Core Insights - Starbucks China is experiencing a turnaround in performance, with revenue, net profit, and store transaction volume showing continuous improvement due to comprehensive strategic adjustments over the past year [1][5][6] - The company is in substantive negotiations regarding the sale of a portion of its equity in the Chinese market, aiming to bring in partners that can aid future development rather than seeking a complete exit [1][15][18] Group 1: Performance Recovery - In Q2 of FY2025, Starbucks China's revenue reached $739.7 million, a 5% year-over-year increase, marking a quarterly high for FY2024 [5] - Revenue continued to rise in Q3, reaching $790 million with an 8% growth rate [5] - Same-store sales increased by 2% in Q3, with transaction volume up by 6% and average ticket price down by 4% [5][6] Group 2: Strategic Adjustments - The company has implemented significant price reductions across three major non-coffee product categories and launched a breakfast combo priced at 9.9 yuan to stimulate consumption [7][9] - Product innovation has accelerated, with the introduction of the "True Flavor No Sugar" series and various co-branding marketing campaigns [9][11] - Starbucks is expanding its delivery services by partnering with additional platforms like JD and Taobao [11] Group 3: Market Expansion - The number of Starbucks stores in China has steadily increased, reaching 7,828 by the end of June, with a 9% year-over-year growth [12] - The company is entering new county-level markets and creating unique store concepts that blend local culture with the "third space" experience [13] Group 4: Equity Sale Strategy - Starbucks is evaluating over 20 interested institutions for potential equity sales, with plans to retain approximately 30% of the shares [17][19] - The goal of this partial sale is to ensure better future development for the Starbucks brand in China, rather than merely raising funds [18][21] - Potential buyers include major investment firms, indicating that Starbucks China remains a valuable asset despite competitive pressures [25][26] Group 5: Competitive Landscape - Starbucks faces significant competition from local brands like Luckin Coffee and Koolearn, which are rapidly expanding in the market [3][14] - The company must balance maintaining its premium positioning while accelerating local market penetration to fend off competition [29][31] - Key success factors include product innovation, localization, and efficient channel expansion, particularly in online sales [31][33]