Zoe's Kitchen's Q3 Sets The Table For A Strong 2018

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Zoe’s Kitchen Inc ZOES soared despite missing on third-quarter sales estimates and narrowing FY17 sales guidance.

The Analyst

Jefferies’ Andy Barrish.

The Rating

Upgrade to Buy from Hold, with a $16 price target.

The Thesis

Despite a slight sales miss in the third quarter, Barrish is confident that Zoe’s top-line catalysts will drive new revenue growth.

“We like ZOES brand positioning and even in very competitive fast-casual category we believe sss can return to positive consistently beginning in ’18. We believe this will come from continued new menu innovation,” said Barrish.

A re-launched integrated mobile app/loyalty program is driving more customer engagement and the potential to drive increased awareness, according to Jefferies.

Over the long term, Barish sees Zoe’s continuing to drive high growth, with disciplined unit growth and mid-single digit comps.

“We do not expect substantial upside to our numbers, but believe the totality of Zoe’s growth opportunity should allow it to maintains a premium multiple,” concluded the analyst.

Price Action

Shares of Zoe’s closed up 13.5 percent at $12.44.

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Posted In: Analyst ColorPrice TargetRestaurantsAnalyst RatingsGeneralAndy Barrish.Jefferies
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