Starbucks plans to retain a significant equity stake in its China operations as it evaluates potential investors, Chairman and Chief Executive Brian Niccol said, citing strong long-term confidence in the company’s fastest-growing market.

The Seattle-based coffee chain said Starbucks China recorded 5% revenue growth in fiscal 2025, outpacing its global performance.

Niccol told analysts during the company’s earnings call that Starbucks had received “strong interest from multiple high-quality potential partners” regarding the potential sale of a stake in its China business, while emphasizing that the company intends to remain a major shareholder.