Beyond Meat, Inc., a plant-based meat company, develops, manufactures, markets, and sells plant-based meat products in the United States and internationally. The company sells a range of plant-based meat products across the platforms of beef, pork, and poultry. It sells its products through grocery, mass merchandiser, club stores, and natural retailer channels, as well as various food-away-from-home channels, including restaurants, foodservice outlets, and schools. The company was formerly known as Savage River, Inc. and changed its name to Beyond Meat, Inc. in September 2018. Beyond Meat, Inc. was incorporated in 2008 and is headquartered in El Segundo, California.

Beyond Meat, Inc.

Сильный индекс, значительно вырос. Быки крепко уверены в своих позициях.

Strong index, significantly up. The bulls are very confident in their positions.

Сильный индекс, без изменений. Рынок не поддерживает быков.

Strong index, flat. The market does not support the bulls.

Сильный индекс, значительно упал. Отток средств из лонгов на высоком уровне.

Strong index, significantly down. Outflow of funds from longs at a high level.

Key Points
This overshadowed a second quarter that featured a pair of beats.
The company continues to struggle in an ever-competitive environment.
August was a busy month for Beyond Meat (NASDAQ: BYND). However, it wasn't ultimately a prosperous one. The company announced and effected a reverse stock split, a financial engineering move that rarely makes investors happy. This mitigated a positive development, namely a quarterly earnings report that featured beats on the top and bottom lines.
Investors clearly chose to focus on the negative of that reverse stock split. From beginning to end, Beyond Meat's shares fell by almost 22% over the course of August.
Missed Nvidia in 2009? This Rare Signal Is Flashing Again. In 2009, a "Double Down" signal flashed for a little-known chipmaker called Nvidia. For the first time in years, that same "Total Conviction" signal is flashing for a company 1/100th the size of Nvidia. Continue »
A better-than-expected second frame
The good news hit the headlines first. On Aug. 5, Beyond Meat unwrapped its second-quarter results, revealing that revenue for the period was $68.8 million. That represented an 8% decline from the same frame of 2025.
Under generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), the company flipped to a net profit of $16.4 million from the year-ago loss of $31.8 million. However, this was significantly affected by a nearly $58 million accounting gain from debt extinguishment resulting from the conversion of portions of a convertible note issue.
Stripping this and other one-time/unique items out of the equation resulted in a non-GAAP (adjusted), per-share net loss of $0.06. Still, that was notably better than the $0.42-per-share shortfall in the second quarter of 2025.
It was also good enough to top the consensus analyst estimate of a $0.12-per-share net loss. Beyond Meat also beat on the top line, as those pundits were collectively modeling slightly over $65 million.
In the earnings release, management emphasized a rise in international retail sales. It also waxed optimistic about recent products, such as the new Beyond Steak Filet and the Beyond Immerse beverage line introduced earlier this year.
Beyond Meat was hesitant to provide detailed guidance, citing "an elevated level of uncertainty and volatility within its operating environment." It did proffer a revenue forecast for its current (third) quarter of $60 million to $65 million, which, unfortunately, is below the more than $70 million it earned in the same period last year.
Reverse gear
Another less-than-fortunate development for Beyond Meat that month was the reverse stock split. At least this was effected quickly -- the company announced it on Aug. 11, and it was completed three days later.
As is often the case, this reverse split -- at a ratio of 1-to-30 -- was done to help the company regain compliance with Nasdaq minimum stock trading requirements. So far, so good, as the company continues to trade well above the $1-per-share threshold mandated by the exchange.
Yet such a financial engineering move is a major red flag for investors, starkly illustrating a company's struggles and the unpopularity of its stock.
I don't think Beyond Meat's situation is dire, but I doubt the company is secure or poised for hot success either. It's got heavy competition in its core alt-meat business, and the diversification efforts exemplified by Beyond Immense aren't impressive (at least, not yet). I remain bearish on its future.
Should you buy stock in Beyond Meat right now?
Before you buy stock in Beyond Meat, consider this:
The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and Beyond Meat wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.
Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $435,803!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $1,334,577!*
Now, it’s worth noting Stock Advisor’s total average return is 966% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 211% for the S&P 500. Don't miss the latest top 10 list, available with Stock Advisor, and join an investing community built by individual investors for individual investors.
Eric Volkman has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Beyond Meat. The Motley Fool recommends Nasdaq. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
Founded in 1993 in Alexandria, VA., by brothers David and Tom Gardner, The Motley Fool is a multimedia financial-services company dedicated to building the world's greatest investment community. Reaching millions of people each month through its website, books, newspaper column, radio show, television appearances, and subscription newsletter services, The Motley Fool champions shareholder values and advocates tirelessly for the individual investor. The company's name was taken from Shakespeare, whose wise fools both instructed and amused, and could speak the truth to the king -- without getting their heads lopped off.

