Is Portillo's (NASDAQ:PTLO) A Risky Investment?
Portillo's Inc. (NASDAQ:PTLO) carries a significant debt load, with net debt of approximately US$305.4m as of September 2025. The company's balance sheet shows total liabilities exceeding liquid assets by US$1.07b, alongside a weak interest cover of 2.3 and a 9.6% decrease in EBIT over the last year. This analysis suggests Portillo's has a concerning level of debt, posing a substantial risk for investors.
Portillo’s Appoints Brett Patterson as President & Chief Executive Officer
Portillo's has announced the appointment of Brett Patterson as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective February 23, 2026. Patterson, a veteran in the restaurant industry, will also join the Company's Board of Directors. He is tasked with leading Portillo's strategic growth, focusing on operational excellence, new restaurant expansion, and enhancing the guest experience.
Portillo's Inc. (NASDAQ:PTLO) Given Consensus Rating of "Hold" by Analysts
Portillo's Inc. (NASDAQ:PTLO) has received a consensus "Hold" rating from eleven analysts, with an average 12-month price target of $7.72. Recent reports from firms like Jefferies, Stephens, and UBS indicate caution with lowered price targets, while Weiss Ratings reiterated a "sell." Despite a slight revenue beat, the company missed its last quarterly EPS estimate, and institutional investors own approximately 98.34% of the stock.
Fall in Love with Portillo’s New Sauces and Red Hot Meal Deal This Valentine’s Day
Portillo's is launching five new flavor-packed dipping sauces nationwide, including a new "Comeback Sauce," and offering a limited-edition "Sauce Flight" to loyalty members and later to all guests. For Valentine's Day, they are introducing the "Red Hot Meal Deal," a meal for two featuring chicken tenders, fries, a chocolate-covered strawberry shake, and the Sauce Flight, available online and in-restaurant from February 12-15. This initiative aims to enhance the customer experience with new flavors and special offers.
Portillo’s, Inc. Announces Q4 & FY 2025 Earnings Webcast Scheduled for February 24
Portillo's, Inc. will host a webcast on February 24, 2026, at 10 a.m. EST to discuss its Q4 and FY 2025 earnings, with the earnings release distributed before market open on the same day. The company, known for its Chicago-style food, has grown significantly and focuses on providing unique dining experiences. The announcement highlights ongoing investor engagement and growth, alongside details on insider trading activity, hedge fund movements, and analyst price targets for PTLO stock.
Portillo's Inc. (NASDAQ:PTLO) is a favorite amongst institutional investors who own 76%
Institutional investors hold a significant 76% stake in Portillo's Inc. (NASDAQ:PTLO), making their trading decisions influential on the company's stock price. The top 13 shareholders collectively own 51% of the business, with Orbis Investment Management Limited being the largest at 9.5%. Insider ownership is also present, with management holding shares worth US$10 million, suggesting alignment with company interests.
Portillo's Inc.'s (NASDAQ:PTLO) Shares Bounce 26% But Its Business Still Trails The Market
Portillo's Inc. (NASDAQ:PTLO) shares recently jumped 26% but are still down 50% over the last year. Despite a seemingly attractive P/E ratio of 17.4x, the company's earnings have declined by 16% over the past year, with analysts forecasting a further 30% drop next year, contrasting with the market's expected 16% growth. This negative earnings outlook is likely the reason for its low P/E.
Sink your Teeth into More Flavor, More Beef and More Value with Portillo's BIG Burger Bundle
Portillo's has launched its new "BIG Burger Bundle," offering a 1/3-pound char-broiled cheeseburger, small fries, and a small fountain drink for $9.99. This limited-time promotion highlights Portillo's cheeseburger, which the company states offers 33% more beef than a typical quarter-pound burger. The bundle is available at participating locations nationwide, and Portillo's encourages customers to join its loyalty program or use its app for ordering.
Analysts Offer Insights on Consumer Cyclical Companies: KB Home (KBH), Five Below (FIVE) and Portillo’s (PTLO)
Analysts have provided insights on several consumer cyclical companies, with varied ratings and price targets. RBC Capital maintained a Hold rating for KB Home, while Craig-Hallum issued a Buy rating for Five Below, and William Blair kept a Buy rating for Portillo’s. This report summarizes recent analyst actions and consensus ratings for these companies.
Portillo's' Recent Gains Improve Losses On Insider Purchases Worth US$2.54m
Insiders at Portillo's Inc. (NASDAQ:PTLO) purchased US$2.54 million worth of stock over the last year, with the stock seeing a 10% rise last week, partially recovering some losses. Despite the recent gain, these purchases still represent a US$1.1 million loss for insiders. The Lead Independent Director made the largest single purchase of US$1.0 million at a higher price than the current stock price, suggesting optimism at the time of purchase.
