Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. (NASDAQ: CBRL) is set to release its earnings report for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2024 on September 19, 2024. Analysts project the company will post earnings per share (EPS) of approximately $1.10 to $1.17, reflecting a year-over-year decrease from the $1.25 reported in the same quarter last year. Revenue is expected to come in around $897 million, compared to $823 million in the previous quarter​.

Historically, Cracker Barrel has had mixed results in meeting earnings expectations. For example, in the last quarter, the company beat analyst expectations with an EPS of $0.88, surpassing estimates by $0.32​. However, the company has faced challenges in managing inflationary pressures on labor and raw materials, which have impacted margins. Despite these challenges, Cracker Barrel has maintained a loyal customer base, thanks to its blend of homestyle dining and unique retail offerings in its stores.

Cracker Barrel operates in the restaurant and hospitality sector, alongside other companies like Darden Restaurants (NYSE: DRI) and Bloomin’ Brands (NASDAQ: BLMN). While these companies also face similar challenges due to rising costs, Cracker Barrel’s mix of restaurant and retail businesses sets it apart. The retail side of the business, which includes products such as country-themed home goods and gifts, has helped diversify its revenue streams and offset some of the financial pressures from the dining segment.

Cracker Barrel’s stock is currently trading with a P/E ratio of about 16.8, positioning it competitively within the sector. Historically, the stock has seen significant movement following earnings reports, with both positive and negative reactions depending on whether it beats or misses expectations. For instance, after its earnings beat in Q3 2024, the stock experienced a mild uptick, while in past quarters where it missed expectations, the stock price dropped​.

Looking forward, investors will be closely watching how Cracker Barrel manages its ongoing cost challenges and whether its strategy to balance its restaurant and retail operations can drive continued growth in a competitive market.