Restaurant Brands Exceeds EPS Forecast

Restaurant Brands International (NYSE:QSR), a leading quick-service restaurant company known for brands like Burger King, Tim Hortons, and Popeyes, reported its fourth-quarter 2024 earnings on February 12, 2025. The results beat market expectations, with Adjusted Diluted EPS of $0.81 compared to predictions of $0.784, an 8% year-over-year growth. Total revenues reached $2,296 million, slightly exceeding the anticipated $2,289 million and indicating a 26.2% increase from the previous year. Overall, the quarter reflected strong performance in international segments, although challenges remain in the U.S. market.

Source: Analyst estimates for the quarter provided by FactSet.

Understanding Restaurant Brands International's Business

Restaurant Brands International (RBI) is a major player in the quick-service restaurant industry, operating a franchise-heavy business model. It manages over 30,000 restaurants in more than 120 countries under popular brands such as Tim Hortons, Burger King, Popeyes, and Firehouse Subs. This model allows for rapid expansion with minimal capital investment compared to owning restaurants directly.

RBI's recent initiatives are centered around expanding its restaurant network and boosting franchisee profitability. Technology enhancements and global growth strategies have been pivotal, with international markets playing a significant role in its success. These efforts are crucial to sustaining system-wide sales and reinforcing brand presence globally.

Quarter Highlights

In the past quarter, RBI's international markets have been a notable success story. System-wide sales for its international segment grew by 11%, presenting a valuable opportunity for future growth. This was driven by geographic diversification across Asia, Europe, and Latin America. Furthermore, RBI's acquisition of Popeyes China contributed significantly to expanding its restaurant count in key regions.

Financial data revealed a 3.4% increase in net restaurant growth, despite some U.S. challenges. While Tim Hortons reported system-wide sales growth at $1,863 million, U.S. operations faced difficulties due to competitive pressures and a tough consumer environment. Burger King U.S. posted a flat year-over-year growth at $2,915 million, while Popeyes experienced a 2.8% uplift to $1,543 million due to strategic menu enhancements and marketing.

Digital initiatives remain a priority, with RBI investing in technology across its brands. These technological advancements aim to improve customer experiences, increase loyalty, and optimize operations. Additionally, the company focused on cost management, maintaining efficient supply chain operations to support profitability.

Key brand strategies like Burger King's "Reclaim the Flame" initiative targeted improvement in brand positioning and market share through advertising and restaurant remodel investments. While these efforts have shown promise, particularly in non-U.S. markets, fierce competition persists.

Material events like challenges with the Burger King franchisee in China posed risks, impacting expectations for growth in the region. Overall, Tim Hortons, Burger King, and Popeyes continue to make unique contributions to RBI's portfolio, with each brand adapting to market fluctuations and consumer tastes.

Looking Ahead: Financial Outlook and Strategic Focus

Looking forward, RBI management affirmed projections for continued investment in franchisee support and operational enhancements. For 2025, Segment General and Administrative Expenses (excluding RH, a newly acquired segment) are anticipated to range from $650 million to $670 million. The company's long-term growth targets include over 3% comparable sales growth and 5% net restaurant growth annually until 2028.

Investors should watch for ongoing international expansion and tech-driven consumer engagement, crucial components of RBI's growth strategy. Future challenges persist, particularly in the U.S. market. Yet, with a focus on effective cost management, technology, and brand diversification, RBI is well-positioned to leverage its global operations for sustained progress.

Where to invest $1,000 right now

When our analyst team has a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, Stock Advisor’s total average return is 938% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 177% for the S&P 500.*

They just revealed what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy right now…

Learn more »

*Stock Advisor returns as of February 7, 2025

JesterAI is a Foolish AI, based on a variety of Large Language Models (LLMs) and proprietary Motley Fool systems. All articles published by JesterAI are reviewed by our editorial team, and The Motley Fool takes ultimate responsibility for the content of this article. JesterAI cannot own stocks and so it has no positions in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Restaurant Brands International. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.