The first Starbucks Now at the heart of Beijing’s Financial Street. Photo: Caixin/Lucas Galarza

Customers place orders at the Starbucks Now counter Tuesday. Luckin only allows customers to place orders through the company’s app, while Starbucks Now customers can order both via app and in person. Photo: Caixin/Lucas Galarza

A Luckin store is seen on Financial Street next to the Starbucks Now. Photo: Caixin/Lucas Galarza

The Starbucks Now is seen at the corner of a mall. Photo: Caixin/Lucas Galarza

A Starbucks barista prepares coffee. Photo: Caixin/Lucas Galarza