Starbucks jumps 6.6% after hours as same-store sales beat estimates

Starbucks reported Q3 same-store sales that beat analyst expectations, sending shares up 6.6% in after-hours trading on July 29.

"The results confirm our turnaround is gaining traction," Chief Executive Officer Brian Niccol said.

The coffee chain's comparable-store sales exceeded consensus forecasts for the quarter ended July 2026, building on three consecutive quarters of positive growth after a prolonged slump. Wall Street had projected revenue of $9.12 billion, a 3.6% decline from the prior year, with earnings per share of 65 cents, according to estimates compiled by Bloomberg.

The after-hours surge pushed the stock above its $106.45 consensus price target, extending a 23% year-to-date gain that has far outpaced the S&P 500's 8% advance. Investors now await management's progress on a $2 billion cost-reduction initiative spanning three years.

The company has been executing a turnaround under Niccol, who took the helm in 2024. April marked the third consecutive quarter of positive comparable sales following seven straight quarters of declines. RBC Capital Markets analyst Logan Reich said the company's momentum reflects additional labor investments, strategic store closures, and expanded operating hours.

Profitability remains a focus for investors. Rising coffee commodity prices and tariff-related costs continue to pressure raw material expenses, while a growing share of sales through third-party delivery platforms compresses margins. The company's ability to sustain mid-to-high single-digit comparable sales growth in its domestic U.S. market across multiple quarters will be a key test, according to Seeking Alpha analyst Gary Alexander. Rival chains including McDonald's and Dunkin' have also faced margin pressure from higher commodity costs.

The same-store sales beat shows that Starbucks' turnaround is gaining traction with consumers. Investors will watch the upcoming earnings call for updated guidance on margins and the cost-reduction timeline.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice.