Starbucks VS Luckin's Superiority, Coffee Is No Longer About Style

 

By  harmen Batubara

On March 30, 1971, in Seattle, Washington, three friends—Jerry Baldwin (an English teacher), Zev Siegl (a history teacher), and Gordon Bowker (a writer)—opened the first Starbucks at 2000 Western Avenue. Inspired by the coffee roaster Alfred Peet, whom they knew personally, they sold only high-quality coffee beans and equipment, leaving the coffee untouched. Relocating to 1912 Pike Place in 1976 maintained that simple spirit. But then the winds of change blew: in 1984, they acquired Peet's Coffee, starting to sell ready-to-drink coffee. By 1986, six Seattle stores had begun serving espresso. Finally, in 1987, Howard Schultz bought the company, transforming it into a global ritual—a cozy cafe with plush couches, free Wi-Fi, soft music, and Instagram-worthy latte art. Starbucks was no longer just coffee; it had become a lifestyle symbol, a global social hub with thousands of outlets in every corner of the city.

The Arrival of Newcomer Luckin Coffee

Then came “Luckin Coffee” in October 2017, like a bolt from the blue. Founded in China, Luckin didn’t care about romance. They targeted true coffee lovers—busy office workers, college students, anyone needing a quick caffeine fix, anywhere. Small “pickup” shops in office buildings or campuses, no fancy seating, no artsy decor. Order via app, pick up, or have it delivered—simple, to the point. Just the good coffee you love, at affordable prices. Amazingly, in January 2018, the first stores in Beijing and Shanghai exploded: 1,300 outlets, surpassing Costa Coffee to become number two in China. By January 2020, there were 4,507 stores—surpassing Starbucks in their home market.

The world of business, especially coffee, is shifting drastically. The pandemic has accelerated digitalization: consumers no longer crave a Starbucks-style “third place,” but efficiency. Luckin dominates an agile supply chain—local roasting, integrated apps, instant delivery—supported by a giant Chinese network (super apps like WeChat). Starbucks, a global giant with brand power and a premium bean supply, is forced to adapt: ​​adding drive-thru, pickup, and delivery. Lifestyles are shifting toward practical tastes; Gen Z and urban millennials choose functional coffee, not pose. Luckin is proof: in the hyper-connected era, the coffee business excels through speed, accessibility, and price—no longer about style. Starbucks has finally admitted: coffee is now essentially about caffeine, not stories.

The Drama of Competition to Find True Coffee Drinkers

* “Outlook:” Luckin Coffee is projected to reach CN¥73.6 billion in revenue and CN¥6.9 billion in profit by 2028, requiring annual revenue growth of 21.5%.

* “Number of Stores:”

* “Q1 2025:” Luckin’s store network expands to over 24,000 locations, making it China’s largest coffee chain by number of stores. This includes 15,541 self-operated stores and 8,491 partner stores in China, as well as 65 international stores.

* “Q2 2025:” Luckin has grown to 26,206 stores by July 2025.

* “Q3 2025:” Adds 3,008 new stores, bringing the total to 29,214. By the end of June 2025, Luckin’s total store count will reach 26,206, including nearly 9,300 franchise locations.

* “Customers:” Average monthly customer transactions reached a record high of 112.3 million in Q3 2025.

* “International Expansion:” Luckin opened its first two US stores on June 30, 2025, in New York City, followed by a third and fourth in less than two months. Five stores in New York opened by July 2025.

“Starbucks in 2025:”

* “Revenue:”

* “Q4 FY25 (ending September 2025):” Global consolidated revenue increased 5% year-over-year to US$9.6 billion. Revenue in China reached US$830 million, up 6% from the previous year, marking four consecutive quarters of positive growth.

* “Full Fiscal Year 2025:” Overall revenue grew 3% to US$37.2 billion. Revenue in China grew 5% to US$3.1 billion.

* “Comparable Store Sales”

* “Q4 FY25:” Global comparable store sales increased 1%, driven by a 1% increase in comparable transactions. In China, comparable store sales grew 2% in Q4 FY25.

* “Number of Stores in China:”

* By mid-2025, Starbucks had approximately 7,000 stores in mainland China.

* By Q4 FY25, its total store portfolio in China surpassed 8,000 locations.

* Starbucks has over 7,500 stores in China.

* “Strategy Shift in China:” Starbucks has agreed to form a joint venture with Boyu Capital to operate its retail operations in China. The joint venture will own and operate 8,000 existing Starbucks coffee shops with a vision to expand to 20,000 locations in the future. The majority stake sale to Boyu Capital is valued at approximately $4 billion.

* “China Market Share:” Starbucks’ market share in China has declined from 34% in 2019 to 14% in 2024, highlighting pressure from local competitors like Luckin.

Actual Competitive Comparison and Trends

* “Store Count:” Luckin Coffee significantly surpasses Starbucks in the number of stores in China by 2025, with nearly 30,000 stores compared to Starbucks’ approximately 8,000.

* “Revenue:” Despite Luckin’s larger store count and rapid revenue growth, Starbucks’ global revenue remains significantly higher. Luckin reported $1.72 billion in revenue in Q2 2025, while Starbucks reported $8.8 billion in quarterly revenue.

