Freshpet Raises 2026 Sales Guidance After Strong Quarter
The pet food maker reported third-quarter earnings above estimates and lifted its full-year sales outlook.
Updated on Nov. 4, 2026 in Pets — General
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Freshpet raised its fiscal 2026 sales guidance to $1.234 billion-$1.245 billion after reporting third-quarter diluted EPS of $0.58 and sales of $317.8 million. Both results topped analyst estimates, with sales up 10.0% year over year.
Why it matters
The results signal continued demand for premium fresh pet food even as competition in the category intensifies. Freshpet is directing more advertising toward its highest-value households to defend market position.
Freshpet reported third-quarter 2026 net income of $27.9 million, down from $101.7 million a year earlier, while gross margin expanded to 44.5% from 39.5%. E-commerce sales climbed 35% year over year, and the company ended September with $345.9 million in cash.
The players
Freshpet, Inc.
Freshpet is a U.S. pet food company that produces refrigerated, fresh dog and cat food sold through retail and e-commerce channels.
The details
Gross margin expanded to 44.5% from 39.5%, and adjusted gross margin rose to 50.0% from 46.0%. Adjusted EBITDA increased to $64.5 million from $54.6 million, while MVP household penetration grew 8% and the store count rose 5% to more than 31,000 locations.
Timeline
September: Freshpet ended the quarter with $345.9 million in cash.
Q3 2026: Freshpet reported third-quarter results that beat estimates.
2027: Freshpet reiterated its gross margin and EBITDA margin targets.
Market Landscape
Freshpet's 35% e-commerce growth and its shift toward MVP households reflect a broader move among premium pet food brands to sell directly online and focus marketing on heavy buyers. The company is making these moves as competition in the fresh pet food category increases.
Pet owners who buy fresh refrigerated food may see Freshpet's selective price increases, which the company plans in response to ingredient and packaging cost pressures. Shoppers can find the product at more than 31,000 store locations and online.
The takeaway
Fresh pet food brands are growing fastest where they can reach their most loyal buyers, both in stores and online. Pet owners comparing premium options should watch for pricing changes as manufacturers pass through higher costs.
Further reading
For more on the pet care market, see Pets — General.
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Do you expect your pet food costs to go up in the next year?
