Cava projects annual sales growth above estimates as healthy menu options drive demand
The restaurant chain expects 2026 sales to beat expectations despite margin pressure from rising costs. Shares rose after a surprise quarterly sales increase.
Insights:
CAVA Group, Inc. announced on Tuesday that it expects annual same-store sales to exceed Wall Street expectations, following a surprise rise in quarterly same-store sales. The positive outlook for the US 
US based Mediterranean chain sent its shares climbing approximately 8% in extended trading today, February 24, 2026.
US based Mediterranean chain sent its shares climbing approximately 8% in extended trading today, February 24, 2026.The company issued guidance for fiscal 2026, projecting same-restaurant sales growth between 3% and 5%. This forecast sits above the average analyst estimate of 3.16%, according to LSEG data. Chief Executive Officer Brett Schulman indicated that resilient demand for the company's Mediterranean bowls continues to underpin the growth outlook, even as the broader industry faces a shifting economic landscape.