* “Market Focus:” Luckin continues to focus on its app-based model, fast pickup, and competitive pricing, which resonate well with young urban consumers in China. Starbucks has responded with a “Back to Starbucks” strategy focused on store renovations, digital engagement, and price adjustments to regain market share.

* “Price War:” The Chinese coffee market is experiencing an intense price war, with Luckin Coffee and Cotti Coffee offering extremely low prices. Starbucks will also need to further compromise on product prices to attract consumers in lower-tier cities.

These data suggest that Luckin Coffee will maintain its aggressive growth momentum, particularly in store numbers and revenue in the Chinese market by 2025, and will even begin expanding into the US market. Meanwhile, Starbucks, while still a dominant global player with higher revenues, faces significant challenges in China and will need to adapt quickly through changes to its strategy and business model.

Resources

[1] [sahmcapital.com](https://www.sahmcapital.com/news/content/does-luckin-coffees-lkncy-revenue-surge-reveal-a-sustainable-edge-in-chinas-coffee-market-2025-11-25)

[2] [finance.yahoo.com](https://finance.yahoo.com/news/luckin-coffee-inc-lkncy-q1-070813904.html)

[3] [chainstoreguide.com](https://www.chainstoreguide.com/offthechain/2025/09/luckin-vs-starbucks-the-coffee-battle-everyones-talking-about/)

[4] [investor.luckincoffee.com](https://investor.luckincoffee.com/news-releases/news-release-details/luckin-coffee-announces-third-quarter-2025-financial-results)[chinadaily.com.cn](https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202511/05/WS690aa933a310f215074b9098.html)

[5] [investor.luckincoffee.com](https://investor.luckincoffee.com/news-releases/news-release-details/luckin-coffee-announces-third-quarter-2025-financial-results)

[6] [ceibs.edu](https://www.ceibs.edu/new-papers-columns/27644)[chainstoreguide.com](https://www.chainstoreguide.com/offthechain/2025/09/luckin-vs-starbucks-the-coffee-battle-everyone%E2%80%99s-talking-about/)

[7] [ceibs.edu](https://www.ceibs.edu/new-papers-columns/27644)[chainstoreguide.com](https://www.chainstoreguide.com/offthechain/2025/09/luckin-vs-starbucks-the-coffee-battle-everyone%E2%80%99s-talking-about/)

[8] [yicaiglobal.com](https://www.yicaiglobal.com/news/starbucks-is-confident-in-china-growth-plans-to-retain-major-equity-stake)

[9] [yicaiglobal.com](https://www.yicaiglobal.com/news/starbucks-is-confident-in-china-growth-plans-to-retain-major-equity-stake)

[10] [about.starbucks.com](https://about.starbucks.com/press/2025/starbucks-reports-q4-full-fiscal-year-2025-results/)[youtube.com](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EKJi03N2C-M)

[11] [globalbrandsmagazine.com](https://www.globalbrandsmagazine.com/starbucks-reshapes-its-china-strategy/)

[12] [youtube.com](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EKJi03N2C-M)

[13] [chainstoreguide.com](https://www.chainstoreguide.com/offthechain/2025/09/luckin-vs-starbucks-the-coffee-battle-everyone%E2%80%99s-talking-about/)

[14] [about.starbucks.com](https://about.starbucks.com/press/2025/starbucks-and-boyu-announce-joint-venture-for-the-next-chapter-of-growth-in-china/)[nytimes.com](https://www.nytimes.com/2025/11/03/business/starbucks-china-boyu-capital.html)

[15] [eu.36kr.com](https://eu.36kr.com/en/p/3538638945426310)

[16] [chinadaily.com.cn](https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202511/05/WS690aa933a310f215074b9098.html)

[17] [foodandwine.com](https://www.foodandwine.com/luckin-coffee-expands-in-us-11796954)

[18] [monexa.ai](https://www.monexa.ai/blog/starbucks-corporation-latest-financial-market-anal-SBUX-2025-07-02)

[19] [eu.36kr.com](https://eu.36kr.com/en/p/3538638945426310)

 

Cat's Whiskers Leaves, Legendary Benefits Since Ancestral Times

 

Oleh Harmen Batubara

Among Indonesia's natural wealth, various medicinal plants are hidden whose properties have been passed down through generations. One such star is the cat's whiskers leaf. This plant, with its flowers resembling cat's whiskers, is no newcomer to the world of traditional medicine. Its benefits have been legendary since ancient times and continue to be a hot topic today.

 A Long History

 Cat's whiskers leaf (Orthosiphon aristatus) has deep historical roots in Asian communities, including Indonesia. This plant is widespread in tropical and subtropical climates, from Southeast Asia to East Asia. Due to its strong reputation, the international community knows it by names that describe its functions, such as "Indian Kidney Tea" or "Java Tea," which refer to its origin and primary properties.

 The Secret Behind the Magical Leaf

 The legendary benefits of cat's whiskers leaf are not just myth. Modern science has revealed that this plant contains powerful active compounds, such as:

 Flavonoids: Act as antioxidants that fight free radicals and reduce inflammation.

