Increased Demand for Pricier Beverages Boosts Starbucks’ Q4 Earnings Above Expectations
“We had a remarkable fall launch that led to record-breaking average weekly sales.”
Budrul Chukrut | Lightrocket | Getty Images
Startbucks, the renowned coffee giant, announced its quarterly earnings and revenue on Thursday, surpassing analysts' expectations. The company's stock rose by 9.5% as a result of robust demand for higher-priced drinks in the United States.
In its fourth quarter, Starbucks reported earnings per share of $1.06, exceeding the expected 97 cents. Additionally, the company's revenue reached $9.37 billion, surpassing the estimated $9.29 billion.
Compared to the previous year, Starbucks witnessed a significant increase in net income, with $1.22 billion, or $1.06 per share, compared to $878.3 million, or 76 cents per share. Net sales also climbed by 11.4% to $9.37 billion.
“We had a remarkable fall launch that led to record-breaking average weekly sales,” said Laxman Narasimhan, CEO of Starbucks’.
The company's success can be attributed to an 8% rise in same-store sales, driven by higher average checks and a 3% increase in customer traffic. Starbucks' domestic locations outperformed expectations, with analysts anticipating a same-store sales growth of 6.8%.
Starbucks' fall menu, featuring popular drinks like the pumpkin cream cold brew and iconic pumpkin spice latte, contributed to the record-breaking average weekly sales. These seasonal beverages have a dedicated fan base, attracting customers to Starbucks locations while they are available.
In the United States and North America, same-store sales grew by 8%, the average check in Starbucks' home market increased by 6%, while traffic saw a 2% uptick. Outside North America, same-store sales rose by 5%, primarily due to an increase in customer visits.
In China, Starbucks' second-largest market, same-store sales experienced a 5% growth. Customer traffic increased by 8%, but the average ticket fell by 3%. Despite the challenges faced in the Chinese market over the past year, Starbucks remains optimistic about its performance and the business's overall returns.
Looking ahead to fiscal year 2024, Starbucks expects a same-store sales growth of 5% to 7%, slightly lower than its long-term forecast of 7% to 9%. However, the company maintains its earnings per share growth forecast of 15% to 20%.
Starbucks plans to expand its global footprint by 7% in fiscal 2024, with a 4% growth in the U.S. market and a 13% increase in China. The company projects a 4% to 6% same-store sales growth in China during the last three quarters of the fiscal year.
During the investor update, Starbucks will also provide insights into its "reinvention" strategy, showcasing its plans for future growth and innovation.
In conclusion, Starbucks' impressive quarterly performance, driven by the popularity of premium drinks, has resulted in a significant increase in stock value. The company's focus on delivering exceptional customer experiences and expanding its global presence positions it for continued success in the future.
