Case Study is to be 1 1/2 to 2 pages in length maximum; written in paragraph format, answering one main question in each paragraph. There are 5 main questions , so your paper will have 5 main paragraphs. Please use Times Roman or Arial font, 10-12 point size, black text color, single spaced lines, and one (1) inch page margins.
Case Study Guidelines

1. Make sure to type or write your full name (as listed in Oncourse CL), your section number, and class time on all case studies. Failure to provide this information will results in points being deducted from your score and in some cases may result in a grade of zero for the assignment.

2. All cases must be typed. We do not accept any handwritten work. Submission of handwritten work will result in a grade of zero for the assignment.

3. A paper copy of each case will be turned in prior to class on the due date.

4. All case studies are worth a total of 10 points (2 points per question or issue that you have been asked to discuss). Partial credit will be awarded where appropriate.

5. Points will be deducted for failure to use spell check and grammar check.

6. Students should submit a 1 1/2 to 2 page paper. Nothing more…nothing less. The paper should be 5 paragraphs in length, single spaced, in block format, using 10 to 12 point font, and have 1 inch margins. Each of the questions and issues provided below should be thoroughly discussed.

Case Study #1 – Starbucks: Questions & Issues
1. Explain why business is so GOOD for Starbucks? Consider the following:
• Why did consolidated Q3 2015 (April, May, June) net revenues increase 18% to a record $4.9B (including a robust 7% for stores that have been open 13 months or longer)?
• What’s driving a 22% increase in profitability (operating income) in Q3 2015?
• Why did EPS (earnings per share) jump 21% to a Q3 2015 record of $0.41 per share? How much of the EPS was paid in a cash dividend?
• How is Starbuck’s continuing to perform year-to-date (YTD) in 2015? What metrics (sales revenue, operating income, earnings per share) can you cite to support your conclusions?
2. What are some advantages and disadvantages of Starbuck’s global international expansion? Consider the following:
• Why is the China market so important to Starbucks?
• How do you expect Starbucks to perform in India?
• Why is Starbucks struggling in Europe?
• What are some examples of recent strategic business partnerships? How do these partnerships benefit the business?
3. Why is Howard Schultz such an inspirational CEO? Consider the following:
• When did he return to the company? Why?
• Why does Schultz advocate striking a “balance” between profitability & corporate social conscience?
• What are some examples of Starbucks corporate social responsibility? How is Howard Schultz’ leadership making a difference?
4. Why is Starbucks consistently ranked “One of the 10 Best Corporations To Work For?” Consider the following:
• What is it about the work environment that is so satisfying?
• How has Starbucks made “careers” so appealing?
• Why are employees referred to as ”partners?” What does this imply?
5. Consider your own customer experiences at a Starbucks.
• What do you like best / least about the brand?
• Do you feel an “emotional” connection to the brand? Why or why not?
• How much of Starbucks “social conscience” is driving your loyalty to the brand?