Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol has indicated that the company's turnaround plan is progressing ahead of schedule despite some challenges. The company reported a sales beat driven by turnaround efforts, although US same-store sales fell less than feared and there was a slight sales slump overall. Niccol highlighted investments in staff as a factor impacting profits but expressed confidence in the brand reset strategy aimed at building a better Starbucks. As part of the turnaround, Starbucks is closing all pickup-only stores and eliminating an ordering option. Former CEO Howard Schultz has publicly supported Niccol's plan, which includes encouraging employees to spend more time in the office. Niccol also has a newly built 4,624-square-foot office in California to avoid commuting to the Seattle headquarters. Following these developments, Starbucks' stock initially rose by 4% but later fell 3.1% amid increased trading volume, with some market commentary questioning the company's valuation at 40 times earnings.