NewsSep 10, 2026, 07:14 UTC

Mubadala backs Luckin Coffee in $1B minority deal alongside Centurium

What's the deal? Mubadala Investment Company, an Abu Dhabi-based global investor, has agreed to a significant minority investment in China's Luckin Coffee, alongside controlling shareholder Centurium Capital. The transaction carries an aggregate value of roughly $1 billion.

What each side brings: Founded in 2017, Luckin Coffee runs a technology-driven retail model combining store footprint, digital engagement, and integrated supply chains. As of June 30, 2026, it operates more than 36,000 stores globally, with cumulative transacting customers approaching 500 million.

Why now? The deal lands as China's coffee market expands, with more consumers adopting freshly brewed coffee and existing drinkers buying it more often.

What's the rationale? Mubadala pointed to Luckin's data-driven operations as the draw. "Luckin Coffee has built a differentiated, technology-enabled business with data embedded across customer engagement, product development and store operations," said Mohamed Albadr, Mubadala's head of Asia, private equity.

What's the endgame? Mubadala said it will work with Luckin's management to support "the Company's next phase of growth in China and internationally." Centurium partner Michael Chen said Mubadala's "sector knowledge combined with its global perspective and network" would back Luckin's continued innovation.

The signal: The investment marks a Gulf sovereign investor deepening its bet on Chinese consumer brands, building on Mubadala's longstanding partnership with Centurium. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions.