New Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol says the company has 'drifted' from what makes it special. But with two changes, he plans to get the brand back on track.

Starbucks' new CEO Brian Niccol said he would focus on reinvigorating coffeehouse culture at the chain's stores in the U.S. as he takes the helm in the midst of patchy demand for its pricey lattes.

Niccol says there was a sense around Starbucks that the coffee giant had "drifted from its core." Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol had his first day on the job Monday — and yes, he was in the company's Seattle headquarters.

In an open letter to Starbucks customers, employees, and investors, Niccol admitted that the company has “drifted from its core”

When Mr Niccol takes over as chief executive of Starbucks on September 9th life will become a lot less simple. His new office in Seattle will be 1,000 miles from his home. He will commute by private jet. He won’t make the trip every day. But when he does, it will be a six-hour round trip.

ANN DURBIN Starbucks’ new chairman and CEO said Tuesday that he plans to focus on improving service – particularly during the morning rush – and reestablishing stores as

Starbucks’ new CEO Brian Niccol started on Monday, and investors are expecting a lot from the former head of Chipotle Mexican Grill.The stock has jumped 18% since the Aug. 13 announcement.Niccol has a stellar resume with years of experience in the restaurant industry.

Starbucks faces tough competition in the U.S. and China, and its current stock valuation is not attractive. Read why I rate SBUX stock as a Hold.