Cava trounces fast-casual peers with 22% revenue growth, surpassing $1 billion in sales for the first time | Fortune
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Cava trounces fast-casual peers with 22% revenue growth, surpassing $1 billion in sales for the first time | Fortune
"The Mediterranean fast-casual chain recently launched its most extensive menu update yet, CFO Tricia Tolivar said. White sweet potatoes returned alongside new items such as power greens, sumac slaw, and pita chips with sumac sour cream and onion. In April, Cava will introduce its first salmon entrée, finished with a pomegranate glaze."
"Cava's growth continued in the fourth quarter ended Dec. 28, with revenue rising 21.2% year over year-above analyst expectations of 18%. For the full year, revenue climbed 22.5% to $1.169 billion, surpassing $1 billion for the first time, the company reported on Tuesday."
"Tolivar attributed Cava's gains to long-term discipline. The company maintained positive same-restaurant sales and traffic in 2025 without heavy promotions, focusing instead on 'everyday value' to build loyalty while protecting margins."
"Cava opened 72 net new restaurants in 2025, bringing its total to 439 locations-a nearly 20% increase year over year-and driving $3 million in average unit volumes, she said. The company plans roughly 17% unit growth in 2026, or up to 76 additional locations, in addition to same-store sales growth of 3% to 5%."
Cava, a Mediterranean fast-casual chain, posted record revenue of $1.169 billion in 2025, surpassing $1 billion for the first time with 21.2% fourth-quarter growth exceeding analyst expectations. The company launched its most extensive menu update, introducing items like power greens, sumac slaw, and an April salmon entrée with pomegranate glaze. Cava opened 72 net new restaurants, reaching 439 locations with $3 million average unit volumes. Growth was driven by long-term discipline, maintaining positive same-restaurant sales and traffic without heavy promotions while absorbing tariff pressures through a diversified supply chain. The company plans 17% unit growth in 2026 with 3-5% same-store sales growth, investing in leadership development through its Flavor Your Future platform.
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