Starbucks has appointed Molly Liu as the new executive VP and co-CEO of its China business, effective October 2.
In her new role, Liu will work alongside Belinda Wong, who will continue to serve as chairwoman and CEO of Starbucks China.
Joining the company in 2012, Liu has held several leadership positions, including VP of Digital Ventures. She has served as Starbucks China’s COO since 2021, overseeing the company’s expansion in the country. Liu was also behind the establishment of the company’s Starbucks Rewards program which has more than 20 million active members.
“Molly is a strong leader who has been instrumental in elevating the Starbucks Experience for our Chinese customers and driving industry-leading innovation for our China business,” said Laxman Narasimhan, CEO of Starbucks.
Starbucks China aims to reach 9000 stores across the country by 2025, creating more than 10,000 additional jobs annually.
The US coffee chain logged a 10 per cent increase in comparable store sales for its 13-week quarter to July 2 with China comparable store sales jumping 46 per cent.