Starbucks: Operating Margins Plunge Amid Reignition Attempts

  • Brian Niccol is slowing Starbucks' expansion and focusing on operational improvements, but sales and margins remain weak, with no quick turnaround in sight. Comparable sales are improving slightly, but much of this is due to easier comparisons, and margins have fallen to Covid-era lows, amid heavy reinvestment. Starbucks has withdrawn guidance, leading to uncertainty and numerous downward revisions, with key engagement metrics like active members also declining.