First Watch Restaurant Group, Inc. Stock Price, News & Analysis

First Watch Restaurant Group (FWRG) reported a strong Q2 2022 with system-wide sales growth of 20.0% to $231.2 million and same-restaurant sales growth of 13.4%, supported by an 8.1% traffic increase. However, the income from operations margin decreased to 2.8% from 8.1% year-over-year, impacted by inflation and wage increases. Net income fell to $2.7 million ($0.05 per diluted share) compared to $3.8 million ($0.08 per diluted share) in Q2 2021. The company raised its fiscal 2022 guidance, projecting total revenue growth of approximately 20.0%.

First Watch (NASDAQ: FWRG), a leader in Daytime Dining, is taking significant steps toward environmental sustainability by partnering with WinCup, Inc. to replace around 30 million plastic straws annually with phade^®, compostable drinking straws. The new straws, which resemble traditional plastic but decompose naturally within months, will be rolled out nationwide following successful trials. First Watch, recognized as the fastest growing full-service restaurant company in 2021, emphasizes enhancing customer experiences while prioritizing sustainability in its operations.

First Watch Restaurant Group (NASDAQ: FWRG) is set to release its Q2 2022 financial results on August 9, 2022, before market opening. Following the announcement, a conference call and webcast will take place at 8:00 AM ET, featuring CEO Chris Tomasso and CFO Mel Hope. Interested listeners can participate via telephone or through a webcast available on the Company’s investor site.

Recognized for its breakfast, brunch, and lunch offerings, First Watch continues to grow with over 440 locations across 28 states.

First Watch Restaurant Group has appointed Stephanie Lilak, Chief People Officer at Bumble Inc., to its Board of Directors, effective June 17, 2022. This strategic move aims to leverage Lilak's extensive experience in human resources within the food and restaurant industry to enhance First Watch's growth and its 'You First' culture. Lilak's past roles include Chief Human Resources Officer at Dunkin’ Brands and over two decades in HR leadership at General Mills.

First Watch has launched a new seasonal menu featuring dishes inspired by authentic Mexican proteins. Available nationwide through August 14, the menu introduces items like the Barbacoa Quesadilla Benedict and Hacienda Hash, alongside refreshing seasonal drinks like Watermelon Wake-Up. The additions emphasize premium ingredients and vibrant flavors, responding to customer demand for new experiences. First Watch continues to operate its breakfast and brunch service seven days a week, focusing on freshness and quality.

First Watch Restaurant Group (NASDAQ: FWRG) announced participation in three upcoming investor conferences. The events include a fireside chat at Piper Sandler’s Year of the Restaurant Industry Summit on June 8, 2022, and Stifel’s 2022 Cross Sector Insight Conference on June 9, 2022. Additionally, a virtual fireside chat at the Jefferies Consumer Conference will begin on June 20, 2022, with in-person meetings on June 21-22. Investors can access live webcasts and recordings of the presentations on their investor relations website.

First Watch has partnered with the V Foundation for Cancer Research to support pediatric cancer initiatives. From every kids meal sold, 25 cents will be donated to the Dick Vitale Fund, aiming to raise approximately $500,000 in the first year. The initiative reflects First Watch's ongoing commitment to philanthropy and community support, recently highlighted by the V Foundation’s gala raising over $11 million. This partnership aligns with a broader mission to enhance funding for pediatric cancer research, with 100% of donations directed to this cause.

First Watch Restaurant Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: FWRG) reported a robust Q1 2022, with total revenues rising 36.1% to $173.1 million, driven by same-restaurant sales growth of 27.2% and traffic growth of 21.9%. The net income reached $4.6 million or $0.08 per diluted share, a significant recovery from a net loss of $(2.0) million in Q1 2021. Notably, the restaurant level operating profit margin increased to 19.6%. The company opened 7 new restaurants and reaffirmed its fiscal year 2022 guidance, expecting total revenue growth exceeding 15% and 30-35 new company-owned restaurants.

First Watch Restaurant Group (NASDAQ: FWRG) will release its first quarter 2022 financial results on May 10, 2022, before the market opens. The Company specializes in breakfast, brunch, and lunch and has over 435 locations across 28 states. A conference call and webcast will follow the release at 8:00 AM ET, hosted by CEO Chris Tomasso and CFO Mel Hope. Investors can listen by calling 412-317-5208 or via a webcast on the Company’s investor website.