Starbucks to close around 250 underperforming stores in North America
Starbucks plans to close around 250 underperforming North American stores by fiscal year 2026, incurring $300 million in restructuring charges. The closures are part of the 'Back to Starbucks' strategy, aiming to improve financial performance and customer experience. Affected employees will receive support, including potential transfers and severance benefits.
How this was made

The 30-second read
Why it matters
Restructuring charges will reduce earnings this quarter, but the company expects long‑term growth from new store pipeline.
Market read
First‑report disclosure of a sizable restructuring plan for a mega‑cap consumer retailer.
What to watch
Potential cost savings from lease exits and a stronger balance sheet may offset the short‑term charge.
Background
Starbucks' 'Back to Starbucks' strategy aims to revitalize the brand; the closures are part of that effort.
Ticker impact
Starbucks announced the closure of ~250 underperforming North American stores, incurring about $300 million in restructuring charges.
likely modest downside as the $300 M charge hits Q4 results
Restructuring costs directly reduce profit; investors may react negatively to the news.
Market effects
Signals a tightening of Starbucks' footprint, may prompt peers to reassess underperforming locations.
North American coffee‑shop market could see slight re‑rating of comparable chains.
Limited; primarily affects Starbucks and its supply chain.
Counterpoint
The closures could improve long‑term profitability and free capital for higher‑growth stores.
Key entities
- personMike Grams
Chief Operating Officer of Starbucks, announced the closures.





