Starbucks Expects China to Surpass U.S. in Store Count

Published: Oct 14, 2026 Author: World Gafei Last Updated: Oct/14/2026 189 views

Howard Schultz predicts Starbucks may have more stores in China than the U.S., with plans for 500 new stores annually over five years.

When Howard Schultz talks about the future of Starbucks, his eyes are increasingly fixed eastward. Amid rapid urbanization and changing consumer habits in China, the coffee giant is laying out ambitious plans that could reshape its global footprint. For years, the U.S. has been Starbucks’ largest and most mature market—but Schultz sees potential for something bigger unfolding across the Pacific.

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