In the United States, Starbucks has reported significant progress in its first fiscal quarter of 2026, which ran during the typically busy holiday season. The company's same-store sales, which represent sales at locations open for at least a year, rose by 4% during the October to December period. This growth exceeded the Wall Street expectation of a 2.3% increase, with U.S. same-store sales also reflecting a 4% rise, supported by a 3% increase in customer transactions and a 1% uptick in spending per visit. Starbucks Chairman and CEO Brian Niccol stated that these results indicate the success of the company's ongoing turnaround strategy, which aims to revitalize sales and brand perception. Starbucks has been actively updating its stores to create a more inviting atmosphere for customers. Around 200 locations have already undergone redecoration, with plans for over 1,000 additional stores to be refurbished by the fall of this year. Niccol emphasized that the brand’s image is recovering both within the U.S. and globally, stating that “the shine is back on our brand.” However, he cautioned that the path to consistent growth may not always be linear, even as the company anticipates improved sales for the year. Despite facing challenges, including a strike organized by more than 1,000 unionized workers aimed at disrupting Starbucks’ Red Cup Day, the company demonstrated resilience. While the strike led to the temporary closure of some stores, it did not severely impact overall operations. The company opted to close certain locations to prioritize its better-performing stores, showing its focus on efficiency amid labor-related disruptions. In addition to its U.S. performance, Starbucks also saw a notable increase in sales in China, where same-store sales rose by 7%. This growth comes on the heels of an announcement in November regarding a significant joint venture with Chinese investment firm Boyu Capital. Under this agreement, Boyu will acquire a 60% stake in Starbucks’ retail operations in China, a deal valued at around $4 billion, while Starbucks retains a 40% stake. This move is aimed at strengthening its footprint in one of the world's largest coffee markets, further enhancing its revenue potential in the region.