Core Viewpoint - Luckin Coffee has officially opened its first two stores in New York City, marking its entry into the U.S. market after five years of absence from Nasdaq. The company aims to attract a diverse customer base by strategically selecting locations in busy, multicultural areas rather than predominantly Chinese neighborhoods [2][5]. Group 1: Store Opening and Promotions - On June 30, 2025, Luckin Coffee opened its first two stores in New York, located at 755 Broadway and 800 Sixth Avenue, offering a promotional price of $1.99 for orders made through its official app [2]. - Prior to the official opening, Luckin conducted four pop-up events in high-traffic areas of New York City to promote its app and engage with potential customers [3]. Group 2: Marketing Strategy - The pop-up events were designed to encourage app downloads, with incentives such as free coffee and a chance to win a year of free coffee, successfully attracting a large crowd despite the heat [3]. - The company employed a diverse group of volunteers to help engage local consumers, with a significant portion of attendees being Chinese students and workers [4]. Group 3: Location Strategy - Luckin's choice of locations reflects its commitment to penetrating the U.S. market, focusing on areas with stable foot traffic rather than high-rent shopping centers [5][7]. - The two stores are situated in B+ grade locations, balancing cost and customer flow, indicating Luckin's confidence in its brand positioning and operational capabilities [7]. Group 4: Market Context - The U.S. coffee market is substantial, generating nearly $85 billion in revenue in 2023, with Americans consuming approximately 400 million cups of coffee daily [8]. - The competitive landscape in New York is intense, with numerous established coffee brands, including Starbucks, dominating the market [7][8]. Group 5: Challenges and Considerations - Luckin faces challenges in adapting its pricing strategy to the U.S. market, where its original pricing may not be competitive compared to local brands [9][10]. - The company must navigate local regulations, such as the prohibition of cashless businesses in New York, which could impact its app-based ordering model [14].