Starbucks(US:SBUX) Zhong Guo Zhi Liang Xin Wen Wang·2025-06-17 07:36Core Viewpoint - Starbucks has launched a significant price reduction on its non-coffee beverages, marking the first price drop in 25 years in China, aiming to enhance its market presence in the non-coffee segment while avoiding a price war in the coffee market [1][2]. Group 1: Pricing Strategy - The average price reduction for large-sized beverages is approximately 5 yuan, with some products now priced between 20 to 30 yuan [1]. - The price cut is focused on non-coffee products such as Frappuccino, iced tea, and tea lattes, which are intended to create a "morning coffee, afternoon non-coffee" service model [1][2]. - Industry experts view this move as a "precise positioning" strategy to attract younger consumers and broaden consumption scenarios without engaging in a coffee price war [1][2]. Group 2: Market Context - The price reduction reflects a broader trend in the Chinese beverage market, where competition has intensified, leading to price cuts among various tea and coffee brands [2]. - Data from Meituan indicates a shift in consumer preferences towards lower-priced beverages, with significant sales growth in products priced between 5 to 10 yuan and those above 20 yuan [2]. - The coffee shop market in China has seen rapid growth, with over 200,000 stores and a net increase of 17,000 stores despite the closure of 53,000 locations [2]. Group 3: Financial Performance - Starbucks China reported a revenue of approximately $740 million for Q2 of fiscal year 2025, reflecting a 5% year-on-year growth, with same-store transaction volume increasing by 4% [3]. - In contrast, Starbucks experienced a 4% decline in transaction volume in North America and a 1% drop in global comparable sales, prompting a stronger focus on the Chinese market [3].