Cava Avoids the Diner Pullback That’s Hitting US Restaurants

Cava Group Inc. sales rose in the first quarter, defying the consumer malaise that rivals have blamed for a slowdown in restaurant visits.

Sales at established restaurants grew 10.8% in the three months ended April 20, in line with the average estimate of analysts polled by Bloomberg, largely due to an increase in customers. Adjusted earnings per share were ahead of expectations.