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First Watch Restaurant Group, Inc. Reports Preliminary Operational Metrics for the Fourth Quarter and Fiscal Year 2025

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BRADENTON, Fla., Jan. 12, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- First Watch Restaurant Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: FWRG)...

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AI Summary

FWRG opened a record 64 new restaurants in 2025 across 23 states. Achieved same-restaurant sales growth of 3.6% in 2025. New restaurant classes outperformed expectations, suggesting strong future growth. Management remains confident in executing long-term strategy for Daytime Dining. FWRG CEO will participate in ICR Conference for investor discussions.

Sentiment Rationale

The record restaurant openings and sales growth indicate positive performance trends similar to industry successes seen in growing chains like Chipotle in previous years. Furthermore, maintaining a positive same-store traffic growth amidst broader economic challenges boosts investor confidence.

Trading Thesis

FWRG's strong establishment in Daytime Dining, alongside ambitious expansion plans, suggests sustained growth over the next few years, akin to successful restaurant chains like Starbucks during their rapid growth periods.

Market-Moving

  • FWRG opened a record 64 new restaurants in 2025 across 23 states.
  • Achieved same-restaurant sales growth of 3.6% in 2025.
  • New restaurant classes outperformed expectations, suggesting strong future growth.

Key Facts

  • FWRG opened a record 64 new restaurants in 2025 across 23 states.
  • Achieved same-restaurant sales growth of 3.6% in 2025.
  • New restaurant classes outperformed expectations, suggesting strong future growth.
  • Management remains confident in executing long-term strategy for Daytime Dining.
  • FWRG CEO will participate in ICR Conference for investor discussions.

Companies Mentioned

  • CMG (CMG)
  • SBUX (SBUX)
  • DUNK (DUNK)

Corporate Developments

The article outlines substantial operational growth and strategic confidence, essential for investor interest and market positioning, likely influencing FWRG's stock positively.

First Watch Restaurant Group, Inc. Reports Preliminary Operational Metrics for Q4 and Fiscal Year 2025

BRADENTON, Fla., January 12, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — First Watch Restaurant Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: FWRG) has announced its preliminary operational metrics for the fourth quarter and fiscal year 2025, reflecting significant growth and strategic achievements. The company is recognized as a leading Daytime Dining establishment, serving breakfast, brunch, and lunch.

Operational Highlights for 2025

In 2025, First Watch achieved a record of 64 new system-wide restaurant openings across 23 states, further solidifying its footprint in the Daytime Dining market. Chris Tomasso, CEO and President of First Watch, noted that the company experienced same restaurant sales growth of +3.6% and positive traffic growth as pivotal successes of the year.

  • Same-Restaurant Sales Growth: +3.1% in Q4, +3.6% year-over-year
  • Same-Restaurant Traffic Growth: -1.9% in Q4, +0.5% year-over-year

Restaurant Development Insights

During Q4 2025, First Watch opened 13 new restaurants, including 12 company-owned and one franchise-owned location. Overall, the company recorded 64 total openings throughout the year, consisting of 55 company-owned and nine franchise-owned restaurants, while managing to close only three locations. As of December 28, 2025, First Watch operates 633 system-wide restaurants, comprised of 560 company-owned and 73 franchise locations across 32 states.

ICR Conference Participation

First Watch is set to participate in the 28th Annual ICR Conference today, January 12, 2026. Chris Tomasso and Mel Hope, CFO, will host a fireside chat at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time. Interested investors can access the live webcast at First Watch Investor Relations, where the session will also be archived for later viewing.

Understanding Key Metrics

The term same-restaurant sales growth measures the year-over-year change in sales of restaurants open for at least 18 months, allowing for a clear performance analysis of First Watch's stable restaurant base. For the most recent thirteen and fifty-two week periods, there were 381 locations in the Comparable Restaurant Base.

Same-restaurant traffic growth tracks the change in customer visits compared to the previous year, serving as an essential indicator for brand development and marketing effectiveness.

About First Watch

First Watch is a prominent Daytime Dining brand that prioritizes fresh, made-to-order meals. With a culinary philosophy that emphasizes seasonal ingredients, its menu features rotating selections designed to elevate traditional breakfast and brunch offerings. Committed to community support, First Watch has donated over $1.7 million to various causes connected to children's meals, showcasing its dedication to social responsibility.

The company has garnered numerous awards, including being recognized as 2025’s #1 Best Breakfast by Newsweek, further solidifying its reputation within the industry.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially include changes in consumer preferences, economic conditions, and operational challenges. Investors are encouraged to review First Watch's filings with the SEC for a comprehensive understanding of potential risks.

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