Why Beyond Meat Stock Slumped Last Month

Key Points
Plant-based meat is more expensive than traditional protein sources, which may not bode well for its sales in an inflationary environment.
Beyond Meat has introduced new product lines in a bid to stem its revenue declines.
Beyond Meat (NASDAQ: BYND) has struggled in recent years. The issues came to a head on Aug. 14, when the company executed a 1-for-30 reverse stock split. By rule, if a stock traded on the Nasdaq falls below a price of $1 per share for more than 30 straight days, it is put on notice that it's at risk of being delisted from the exchange. Beyond Meat has been in that danger zone for most of this year, so a reverse split was necessary for it to maintain its listing.
On the surface, this changes nothing for the food company, as it left shareholders with one-thirtieth of the number of shares, but increased the value of each new share by 30-fold. Neither the market cap of Beyond Meat nor the issues faced by its underlying business were effected.
Missed Nvidia in 2009? This Rare Signal Is Flashing Again. In 2009, a "Double Down" signal flashed for a little-known chipmaker called Nvidia. For the first time in years, that same "Total Conviction" signal is flashing for a company 1/100th the size of Nvidia. Continue »
Nonetheless, the action may still leave investors wondering whether Beyond Meat is a generational opportunity or a falling knife. Although now may not be a time to stick a fork in Beyond Meat, this is probably not a great time to buy the stock, and here's why.
What happened to Beyond Meat stock
Before considering Beyond Meat stock, investors should ponder why it needed the reverse split in the first place. The bad news for current shareholders is that its main product appears to have been a fad.
Admittedly, one could see the appeal of plant-based meat on the surface. Many consumers consider meat consumption unhealthy or unethical. However, they may nonetheless enjoy its flavor and texture, so Beyond Meat's plant-based meat may look like a viable alternative.
Unfortunately, it seems that the product is no longer resonating with the public. For one thing, the numerous ingredients and level of processing needed to produce it led some consumers to question whether it is, in fact, a healthy alternative.
Moreover, plant-based meat typically costs more than traditional beef and poultry products, which can dampen its appeal, particularly when higher inflation is pinching consumers' wallets.
Additionally, repeat purchases of Beyond Meat's offerings have become less common as competition in the plant-based meat segment has increased.
The company's financials reflect all of these challenges. In the first half of 2026, its revenue fell 12% year over year to $127 million. Worse, this left it with less than $8 million in gross profit, leaving little to cover operating expenses. During the half, it lost $12 million, a pool of red ink that would have been much larger if not for a one-time $64 million gain on debt extinguishment. As of the end of the second quarter, it had $171 million in liquidity.
Such conditions may signal that Beyond Meat is heading for financial doom if it does not find a strategy to reverse its trajectory.
To that end, it has introduced new products in the hopes of reinvigorating growth, including a plant-based protein base with just four ingredients and a line of functional beverages. Still, if these new products fail to turn the revenue declines around, Beyond Meat stock may eventually retest the $1-per-share level.
Avoid Beyond Meat stock
Ultimately, while it may be premature to stick a fork in Beyond Meat's future, this is probably not the time to buy shares.
Admittedly, if one of its new products takes off and can attract loyal repeat customers, a comeback is not out of the question.
Nonetheless, this pivot to new products may indicate that the company does not see much of a future for its flagship plant-based meat products. Also, numerous other food companies offer functional beverages and protein alternatives, so it could be difficult for Beyond Meat's options to stand out in the marketplace.
Until Beyond Meat offers a product line that builds a loyal following and starts showing the sustained sales figures that come with that, investors are probably best off not owning this consumer staples stock.
Should you buy stock in Beyond Meat right now?
Before you buy stock in Beyond Meat, consider this:
The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and Beyond Meat wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.
Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $443,461!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $1,307,633!*
Now, it’s worth noting Stock Advisor’s total average return is 973% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 213% for the S&P 500. Don't miss the latest top 10 list, available with Stock Advisor, and join an investing community built by individual investors for individual investors.
Will Healy has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Beyond Meat. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

After Its Reverse Stock Split, Should Investors Feast on Beyond Meat Stock, or Is It Time to Stick a Fork In It?

