Core Insights - Starbucks Corp. reported disappointing quarterly results, leading to initial stock rally followed by a sell-off, indicating underlying issues with performance under new CEO Brian Niccol [1] Financial Performance - Same-store sales remained flat in the U.S., which is a decline compared to the previous year's drop [2] - Earnings per share plummeted from $0.80 to $0.12, while revenue increased by 5% to $9.57 billion [3] - Starbucks closed 627 stores, predominantly in North America, bringing the global total to 40,990 [3] Strategic Initiatives - CEO Niccol implemented several changes, including standardizing U.S. uniforms, reducing white-collar staff, and streamlining the menu to enhance service speed, though the effectiveness of these measures is unproven [4] - Niccol emphasized the "Back to Starbucks" strategy, claiming progress, yet flat U.S. comparable sales do not reflect a turnaround [5] Market Reaction - The stock price has decreased by 14% over the past year, contrasting with an 18% increase in the broader market, indicating a lack of confidence in Niccol's vision and results [5]
Starbucks’ Terrible Quarter