The new dividend structure translates to an annual payout of $2.52 per share, yielding approximately 2.7% based on Wednesday’s closing market price of $93.58. Shareholders on record by November 13 will receive the distribution on November 27.

Chief Financial Officer Cathy Smith framed the decision as a vote of confidence in the company’s "Back to Starbucks" initiative. According to Smith, the disciplined execution of this strategy remains the primary vehicle for achieving long-term growth and sustained value for the chain’s stakeholders.