(RTTNews) - Friday, Beyond Meat, Inc. (BYND) announced that it has filed a Certificate of Amendment to its Restated Certificate of Incorporation with the Delaware Secretary of State, formally implementing the previously announced 1-for-30 reverse stock split of its common stock, with a par value of $0.0001 per share.
The amendment also provides for a proportional reduction in the number of authorized shares of the company's common stock.
Under the reverse stock split, every 30 shares of the company's common stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to the effective time were automatically reclassified and combined into 1 share of common stock.
This move is expected to help the company to regain compliance with the minimum bid price requirement for continued listing on the Nasdaq Global Select Market.
The reverse stock split and the reduction in authorized shares will take effect on August 13, 2026.
Upon the effectiveness of the reverse stock split, the conversion rates of the company's outstanding convertible notes, including the 7.00% Convertible Senior Secured Second Lien PIK Toggle Notes due 2030 and the 0% Convertible Senior Notes due 2027, were proportionately adjusted to reflect the 1-for-30 reverse stock split ratio.
BYND closed trading at $0.4070, down 1.71 percent on the Nasdaq.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Beyond Meat Implements Reverse Stock Split To Regain Nasdaq Compliance

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Beyond Meat (BYND) Q2 2026 Earnings Call Transcript

(RTTNews) - Beyond Meat, Inc. (BYND), a plant-based meat company, on Tuesday said its board approved a 1-for-30 reverse stock split, effective August 14.
The move is intended to help the company regain compliance with Nasdaq's minimum bid price requirement and will reduce its authorized common shares to 100 million from 3 billion.
Beyond Meat shares were down more than 14% in pre-market trading after closing at $0.52 on Monday.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Beyond Meat Sets 1-for-30 Reverse Stock Split

(RTTNews) - Beyond Meat, Inc. (BYND), a producer of plant-based meat alternatives, reported a net income for the second quarter of fiscal 2026, helped by a $57.7 million non-cash gain on debt extinguishment in connection with conversions of a portion of the company's 2030 notes. However, Beyond Meat posted a decline in net revenue.
For the three-month period to June 27, the company reported net income of $16.404 million, compared with net loss of $31.845 million in the same period last year. Gain on debt extinguishment was $57.729 million, compared with $00.000 million a year ago. Net loss was $0.06 per share, narrower than loss of $0.42 per share in the previous year.
Adjusted loss was $46.464 million, wider than loss of $29.607 million a year ago. Excluding items, loss was $0.09 per share, compared with loss of $0.39 per share in the previous year.
Loss from operations was $30.806 million as against the prior year's loss of $37.515 million. Total operating expenses moved down to $36.679 million from $45.435 million in the previous year.
Net revenue was $68.832 million, down from $74.958 million a year ago, primarily due to a 9.5% decline in volume of products sold. This was as a result of lower sales of burger and chicken products to quick service restaurant customers in the international foodservice channel, and by weak category demand and reduced points of distribution in the U.S. foodservice and retail channels.
Looking ahead, for the third quarter, citing an elevated level of uncertainty and volatility within its operating environment, Beyond Meat expects a decline in net revenue for the next quarter.
For the third quarter, the company expects net revenue of $60 million to $65 million, compared with $70.2 million last year.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Beyond Meat Expects Q3 Net Revenue To Drop On Volatile Operating Environment

