10-QPeriod: Q2 FY2004

STARBUCKS CORP Quarterly Report for Q2 Ended Mar 28, 2004

Filed May 6, 2004For Securities:SBUX

Summary

Starbucks Corporation's 10-Q filing for the quarter ended March 28, 2004, reveals a period of robust growth and strong financial performance. Total net revenues increased by a significant 30.1% year-over-year to $1.24 billion, driven by both company-operated and licensed retail stores, as well as growth in specialty businesses. This top-line expansion was accompanied by improved profitability, with operating income rising by 45.6% and net earnings surging by 52.8% compared to the prior year's quarter. The company highlighted exceptional comparable store sales growth of 12% in company-operated markets, a testament to effective strategies in customer service, product innovation, and operational efficiency. This strong performance in existing stores, combined with aggressive new store openings globally, positions Starbucks for continued expansion and value creation for shareholders. The company reiterated its long-term objective of operating at least 25,000 retail locations worldwide and expressed confidence in maintaining a high level of unit growth and achieving targeted comparable store sales growth.

Key Highlights

  • 1Total net revenues for the quarter grew 30.1% to $1.24 billion compared to the prior year.
  • 2Company-operated retail revenues increased by 29.8%, driven by 671 new stores opened in the past 12 months and a 12% comparable store sales growth.
  • 3Specialty revenues, including licensing and foodservice, grew 31.5% to $190.6 million.
  • 4Operating income increased by 45.6% to $124.5 million, with operating margin improving to 10.0% from 9.0%.
  • 5Net earnings saw a substantial increase of 52.8% to $79.5 million.
  • 6The company repurchased approximately 1.1 million shares of its common stock for $40.7 million during the 26-week period.

Frequently Asked Questions

The substantial increase in net revenues was primarily driven by the opening of 671 new company-operated retail stores in the last 12 months and a strong comparable store sales growth of 12%. Additionally, specialty revenues from licensing and foodservice operations also contributed significantly to the top-line growth.

Despite increased costs associated with new store openings and a global leadership conference, Starbucks demonstrated improved operating efficiency. Store operating expenses as a percentage of company-operated retail revenues slightly decreased, and other operating expenses as a percentage of specialty revenues saw a notable decrease. Depreciation and amortization expenses also decreased as a percentage of total net revenues, indicating leverage from the expanded revenue base.

Starbucks management is optimistic about future growth, reiterating its long-term goal of operating at least 25,000 retail locations globally. They plan to achieve this through continued new store development and by targeting 3-7% comparable store sales growth in existing markets, supported by product innovation, customer service enhancements, and improved speed of service.

Yes, during the 26-week period ended March 28, 2004, Starbucks repurchased approximately 1.1 million shares of its common stock for a total cost of $40.7 million. As of March 28, 2004, there were approximately 13.5 million additional shares authorized for repurchase under existing programs.