Core Viewpoint - Starbucks is reducing the weekly production days at its U.S. roasting and packaging plants from seven to five to cut costs and fund upgrades in other areas [1] Group 1: Production Adjustments - The adjustment affects five plants located in Georgia, South Carolina, Pennsylvania, Nevada, and Washington, which produce coffee products for Starbucks stores and packaged coffee for retail and supermarkets [1] - The decision is based on the current demand levels, which no longer require continuous seven-day operations [1] Group 2: Management Strategy - CEO Narasimhan, nearing his one-year anniversary, is implementing cost-cutting measures and increasing reinvestment in stores to address weak demand for high-priced beverages in the U.S. market [1] - Starbucks aims to reverse a trend of declining same-store sales, which have fallen for six consecutive quarters [1] Group 3: Employee Compensation - Last week, Starbucks set a 2% salary increase cap for all salaried employees [1] - Earlier in January, as part of a business restructuring plan, the company laid off some headquarters staff [1]