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Aramark Holdings Q1 Revenue Tops Estimates; Shares Mixed After Close

Aramark Holdings Corp (NYSE: ARMK) shares closed at about $38.77 on Monday, marking a modest intraday move in light trading, as the company reported first-quarter fiscal 2026 results and updated capital priorities. ARMK’s share price change at the close reflects market reaction to quarterly results released before trading on Feb. 10, 2026.

 

Market Capitalization

Aramark’s market capitalization was approximately $10.17 billion as of Feb. 10, 2026.

 

First Quarter 2026 Results

Aramark reported consolidated revenue of $4.83 billion for the first quarter of fiscal 2026, a 6% increase compared to the same period in the prior year. Organic revenue, which excludes the impact of currency translation, rose 5% year-over-year. The company noted that a calendar shift from a 53rd week in the prior fiscal year reduced revenue growth by an estimated 3%.

Net income for the quarter was $96.2 million, or $0.36 per share on a GAAP basis, compared to $0.39 per share in the year-ago period. Adjusted earnings per share remained unchanged year-over-year at $0.51. Without the impact of the calendar shift, the company stated that organic revenue growth would have been approximately 8% and adjusted earnings per share growth would have been 13%.

Operating income for the quarter was $218 million, essentially flat year-over-year while adjusted operating income (AOI) rose to $263 million. A calendar shift in fiscal weeks negatively affected reported growth metrics.

 

Segment Highlights

FSS United States: Revenue grew year-over-year, driven by expansion in Business & Industry, Healthcare, and Sports, Leisure & Corrections client categories. Organic revenue would have been higher without a calendar shift effect from the prior year.

FSS International: Revenue increased, with broad-based growth across key countries. Continued base business expansion and new client wins supported results.

 

Capital Allocation Priorities

During the quarter, Aramark repurchased approximately $30 million of common stock under its share repurchase program. The company also repriced $2.4 billion of 2030 Term Loans, reducing interest costs. Cash availability at quarter-end was about $1.4 billion. The Board declared a $0.12 quarterly dividend, payable March 4, 2026, to shareholders of record on Feb. 18, 2026.

 

Business & Operations Update

Aramark reported cash outflows consistent with seasonal working capital usage and timing of capital expenditures associated with new business commitments. Growth in new business and client retention were cited as drivers of organic revenue expansion. Aramark also highlighted continued focus on supply chain investments and cost management initiatives.

 

Equity Analyst Commentary

Analysts covering ARMK maintain a range of institutional views. According to third-party aggregation of broker research, several analysts have issued hold or buy evaluations, reflecting varied perspectives on Aramark’s growth prospects and operational execution. Recent brokerage coverage reflects a consensus with mixed positioning among major research firms.

 

Guidance & Outlook

For fiscal 2026, Aramark reaffirmed prior guidance that includes expected ranges for organic revenue growth, adjusted operating income, and adjusted earnings per share on a constant-currency basis, along with a targeted leverage ratio below 3.0x by year-end. The company’s outlook frames “what to watch for” in future results based on stated management expectations.

 

Performance Summary

Aramark’s stock closed near $38.77 following the release of Q1 results. The company reported ~6 % revenue growth in the quarter and delivered adjusted EPS of $0.51. Segment performance included gains across U.S. and international food and support services. Capital actions included stock repurchases and a quarterly dividend declaration. Guidance reiterated the company’s fiscal priorities.

Staff Correspondent: