, exceeding analyst expectations with $305.6 million in revenue and $0.39 EPS, and analysts generally maintain a "Hold" rating with an average price target of $75.31.
ExxonMobil, Visa Among 16 Dividend Growth Companies To Announce Annual Dividend Increases In October
ExxonMobil and Visa are highlighted among 16 dividend growth companies expected to announce annual dividend increases in October. ExxonMobil is projected to announce its 45th consecutive year of dividend growth with an increase of 4.4–5.8%, driven by cost-cutting and share buybacks. Visa is anticipated to announce a 14.2–16.4% dividend increase, supported by robust double-digit revenue and EPS growth.
Restaurant Brands Stock Is Down 11%. The Dividend Is Getting More Interesting
Restaurant Brands International's (QSR) stock has fallen 11%, making its dividend yield of 3.7% more attractive. Despite having four brands, Tim Hortons contributes 41% of operating profit, making its slowing Canadian sales a significant risk to the dividend. While the dividend has never been cut and is supported by a largely franchised model, investors should monitor key metrics like Tim Hortons' sales, Popeyes' performance, and leverage targets.
Needham & Company LLC Upgrades LB Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ:LBRX) to "Moderate Buy"
Needham & Company LLC upgraded LB Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ:LBRX) to a "moderate buy" rating, aligning with the current analyst consensus and an average price target of $51.67. The company's shares opened at $36.99, reflecting a 0.8% decrease, with a market capitalization of $1.19 billion. LB Pharmaceuticals, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company, is focused on developing LB-102, an oral treatment candidate for schizophrenia, despite having recently missed quarterly EPS estimates.
Zacks Research Downgrades John B. Sanfilippo & Son (NASDAQ:JBSS) to Strong Sell
Zacks Research has downgraded John B. Sanfilippo & Son (NASDAQ:JBSS) to a "Strong Sell" from a "Hold" rating. This decision comes despite the broader analyst consensus remaining a "Moderate Buy" with an average price target of $100. The company's shares opened at $68.52, below key moving averages, and its latest quarterly EPS of $0.71 missed the consensus estimate, though revenue exceeded expectations.
Kyverna Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ:KYTX) Stock Rated "Moderate Buy" by Sell-Side Brokerages
Kyverna Therapeutics (NASDAQ:KYTX) has received a "Moderate Buy" rating from sell-side brokerages, with an average 12-month price target of $29.00. The company's stock opened at $6.22, near its 52-week low, despite beating quarterly earnings expectations by reporting a loss of $0.63 per share against an estimated $0.68 loss. Institutional investors own 18.08% of KYTX as the company continues to develop KYV-101, a CAR-T cell therapy for autoimmune diseases.
Envestnet Asset Management Inc. Cuts Holdings in Wingstop Inc. $WING
Envestnet Asset Management Inc. reduced its stake in Wingstop Inc. (NASDAQ:WING) by 29% in the second quarter, selling over 16,000 shares but still holding 40,773 shares valued at $7.07 million. Despite some institutional selling and recent analyst price target reductions, the company maintains a "Moderate Buy" consensus rating. Wingstop recently reported strong Q2 earnings, beating EPS estimates, and increased its quarterly dividend.
CX Institutional Buys 314,893 Shares of The Gap, Inc. $GAP
CX Institutional has acquired 314,893 shares of The Gap, Inc. (NYSE:GAP) worth approximately $7.2 million, as institutional investors now collectively own 58.81% of the company. Analyst sentiment remains mixed with a "Hold" consensus rating and an average price target of $27.07, despite the company beating quarterly EPS estimates but experiencing a 2% year-over-year revenue decline. The Gap also declared a quarterly dividend of $0.175 per share, representing a 3.1% annualized yield.
CX Institutional Purchases 60,173 Shares of Stride, Inc. $LRN
CX Institutional recently acquired a new stake of 60,173 shares in Stride, Inc. (NYSE:LRN) during the third quarter, valued at approximately $4.69 million, representing a 0.14% ownership. Stride's latest quarterly results exceeded analyst expectations, with EPS of $2.12 against an estimated $1.64 and revenue of $636.06 million, despite a 2.7% year-over-year decline. The company currently holds a "Hold" consensus rating from analysts, with an average price target of $95.75.
459,366 Shares in Torrid Holdings Inc. $CURV Acquired by Bank of America Corp DE
Bank of America Corp DE recently acquired 459,366 shares of Torrid Holdings Inc. (NYSE:CURV) during the second quarter, valued at approximately $859,000, representing 0.46% of the company. Institutional investors now collectively own 81.82% of Torrid. Despite cautious analyst sentiment and a "Reduce" consensus rating, Torrid's stock rose 9.3% to $2.48 after reporting stronger-than-expected EPS.
Aegon (NYSE:AEG) Share Price Crosses Above Two Hundred Day Moving Average - Here's Why
Aegon (NYSE:AEG) shares briefly moved above their 200-day moving average of $8.53 before settling slightly below it, driven by significant trading volume. The company holds a "Moderate Buy" consensus rating from analysts, with recent upgrades and an average price target of $10.00. Institutional investors have increased their stakes, though Aegon recently declared a reduced dividend.
