Benchmark maintains Hold on Cracker Barrel stock ahead of earnings

Published 03/03/2025, 16:30
Benchmark maintains Hold on Cracker Barrel stock ahead of earnings

On Monday, Benchmark analysts maintained a Hold rating on Cracker Barrel (NASDAQ:CBRL) stock, which has declined nearly 30% over the past year and is currently trading at $44.65. According to InvestingPro data, the stock’s RSI suggests it’s in oversold territory, potentially presenting an interesting setup ahead of the company’s second quarter fiscal year 2025 earnings report, scheduled for release before the market opens on March 6th. According to their review of Placer AI traffic data, they expect Cracker Barrel’s revenue for the quarter to surpass current consensus estimates. The company generated $3.49 billion in revenue over the last twelve months, with a modest growth of 1.89%. Despite this, they predict that any discussion regarding same-store sales (SSS) trends for the beginning of the quarter will likely be subdued due to industry-wide challenges observed in February and reflected in the latest data. InvestingPro subscribers can access detailed financial health scores and additional insights about CBRL’s performance metrics.

Benchmark’s analysts have decided to continue with a Hold rating for Cracker Barrel shares, expressing a cautious stance. While the company maintains an impressive 44-year streak of consecutive dividend payments, its current financial health score from InvestingPro is labeled as ’WEAK’. They indicated a preference to observe more evidence of success from the company’s strategic repositioning initiatives, especially considering the current tough consumer environment. The analysts are looking for more concrete signs of improvement in the company’s performance before changing their rating.

Cracker Barrel’s upcoming earnings report is being closely watched by investors, particularly for any commentary on recent SSS trends and the company’s strategic efforts. The analysts at Benchmark have highlighted the importance of these factors in their assessment of the stock’s potential.

The restaurant industry has faced several headwinds, and Cracker Barrel is no exception. The reference to "February weakness" suggests that the industry, including Cracker Barrel, may have experienced some difficulties during that period. Benchmark’s analysts appear to be taking a cautious approach until they can verify a positive impact from the company’s strategic changes.

Investors and market watchers will be paying close attention to Cracker Barrel’s earnings release on March 6th, looking for signs of resilience or concern within the company’s financial results and strategic direction. Analyst price targets currently range from $38 to $60, with a consensus recommendation leaning towards Hold. The Benchmark rating reflects a wait-and-see approach, emphasizing the need for clear progress amidst a challenging consumer backdrop. For comprehensive analysis of CBRL and 1,400+ other stocks, including detailed Fair Value calculations and expert insights, consider exploring InvestingPro.

In other recent news, Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. reported its first-quarter financial results for fiscal year 2025, revealing mixed performance. The company announced total revenues of $845.1 million, aligning with expectations, but its earnings per share (EPS) fell short at $0.98 compared to the anticipated $1.14. Despite the earnings miss, Cracker Barrel’s restaurant revenues increased by 3.4%, while retail revenues experienced a slight decline of 0.8%. Loop Capital responded to these results by raising its price target for Cracker Barrel to $55 from $45, maintaining a Hold rating on the stock. Piper Sandler also adjusted its price target to $58, while keeping a Neutral rating, noting Cracker Barrel’s reaffirmation of its fiscal 2025 guidance and progress in menu enhancements. Additionally, the company is planning to expand its efficiency tests system-wide in the third fiscal quarter as part of its strategic transformation plan. In governance news, Cracker Barrel announced the resignation of board member Meg G. Crofton for personal reasons, with the company yet to announce a successor.

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