New York City (Agencies) July 4, 2025 — China’s largest coffee chain, Luckin Coffee, has officially launched its U.S. operations with the opening of two flagship stores in Manhattan—one in Greenwich Village and another in NoMad—marking a bold entry into one of the world’s most competitive coffee markets.
Founded in 2017 and headquartered in Xiamen, Luckin Coffee has grown to over 24,000 stores globally, surpassing Starbucks in China by store count and revenue. Its U.S. debut is part of a broader international expansion strategy aimed at redefining coffee culture through affordability, digital convenience, and product innovation.
The New York stores feature Luckin’s signature cashier-less model, where customers order exclusively through a mobile app integrated with Apple Pay and PayPal. The company’s aggressive pricing—lattes starting at just $1.99—undercuts competitors like Starbucks, Dunkin’, and Tim Hortons by up to 30%. Promotional campaigns include giveaways, tote bags, and a “Free Coffee for a Year” sweepstakes to attract first-time users.
Luckin’s U.S. menu blends classic offerings with its Chinese bestsellers, such as Coconut Latte, Velvet Latte, and Raspberry Cold Brew, alongside fruit-infused refreshers like Ruby Ocean and Pink Sunrise. The company has also localized its operations, adapting flavors and supply chain logistics to suit American tastes and regulatory standards.
Industry analysts say Luckin’s entry could reshape consumer expectations around coffee pricing and convenience. Its tech-first approach and value-driven strategy may pressure established brands to reassess their models. However, challenges remain, including brand recognition, operational scalability, and overcoming its past financial scandal.
Luckin’s CEO, Dr. Jinyi Guo, emphasized the strategic importance of the U.S. market, stating, “We are excited to introduce a diverse and unique coffee experience to American consumers, powered by our strong product innovation, advanced digital operations, and global supply chain advantages”.
As the coffee wars intensify, Luckin’s daring leap into Starbucks territory signals a new chapter in global beverage competition—one where price, speed, and tech may redefine the morning routine.