Portillo’s and DJ Moore Team Up to Give Chicago Football Fans the Ultimate Victory Meal
Portillo's has partnered with DJ Moore, the Chicago football team's wide receiver, to launch a "DJ Moore meal" featuring his favorite Portillo's items. This collaboration celebrates the team's recent comebacks and aims to provide fans with a celebratory meal. Additionally, Portillo's will release a new "Comeback Sauce" in January, first offering it free to loyalty program members in Illinois, then making it available nationwide.
Portillo's Inc. (NASDAQ:PTLO) Given Consensus Rating of "Hold" by Brokerages
Portillo's Inc. (NASDAQ:PTLO) has received a consensus "Hold" rating from twelve analysts, with an average 12-month target price of $9.78. Recent price target cuts from various brokerages, including Bank of America ($7) and UBS ($6), reflect cautious sentiment. The company's shares opened at $4.67, near its one-year low, and institutional investors collectively own 98.34% of the stock.
Portillo's Inc. $PTLO Shares Sold by Berkshire Partners LLC
Berkshire Partners LLC significantly reduced its stake in Portillo's Inc. (NASDAQ:PTLO) by 72.2% in the second quarter, selling over 2.7 million shares, though Portillo's still accounts for 100% of its investment portfolio. Despite this divestment, institutional ownership remains high at 98.34%, with several other major funds increasing or initiating positions. Portillo's stock is trading near its 1-year low, and the company recently missed EPS estimates, leading to a consensus "Hold" rating from analysts with an average price target of $9.78.
Portillo’s (PTLO) Fell as Results Fell Short of Expectations
Portillo's Inc. (NASDAQ: PTLO) shares declined after the company reported weaker-than-expected fiscal second-quarter results and reduced full-year guidance for same-restaurant sales. This underperformance was highlighted in Fred Alger Management's "Alger Small Cap Focus Fund" third-quarter 2025 investor letter, citing concerns about slower same-store momentum and moderated development pace. Despite a revenue increase in Q3 2025, the fund noted that other AI stocks offer greater upside and less downside risk.
Portillo’s (PTLO) Fell as Results Fell Short of Expectations
Portillo’s Inc. (NASDAQ:PTLO) experienced a significant stock decline after reporting weaker-than-expected fiscal second-quarter results and reduced full-year guidance. Alger Small Cap Focus Fund noted that concerns over slower same-store momentum and moderated development overshadowed the brand's long-term expansion narrative. While 18 hedge funds still held PTLO at the end of Q3 2025, the fund suggests AI stocks may offer greater promise for higher returns.
Portillo's, Inc. Stock Plummets to New 52-Week Low of $5.28
Portillo's, Inc. has reached a new 52-week low of $5.28, reflecting a significant decline from its 52-week high of $15.78 and a 45.31% performance drop compared to the S&P 500. Despite an increase in profits by 7.3% over the past year, the company has consistently underperformed the S&P 500, with a stock return of -58.03%. Operational efficiency issues are noted through its debtors and inventory turnover ratios.
Portillo's (NASDAQ:PTLO) Misses Q3 Sales Expectations
Portillo's (NASDAQ:PTLO) reported Q3 CY2025 financial results, missing Wall Street's revenue expectations with only a 1.8% year-on-year sales increase to $181.4 million. The company's GAAP profit of $0.02 per share was also below analyst estimates. Despite opening new locations and achieving flat same-store sales, the overall quarter was softer than anticipated, leading to a slight stock dip immediately after the announcement.
Analysts Estimate Portillo's Inc. (PTLO) to Report a Decline in Earnings: What to Look Out for
Analysts are predicting a year-over-year decline in earnings for Portillo's Inc. (PTLO) for the quarter ended September 2025, despite an expected increase in revenues. The consensus EPS estimate has been revised 33.33% lower over the last 30 days. The stock currently holds a Zacks Rank of #4 and has a negative Earnings ESP of -25.00%, making a positive earnings surprise unlikely according to the Zacks model.
Portillo's, Inc. Stock Plummets to New 52-Week Low of $5.88 - Markets Mojo
Portillo's, Inc. stock has fallen to a new 52-week low of $5.88, representing a 38.57% decline over the past year. The company, operating in the leisure services industry, has a market capitalization of USD 497 million and a P/E ratio of 26.00, along with a 7.68% return on equity and no dividends. This performance significantly underperforms the S&P 500, highlighting the need for strategic reassessment.
Jefferies downgrades Portillo’s stock to Hold on traffic decline concerns By Investing.com - Investing.com Canada
Jefferies has downgraded Portillo's stock to Hold due to concerns about declining traffic. The article mentions an AI's new Small Cap Sprinters strategy which is up +15%.
