Citi raises Starbucks stock price target to $95 on service model rollout

Published 12/06/2025, 10:54
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Citi raised its price target on Starbucks (NASDAQ:SBUX) stock to $95 from $84 on Thursday, while maintaining a Neutral rating on the coffee chain’s shares. The stock, currently trading at $95.39, appears overvalued according to InvestingPro analysis, with a P/E ratio of 34.6x and technical indicators suggesting overbought conditions.

The price target increase follows a Reuters report from June 10 indicating Starbucks plans to accelerate the rollout of its Green Apron Service Model to all stores by the end of summer, faster than the previously announced target of reaching one-third of locations by fiscal year-end. The $108.4 billion market cap company has shown resilience, posting a notable 9.66% return over the past week.

Citi noted that Starbucks has reported "promising signs" in test markets for the enhanced staffing initiative, which could provide positive leading indicators and traffic lift data when the company reports its fiscal third-quarter results.

The research firm expects the accelerated service model implementation will allow investors to incorporate potential same-store sales improvements into their fourth-quarter forecasts, though the full margin implications likely won’t be felt until the fiscal fourth quarter or beyond.

Despite the price target increase, Citi maintained its Neutral stance, noting that Starbucks’ broader turnaround narrative "will take time," with sales improvements prioritized before margin expansion, while long-term profitability remains unclear. For deeper insights into Starbucks’ valuation and growth prospects, InvestingPro subscribers can access comprehensive financial health scores and 12 additional exclusive ProTips.

In other recent news, Starbucks Corporation has announced several strategic initiatives and received varying analyst evaluations. RBC Capital raised its price target for Starbucks to $100, maintaining an Outperform rating, citing the company’s accelerated labor deployment as a positive sign for potential top-line growth. In a move to enhance service efficiency, Starbucks plans to introduce a generative AI assistant in 35 locations this month, with a broader rollout in the U.S. and Canada slated for fiscal 2026.

Meanwhile, Goldman Sachs maintained its Neutral rating on Starbucks with an $85 price target following the company’s decision to reduce beverage prices in China. This price adjustment aims to attract more customers amid competitive pressures and a cautious spending environment. Additionally, TD Cowen downgraded Starbucks from Buy to Hold, setting a $90 price target due to concerns about earnings potential and market competition.

Starbucks’ recent price cuts in China, announced via its Weixin social media account, target select iced beverages, making them more accessible to consumers. These developments reflect Starbucks’ strategic efforts to adapt to market conditions and enhance its competitive position.

This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.

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