National Beverage Corp. (FIZZ) Posts Record Q1 2026 Sales of $331M, EPS $0.60 Amid Margin Pressures

We recently compiled a list of the 13 Best Bear Market Stocks to Buy Right Now. National Beverage Corp. is one of them.

National Beverage Corp. (NASDAQ:FIZZ), maker of LaCroix sparkling water, reported strong first-quarter fiscal 2026 results with record net sales of $331 million, slightly above last year’s $329 million, and earnings per share of $0.60 for the quarter ending August 2, 2025. Operating income rose to $71 million, and operating cash flow reached $59 million, boosting cash reserves to $250 million. Growth was driven by improved pricing and product mix, despite a slight decline in case volume. The company highlighted innovation as a key driver, launching four new LaCroix flavors and the “Deliciously Magical” variety pack, which supported strong organic growth, particularly in club channel sales.

Despite these gains, National Beverage Corp. (NASDAQ:FIZZ)’s stock hit a 52-week low near $37 in late September 2025. Rising marketing costs, softer margins, and slower volume growth have pressured near-term performance. Revenue of $330.52 million fell short of analyst expectations of $354.18 million, prompting cautious sentiment. UBS downgraded the stock to a “ Moderate sell” with a $39 price target, citing ongoing margin pressures despite the company’s investments in brand building and product innovation. FIZZ is increasingly discussed among the best bear market stocks due to its strong cash flow and potential for recovery.

National Beverage Corp. (FIZZ) Posts Record Q1 2026 Sales of $331M, EPS $0.60 Amid Margin Pressures

From an investment perspective, National Beverage Corp. (NASDAQ:FIZZ) may appeal as a turnaround opportunity. Its strong brand presence, consistent innovation, and solid cash flow position it well to navigate near-term challenges.

While we acknowledge the risk and potential of FIZZ as an investment, our conviction lies in the belief that some AI stocks hold greater promise for delivering higher returns and doing so within a shorter time frame. If you are looking for an AI stock that is more promising than FIZZ and that has 10,000% upside potential, check out our report about this cheapest AI stock.

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