Cava says diners are doing better this year — and may be getting tired of chasing meal deals

MarketWatch

by Bill Peters

February 24, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Cava Group has reported an optimistic sales forecast for the year ahead, driven by customers returning to its Mediterranean fast-casual chain despite lingering effects from snowstorms and last year’s government shutdown. The company’s CEO noted that diners may be growing tired of pursuing meal deals, suggesting a potential shift in consumer behavior within the restaurant industry. In its fourth-quarter earnings report, Cava revealed cautious yet encouraging results, with shares rising nearly 8% in extended trading. This growth reflects consumers gradually regaining confidence, though not without challenges—prices at the chain have increased, and traffic dipped slightly during the quarter. While Cava remains upbeat about its outlook, the broader implications for the restaurant sector are worth noting. The company’s focus on quality and consistency appears to be resonating with diners, even as economic uncertainties persist. This strategic approach could serve as a model for other chains navigating similar market conditions.

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Originally published on MarketWatch on 2/24/2026