Starbucks (SBUX) is expected to report continued sales momentum in fiscal Q3 as its turnaround plans and new sales initiatives supported a recovery in the US business, UBS Securities said in a Friday note.
The company is scheduled to report fiscal Q3 earnings on Wednesday.
Same-store sales in North America are projected to grow 7% year over year, consisting of a 2% increase in average spend per customer and a 5% rise in the number of transactions, UBS said. Around half of the momentum comes from marketing and menu innovation, with the other half reflecting operational factors, including store closures, according to the note.
For fiscal Q4, UBS expects new product launches to support sales, while underlying improvement should continue even as comparisons become more difficult. The momentum is expected to be driven by ongoing operational gains, afternoon offerings, marketing, and digital/loyalty program contributions, the analysts added.
The company's shares already reflect a solid multiyear improvement in sales and profits, with a balanced risk-reward profile at current levels, the analysts said.
UBS' rating on the company's stock is neutral with a price target of $105.
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