Restaurant Brands International, Inc. (QSR)

In the past six months, Restaurant Brands International (QSR) stock has experienced several notable events. In Q1 2026, RBI reported earnings per share (EPS) of $0.86 and revenue of $2.26 billion, surpassing analysts' estimates, representing a 7.3% increase year-over-year. Following the Q1 earnings announcement on May 6, 2026, QSR shares initially declined by 5.5% but then drifted 3.3% higher. Burger King U.S. showed strong performance, while Popeyes experienced a significant decline in comparable sales, and Tim Hortons also showed some weakness. The company resumed share buybacks in March 2026, targeting approximately $500 million in repurchases by 2026. Analyst sentiment turned bullish, with several firms raising their price targets. Management reiterated its long-term algorithm and the "Reclaim the Flame" initiative for Burger King U.S. is showing positive results. RBI aims to become an investment-grade company by 2028.

Restaurant Brands International's products and services experience demand seasonality, with the first quarter of the year generally being a low point following the holiday period. This seasonality impacts metrics such as net restaurant growth, which is typically lower in Q1 but expected to accelerate later in the year.

Restaurant Brands International Inc. (QSR) is a Canadian multinational fast-food holding company formed in 2014 through the merger of Burger King and Tim Hortons, later acquiring Popeyes in 2017 and Firehouse Subs in 2021. RBI is one of the world's largest quick-service restaurant companies, with nearly $45 billion in annual system-wide sales and over 32,000 restaurants globally. Tim Hortons offers coffee, drinks, baked goods, and sandwiches. Burger King is known for its Whopper sandwich and other fast-food items. Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen features Louisiana-style fried chicken and regional items. Firehouse Subs specializes in subs, chili, soups, and sides. The company generates revenue from franchise and property fees, supply chain sales, company-operated restaurants, and advertising royalties.

Restaurant Brands International has a significant global presence, operating in more than 120 countries and territories with over 33,000 restaurants. As of December 31, 2025, the company operated over 33,000 restaurants globally, with a net restaurant growth of 2.9%, and approximately 95% of its system-wide restaurants are franchised. Tim Hortons maintains a strong base in Canada, the United States, and the Middle East, with over 6,000 system-wide restaurants. Burger King operates more than 19,700 locations in over 120 markets, with a significant presence in the United States and international markets. Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen operates restaurants in the United States and 25 other countries. Firehouse Subs is primarily concentrated in the US and Canada.

In the past year, Restaurant Brands International has focused on enhancing its brand reputation through sustainability initiatives and ongoing efforts to improve customer experience and product offerings across its brands. RBI released its annual "Restaurant Brands for Good Report," highlighting progress and goals across its Food, Planet, and People & Communities pillars. Burger King's "Reclaim the Flame" initiative aims to stabilize the brand and improve franchisee profitability. The decline in Popeyes comparable sales in Q1 2026 could indicate challenges in brand performance or consumer perception.

The ownership structure of Restaurant Brands International (QSR) stock is a mix of institutional, retail, and individual investors. Approximately 33.44% of the company's stock is owned by institutional investors, with major holders including Capital World Investors and Pershing Square Capital Management. Approximately 1.44% of the company's stock is owned by insiders. Approximately 65.12% of the company's stock is owned by public companies and individual investors. 3G Capital holds a 32% stake in Restaurant Brands International and 26% voting power.