McDonald’s Cuts Q1 Sales Forecast, Projects $2.70 EPS and New Drink Rollout
Analysts at Jefferies trimmed McDonald’s Q1 same-store sales forecasts by 50 basis points to 4% in the US and 3.5% internationally, projecting EPS of $2.70 versus $2.76 consensus. The company plans a nationwide rollout of specialty beverages including Red Bull Dragonberry Energizer, Dirty Dr. Pepper and Mango Pineapple Refresher.
1. Q1 same-store sales forecast cuts
Analysts at Jefferies lowered McDonald’s first-quarter same-store sales forecasts by 50 basis points to 4% in the US and 3.5% internationally after observing signs of softer consumer demand in March’s industry data.
2. Q1 EPS projection
The firm now expects Q1 earnings per share of $2.70, slightly under the $2.76 consensus estimate, reflecting the trimmed sales outlook and mixed third-party data on restaurant trends.
3. Specialty beverage rollout
McDonald’s will roll out new specialty beverages nationwide later this year, including Red Bull Dragonberry Energizer, Dirty Dr. Pepper and Mango Pineapple Refresher, aiming to capitalize on higher-margin drink offerings.
4. Full-year guidance and outlook
Jefferies trimmed its full-year 2026 EPS forecast to $13.08 from $13.12, maintained a buy rating and $375 price target, citing long-term growth drivers like unit expansion, digital growth and an expected tax rate reduction; McDonald’s reports Q1 results on May 7.