Shake Shack (NYSE:SHAK) received an upgrade to “Neutral” from Jefferies on Tuesday, as the fast-casual burger chain’s marketing efforts, menu innovations, and supply chain improvements are expected to help offset macroeconomic headwinds.
Jefferies raised its price target on Shake Shack shares to $101 from $83.53, citing the company’s ability to sustain mid-teens US net unit growth and to control costs amid inflationary pressures.
Shares were up 5.6% in Tuesday trading.
“Shake Shack’s marketing and menu initiatives are helping to stabilize same-store traffic, even in a choppy macro backdrop,” Jefferies analysts wrote, highlighting the chain’s new offerings, including a Dubai Shake and a Korean-inspired menu, along with its $1-$3-$5 value menu available through the app.
The analyst firm noted that supply chain efficiencies, such as producer diversification, product optimization, and logistics improvements, should mitigate inflationary pressures, particularly for beef, which makes up a larger share of Shake Shack’s cost of goods than competitors.
Jefferies also raised its 2026 adjusted EBITDA estimate to $288 million, from $279 million previously, reflecting anticipated supply chain savings. The firm projects Shake Shack can sustain around 15% net restaurant growth in the US through the medium term, supported by steady expansion and the closure of underperforming locations in prior years.
While acknowledging ongoing challenges in consumer spending and heightened value competition, Jefferies said the company’s initiatives should help maintain in-line same-store sales and earnings growth.