Starbucks 'Continues To Crank,' Says Jefferies

In a report published Wednesday, Jefferies analyst Andy Barish detailed a recent meeting with Starbucks (NASDAQ: SBUX) executives and found the company's Chief Financial Officer Scott Maw "upbeat" about the company's prospects."Starbucks is likely seeing some positive changes in consumer behavior from the improved economy/gas prices, giving us increased confidence in our plus five percent same-store sale estimate," Barish wrote. "More importantly though, beverage (Flat White) and food momentum continue, with both breakfast & lunch food growing nicely (now approaching 20 percent of retail sales)."Barish noted that Starbucks has become "more agile" and "analytical" with its store development which could fuel more than 10 percent overall topline growth and returns. The analyst added that there is more segmentation and "localization" in store expansion while drive-thrus now comprise more than 50 percent of U.S. openings which produce higher margins and returns.Barish also wrote that Starbucks' Chief Executive Officer Howard Schultz is going "all in" to ensure the company maintains its "significant" technology advantage as mobile assets remain a key growth driver.On the international front, Barish explained that the Japan integration is on track, China remains the biggest international opportunity and an ongoing turnaround in Europe, Middle East and Africa continues to help expand margins.Shares remain Buy rated with a price target raised to $108 from a previous $97.