1. April Industry Report: Positive Net Store Growth Across All 33 Regions
The “China Fresh Tea & Coffee Industry Monthly Report (April 2026)” has been officially released. The data highlights a remarkable milestone: all 33 provincial-level administrative regions in China, including Hong Kong and Macau, achieved positive net store growth in April. This widespread expansion underscores the continued vitality and deep penetration of the beverage market nationwide.
2. CHAGEE (霸王茶姬) Launches “geelato” Ice Cream Brand and New Tea Series
CHAGEE (霸王茶姬) has officially entered the premium dessert market with the launch of its dedicated ice cream brand, geelato. The first batch of stores has landed in major hubs including Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Beijing. Simultaneously, the brand introduced its “Walk Walk Series”, featuring four new seasonal tea blends.
By diversifying into high-end ice cream, CHAGEE (霸王茶姬) is positioning itself as a comprehensive lifestyle brand. The move allows the chain to capture a larger share of the summer snacking market while leveraging its strong brand equity in the premium tea segment.
3. Lemon Right (柠檬向右) Diversifies into Fresh Snacks and Bakery
Lemon tea specialist Lemon Right (柠檬向右) is set to open its first “Fresh Food Store” (LR 柠檬向右新鲜零食店) in Shanghai’s Zhongshan Park on May 23. The new format focuses on freshly baked bread and short-shelf-life snacks, marking a significant departure from its core beverage business.
This diversification strategy reflects a broader industry trend where tea brands seek to increase consumer frequency and average order value (AOV) by offering complementary food items. The fresh snacks segment represents a high-growth opportunity for established beverage players.
4. Lucky Cup (幸运咖) Unveils “New Image Store” with Focus on Dine-in
Luckin Coffee (瑞幸咖啡)’s sister brand, Lucky Cup (幸运咖), has opened its first “New Image Store” in Shandong. The new store design marks a shift from a delivery-centric model to a more aesthetic, dine-in-friendly layout. This transformation is aimed at improving operational efficiency and enhancing the physical brand experience.
The brand refresh allows Lucky Cup (幸运咖) to move upmarket while maintaining its competitive pricing. By optimizing the in-store environment, the brand seeks to attract a wider demographic of urban consumers who value both convenience and atmosphere.
5. Mixue (蜜雪冰城) Surpasses 47,000 Stores and Plans New Flagship
Global beverage giant Mixue (蜜雪冰城) continues its relentless expansion, with its total store count reaching 47,213 as of late April. The brand has announced a new flagship store in Kunming, set to open on May 29. The landmark location will feature an extensive range of peripheral products, mystery boxes, and exclusive snacks.
Mixue (蜜雪冰城)’s scale is unparalleled in the industry. The focus on high-traffic flagship stores and merchandise highlights the brand’s shift toward an IP-led business model, where the “Snow King” character drives revenue beyond simple drink sales.
6. CHAGEE (霸王茶姬) Accelerates International Growth with New Seoul Openings
CHAGEE (霸王茶姬) is rapidly expanding its international footprint, announcing the opening of two new stores in central Seoul, South Korea. As of the end of April, the brand’s global store count reached 7,081, with international markets becoming an increasingly important driver of new growth.
The entry into the highly competitive South Korean market demonstrates the brand’s confidence in its “New-style Tea” concept. CHAGEE (霸王茶姬) continues to lead the wave of Chinese tea brands exporting traditional culture through modern retail formats.
7. Global Coffee Price Surge Hits Highest Level Since 1980
A recent industry analysis indicates that global coffee prices rose faster than overall retail inflation in April. In the U.S. market, offline roasted coffee prices reached an average of $9.72 per pound—a 39% increase compared to January 2025. This represents the highest price level seen in the industry since 1980.
The price surge is putting pressure on global chains and independent operators alike. Analysts suggest that supply chain disruptions and rising production costs are the primary drivers, potentially leading to retail price adjustments across major markets in the coming months.