Key Points
Beyond Meat remains a global leader in plant-based proteins with distribution in over 190,000 outlets.
Shopify demonstrates strong growth and massive cash flow generation through its global commerce platform.
Which stock is the better choice for investors navigating the volatile 2026 market?
Choosing between Beyond Meat (NASDAQ:BYND) and Shopify (NASDAQ:SHOP) requires balancing a potential turnaround story against an established leader in the digital economy. Each company faces distinct hurdles as consumer habits evolve.
Beyond Meat focuses on disrupting the meat industry with plant-based alternatives, while Shopify provides the critical software infrastructure for millions of modern businesses. This comparison looks at which business model offers more stability and potential value for your portfolio.
The case for Beyond Meat
Beyond Meat produces plant-based protein products that mimic the taste and texture of animal meat, selling through both retail and foodservice channels. Its flagship Beyond Burger remains a central driver, accounting for approximately 50% of its gross revenues. Customer concentration adds a layer of risk to the business, as the distributor DOT represented nearly 13% of gross revenues as of late 2025.
In FY 2025, revenue reached roughly $275.5 million, representing a decline of close to 15.6% compared to the previous year. Despite the drop in sales, the company reported net income of approximately $219.9 million for the period. This resulted in a net margin of nearly 79.8%, which measures how much of each dollar in sales is kept as profit after all expenses are paid.
As of its December 2025 balance sheet, the debt-to-equity ratio was -4576.3x, indicating that total liabilities significantly exceed shareholder equity. The current ratio, which measures the ability to pay short-term obligations with short-term assets, was approximately 4.6x. Free cash flow, the cash remaining after a company pays for its operations and capital equipment, was negative $172.8 million.
The case for Shopify
Shopify provides a comprehensive commerce platform that allows merchants of all sizes to manage their online and physical stores. The company serves millions of businesses globally, and no single merchant represents more than 5% of its total revenue. Shopify has established itself as a cornerstone among tech stocks by partnering with major payment processors and cloud providers.
In FY 2025, revenue reached nearly $11.6 billion, marking a significant growth rate of approximately 30.1%. Net income for the year was roughly $1.2 billion, resulting in a net margin of close to 10.7%. This growth highlights the company's ability to scale its software services while maintaining profitability in a competitive digital landscape.
As of its December 2025 balance sheet, the company maintained a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.0x, showing it carries no debt relative to its equity. The current ratio was approximately 6.0x, indicating a strong position to cover near-term liabilities. Free cash flow was close to $2.0 billion, though stock-based compensation represented roughly 22.1% of operating cash flow, which inflates reported cash generation since it is a non-cash expense.
Risk profile comparison
Beyond Meat faces persistent weakness in the plant-based meat category, particularly in refrigerated products, which has led to lower sales volumes. The company is also navigating significant legal risks, including a 2025 jury verdict awarding $38.9 million in a trademark case and an ongoing securities class action. Furthermore, its reliance on a limited number of suppliers for ingredients like pea protein makes it vulnerable to price spikes and supply chain disruptions.
Shopify operates in a crowded market where it must constantly innovate with artificial intelligence to compete against large technology platforms like Amazon and Alphabet. The company faces various legal challenges, including wiretapping class-action lawsuits and claims related to its platform monitoring. Additionally, Shopify is highly dependent on third-party developers to maintain its app ecosystem, and any friction in those relationships could hurt the platform's utility for merchants.
Valuation comparison
Shopify commands a premium valuation based on its high growth and profitability, while Beyond Meat has a lower sales multiple but faces significant financial instability.
Metric
Beyond Meat
Shopify
Forward P/E
n/a
71.0x
P/S ratio
1.0x
14.6x
Valuation metrics sourced from Financial Modeling Prep (FMP) and may differ from other data providers.
Which stock would I buy in 2026?
It can be helpful to compare the valuations of stocks as you make investing decisions. But it’s also important to remember that low valuation multiples don’t always indicate a bargain, and high multiples aren’t always a trap.
Shopify is in a much better financial position than Beyond Meat. It’s exhibiting rapid revenue growth and holds very little debt on its balance sheet. Its high forward P/E likely reflects the market’s expectations of continued revenue growth, and perhaps a bit of risk as Shopify continues to carve out a niche against larger competitors. Shopify released its second-quarter earnings results in the morning of Aug. 5, highlighting 34% revenue growth and 18% free-cash-flow margins. “We power every kind of business, and with AI, we’re expanding what’s possible for all of them,” Harley Finkelstein, President of Shopify, said in the earnings release. “No one else comes close.”
Beyond Meat isn’t profitable, its revenue is declining, and its core product just doesn’t have the same potential reach as Shopify’s, at any price. I don’t see this as an undervalued opportunity, nor a turnaround play. The company reports second-quarter earnings results after market close on Aug. 5. After revenue declined again in Q1, primarily due to a decrease in the volume of products sold, investors will be watching for any signs of increased adoption.
Should you buy stock in Beyond Meat right now?
Before you buy stock in Beyond Meat, consider this:
The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and Beyond Meat wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.
Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $395,463!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $1,268,290!*
Now, it’s worth noting Stock Advisor’s total average return is 927% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 211% for the S&P 500. Don't miss the latest top 10 list, available with Stock Advisor, and join an investing community built by individual investors for individual investors.
*Stock Advisor returns as of August 5, 2026.
Sarah Sidlow has positions in Alphabet. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Alphabet, Amazon, Beyond Meat, and Shopify. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Beyond Meat and Shopify Report Earnings on Aug. 5: Which Consumer Goods Stock Is a Better Buy?

