Tea And Coffee Industry Snapshot In China (April 28, 2026)

1. Chayan Yuese Debuts “Fresh Snack” Concept Store in Changsha

Chayan Yuese has officially opened its “Fresh Snack” shop-in-shop concept at the Jiadun New World location in Changsha. The 400-square-meter space integrates a dedicated braised snack zone offering over 70 varieties of local Hunan specialties, including braised duck and spicy tofu skin.

Chayan Yuese Fresh Snack Store Interior

This move marks the brand’s further diversification into the “tea + snacks” retail model, leveraging its high foot traffic to capture additional consumption scenarios. The integration of traditional local flavors aims to strengthen its identity as a Hunan cultural landmark.

2. Jasmine Milk Expands Matcha Series Following TTE Bangkok Debut

Jasmine Milk has launched its “Intense Matcha Series” across all domestic stores, adopting a strategic “overseas to domestic” marketing path. The brand’s original IP, “Little Jasmine,” recently made its public debut at the Thailand Toy Expo (TTE) in Bangkok, gaining significant traction in the international art toy community.

Jasmine Milk Little Jasmine IP at TTE Bangkok

By utilizing international exhibitions to build brand equity before a domestic launch, Jasmine Milk is elevating its positioning within the premium tea segment. This cross-cultural branding strategy helps differentiate the label in a highly competitive market through art and design.

3. Nayuki’s First California Store Faces Temporary Closure Over Compliance Issues

Nayuki’s flagship store in Cupertino, California, has been ordered to temporarily suspend operations following a failed health inspection by local authorities. The inspection report indicated that the facility had modified equipment without approved floor plans, a violation yet to be resolved since mid-April.

Naisnow Cupertino Storefront Queue

As the brand’s first foray into the California market, this regulatory setback highlights the operational challenges and strict compliance standards required for international expansion. The store is required to complete all necessary rectifications by April 30, 2026.

4. CHAGEE to Launch Triple-Store Opening in Seoul

CHAGEE Korea has announced its official entry into the South Korean market, with three locations in Seoul’s Gangnam, Yongsan, and Sinchon districts set to open simultaneously on April 30. This expansion follows the brand’s successful growth in Southeast Asian markets.

CHAGEE Seoul Storefront Interior

The simultaneous launch in three high-traffic districts of Seoul signals CHAGEE’s aggressive strategy to establish a foothold in the Korean specialty tea market. This move reflects the broader trend of leading Chinese tea brands scaling their international presence to compete with global coffee chains.

5. Manner Coffee Partners with World Expo Museum for Roman-Themed Collaboration

Manner Coffee has introduced a seasonal “Sicily Americano” featuring refreshing lime notes, launched in collaboration with the Shanghai World Expo Museum’s “ROMA” exhibition. The partnership includes a limited-edition gift set featuring a Roman-style plaster stone pendant.

Manner Coffee Roma Collaboration

Cultural collaborations continue to be a primary driver for premium coffee chains in China to enhance brand narrative and consumer engagement. By linking product launches with high-profile museum exhibitions, Manner effectively bridges the gap between daily consumption and artistic heritage.