Starbucks back on track as sales momentum returns

A Starbucks store — During the quarter, Starbucks opened 128 net new stores. (Source: Starbucks)

By Irene Dong January 29, 2026

Text Size

Starbucks has reported revenue of $9.9 billion in the first quarter of fiscal 2026, signalling a broad-based improvement in sales and continued growth of its global store network.

Global comparable store sales rose 4 per cent during the quarter, driven by a 3 per cent increase in transactions and a 1 per cent lift in average ticket size. Unlike recent quarters, growth was supported primarily by higher customer traffic rather than price increases.

In North America, including the US, comparable sales increased 4 per cent. This included the first positive transaction growth in the US in eight quarters. Management attributed the turnaround to operational improvements and a renewed focus on the in-store experience under CEO Brian Niccol’s ‘Back to Starbucks’ reset.

“Our Q1 results demonstrate our ‘Back to Starbucks’ strategy is working, and we believe we’re ahead of schedule,” said Niccol.

“It’s great to see sales momentum driven by more customers choosing Starbucks more often, and this is just the beginning.”

International markets delivered stronger results, with comparable store sales up 5 per cent. China led performance, recording 7 per cent comparable sales growth, supported by a 5 per cent increase in transactions and a 2 per cent rise in average ticket size.

During the quarter, Starbucks opened 128 net new stores, bringing its global total to 41,118 locations. The portfolio is now 52 per cent company-operated and 48 per cent licensed. The US and China remain the company’s largest markets, accounting for 61 per cent of all stores, with 16,911 and 8011 locations respectively.

“With our ‘Back to Starbucks’ initiatives gaining traction, we have a clear line of sight to translating topline strength into sustainable earnings growth that positions us for long-term profitable growth,” said CFO Cathy Smith.

Looking ahead, Starbucks expects momentum to continue. The company is forecasting at least 3 per cent comparable sales growth this fiscal year and plans to open 600 to 650 new stores globally, underscoring confidence that its turnaround and expansion strategy is back on track.