Key Points
Beyond Meat is navigating a significant pivot by streamlining operations and expanding into functional beverages.
Tractor Supply maintains its dominant position as the primary retailer for the growing rural lifestyle market.
Which of these distinct consumer players deserves a spot in your portfolio for the second half of 2026?
Investors often choose between high-risk turnaround plays and steady retail leaders. This analysis compares the plant-based pioneer Beyond Meat Inc (NASDAQ:BYND) against the rural lifestyle giant Tractor Supply Co (NASDAQ:TSCO) to see which fits better today.
Beyond Meat focuses on disrupting the global protein market with plant-based alternatives, while Tractor Supply provides essential goods to farmers and pet owners. Though they operate in different niches, both rely on consumer spending trends. This comparison evaluates Beyond Meat’s restructuring efforts against Tractor Supply’s consistent expansion to help you determine the better long-term investment.
The case for Beyond Meat
Beyond Meat produces food products for retail and foodservice customers globally using simple plant-protein ingredients. The company is currently shifting its strategy to focus on core markets after ceasing its operational activities in China. One customer, Dot Foods, accounted for approximately 13% of gross revenues, and customer concentration like this adds a layer of risk to the business.
In FY 2025, revenue was nearly $275.5 million, representing a decline of approximately 16% year over year. Despite the lower sales, the company reported net income of roughly $179 million, a swing from a similarly sized net loss the prior year.
According to the December 2025 balance sheet, the company had debt of close to $500 million. The current ratio is roughly 4.6x, indicating the company has several times more current assets than current liabilities. Free cash flow for the period was nearly negative $157 million, which is the cash remaining after the business pays for its daily operations and equipment.
The case for Tractor Supply
Tractor Supply is the largest rural lifestyle retailer in the United States, operating over 2,600 locations, including its specialized Petsense by Tractor Supply stores. The company serves a diverse base of recreational farmers and recently launched a partnership with Instacart to offer same-day delivery. This move strengthens its position among retail stocks by improving its digital fulfillment capabilities.
In FY 2025, revenue reached $15.5 billion, marking a growth rate of approximately 4% over the $14.9 billion generated in the prior year. The company generated net income of close to $1.1 billion, about the same as the prior year and maintaining a steady net margin of roughly 7% during this fiscal period. This performance demonstrates a consistent ability to grow the top line while maintaining stable profitability despite the competitive nature of the retail environment.
Based on the December 2025 balance sheet, the debt-to-equity ratio is approximately 2.3x, a metric that compares total debt to shareholder equity to show financial leverage. The company generated healthy free cash flow of nearly $1.3 billion in 2025. Free cash flow is the cash remaining after a business pays for its operating costs and capital investments, providing flexibility for future growth.
Risk profile comparison
Beyond Meat faces significant liquidity risks and high financial distress due to its substantial debt obligations and recent note exchanges. The company received a deficiency notice from Nasdaq regarding its share price, which poses a risk of delisting from the exchange. Persistent declines in consumer demand for plant-based meats and ongoing legal battles put extra pressure on its remaining capital.
Tractor Supply is highly sensitive to macroeconomic shifts, as inflation or changes in interest rates can cause its customers to reduce discretionary spending. The business also faces risks from supply chain disruptions and extreme weather patterns that can impact the demand for seasonal goods. Additionally, the company must defend against cybersecurity threats and data breaches as it expands its digital presence and uses more artificial intelligence.
