Caffeinated Competition in California
A competition for coffee enthusiasts is heating up in California, as the Chinese coffee brand Cotti Coffee sets its sights on outmaneuvering Starbucks.
Cotti is already in the process of launching more stores in Southern California and is gearing up to expand into the Bay Area and Northern California, especially as Starbucks has been closing its outlets across the state.
Cotti currently operates several coffee shops in Los Angeles County, such as locations in San Gabriel, Rowland Heights, and Irvine. Plans for new stores include spots along the Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica and at 1447 Lincoln Blvd.
This coffee chain has garnered attention for its traditional brews as well as unique offerings like the Orange Grapefruit Americano, alongside an array of coffee-related products and tasty snacks.
Additionally, Cotti intends to open two new shops in the San Francisco area, with one located at 99 Drum Street and the other at 100 Bush St.
Since its launch in 2022, Cotti Coffee has rapidly gained traction, becoming a significant contender against established brands like Luckin Coffee and Starbucks in China.
In the U.S., more than twelve Cotti Coffee locations have surfaced since 2024, with shops in California, Illinois, Hawaii, and New York, among others.
As Cotti Coffee expands, it’s particularly noteworthy that this follows Starbucks’ announcement last year about closing several outlets in major California cities, including locations in San Francisco and Los Angeles. Reports indicate that the chain shuttered over 20 stores in the Los Angeles area alone.
In April, another Starbucks location closed in San Jose that wasn’t included in the previous list of closures. The company mentioned that they consistently assess their business to manage a healthy portfolio of stores, leading to the closure decision.
Cotti Coffee, established in 2022 by former Luckin executives, made its U.S. launch in Hawaii in early 2024 and has since broadened its reach into California and beyond. Their drink creations include unique options like a brown sugar oolong oat latte and various fruit-infused Americanos.
Contact has been made with both Cotti Coffee and Starbucks for any additional comments on the matter.
