China Resources Bank Opens Third Coffee-Focused Branch in Shenzhen

If you’ve ever waited in a bank branch and wished there was something better to do than stare at brochures, you’re not alone. Many traditional bank customers face long waits in sterile environments. But in Shenzhen, one bank is trying a different approach—blending finance with everyday comfort.

China Resources Bank (CRB) has officially opened its third 'coffee bank' in Shenzhen at the Taipan branch, co-located with Pacific Coffee. This makes it the third such location where financial services meet quality coffee, and CRB plans to continue the model in all new Shenzhen branches.

What Is a Coffee Bank?

A coffee bank is a hybrid retail space where a licensed bank branch shares its floor plan with a café—in this case, Pacific Coffee, which is also owned by parent company China Resources. Rather than sitting in a standard waiting area, customers can relax with a coffee while conducting their banking. The concept turns transactional spaces into community-friendly environments.

The History Behind CRB’s Coffee Banks

This isn’t CRB’s first venture into coffee-centric banking. Back in 2012, CRB and Pacific Coffee launched the very first coffee banks in China. The original locations opened in Zhuhai’s Zhuhai Bin Garden and Shenzhen’s Excellence Times Square. These early experiments laid the groundwork for today’s more widespread model.

Why CRB Keeps Adding Coffee to Branches

CRB is exploring synergies across the China Resources conglomerate. The inclusion of Pacific Coffee does more than improve ambiance—it elevates the former VIP lounge experience for all customers. Waiting areas become inviting spaces, improving both comfort and satisfaction. This strategy aligns with CRB’s broader efforts to integrate services across its various business units.

More Cross-Brand Collaboration in Shenzhen

Beyond coffee, CRB has partnered with other China Resources companies in Shenzhen. Examples include setting up community banks inside CRB-owned Vanguard supermarkets. To date, three such community banks have been established within Vanguard locations. The bank also collaborates with CRB’s MixC malls, Shenzhen Bay Sports Center, and other group properties to expand service accessibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a 'coffee bank'?

A 'coffee bank' is a branch of a financial institution that incorporates a café—specifically Pacific Coffee in this case—into the banking space. Customers can enjoy coffee while waiting or conducting banking services, creating a more relaxed environment compared to traditional bank branches.

How many coffee banks has China Resources Bank opened in Shenzhen?

China Resources Bank has opened three coffee banks in Shenzhen, with the latest being the Taipan branch featuring Pacific Coffee, which officially began operations on June 30.

Will future CRB branches in Shenzhen include coffee shops?

Yes, according to reports, all new China Resources Bank branches in Shenzhen will include a Pacific Coffee outlet as part of the branch layout.

What other businesses does CRB collaborate with in Shenzhen?

Aside from Pacific Coffee, CRB partners with Vanguard supermarkets, MixC shopping malls, and Shenzhen Bay Sports Center. It has also opened three community banks inside Vanguard supermarkets across the city.

Who operates the coffee shops inside CRB branches?

The coffee shops are operated by Pacific Coffee, which is part of the same corporate group as China Resources Bank—both are subsidiaries of China Resources.