The Chefs' Warehouse Reports 11.4% Increase in Net Sales to $1.059 Billion

The Chefs' Warehouse, Inc. reported a significant increase in financial performance for the thirteen weeks ended March 27, 2026, with net sales reaching $1,059 million, an 11.4% increase from $950.7 million in the same period last year. The company's gross profit also rose to $257.4 million, up 13.9% from $226 million, resulting in a gross profit margin of 24.3%, compared to 23.8% in the prior year. Net income for the quarter was $17.4 million, or $0.45 per share, compared to $10.3 million, or $0.27 per share, in the previous year, reflecting a substantial improvement in profitability.

The growth in net sales was primarily driven by organic growth, which contributed $98.3 million, or 10.4%, while the acquisition of Italco Food Products added $10 million, or 1%. The company reported a 5.7% increase in organic case count in its specialty category, leading to a $33.7 million increase in net sales. Additionally, unique customers and placements in the specialty category increased by 1.9% and 6.2%, respectively. The center-of-the-plate category also saw a 6.2% increase in organic pounds sold, contributing an additional $22.3 million to net sales.

Operationally, The Chefs' Warehouse served over 55,000 core customer locations across 23 geographic markets in the U.S., the Middle East, and Canada. The company has continued to expand its product offerings, with over 90,000 stock-keeping units available. The recent acquisition of Italco, completed in October 2025, has further strengthened its market position. The company also reported a decrease in selling, general, and administrative expenses as a percentage of net sales, which fell to 21.2% from 21.3%, indicating improved cost management.

In terms of liquidity, The Chefs' Warehouse had cash and cash equivalents of $122.7 million as of March 27, 2026, up from $121 million at the end of the previous fiscal year. The company’s working capital, excluding cash, increased to $380.5 million from $375.4 million. The company has also extended its share repurchase program, with $57.6 million remaining under the authorization. Looking ahead, The Chefs' Warehouse expects capital expenditures for fiscal 2026 to be between $45 million and $55 million, and management believes that existing cash balances and available credit will be sufficient to meet operational needs over the next twelve months.