Starbucks' fall lineup, led by its pumpkin spice latte, drove a "record-breaking" sales week, CEO Brian Niccol told staff. Seasonal drinks like pumpkin cream cold brew and pecan crunch oat milk latte boosted traffic, though retail sentiment stays bearish. Shares are down 24% in 6 months as China rivals like Luckin erode market share, prompting a search for local partners.