Starbucks is exploring a majority stake sale of its Japanese operations. The potential deal values the unit at approximately $3 billion.
The company is working with financial advisors to evaluate options for its 1,883 Japanese stores. Japan currently serves as Starbucks' largest company-operated market outside the United States.
A formal sale process may begin in the fourth quarter of 2026.
CEO Brian Niccol is driving the move to reshape the corporate portfolio and increase profitability. This follows a previous sale of a controlling interest in the company's China operations.
The transaction signals a strategy to optimize the global footprint and focus on operational efficiency.