Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol sees the company’s turnaround plan turning into a growth strategy, following a strong fourth quarter.

“We had a terrific quarter and a great year driven by our focus on the fundamentals and what has always set Starbucks apart: Exceptional coffee, a moment of connection, and a world-class customer experience,” said Niccol.

“This gives me confidence that our performance is durable.”

For the quarter ended September 27, the coffee chain’s global same-store sales grew 7.2 per cent, driven by a 5.2 per cent increase in average ticket and a 1.8 per cent rise in comparable transactions.

Net revenue in North America increased 6 per cent year on year to $7.3 billion in the fourth quarter, driven by a 7.9 per cent increase in comparable store sales. The gain was supported by a 5 per cent rise in average ticket, reflecting a stronger product mix, higher food attachment and increased delivery sales.

Operating income increased to $898.4 million in Q4 FY26 compared to $308.5 million in Q4 FY25.

At the same time, international segment revenue declined 37 per cent to $1.3 billion in the fourth quarter, following Starbucks’ move to a licensed joint venture model for its China retail operations. The transition lowered company-operated coffeehouse revenue while driving higher product sales and royalty revenue from partners.

Operating income increased to $256.9 million in Q4 FY26 compared to $223.2 million in Q4 FY25.

The company opened 303 net new stores during the quarter, bringing its global total to 41,607. Of these, 32 per cent were company-operated and 68 per cent licensed. The US accounted for 16,781 locations, or about 40 per cent of the global network.

For the full fiscal year, global comparable coffeehouse sales increased 6.2 per cent, led by 6.6 per cent growth in North America. International comparable sales rose 3.7 per cent, while net revenue increased 2 per cent to $37.9 billion.

Starbucks CFO Cathy Smith said the company had returned to same-store sales growth, expanded margins, and delivered stronger earnings in FY26.

“We intend to build on that progress in FY27,” she added.

• Further reading: Starbucks considers mega Chipotle takeover, FT reports.