Core Viewpoint - Starbucks China is adopting a different strategy compared to other global markets, focusing on unique market conditions and competitive dynamics [1][5]. Group 1: Strategic Changes - Brian Niccol, the new CEO, aims to fundamentally change the company's strategy by streamlining the menu, reducing discounts, and slowing down new store openings to support transformation [2]. - Starbucks China is not included in the global adjustment plan, as the CEO acknowledges the intense competition in the Chinese market and the need for a clear growth strategy [3][4]. Group 2: Financial Performance - In the second fiscal quarter of 2025, Starbucks China's revenue reached $739.7 million, a 5% year-over-year increase, with same-store sales growing by 4%, reversing a downward trend [4]. - In contrast, North America's same-store sales declined by 4% during the same period, highlighting the importance of the Chinese market for the company [4]. Group 3: Pricing Strategy - On June 10, Starbucks China launched a "Summer Heart Price" promotion, reducing prices of certain non-coffee products by an average of 5 yuan, marking the first time the company has proactively lowered prices in over 20 years [6]. - The price adjustments are not considered a price war, as the discounted products still start at a minimum of 23 yuan, differentiating Starbucks from lower-priced competitors [7]. Group 4: Market Dynamics - The non-coffee product market in China is substantial, with projections estimating the ready-to-drink tea market to reach 368.9 billion yuan by 2025, surpassing the coffee market by 100 billion yuan [7]. - Starbucks is adopting a "coffee + non-coffee" dual-engine model to cater to diverse consumer preferences and enhance product offerings [8]. Group 5: Expansion Plans - Unlike the global strategy of reducing new store openings, Starbucks China plans to continue expanding, with a 9% year-over-year increase in store count in the second fiscal quarter of 2025 [8]. - The company is seeking partners to potentially increase its store count from approximately 8,000 to 20,000, indicating significant growth ambitions in the Chinese market [9][10]. Group 6: Long-term Commitment - Brian Niccol reiterated the immense growth potential in the Chinese market, emphasizing the company's long-term commitment to deepening its presence and development in the region [11].
星巴克首次直接降价,并非放弃“咖位”