Fast Casual Chains Could Regain Value Leadership in 2026 -- Market Talk

Dow Jones01-15

1536 ET - Fast casual chains may reclaim their value leadership in 2026 as macroeconomic headwinds let up, Bank of America analysts write in a note. Last year saw a steep deterioration in same store sales growth trends among fast casual chains, but the analysts attribute this to macroeconomic forces rather than concerns about the business fundamentals. "FCs over-index to younger customers but, contrary to popular perceptions, do not skew more affluent," they write. They say that chains such as Chipotle, Cava, or Wingstop could take a page from the casual dining restaurant playbook by highlighting their value propositions without having to offer deep discounts. (elias.schisgall@wsj.com)

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

January 14, 2026 15:36 ET (20:36 GMT)

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They say that chains such as Chipotle, Cava, or Wingstop could take a page from the casual dining restaurant playbook by highlighting their value propositions without having to offer deep discounts. 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