Two years into Starbucks' turnaround, CEO Brian Niccol is prioritizing makeovers for the coffee chain's cafes and improving the customer experience as its sales rebound.
"Starbucks is back," Niccol said on CNBC's "Squawk Box" on Thursday.
Under Niccol's leadership, Starbucks has tried to win back coffee drinkers by returning its roots. The plan, called "Back to Starbucks," has emphasized improving the experience for both customers and baristas and reminding lapsed loyalists why they used to love the coffee chain.
The changes come as rivals have tried to appeal to coffee drinkers with lower prices and convenience.
The current stage of the turnaround focuses on improving its coffee houses. Niccol said more than 1,000 renovations have been completed over the last nine months, with thousands more planned for the next fiscal year.