Dutch Bros vs. Starbucks: A Tale of Two Beverage Stocks Amid Market Volatility
Dutch Bros (BROS) and Starbucks (SBUX) have faced significant declines this year, with shares dropping 9% and 10.9% year-to-date, respectively. The S&P 500, meanwhile, has gained 14.2%. The sell-off presents a potential buying opportunity for investors eyeing long-term growth.
Dutch Bros, often compared to Starbucks in its early days, is in the midst of aggressive nationwide expansion. With 1,050 stores operational, the company mirrors Starbucks' growth trajectory in the 1990s. Unlike Starbucks, now a mature global business, Dutch Bros offers a fresher growth narrative—one that extends beyond coffee into a broader beverage market.
Starbucks remains a formidable player, but its limited long-term growth prospects contrast sharply with Dutch Bros' expansion potential. Historical returns for Starbucks—averaging 14.3% annually—highlight what Dutch Bros could achieve if it executes its strategy effectively.