AsianFin -- Starbucks Corp. has introduced free study rooms at select locations in China, its latest effort to draw foot traffic and defend market share as local rivals gain ground in its second-largest market.

The study spaces have been rolled out in stores across Guangdong Province, a manufacturing and tech hub home to millions of young professionals. Users can access the rooms without needing to make a purchase, Starbucks China said this week on its official Weibo account.

The initiative comes as Starbucks faces mounting pressure from lower-priced competitors like Luckin Coffee Inc., known for its frequent product launches, and a growing number of domestic tea brands. Earlier this year, Bloomberg reported that the U.S. coffee giant was exploring strategic options for its China business, including a potential stake sale.