Portillo’s, Inc. Announces Q3 2025 Earnings Webcast Scheduled for November 4
Portillo's, Inc. announced a Q3 2025 earnings webcast scheduled for November 4 at 10 a.m. EST, which will be accessible via their investor relations website. The earnings release will precede the market open on the same day. This announcement also highlighted Portillo's growth from a small Chicago hot dog stand to over 90 restaurants across 10 states, emphasizing its unique menu and experience-focused dining approach.
Portillo’s Announces CEO Departure and Interim Appointment
Portillo’s Inc. has announced the departure of CEO Michael Osanloo, effective September 21, 2025. Michael A. Miles, Jr. has been appointed as interim CEO, and the company is actively searching for a permanent replacement to enhance shareholder value and improve performance. The stock currently holds a "Hold" rating from analysts with a $7.50 price target.
Portillo’s Inc. Appoints Michael A. Miles, Jr. as Interim CEO; Eugene I. Lee, Jr. Takes on Lead Independent Director Role
Portillo's Inc. has appointed Michael A. Miles, Jr., the Board Chairman, as Interim CEO, succeeding Michael Osanloo who has departed. Eugene I. Lee, Jr. has been named Lead Independent Director during this transition period. A Search Committee has been formed to find a permanent CEO for the company, which cited recent performance not meeting expectations as the reason for the leadership change.
Portillo's Pickup Expansion | Bowling Bankruptcy | New Owners For Sandwich Chain
This Illinois business news round-up covers Portillo's opening its fourth pick-up-only location, a bowling chain filing for bankruptcy and closing locations, and Potbelly being acquired by RaceTrac for $566 million. Other top headlines include a record-breaking $31 million North Shore mansion sale and updates on various local businesses and developments across Illinois.
Portillo's Announces Strategic Reset in Development and Growth Plans to Enhance Core Market Focus
Portillo's has announced a strategic reset for its development and growth plans, aiming to concentrate on core markets and improve unit economics for sustained success. This initiative includes streamlining operations, such as discontinuing the Chicago breakfast pilot, and moderating the pace of new restaurant openings, with only 8 planned for fiscal year 2026. The company has revised its fiscal 2025 financial targets, anticipating lower same-restaurant sales and revenues.
Portillo’s stock remains a Buy at BofA as growth slows to improve FCF
BofA Securities has maintained its Buy rating and $14.00 price target for Portillo’s, Inc. (NASDAQ: PTLO), despite the company's decision to reduce its expansion plans. The slowdown in growth, including fewer new unit openings and discontinuation of a breakfast pilot program, is a strategic move to focus on improving free cash flow and strengthening unit-level economics. Analysts view this shift positively, anticipating long-term value creation and a substantial runway for future store growth.
Portillo's Inc. (PTLO) Meets Q2 Earnings Estimates
Portillo's Inc. (PTLO) reported Q2 earnings of $0.12 per share, matching the Zacks Consensus Estimate and exceeding last year's $0.1. While the company surpassed EPS estimates three times in the last four quarters, its Q2 revenue of $188.46 million missed the consensus by 3.5%. Despite underperforming the S&P 500 year-to-date, Portillo's Inc. currently holds a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) based on its mixed earnings estimate revisions.
Portillo's (NASDAQ:PTLO) Misses Q2 Sales Targets, Stock Drops 12.8%
Casual restaurant chain Portillo's (NASDAQ:PTLO) reported its Q2 CY2025 results, missing Wall Street's revenue expectations with a 3.6% year-on-year sales increase to $188.5 million. Despite beating Adjusted EBITDA and meeting GAAP EPS estimates, the revenue miss and flat same-store sales led to a 12.8% drop in its stock price immediately after the announcement. The company added 8 new locations year-over-year, reaching 94 locations by quarter-end, but faces challenges with foot traffic and efficiency in existing restaurants.
Portillo’s enters cooperation agreement with Engaged Capital
Portillo's (PTLO) announced a cooperation agreement with Engaged Capital. This agreement involves identifying and appointing a new director with restaurant operating experience to Portillo’s board. Engaged Capital has also agreed to customary standstill and voting agreements.
How To Buy Portillo's Inc. Class A Stock in the US
This article provides a guide on how to buy Portillo's Inc. Class A stock (NASDAQ:PTLO) in the US, detailing the steps from choosing a broker to tracking performance. It highlights that the stock currently trades at $5.01 per share and discusses key financial metrics like EPS and PE ratio. The guide also offers a comparison of various US stock brokers.
Chicago Hot Dog Eatery Portillo’s Slims Down Menus to Expand Nationally
Portillo's, the Chicago-based restaurant chain famous for its hot dogs and sandwiches, is adapting its strategy to facilitate national expansion. To achieve this, the company is streamlining its menus and developing smaller restaurant formats, which are key to its ambitious growth plans that aim for up to a tenfold increase in locations. This approach allows Portillo's to enter new markets like Atlanta, Houston, and Las Vegas while managing costs.
