PHOTO: REUTERSSTARBUCKS’ quarterly results surpassed market estimates, a sign that efforts to attract diners with speedier service and new products are paying off. The results show that chief executive officer Brian Niccol’s plan to increase staff, better train workers and renovate stores is yielding results. Chief finance officer Cathy Smith said the results offer “confidence in the trajectory of our business”. The coffee chain’s sales recovery has outpaced that of its profits due to higher spending on store remodels, increased hiring in its cafes and staff training. Nonetheless, adjusted operating margin was 14.4 per cent in the quarter ended Jun 28, surpassing estimates.