Triterpenoids: Contribute to its diuretic properties.

Sinensetin: A special compound that also plays a role in increasing urine production and has anti-inflammatory effects.

 The combination of these compounds is the foundation of the various health benefits of cat's whiskers leaves.

Legendary Health Benefits

 Here are some of the main benefits of cat's whiskers leaves that have been believed for a long time and are supported by research:

 1. Natural Diuretic

This is the most well-known benefit. Cat's whiskers leaves stimulate urine production, thereby helping cleanse the urinary tract and kidneys of waste and bacteria. This makes them excellent for preventing and treating urinary tract infections and kidney stones.

 2. Maintaining Kidney Health

By helping cleanse the kidneys, these leaves are believed to maintain optimal kidney function. Their ability to dissolve uric acid and excess salt in the body also helps reduce the workload of the kidneys.

 3. Helps Control High Blood Pressure

Its diuretic properties help remove excess salt (sodium) and fluid from the body, which can ultimately help lower blood pressure.

 4. Fights Inflammation and Free Radicals

Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties make this leaf a friend for the body in fighting various inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis. Its antioxidants also help protect body cells from damage.

 5. Helps Regulate Blood Sugar Levels

Several studies have shown the potential of cat's whiskers leaves in helping stabilize blood sugar levels, making it a good companion plant for diabetes management.

Best Of You

How to Consume Wisely

 The most common traditional method is to brew it like tea. A few cat's whiskers leaves (fresh or dried) are brewed with hot water, then drunk after it cools down. Although natural, consumption should be done wisely. Pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and those taking certain medications (such as diuretics or hypertension medications) are advised to consult a doctor first.

 It's no wonder that cat's whiskers leaves remain popular and highly sought after. This ancestral heritage is living proof that nature has provided a living pharmacy for our health. By using it wisely, we can continue to experience the legendary benefits proven for generations.

Rhizome Tea: "Rimpang Tea" A Healthy Ancestral Heritage Drink

 

Rhizome Tea

By  Harmen Batubara

Have you ever felt tired, decreased immunity, or just wanted to warm your body in a natural way? In the midst of the hustle and bustle of modern life and the onslaught of various chemical supplements, we often forget the local wisdom that has been passed down from generation to generation by our ancestors. One of the hidden gems of the rich traditions of the archipelago is **Rhizome Tea**, a herbal drink that is not only refreshing, but also has extraordinary health benefits.

Traces of History in Every Sip

The history of Rhizome Tea cannot be separated from the wealth of spices and medicinal plants that abound in Indonesia. Since thousands of years ago, our ancestors were familiar with rhizomes such as ginger, turmeric, ginger and lemongrass. They are not only used as a cooking spice, but are also mixed into traditional medicinal ingredients to maintain stamina, treat various diseases, and even become part of traditional rituals. This knowledge is passed down orally from generation to generation, making Rhizome Tea more than just a drink, but a reflection of local wisdom that has stood the test of time. These ancient recipes, once perhaps only known to a select few, are now rediscovering their relevance in the modern era.

Harmony of Various Herbs, Countless Benefits

What exactly makes Rhizome Tea so special? Its power lies in the synergy of various rhizomes blended harmoniously. Generally, Rhizome Tea is made from a combination of rhizomes such as:

Ginger: Widely known for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to relieve nausea and muscle aches, and warm the body.

Turmeric: Rich in curcumin, a powerful antioxidant that acts as an anti-inflammatory, improves brain function, and supports healthy skin.

Lemongrass: Provides a fragrant and refreshing aroma, and has antimicrobial and antioxidant properties that are good for digestion.

Galangal: Similar to ginger, galangal also has anti-inflammatory properties and can help relieve pain.

This magical combination makes Rhizome Tea a beverage with a wide spectrum of benefits, from boosting immunity, reducing inflammation and pain, improving digestion, to aiding detoxification. In the midst of changing seasons or a busy, energy-sapping routine, a warm cup of Rhizome Tea can be a soothing and restorative remedy.

Affordable, Truly Effective, and Popular Again

Amidst the high cost of medical treatment and expensive health products, Rhizome Tea presents a highly relevant solution. The raw materials are readily available and affordable, and the preparation process is simple. Today, this traditional beverage is increasingly sought after, not only because it is affordable, but also because of its proven benefits, which are widely recognized by the public. Its ease of preparation, especially with the availability of tea bags, makes it a practical choice for fast-paced lifestyles. People are beginning to realize that sometimes the best medicine comes from nature, from what our ancestors have trusted for centuries. This is proof that local wisdom is timeless.

Rhizome Tea

So, why not start making a habit of enjoying the benefits of Rhizome Tea? Experience for yourself the warmth of your body, the lightness of your head, and the renewed energy that comes after sipping this powerful beverage. Let's preserve this invaluable ancestral heritage for the health of ourselves and future generations. Start your day with the goodness of nature by choosing Rhizome Tea as part of your healthy lifestyle!

Interested? Click the link here.