We briefly note the following tidbits regarding privately-held Chick-fil-A, quick-service chicken sector market-share trends in the U.S., and Papa John’s (PZZA; Buy):
Ahead of Domino’s (DPZ; Buy) first quarter earnings release scheduled for before the market open on Wednesday, April 24th, we raise our Q1 U.S. (blended) samestore sales forecast by +160 basis points, to +4.5%. Based on our checks, we believe that Domino’s latest ad campaign — centered around “Points for Pies” — has been successful. Consumers apparently have responded well to the aspect of this that points can be earned from “eating any pizza you love, from anywhere. Yep, even if it’s not Domino’s.” Of course, many of the things that Domino’s has done well for years — an improved core product, technological excellence, the “Piece of the Pie Rewards” loyalty program, etc. — are all playing an integrated role in what appears to have been another successful quarter for the brand.
We briefly note the following tidbits regarding coffee-café segment market-share trends in the U.S., Dunkin’ (owned by Dunkin’ Brands Group [DNKN; Neutral]), and Burger King (owned by Restaurant Brands International [QSR; Not Rated]):