We Think Portillo's (NASDAQ:PTLO) Is Taking Some Risk With Its Debt
Portillo's Inc. (NASDAQ:PTLO) carries a significant amount of debt, with US$302.2m at September 2024, leading to a net debt of US$283.7m after accounting for cash reserves. The company's high leverage is highlighted by its super-low interest cover of 2.2 times, suggesting that borrowing costs are negatively impacting shareholder returns. While Portillo's saw a 22% EBIT growth in the last year, its free cash flow has barely been positive over the past three years, contributing to concerns about its ability to service its debt.
Portillo’s adds Chipotle’s Jack Hartung to board
Portillo's Inc. has appointed Jack Hartung, Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc.'s president and chief strategy officer, to its board of directors, expanding their board to eight members. Hartung's extensive experience, including guiding Chipotle through its IPO and significant growth, is expected to be invaluable to Portillo's expansion plans. He brings over two decades of experience with Chipotle and prior experience with McDonald's Corp. to his new role.
Portillo's Appoints Tony Darden as Chief Operating Officer
Portillo's has appointed Tony Darden as its new Chief Operating Officer, leveraging his three decades of operational expertise to support the company's national growth strategy. Darden previously served as COO at Jack in the Box and held leadership roles at other multi-unit restaurant concepts. He will oversee Portillo's operational strategy and execution, aiming to enhance guest experience and streamline operations as the company expands towards its target of 920 locations.
Portillo's pilots self-serve kiosks
Portillo's Inc. is piloting 24-inch Bite kiosks in select Chicagoland restaurants, with plans to expand to California later in August 2024. This initiative aims to enhance the guest and team member experience, optimize operational efficiency, and offer customers an additional ordering channel alongside existing methods. The kiosks are designed to free up team members for guest service and showcase menu items, potentially increasing check sizes.
How Portillo’s develops its managers to sustain $10M unit volumes
Portillo's CEO Michael Osanloo detailed the company's strategy for achieving $10 million unit volumes by focusing on manager development. This involves a "virtuous cycle" where high sales drive competitive wages and benefits, fostering retention and efficiency among employees. The company prioritizes internal promotion and extensive training for its general managers to handle the complexity of its specialized kitchen operations.
Could Chicago staple Portillo’s make it here? Local brokers share what popular chains are missing in KC
Local developers and real estate brokers in Kansas City discuss which popular restaurant and retail chains are missing from the metro area. They highlight the appeal of these brands, such as Portillo's, Saks, Zara, and Aritzia, and their potential to succeed in the Kansas City market. The article explores the perspective of local experts on what could enhance the city's retail and dining landscape.
Funny Money: Speculative Investing When the Stakes Are Low
This article explores the concept of "funny money" or speculative investing with a small portion of one's portfolio, as advocated by Jack Bogle. It delves into the potential benefits, such as satisfying speculative impulses without jeopardizing core investments, and the downsides, including the risk of losses and overconfidence. The author shares personal anecdotes and considerations for how much to allocate and whether to use dedicated accounts for such ventures.
Portillo’s Eyes $405 Million IPO
Portillo's, the 67-unit restaurant chain, aims to raise up to $405 million in its initial public offering (IPO) by selling 20.27 million shares at a price range of $17 to $20. This valuation would place the company at approximately $1.42 billion, significantly lower than the $2.5 billion to $3 billion valuation previously reported. Following the IPO, Portillo's plans to expand its unit count by 10 percent annually and projects to exceed 600 locations within the next 25 years.
Portillo’s and Vita Coco to Go Public Next Week
Portillo's and The Vita Coco Company are set to go public the following week. Both companies have finalized the terms for their initial public offerings.
Portillo’s and Vita Coco to Go Public Next Week
Portillo's and Vita Coco Company are set to commence trading as publicly listed companies next week. Both firms have finalized the terms for their Initial Public Offerings (IPOs).
Portillo’s and Vita Coco to Go Public Next Week
Portillo's, a popular restaurant chain, and Vita Coco Company, known for its coconut water, are both slated to go public next week. They have already set the terms for their respective initial public offerings.
Portillo’s coming to Lake Buena Vista
Portillo's, the popular Chicago-style eatery, is set to open its first Orlando-area location in Lake Buena Vista by late 2020. This new restaurant will be part of The Village at O-Town West project and will join two other Florida locations in Tampa and Brandon. Fans can sign up online for sneak-peek meals and email updates.
How Portillo’s Became a Chicago Institution
This article details the journey of Portillo's, a beloved Chicago restaurant chain, from its humble beginnings as a hot dog stand to a multi-million dollar enterprise. Founder Dick Portillo discusses the "secret sauce" behind its success, including core principles of quality, service, attitude, and cleanliness, along with his decision to sell the company for $1 billion.
