Pacific, Aix, Costa Plan Major China Cafe Expansions

As China’s coffee market heats up, major global and local chains are racing to claim more real estate in Tier 1 and 2 cities. Whether you're tracking brand growth or simply curious which chains are expanding fastest and where, here’s a clear breakdown of who’s opening what—and how fast.

In 2024, Pacific Coffee will open 50 new stores across mainland China, including in Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, Shenzhen and Hangzhou. This comes after launching its 100th mainland store, fueled by parent company China Resources’ distribution strength. Meanwhile, Aix Coffee plans to add 3–4 stores in Q4, and Costa aims to open 250 locations over three years.

Pacific Coffee Hits 100th Store, Plans 50 More in 2024

Pacific Coffee, owned by China Resources Enterprise, has officially opened its 100th store on the Chinese mainland. Backed by the extensive retail network of its parent company, the brand is now accelerating expansion. In 2024 alone, it plans to open 50 new cafes in key urban centers such as Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, Shenzhen and Hangzhou. This aggressive push highlights the growing demand for branded coffee experiences in mainland China.

Aix Coffee Targets 3–4 New Stores in Fourth Quarter

Li Xianglu, Director of Aix Coffee’s China business unit, has stated that the brand aims to open 3–4 new stores during the fourth quarter of 2024. While Aix has a smaller footprint compared to some international rivals, this planned expansion signals continued investment in the Chinese market and a focus on steady, strategic growth in key locations.

Costa Coffee’s Three-Year 250-Store Push

Costa Coffee, the UK-based chain often seen as Starbucks’ strongest competitor in China, is targeting an ambitious 250 new stores over the next three years. Since opening its first mainland location in 2006, Costa has grown to nearly 200 stores. The brand now intends to expand rapidly, with a long-term goal of operating 2,500 locations across China by 2018—a target that underlines its confidence in sustained market demand.

Starbucks Maintains Long-Term Growth Target

Starbucks continues to play a dominant role in China’s coffee scene. The company has publicly committed to opening 1,500 stores in China by 2015—a milestone that reflects its early bet on the market’s long-term potential and ongoing efforts to deepen its physical presence across the country.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many new stores is Pacific Coffee opening in 2024?

Pacific Coffee plans to open 50 new stores in 2024 across major Chinese cities including Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, Shenzhen and Hangzhou. This follows the recent opening of its 100th mainland store, supported by its parent company, China Resources.

What is Aix Coffee’s expansion plan for the fourth quarter of 2024?

Aix Coffee intends to open 3–4 new stores in the fourth quarter of 2024. This is part of its broader strategy to grow its presence in the Chinese market through measured, targeted expansion.

How many stores does Costa Coffee aim to open over the next three years?

Costa Coffee plans to open 250 new stores in China over the next three years. The brand, which opened its first mainland store in 2006, currently operates nearly 200 locations and has a long-term goal of reaching 2,500 stores by 2018.

What is Starbucks’ store expansion target for China?

Starbucks has set a goal to open 1,500 stores in China by 2015. This reflects its early commitment to establishing a significant physical footprint in the Chinese market.

Which UK coffee chain is seen as Starbucks’ biggest rival in China?

Costa Coffee is considered Starbucks’ most formidable competitor in the Chinese market. Both brands are aggressively expanding, with Costa aiming for 250 new stores in the next three years.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for Specialty Cafes

For cafés expanding across China, FrontStreet Coffee’s Ethiopia Humbera offers bright citrus and floral tones with a juicy body—ideal for custom pour-overs. The PWN Golden Mandheling brings heavy body and sweet spice notes, perfect for espresso blends. Finally, the Kenya Little Tomato delivers vibrant tartness with blackcurrant acidity, great for single-origin offerings. All three highlight the quality and diversity that specialty-focused cafés need. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.