Number of coffee shops in China 2024, by brand

As of the beginning of 2024, a local Chinese coffee shop brand Luckin Coffee had around 18,360 coffee shops in operation in China. A runner-up Starbucks, the well-known multinational chain of coffeehouses, had a little over 7,100 cafés across the country. 

Brewing success

Traditional Chinese tea-drinking habits have gradually given way to coffee, particularly among younger consumers in major cities. Urbanization, shift in consumer lifestyles, and an affinity for Western culture have all contributed to the rising demand for premium coffee, making the café market in China highly competitive and diverse. As of 2023, the number of registered coffee shops exceeded 132,000. Around 18 percent of them were chain brand coffee shops.

The leading brands

Luckin Coffee and Starbucks are the two dominant brands leading the market in China. Starbucks, which entered Beijing in 1999, initially spearheaded the café revolution, establishing itself as a symbol of luxury and a lifestyle brand. With its massive store network and commitment to creating a premium in-store experience, Starbucks remains a key player. On the other hand, Luckin Coffee, opened in 2017, has grown rapidly by using a digital-first approach, convenient and quick coffee deliveries, and some of the most affordable fresh coffee on the market. Despite facing setbacks in 2020 due to financial scandals, Luckin Coffee has rebounded and continues to expand.