Starbucks Boosts Fiscal 2026 Guidance to 5% Comp-Sales, $2.25-$2.45 EPS
Starbucks raised its fiscal 2026 guidance, forecasting at least 5.0% comparable-store sales growth globally and in the U.S. and adjusted EPS of $2.25-$2.45. The company delivered Q2 net revenue of $9.5 billion (up 9%) and EPS of $0.50, beating estimates by $0.08, as same-store sales rose 6.2%.
1. Fiscal 2026 Guidance Increase
Starbucks raised its fiscal 2026 comparable-store sales growth target to at least 5.0% globally and in the U.S., and projected adjusted EPS of $2.25 to $2.45. Shares climbed over 5% in premarket trading following the guidance upgrade.
2. Second-Quarter Financial Performance
Second-quarter net revenue increased 9% year-over-year to $9.5 billion, surpassing consensus, while adjusted EPS of $0.50 topped estimates by $0.08. Global same-store sales rose 6.2%, driven by a 3.8% lift in transactions and a 2.3% increase in average ticket size, with operating margin up 120 basis points to 9.4%.
3. Turnaround Initiatives Driving Growth
CEO Brian Niccol’s turnaround strategy focuses on simplifying menus and shortening wait times to enhance in-store operations. The Back to Starbucks initiative, which includes improved employee pay and working conditions, aims to boost staff retention and store consistency after stalled union negotiations.