Same-Store Sales (Comps)

Category: business

A performance metric that compares the revenue generated by a chain restaurant’s established locations over a specific period against the same period in the prior year.

Also referred to as "comparable-store sales." This metric is vital for multi-unit operators because it isolates organic, system-wide consumer demand from the artificial revenue growth generated by opening new physical storefronts. Evaluating comps allows corporate analysts to judge the effectiveness of localized marketing campaigns and baseline menu adjustments.

Common Examples

• Our mid-year financial report showed a five percent increase in same-store sales across our South Florida footprint, driven entirely by our updated beverage program.
• If a chain restaurant group reports surging net revenue but declining comps, it indicates that their existing store network is losing market share.