2 Chipotle Charts To Watch As Earnings Loom

Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. CMG will report its first quarter financial results on Tuesday afternoon.

Estimize makes it easier for investors to know what to expect. According to the site, Wall Street analysts are modeling consensus EPS of $3.61 (on revenue of $1.103 billion), versus the crowd’s more bullish consensus of $3.66 (on revenue of $1.111 billion). The estimates imply an increase from earnings of $2.64 per share in the same quarter last year, but a decrease from last quarter’s $3.84.

Check out the graph below for details:

Interestingly, Estimize also provides data on how estimates have changed over time.

While the opinion of Estimize users and Wall Street analysts was fractured over February and March, estimates seem to be converging as earnings loom. Now, the difference is only a few cents, down from more than a dime, a month ago.

What Analysts Are Saying

Last week, analysts at William Blair said they expect Chipotle’s first quarter EPS to meet their estimate of $3.75. “Chipotle has emerged as a leader in the fast-casual Mexican restaurant space, as the concept’s freshly prepared food, streamlined operations, and industrial chic ambience have generated strong consumer appeal. As a result, Chipotle generates enviable sales productivity in addition to best in class restaurant level margins.”

As outlined in a recent Benzinga article, William Blair offered several key points for investors:

• “Anticipates a 12 to 14 percent increase in same-store sales growth.
• Projects the third consecutive quarter of of year-over-year restaurant level margin expansion.
• Sales leverage will drive G&A costs lower to 5.8 percent.
• Expects management to reiterate plans for 190 to 205 new locations, representing growth of 11 to 12 percent.”