Starbucks is reportedly exploring a stake sale or initial public offering for its Japanese operations. The company has started preliminary talks with investment banks to evaluate strategic alternatives. Japan represents one of the coffee giant's largest international markets.
A potential transaction could value the unit at up to ¥500 billion ($3.1 billion). The Japanese business currently operates approximately 2,100 stores. Deliberations remain at an early stage with no final decisions yet made.
This strategic review follows the recent sale of a majority stake in Starbucks' China operations. Starbucks declined to comment on the reports.