Applied Optoelectronics, Inc. (NASDAQ:AAOI) Stock Has Average Price Target of $139.40
Applied Optoelectronics, Inc. (NASDAQ:AAOI) has an average "Hold" recommendation from six analysts, with a 12-month price target of $139.40. The company recently reported strong earnings, beating expectations with $0.06 per share and an 86.3% year-over-year revenue increase. While institutional ownership is high at 61.7%, insiders have sold over $6 million worth of shares in the past 90 days.
Riverview Bancorp (NASDAQ:RVSB) Stock Breaks Above 200-Day Moving Average - Here's What Happened
Riverview Bancorp (NASDAQ:RVSB) stock recently surged above its 200-day moving average, reaching $6.09 before closing at $5.99, significantly higher than its average of $5.46. Despite this positive technical movement, analyst sentiment remains cautious, with the stock holding a consensus "Reduce" rating. The company surpassed its quarterly earnings and revenue estimates and announced a quarterly dividend of $0.02 per share.
Allied Gold (NYSE:AAUC) Stock Rating Raised to "Buy" at Wall Street Zen
Allied Gold (NYSE:AAUC) received an upgrade to "Buy" from Wall Street Zen, contributing to a consensus "Moderate Buy" rating among analysts. The company recently reported better-than-expected quarterly EPS of $0.44 and analysts anticipate full-year EPS of $2.73. Institutional investors, including Groupe la Française, have been increasing their stakes in the gold producer, which operates mines in Africa.
Wall Street Zen Downgrades Nordic American Tankers (NYSE:NAT) to Buy
Wall Street Zen has downgraded Nordic American Tankers (NYSE:NAT) from a "strong buy" to a "buy" rating, though the broader analyst consensus remains "hold" with an average price target of $5.33. Shares of NAT opened at $8.40, near their 12-month high, and were up 2.9% despite the company's Q3 revenue missing expectations, even as EPS beat estimates. Institutional ownership is significant at 44.29%, with major investors like BlackRock increasing their stakes.
Ovintiv (NYSE:OVV) Stock Rating Upgraded by Wall Street Zen
Wall Street Zen has upgraded Ovintiv (NYSE:OVV) from a "buy" to a "strong-buy" rating, although the broader analyst consensus remains a "Moderate Buy" with an average price target of $69.67. The company's shares opened at $60.30, and its latest quarterly revenue of $3.01 billion exceeded forecasts despite an EPS miss. Institutional investors hold a significant 83.81% stake in Ovintiv, while recent insider activity included an executive selling shares worth approximately $491,000.
Cybin (NASDAQ:HELP) Rating Lowered to "Strong Sell" at Wall Street Zen
Wall Street Zen downgraded Cybin (NASDAQ:HELP) from a "sell" to a "strong sell" rating, despite a consensus "Buy" rating and $46.33 price target from six other analysts. Cybin shares opened down 1.8% at $11.70, and the company reported a larger-than-expected quarterly loss of $0.91 per share. Notably, company insiders, including CEO Michael Halstead, recently purchased 688,000 shares worth approximately $8.4 million.
CX Institutional Cuts Holdings in American Express Company $AXP
CX Institutional significantly reduced its stake in American Express Company ($AXP) by 36.8% in the third quarter, selling 14,637 shares but still retaining 25,173 shares valued at approximately $8.07 million. Despite this, institutional investors collectively own 84.33% of AXP. Analyst sentiment for AXP is mixed, with a consensus "Hold" rating and an average price target of $366.96, while the company reported strong Q3 earnings, beating EPS estimates and seeing a 10% year-over-year revenue increase.
Fomento Economico Mexicano S.A.B. de C.V. (NYSE:FMX) Plans Quarterly Dividend of $1.78
Fomento Economico Mexicano S.A.B. de C.V. (NYSE:FMX) has declared a quarterly dividend of $1.7804 per share, payable on October 26th to shareholders of record on October 14th. This represents an annualized dividend of $7.12 and a yield of 6.2%, though it is a 2.5% decrease from the previous dividend payment. The dividend is supported by earnings, with a payout ratio of 46.1%, and analysts anticipate continued coverage with a projected future payout ratio of about 45%.
Strategy Inc Variable Rate Series A Perpetual Stretch Preferred Stock (NASDAQ:STRC) Announces Dividend of $0.50
Strategy Inc Variable Rate Series A Perpetual Stretch Preferred Stock (NASDAQ:STRC) has declared a dividend of $0.50 per share, payable on November 15th to shareholders of record by October 31st. The stock recently traded near its 52-week high, with a market capitalization of $2.57 billion. Insider selling has been observed, while institutional investors, like Ethos Financial Group LLC, have increased their stake.
