Starbucks considers $3bn stake sale of Japan business

Starbucks Corp is considering the sale of a majority stake in its Japanese operations, a move that could value the business at approximately $3 billion. The Japan market represents the company’s largest overseas company-operated market, consisting of 1,883 stores and accounting for nearly 9% of its global footprint as of September 2025.

Starbucks has reportedly solicited pitches from financial advisers to explore options for the business. While the exact size of the stake to be sold remains undetermined, the potential divestment is part of a broader effort by CEO Brian Niccol to reshape the company’s global portfolio and restore profitability.

A Starbucks spokesperson noted that the company continually assesses structures to create value for shareholders, describing the Japan business as a strong entity with deep brand affinity built over 30 years. Starbucks previously took full control of its Japan operations in 2014 by buying out partner Sazaby League for approximately $914 million.