DEE-ANN DURBIN AP Business Writer

It was a happy holiday at Starbucks, but the company's sales momentum could start to slow due to the coronavirus outbreak in China.

New drinks like the Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew were a hit with customers, helping the Seattle-based coffee giant beat Wall Street's forecasts in the October-December period. Starbucks reaffirmed its 2020 profit guidance for now, but said it has already closed more than half of its stores in China.

Starbucks reported Tuesday that its earnings rose 16% to $886 million in its fiscal first quarter. Earnings, adjusted for non-recurring items like restructuring charges, were 79 cents per share. That beat Wall Street's forecast of 76 cents.

Starbucks said same-store sales — or sales at stores open at least 13 months — jumped 5% worldwide in the October-December period, ahead of analysts' forecast of 4.4%. Revenue was up 7% to $7.1 billion, in line with analysts' forecasts.

Starbucks said 1.4 million U.S. customers joined its Starbucks Rewards loyalty program during the quarter. The company said demand for mobile ordering and payment is growing in the U.S.

Share:
More In Business
Stretching Your Dollar: Preparing for Open Enrollment
It's almost that time of year - it's open enrollment season. Nate Black, vice president of health solutions product development with Voya Financial, joined Cheddar News to explain the critical decision-making needed when choosing the best coverage for you and your family.
The New Subscription Plan for X
Elon Musk announced two new subscription tiers for people who want the premium experience. This, as some users in some countries may have to pay a very small fee to access the platform for more. Cheddar News' senior reporter Michelle Castillo explains.
Rite Aid to Close Over 100 Stores
Rite Aid is set to close more than 100 stores with efforts currently underway to try to sell dozens of stores across a dozen states.
Load More