Valuation comparison
Beyond Meat appears cheaper based on its P/S ratio, while Tractor Supply provides the stability of positive earnings.
Metric
Beyond Meat
Tractor Supply
Forward P/E
n/a
16.3x
P/S ratio
0.7x
1.0x
Valuation metrics sourced from Financial Modeling Prep (FMP) and may differ from other data providers.
Which stock would I buy in 2026?
Tractor Supply Co operates in the highly competitive retail sector but has achieved a record of consistent growth, including increasing its dividend for 17 straight years. The business’s customers are often home, land, pet, and livestock owners with above-average income and a below-average cost of living. More than half of Tractor Supply’s sales come from consumable products, such as animal food, wood pellets, and propane. Management has also made a concerted effort to reduce its reliance on weather-sensitive SKUs.
Still, it hasn’t been an easy year for Tractor Supply’s customers, who have been hit hard by the Iran war’s effect on gas and diesel prices, given that they tend to be rural and drive gas-guzzling pickups. Still, the pet exposure of the business mitigates the downturn—people will continue to feed their pets (and, interestingly, management says their customers’ dogs are 20 pounds heavier than the average American’s). For fiscal 2026, Tractor Supply’s sales are seen inching higher to $15.9 billion with lower net income of about $975 million and free cash flow about half of 2025’s level.
Beyond Meat promised a revolution with its plant-based proteins that taste similar to meat, but the company has not been able to capitalize on its abundant media attention, as its price per pound has continued to exceed that of traditional animal products. Management is seeking to build on its reputation as an innovator by migrating the business name to Beyond, starting this year. The difference? They present themselves as a plant-protein company that can expand into adjacent, growing categories in the functional food and beverage space. One of its first efforts in that area is Beyond Immerse, a clear, lightly carbonated drink that delivers protein, fiber, antioxidants, and electrolytes. Management sees a market with athletes, students, and GLP-1 users.
Will it help? For the current fiscal year, Beyond Meat is still trying to stanch the (plant-derived) bleeding. Wall Street expects sales to come in lower, at $245 million, with a net loss of $244 million, and negative free cash flow at $94 million. But there is hope that a deal with Big Geyser, a massive beverage distributor, will get Beyond Immerse into shops across the country and strike a chord with consumers.
On balance, Tractor Supply Co is the stock to buy in 2026, even with the economic challenges facing its customers. Beyond Meat may hit upon a turnaround product with its drink, but it is better to wait for the company to prove it before investing.
Should you buy stock in Beyond Meat right now?
Before you buy stock in Beyond Meat, consider this:
The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and Beyond Meat wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.
Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $395,463!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $1,268,290!*
Now, it’s worth noting Stock Advisor’s total average return is 927% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 211% for the S&P 500. Don't miss the latest top 10 list, available with Stock Advisor, and join an investing community built by individual investors for individual investors.
*Stock Advisor returns as of August 4, 2026.
Brendan Coffey has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Beyond Meat and Tractor Supply. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Beyond Meat vs. Tractor Supply: Which Consumer Goods Stock Is a Better Buy in 2026?

