Luckin Coffee debuts in Malaysia with two outlets in Kuala Lumpur

MALAYSIA – Chinese coffee chain Luckin Coffee has expanded into Malaysia with two new outlets in Kuala Lumpur.

The expansion into Malaysia marks a significant milestone for Luckin Coffee, with plans to open 200 stores nationwide by 2028, according to World Coffee Portal.

The brand’s initial launch is a collaboration with franchise partner Hextar Industries, and the first two stores are currently in a “soft opening” phase to refine operations and customer engagement strategies.

The debut outlets are located at Sunway Pyramid and Menara EcoWorld in Bukit Bintang City Centre, Kuala Lumpur.

These are part of a larger rollout, with five stores expected to be operational by the end of January 2025.

Luckin Coffee’s aggressive growth strategy is evident in its 20,000-store footprint in China and its expansion into Singapore, where 51 outlets have been established since March 2023.

In Malaysia, the brand is offering beverages for RM2.99 (approximately $0.67) via its app as part of its launch campaign to attract customers in the new market. 

Global Aroma CEO Jeff Lim Chee Lip expressed enthusiasm for the brand’s Malaysian debut, highlighting the soft opening phase as a chance to align the coffee offerings with local preferences while introducing Luckin Coffee’s distinctive culture. 

The partnership agreement between Hextar Industries and Luckin Coffee Holding Singapore, announced in November 2024, granted Hextar’s subsidiary, Global Aroma, exclusive rights to develop and operate Luckin Coffee outlets across Malaysia.

This move positions Luckin Coffee in direct competition with both local and international chains, including ZUS Coffee, Gigi Coffee, Bask Bear, and Indonesia’s Kopi Kenangan.  

In Singapore, the brand has also been expanding its menu to meet growing demand for plant-based and lactose-free options.

In September 2024, it introduced the Oat Milk Series, featuring the Oat Milk Latte and Oat Shakerato, crafted with OATLY Barista Edition Oat Milk.

The Oat Milk Latte, described as velvety due to a ristretto extraction process, was launched at a promotional price of S$4.50 (US$3.35) until the end of the month. The Oat Shakerato, introduced later in September, offers a creamy, plant-based alternative for warmer days. 

Luckin Coffee plans to integrate OATLY Barista Edition Oat Milk into more menu items, allowing customers to opt for this dairy-free alternative for an additional S$0.50 (US$0.37). 

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