China's largest coffee chain known for cashier-less stores opens US locations
- - - China's largest coffee chain known for cashier-less stores opens US locations
Anthony Robledo, USA TODAY June 30, 2025 at 9:25 PM
New Yorkers have new morning drink menu to look through when they're not feeling like Starbucks.
Luckin Coffee, the largest coffee chain in China, has branched into the U.S. with two New York City locations that opened Monday, June 30.
In China, the coffee giant touts its mobile app that has created a 100% cashier-less environment at its over 20,000 locations. The New York City stores are both located in Manhattan.
However, New York City has leally prohibited cashless businesses since late 2020. Other major cities, including San Francisco and Philadelphia, have similar laws. USA TODAY has reached out to Luckin Coffee for comment on possible future U.S. locations.
The Xiamen, China-based chain wants new U.S. customers to know about its high affordability and efficiency that comes through its mobile app that is "completely changing the traditional coffee business mode," according to its website.
To celebrate its New York debut, customers who use the app can get their first drink for $1.99. Luckin Coffee is also offering free tote bags for its first 100 in-store guests.
What is Luckin Coffee?
Founded in 2017, Luckin Coffee is the fastest-growing coffee chain in China with over 22,000 locations and as well as dozens in Singapore.
Customers wait for their orders at a Luckin Coffee shop in Beijing on Sept. 4, 2023.
It's arguably best known for its mobile app that has created a cashier-less experience that has allowed the chain to grow rapidly in China.
The company's investor page states that its mission is "to create lucky moments and inspire" while its vision is to "build a world-class coffee brand and become a part of everyone's daily life."
"We advocate a more convenient and rapid 'new retail' experience," Luckin's website reads.
What's in Luckin Coffee's menu?
Luckin Coffee's menu features various hot coffees, cold brews and matcha drinks, as well as its fruity Americano refreshers.
Some items includes Caffe Mocha, Caramel Macchiato, Apple Fizzy Americano, Pomelo Americano and the Yirgacheffe Flat White.
To the see the entire Luckin Coffee menu, click here.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Chinese chain Luckin Coffee opens 2 New York City stores
Source: AOL Money
