Story perspectives

Local Coffee Chain Kenangan Thrives Amid Global Competition

3/5/2026

Summary

Story summary

In Singapore's Takashimaya shopping centre, 27-year-old Sarah Shah prefers Kenangan Coffee over Starbucks and Luckin Coffee.
Kenangan Coffee opened in 2023 and offers a blend of classic and Asian-inspired flavors, balancing quality and price.
As global brands expand in Southeast Asia, local chains like Kenangan compete by leveraging cultural understanding.
Analysts say regional brands may have less capital but connect better with local consumers, making them strong contenders.

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Story summary

In Singapore's Takashimaya shopping centre, 27-year-old Sarah Shah prefers Kenangan Coffee over Starbucks and Luckin Coffee.
Kenangan Coffee opened in 2023 and offers a blend of classic and Asian-inspired flavors, balancing quality and price.
As global brands expand in Southeast Asia, local chains like Kenangan compete by leveraging cultural understanding.
Analysts say regional brands may have less capital but connect better with local consumers, making them strong contenders.