BJ's Wholesale Club (NYSE:BJ) Stock: Insider William Werner Sells 3,000 Shares
BJ's Wholesale Club (NYSE:BJ) Executive Vice President William Werner recently sold 3,000 shares of company stock for $285,000, retaining over 50,000 shares. This insider sale comes after the company reported strong quarterly earnings, beating analyst estimates with $1.36 EPS and $6.23 billion in revenue, while maintaining its FY 2026 EPS guidance. Analysts generally hold a "Hold" rating on BJ's Wholesale Club, with an average price target above its current trading price, and institutional investors have significantly increased their holdings.
McDonald's 30% Slide Has Made It Cheaper, but Traffic Is Still the Problem
McDonald's (MCD) shares have dropped over 30% from their February peak, making the stock cheaper with a P/E of 17.9x and a 3.2% dividend yield, compared to its five-year average of 24.5x. Despite the reduced valuation, the company faces significant challenges with declining consumer traffic, especially among lower-income individuals, and rising costs for ingredients like beef. The long-term impact of GLP-1 medications on quick-service restaurant spending adds further uncertainty to future traffic and order sizes.
McDonald’s (MCD) director Hsu acquires deferred pay tied to 129.9 shares.
McDonald's Corporation director Michael D. Hsu acquired 129.9 phantom stock shares on September 30, 2026, as deferred compensation. These phantom shares, which are equivalent to common stock, will be cash-settled upon his retirement or termination from the Board. Following this transaction, Hsu's reported phantom stock balance increased to 2,148.52 shares, also including shares from dividend reinvestment.
McDonald's 30% Slide Has Made It Cheaper, but Traffic Is Still the Problem
McDonald's stock has dropped over 30% from its February peak, making its valuation and dividend yield more attractive, but affordability concerns and changing consumer habits are impacting traffic. The company is facing challenges with higher costs and the potential long-term effects of GLP-1 medications on fast-food spending. McDonald's new strategy, NEXT, aims to improve restaurant economics and efficiency, with visitor traffic being the key metric to watch for a successful rebound.
Director acquires 129.9 stock-linked units at McDonald’s (MCD) as deferred compensation.
McDonald's Corporation director Jennifer L. Taubert acquired 129.9 phantom stock shares on September 30, 2026, as deferred compensation. These phantom shares are the economic equivalent of one common share and will be settled in cash upon her retirement or termination from the Board. Following this transaction, her total holdings are 4,108.7 phantom stock shares.
All In On McDonald's Stock? Social Media User Wants Advice on Fast Food Giant, Investors Aren't Lovin' It
A social media user recently asked for advice on whether to invest his entire net worth into McDonald's stock, noting its five-year low trading price and highlighting financial figures like revenue growth and dividend yield. However, other investors and a community note countered his optimism, pointing to changing consumer tastes, high prices, weight loss drugs impacting the fast-food sector, and the company's declining US guest count. Ultimately, the user decided against going "all in" but did purchase 10 shares, similar to a previous inquiry about Alphabet stock that proved successful.
All In On McDonald's Stock? Social Media User Wants Advice on Fast Food Giant, Investors Aren't Lovin' It
A social media user, Nik Hulewsky, sought advice on whether to invest his entire net worth in McDonald's (NYSE: MCD) stock, citing a 3.3% dividend yield and perceived low valuation. While he initially highlighted strong revenue and operating income growth, a community note clarified these figures were from pandemic lows. Investor responses largely expressed skepticism due to changing consumer tastes, high McDonald's prices, and the impact of weight-loss drugs, leading Hulewsky to purchase only 10 shares instead of going "all in."
Immatics (NASDAQ:IMTX) Shares Down 5.3% - Here's What Happened
Immatics (NASDAQ:IMTX) shares dropped 5.3% to $7.99, with trading volume significantly lower than average, following weaker-than-expected quarterly results that missed EPS and revenue forecasts. Despite the dip and mixed analyst reports (one sell, one hold, six buys), the company still holds a "Moderate Buy" consensus rating with an average price target of $20.60. Insider activity showed Perceptive Advisors increasing its stake by 8.31%, purchasing 863,060 shares.
EPAM Systems (NYSE:EPAM) Stock Price Down 4.5% - Time to Sell?
EPAM Systems (NYSE:EPAM) shares fell 4.5% to $109.24 in low-volume trading, nearing its 50-day moving average and falling below its average analyst price target of $116.47. Despite recent analyst price target cuts, the stock holds a "Hold" rating, with six analysts recommending "Buy," ten "Hold," and one "Sell." EPAM reported strong quarterly earnings, beating expectations with $3.38 EPS on revenue of $1.41 billion, while institutional investors hold approximately 91.6% of the shares.
Former Taco Bell Crew Member Buys 16 Burger King Restaurants As RBI's Comeback Leans On Franchisees
Jeremy Kline, who started at Taco Bell at 15 and became Burger King North America's franchising director, has purchased 16 Burger King restaurants in Salt Lake City, embodying RBI's strategy to refranchise stores to local operators. Burger King's turnaround since late 2022, marked by improved sales and market position, is driven by a refranchising push aimed at selling off approximately 200 company-operated stores by year-end. This approach emphasizes finding committed, local owners to improve store performance and profitability, shifting away from large, private equity-backed consolidators.
