Starbucks stock was downgraded by Jefferies Thursday amid worries over its China business and a lack of improvement amid the uncertain macroeconomic environment.

In Starbucks’ world, the “partner” refers to the company’s employees. It’s the person wearing the green apron, the barista, the shift lead, or the assistant manager. It’s the person who opens the store at 4 a.m. or memorizes someone’s complicated drink order.

Starbucks remains the world’s largest coffee chain, but the Seattle-based company has reported five straight quarters of declining sales at U.S. stores open at least a year, amid growing competition from independent and national coffee retailers, and as consumers cut back on discretionary spending.

Starbucks has raised the bar on in-office work, with the company stating its corporate staff must report to the office at least four days a week starting October. It is among the chain's numerous "Back to Starbucks" turnaround initiatives targeting a return to growth after a year of weakening sales,

Six years later, Luckin’s new leadership team has pulled off an impressive financial ... Even the two companies’ branding seems to underscore their opposing strategies: Starbucks embraces a warm aesthetic through its iconic dark green siren logo ...

Leadership Experience 2025: Starbucks Rallies 14,000 North America Coffeehouse Leaders to Accelerate its ‘Back to Starbucks’ Strategy Jun. 10, 2025 9:00 AM ET Starbucks Corporation (SBUX)

Luckin Coffee, China's fastest-growing coffee chain, launches first U.S. stores in New York City as it continues global expansion following 41% revenue growth in its latest quarter.

Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol is facing challenges nine months into his tenure, with stagnant shares and investor uncertainty. Despite implementing initiatives to revive the brand, sales continue to decline.