Key Points
Axon Enterprise maintains a dominant position in public safety technology through its integrated hardware and software ecosystem.
Beyond Meat is diversifying its business model by expanding into functional beverages and optimizing its retail product portfolio.
Which of these distinct businesses offers the better path for investors looking to balance growth and recovery in 2026?
Investors often look for opportunities where technology meets traditional industries. In 2026, comparing Axon Enterprise Inc (NASDAQ:AXON) and Beyond Meat Inc (NASDAQ:BYND) reveals two distinct strategies for long-term growth in very different sectors.
Axon Enterprise develops hardware and software for law enforcement, while Beyond Meat produces plant-based alternatives to animal protein. Investors can compare them as they represent different paths toward modernization in their respective fields. Choosing between them requires weighing a technology provider’s steady growth against a consumer food brand’s turnaround efforts.
The case for Axon Enterprise
Axon Enterprise provides a range of public safety technologies, including its signature Taser devices and body-worn cameras. Its business model relies heavily on a subscription-based software ecosystem, in which products like Axon Evidence enable law enforcement to manage video data. Recently, the company integrated advanced radar technology into its drone platform, and no single customer accounts for more than 10% of total sales.
In FY 2025, revenue reached nearly $2.8 billion, which is a growth of roughly a third compared to the prior year. The company reported net income of close to $125 million, down from $377 million in 2024, resulting in a net 2025 margin of approximately 5%. This performance highlights the company's ability to scale its operations while maintaining positive returns for its shareholders.
As of its December 2025 balance sheet, the debt-to-equity ratio is roughly 0.6x, a metric comparing total debt to shareholder equity to show reliance on loans. Free cash flow for the period was nearly $75.1 million, though stock-based compensation represented roughly 300% of operating cash flow, meaning reported cash generation is heavily inflated by this non-cash add-back.
The case for Beyond Meat
Beyond Meat focuses on producing plant-based protein alternatives, including burgers, sausages, and chicken-style products for retail and foodservice providers. The company is broadening its reach among food stocks (food products) by expanding its functional beverage line through a partnership with Big Geyser. It also continues to optimize its product portfolio by focusing on heart-healthy certifications for its latest plant-based beef iterations.
In FY 2025, revenue was nearly $275.5 million, representing a decline of approximately 16% year over year. Despite the lower sales, the company reported net income of roughly $179 million, a swing from a similarly sized net loss the prior year.
According to the December 2025 balance sheet, the company had debt of close to $500 million. The current ratio is roughly 4.6x, indicating the company has several times more current assets than current liabilities. Free cash flow for the period was nearly negative $157 million, which is the cash remaining after the business pays for its daily operations and equipment.
Risk profile comparison
Axon faces risks from its heavy reliance on law enforcement budgets, where political shifts or negative publicity can impact contract renewals. The company also faces liability risks related to its physical safety products and potential wrongful-death claims. Cybersecurity and regulatory challenges regarding artificial intelligence and international trade compliance also pose significant threats to the business.
Beyond Meat struggles with a persistent decline in consumer demand for plant-based meat, which has hurt its profitability and led to major restructuring efforts. It carries substantial debt that limits its flexibility and increases the risk of insolvency or bankruptcy. Supply chain issues also pose a threat, as it relies on few suppliers for key ingredients while competing against giants like Tyson Foods Inc (NYSE:TSN).
Valuation comparison
Axon trades at a higher P/S ratio than Beyond Meat, which lacks a Forward P/E due to its volatile future earnings estimates.
Metric
Axon Enterprise
Beyond Meat
Forward P/E
66.7x
n/a
P/S ratio
14.7x
0.7x
Valuation metrics sourced from Financial Modeling Prep (FMP) and may differ from other data providers.
Which stock would I buy in 2026?
Beyond Meat promised a revolution with its plant-based proteins that taste similar to meat, but the company has not been able to capitalize on its plentiful media attention as its price per pound continued to exceed the price of traditional animal products. Management is seeking to build on its reputation as an innovator by migrating the business name to Beyond, starting this year. The difference? They present themselves as a plant-protein company that can expand into adjacent, growing categories in the functional food and beverage space. One of its first efforts in that is Beyond Immerse, a clear, lightly carbonated drink delivering protein, fiber, antioxidants, and electrolytes. Management sees a market with athletes, students, and GLP-1 users.
Will it help? For the current fiscal year, Beyond Meat is still trying to stanch the (plant-derived) bleeding. Wall Street expects sales to come in lower, at $245 million, with a net loss of $244 million, and negative free cash flow at $94 million. But there is hope that a deal with Big Geyser, a massive beverage distributor, will get Beyond Immerse into shops across the country and strike a chord with consumers.
Axon Enterprise, meanwhile, has a decent growth outlook as law enforcement is increasingly equipped with Tasers and the public is becoming increasingly demanding that agents wear body cameras. Expansion into Europe and Canada should help, as should a focus on producing personal consumer-protection devices. In particular, all the data and video created by Axon customers have to be managed, and the company is seeing strong demand for its AI-based management systems from customers who find many of the services create efficiencies within their operations.
Fiscal 2026, sales are growing well, up about a third to $3.7 billion, with net income of $275 million and free cash flow of $447 million, well over 2025’s levels.
The choice is clear for investors seeking a growth stock in 2026. While Beyond Meat is seeking a formula to get sales jump-started, Axon has found its formula.
Should you buy stock in Axon Enterprise right now?
Before you buy stock in Axon Enterprise, consider this:
The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and Axon Enterprise wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.
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Brendan Coffey has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Axon Enterprise and Beyond Meat. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Axon Enterprise vs. Beyond Meat: Which Stock Is a Better Buy in 2026?

