2026 Food Price Inflation Forecast: This ETF May Excel
Written by Emily J. Thompson, Senior Investment Analyst
Updated: Feb 21 2026
0mins
Source: Marketbeat
Consumer Discretionary Sector Performance: The consumer discretionary sector has struggled in 2026, posting a 2.7% year-to-date loss, following a 6% gain last year, and ranking last among the S&P 500 sectors.
Food Inflation Trends: Food inflation is expected to persist, with prices for food away from home projected to rise nearly 5%, while food at home prices are anticipated to increase by 1.7%.
Fast Food Market Growth: The global fast food and quick service restaurant market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 14.8% from 2026 to 2033, reaching over $885 billion.
Investment Opportunities: The AdvisorShares Restaurant ETF (EATZ) offers broad exposure to the fast food and quick service restaurant market, making it a potential investment opportunity for those optimistic about long-term growth in this sector.
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Analyst Views on WING
Wall Street analysts forecast WING stock price to rise
22 Analyst Rating
19 Buy
3 Hold
0 Sell
Strong Buy
Current: 170.210
Low
268.69
Averages
330.13
High
400.00
Current: 170.210
Low
268.69
Averages
330.13
High
400.00
About WING
Wingstop Inc. is a fast casual chicken wings-focused restaurant chain in the world, with more than 2,550 locations worldwide. The Company is in the business of franchising and operating Wingstop restaurants. The Company is primarily a franchisor, with approximately 98% of its restaurants owned and operated by independent franchisees. The Company offers classic wings, boneless wings, tenders, and chicken sandwiches, always cooked to order, and hand-sauced-and-tossed in 12 bold, distinctive flavors. It also complements its wings, tenders, and chicken sandwiches with fresh-cut, seasoned fries and fresh, hand-cut carrots and celery. It offers various order options, including dine-in / carryout / delivery; individual / combo meals / family packs. Its menu also features signature sides, including fresh-cut, seasoned fries and freshly made ranch and bleu cheese dips. The Company operates approximately a total of 2,513 restaurants in 45 states and 12 countries and United States territories.
About the author
Emily J. Thompson
Emily J. Thompson, a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) with 12 years in investment research, graduated with honors from the Wharton School. Specializing in industrial and technology stocks, she provides in-depth analysis for Intellectia’s earnings and market brief reports.
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- Omnichannel Strategy Effectiveness: By enhancing the shopping experience across online and offline channels, including same-day delivery and contactless returns, the company has improved customer satisfaction, which is likely to drive sales growth and further solidify its market position.
- Market Challenges and Responses: Despite facing challenges such as supply chain disruptions and inflation, Levi Strauss anticipates maintaining an adjusted EBIT margin of 8-9% through effective cost control and brand focus strategies, demonstrating its capacity to navigate market fluctuations.
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- Strong Financial Performance: The company posted a net income of $55 million on total revenue of $724 million last year, a substantial increase from $5 million net income and $653 million revenue in 2024, indicating a notable enhancement in profitability.
- Market Expansion Plans: With nearly 3,300 locations, Jersey Mike's is the second-largest hoagie sandwich chain in the U.S. after Subway, and it plans to continue expanding, particularly in international markets.
- Strategic Investment Background: Following a deal with Blackstone that valued the chain at approximately $8 billion, founder Peter Cancro retained meaningful equity and continues to be involved in governance, demonstrating confidence and commitment to future expansion.
See More
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See More
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- Historical Background: Founded in 1956 as 'Mike's Subs' in New Jersey, the chain was acquired by Peter Cancro in 1975 for $125K, and its rapid expansion to 3,300 locations through franchising highlights its strong market potential and customer loyalty.
- Private Equity Acquisition: In January 2025, private equity giant Blackstone acquired a majority stake in Jersey Mike's, valuing the company at $8 billion, with Cancro retaining a 10% stake and continuing as CEO, underscoring the company's attractiveness and growth prospects in the industry.
- Leadership Change: New CEO Charlie Morrison, formerly of Wingstop, is expected to leverage his experience alongside Blackstone's partnership to position Jersey Mike's for the next growth phase, as Cancro emphasizes the strength of their franchise owners and team members in facing future challenges.
See More
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- Innovative Pairing: The newly introduced Chamoy Ranch sauce is crafted to perfectly complement the Sweet Heat Chamoy flavor, aiming to enhance the dining experience and further solidify Wingstop's unique position in the fast-food market.
- Marketing Promotion: Wingstop will launch a Sweet Heat Chamoy pop-up cart in Venice Beach on June 27, aiming to attract customers through live experiences, increase brand exposure, and drive sales.
- Exclusive Member Benefits: Consumers can join Club Wingstop via the app or website to gain early access to Sweet Heat Chamoy and exclusive rewards, which is expected to enhance customer loyalty and drive future sales growth.
See More
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- New Flavor Launch: Wingstop introduces a limited-time flavor, Sweet Heat Chamoy, which combines a custom dry rub with Tajín sauce, aiming to satisfy consumer cravings for unique tastes and potentially increasing foot traffic.
- Exclusive Member Preview: The flavor will be available exclusively to Club Wingstop members from June 26 to 29 before a nationwide launch on June 30, designed to enhance customer loyalty and engagement through membership benefits.
- Complementary Product Introduction: Wingstop is also launching Chamoy Ranch, crafted specifically to pair with the new flavor, further enriching the menu and enhancing the overall dining experience for customers.
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