2025 was a year of reckoning for China’s tea and coffee sector. Local capital took charge, price wars intensified, and brands scrambled to either go premium or go global. As a startup providing customized packaging to HORECA clients worldwide, these shifts define my opportunity. Here’s the supplier’s take on key events:
Mixue(蜜雪冰城）’s IPO & Starbucks(星巴克）’ Pivot: Mixue(蜜雪冰城）’s scale proves massive demand for ultra-cost-effective solutions, while Starbucks(星巴克）’ local partnership shows the need for agile, market-specific customization. We must master both volume efficiency and localized relevance.
Luckin(瑞幸咖啡)’s Rumors & Grid Coffee’s Rise: The market is splitting. Luckin eyeing Blue Bottle highlights a dual path: high-volume, low-cost packaging for mainstream brands vs. premium, story-driven materials for niche players like Grid Coffee. Our diverse factory network lets us serve both.
Bubble Tea IPOs & Bama Tea Industry Co., Ltd.’s Struggle: GoodMe(古茗) and Auntea Jenny(沪上阿姨)’s listings—and their post-IPO quality woes—show that scaling demands flawless, consistent supply. Bama Tea Industry Co., Ltd.’s confused pricing teaches a clear lesson: packaging must decisively signal a brand’s value tier. We help clients match their packaging to their price point.
Peet’s Retreat & Tims’ Losses: Peet’s store closures in China reveal that heritage isn’t enough without innovation. Tims’ ongoing losses in the “coffee + food” model warn against becoming a diluted generalist. Our edge is deep HORECA specialization—offering packaging that solves specific problems like heat retention, leak-proofing, and brand differentiation.