Starbucks is optimistic about boosting U.S. sales with new products like a cold foam protein drink. Despite a 4% rise in revenue to $9.5 billion, same-store sales fell 2% in the April-June period. In contrast, same-store sales grew in China. Starbucks is considering partnership offers to expand in China.
CEO Brian Niccol is enthusiastic about improving store operations with the Green Apron Service model and new staffing levels. New software is helping reduce wait times, with 80% of in-store orders completed in four minutes or less. Starbucks plans to roll out the Green Apron Service model across the U.S. starting in mid-August.
Niccol emphasized the importance of improving store operations before introducing new products. Starbucks plans to launch new baked goods, a dark roast coffee, and test beverages with coconut water. The company is collaborating with employees to develop food and drink items that can be prepared quickly and consistently.
Starbucks is encouraging customers to linger in its stores by modifying mobile order-only storefronts and developing a store prototype with 32 seats and a drive-thru window. The company spent heavily in the third quarter on initiatives to turnaround its business, including hosting a two-day meeting in Las Vegas. Despite a 47% fall in net income, Starbucks shares rose 3% in after-hours trading.
Read more at Yahoo Finance: Starbucks looks to protein drinks and other new products to turn around lagging US sales
