PHILADELPHIA, PA — Aramark (NYSE: ARMK) raised its fiscal 2026 outlook after reporting double-digit revenue and earnings growth, fueled by strong client retention, new business wins, and expansion into the rapidly growing hyperscale AI data center market.
The food services and facilities management company reported second-quarter revenue of $4.9 billion, up 15% from a year earlier, while organic revenue increased 12%.
Adjusted operating income rose 24% to $258 million, while adjusted earnings per share increased 40% to $0.49. GAAP earnings per share climbed 65% to $0.38.
Aramark attributed the results to broad-based growth across its U.S. and international operations, including new client wins, increased attendance and spending at sports and entertainment venues, healthcare onboarding activity, and continued expansion in business dining and catering services.
The company also noted that calendar effects tied to a 53rd fiscal week in 2025 contributed to year-over-year comparisons.
Chief Executive Officer John Zillmer pointed to the company’s push into AI infrastructure services through a newly launched platform called Aramark Nexus.
“We’re excited about our entry into the hyperscale AI data center market with the launch of Aramark Nexus™ where we bring proven expertise in highly complex operations and an established competitive advantage,” Zillmer stated.
Aramark disclosed that it has already secured a multi-year agreement with what it described as a “top global hyperscaler,” adding that the customer is expected to become the largest client in its portfolio over time.
The company explained that the AI-focused business will provide integrated hospitality and workforce support services for hyperscale data centers and other remote operating environments. Management expects margins in the segment to exceed corporate averages.
New business wins have already surpassed a record $1 billion during the current fiscal year, while client retention exceeded 98%, according to the company.
Second-quarter operating income increased 26% to $220 million, supported by higher sales volumes, supply-chain efficiencies, labor productivity gains, and cost controls.
Net cash provided by operating activities rose 56% to $400 million, while free cash flow more than doubled to $305 million.
Aramark additionally repaid approximately $55 million in term loans during the quarter and repurchased roughly $25 million in stock.
The company expects fiscal 2026 organic revenue growth to finish at the high end of its previously forecast 7% to 9% range. Aramark reaffirmed expectations for adjusted operating income growth of 12% to 17% and adjusted earnings-per-share growth of 20% to 25%.
Management added that the new hyperscale AI data center agreement is not yet reflected in current fiscal 2026 guidance.
Support the local news that supports Chester County. MyChesCo delivers reliable, fact-based reporting and essential community resources—free for everyone. If you value that, click here to become a patron today.