Driven Brands Upgraded to Hold Rating

Zacks Research cites improved outlook for auto aftermarket services provider

Mar. 21, 2026 at 11:27am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Driven Brands (NASDAQ:DRVN), a leading North American provider of automotive aftermarket services, has been upgraded from a "strong sell" rating to a "hold" rating by analysts at Zacks Research. The upgrade comes as the company's financial outlook has improved, though some concerns remain around accounting issues and ongoing litigation.

Why it matters

Driven Brands operates a portfolio of well-known car care and maintenance brands, including Meineke, Maaco, Take 5 Oil Change, and Carstar Collision Repair. The company's performance is seen as a bellwether for the broader automotive aftermarket industry, which has faced headwinds from the pandemic but is now showing signs of recovery.

The details

In its report, Zacks Research cited several factors in upgrading Driven Brands, including improved financial results and a more stable outlook. However, the analysts also noted ongoing legal and accounting issues facing the company, including a wave of securities class action lawsuits alleging financial reporting errors and internal control failures over the past few years.

  • Zacks Research issued its upgrade report on Thursday, March 21, 2026.
  • Driven Brands reported its latest quarterly earnings on Monday, March 23, 2026.

The players

Driven Brands

A leading North American provider of automotive aftermarket services, operating a portfolio of well-known car care and maintenance brands.

Zacks Research

An independent equity research firm that provides analysis and ratings on publicly traded companies.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

The takeaway

The upgrade of Driven Brands by Zacks Research suggests the company's financial outlook may be improving, but ongoing legal and accounting issues continue to pose risks. As a bellwether for the broader automotive aftermarket industry, Driven Brands' performance will be closely watched by investors and industry observers.