Key Points
Dutch Bros continues its aggressive expansion with over 1,130 locations and double-digit revenue growth.
Beyond Meat is diversifying into the beverage market while restructuring its core plant-based meat operations.
Which of these consumer-focused stocks is the better addition to your portfolio in 2026?
As investors look for growth opportunities in 2026, the contrast between a rapidly expanding coffee chain and a plant-based pioneer undergoing a deep restructuring offers a unique choice between Dutch Bros (NYSE:BROS) and Beyond Meat (NASDAQ:BYND).
Dutch Bros is a high-growth beverage company focused on drive-thru convenience and a cult-like culture, while Beyond Meat produces plant-based protein alternatives for global markets. They are compared here as two different paths within the evolving consumer landscape.
The case for Dutch Bros
Dutch Bros operates over 1,136 shops as of Dec. 31, 2025, specializing in hand-crafted hot and cold beverages like its proprietary Rebel energy drinks. It focuses on a high-growth drive-thru model that has quickly gained traction among retail stocks in the competitive quick-service space. Expansion is currently a major priority, highlighted by the 2026 acquisition of the Phoenix East Valley franchise and the purchase of Clutch Coffee for conversion into new locations.
In FY 2025, revenue reached nearly $1.6 billion, representing growth of roughly 28% compared to the previous year. The company reported net income of approximately $117.3 million, which was a significant increase from the $66.5 million reported in 2024. This growth trend reflects the company's ability to scale its shop count while maintaining a net margin of close of 7.2%.
As of its December 2025 balance sheet, the debt-to-equity ratio was roughly 1.6x. This ratio measures total debt against shareholder equity, indicating the company uses a mix of debt and equity to fund its growth. The current ratio, which measures the ability to pay short-term obligations, was nearly 1.5x. Free cash flow, or cash from operations minus capital expenditures, was approximately $54.4 million for the year.
The case for Beyond Meat
Beyond Meat produces plant-based meat products available in more than 80 countries through both retail and foodservice channels. In early 2026, the company partnered with Big Geyser to distribute its new functional beverage line, marking a strategic expansion beyond its traditional protein focus. The company has also streamlined its operations by exiting the Chinese market and consolidating its manufacturing footprint to reduce costs.
In FY 2025, revenue was nearly $275.5 million, representing a decline of roughly 15.6% year-over-year as the plant-based meat category faced headwinds. Despite the lower revenue, the company reported net income of approximately $219.9 million, resulting in a net margin of close to 79.8%. This high net income figure was influenced by a $548.7 million non-cash gain on debt restructuring.
As of December 2025, the company operated with a significant shareholder deficit, meaning total liabilities exceeded total assets. The current ratio, measuring short-term liquidity, was approximately 4.6x, indicating a strong position to meet immediate liabilities. Free cash flow, which is cash from operations minus capital expenditures, was nearly negative $172.8 million as the company continued to invest in its business turnaround.
Risk profile comparison
Dutch Bros faces risks related to commodity volatility, as its profitability depends heavily on the price of coffee, dairy, and syrups. It also faces intense competition from established giants like Starbucks and McDonald's for both customer traffic and prime real estate. Furthermore, with roughly 65% of its shops in the Western U.S., the company is vulnerable to regional economic shifts or extreme weather events.
Beyond Meat deals with a persistent decline in consumer demand for plant-based meat as some shoppers return to animal-based proteins. The business relies on a limited number of suppliers for key ingredients like pea protein and avocado oil, making it sensitive to supply chain disruptions. Additionally, the company faces stiff competition from large food conglomerates such as Tyson Foods and Nestle, which have significant distribution advantages.
Valuation comparison
Dutch Bros carries a higher sales multiple reflecting its rapid growth, while Beyond Meat trades at a lower valuation following several years of declining revenue and restructuring.
Metric
Dutch Bros
Beyond Meat
Forward P/E
70.6x
N/A
P/S ratio
6.8x
1.0x
Valuation metrics sourced from Financial Modeling Prep (FMP) and may differ from other data providers.
Which stock would I buy in 2026?
I'd go with Dutch Bros, and this one isn't close. Beyond Meat is fighting for its life right now. Revenue has been shrinking for several quarters and the stock has traded near delisting territory. The company is in the middle of a painful restructuring that includes massive layoffs and a retreat from international markets. The pivot into protein beverages might eventually find an audience, but right now this is a company in survival mode, not growth mode.
This is a really exciting time for Dutch Bros. Revenue is surging and same-store sales are climbing. Management raised its full-year outlook after a strong first quarter. The company is opening new shops at an aggressive pace, rolling out a food program, and expanding into markets across the country that have never had a Dutch Bros location. I love that the brand has a loyal following that keeps driving traffic higher.
Dutch Bros has the brand momentum, the growth trajectory, and the financial footing to be a solid long-term hold. Beyond Meat needs to prove it can survive before it can think about thriving.
Should you buy stock in Dutch Bros right now?
Before you buy stock in Dutch Bros, consider this:
The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and Dutch Bros wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.
Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $390,394!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $1,209,184!*
Now, it’s worth noting Stock Advisor’s total average return is 899% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 206% for the S&P 500. Don't miss the latest top 10 list, available with Stock Advisor, and join an investing community built by individual investors for individual investors.
Sara Appino has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Beyond Meat, Dutch Bros, and Starbucks. The Motley Fool recommends Nestlé and recommends the following options: long January 2028 $320 calls on McDonald's and short January 2028 $340 calls on McDonald's. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Beyond Meat, Inc.

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