Starbucks rival targets comeback after dozens of store closures
Key takeaways
- At its peak, the company operated more than 1,100 cafés worldwide and was considered one of the largest coffee-focused brands outside the industry giants, such as Starbucks and Dunkin'.
- But behind that global footprint, the chain has quietly been shrinking its U.S. presence for years.
- While the brand continues to expand in parts of Asia, its strategy in the U.S. has shifted significantly from the growth-focused model that once fueled its rise.
Starbucks rival targets comeback after dozens of store closures Fernanda Tronco Sun, June 7, 2026 at 1:03 AM GMT+7 7 min read SBUX For decades, one coffee chain built a loyal following with specialty beverages, premium teas, and a strong presence across the U.S. and international markets. At its peak, the company operated more than 1,100 cafés worldwide and was considered one of the largest coffee-focused brands outside the industry giants, such as Starbucks and Dunkin'.
But behind that global footprint, the chain has quietly been shrinking its U.S. presence for years. A combination of store closures, market exits, shifting consumer habits, pandemic-related disruptions, and rising operating costs has reshaped its domestic business.
While the brand continues to expand in parts of Asia, its strategy in the U.S. has shifted significantly from the growth-focused model that once fueled its rise.