In 2025, three major bubble tea chains dominated the Hong Kong IPO market and reshaped the global beverage landscape.
Mixue Ice Cream & Tea – Raised hundreds of millions through its Hong Kong IPO and now operates more than 46,000 stores worldwide, surpassing McDonald’s, Starbucks, and Subway in total store count.
Guming Holdings – Known for its innovative beverage menu, Guming expanded rapidly across Asia, positioning itself as a strong contender for international investors.
Auntea Jenny – With a robust franchise model and fast-growing mid-tier presence, Auntea Jenny attracted significant investor confidence.
Together, these IPOs highlight the financial strength of the bubble tea sector and its growing appeal to global capital markets.
What makes bubble tea one of the most powerful forces in the modern F&B industry?
Low-Cost Franchise Models – Affordable investment requirements have fueled aggressive expansion, especially in emerging markets.
Youth-Driven Consumer Demand – Gen Z and Millennials embrace customizable, visually appealing beverages that fit digital lifestyles.
Global Cultural Appeal – From New York to Jakarta, bubble tea has evolved from a niche product into a mainstream global lifestyle drink.
With Mixue now surpassing global giants in store count, it is clear that bubble tea is no longer a passing trend — it is a formidable competitor in the worldwide beverage industry.
Despite remarkable growth, bubble tea brands still face structural challenges:
Supply Chain Control – Ensuring consistent quality of tapioca pearls, dairy, and raw materials across borders remains complex.
Pricing Power – Intense competition keeps profit margins tight, even as demand continues to rise.
Brand Durability – With a crowded market, long-term success requires innovation, trust, and sustainability — not just speed.
These challenges emphasize that the real race is not rapid expansion, but long-term resilience.
For SMEs in the F&B and retail sectors, the rise of bubble tea offers valuable lessons:
Learn from Franchise Models – Build scalable, cost-efficient systems that can expand internationally.
Strengthen Supply Chain Transparency – Partner with reliable suppliers to ensure consistency and resilience.
Invest in Brand Identity – Compete on experience, storytelling, and sustainable practices — not just price.
Leverage Consumer Trends – Tap into plant-based innovations, low-sugar demands, and digital-first engagement strategies.
7CENTER supports SMEs aiming to expand into global markets by:
Connecting businesses with verified international buyers and suppliers
Facilitating transparent and reliable cross-border trade
Providing market intelligence for industries such as bubble tea, F&B, and retail
Enhancing brand presence in competitive global markets
Whether you are an emerging bubble tea chain or an SME preparing for international expansion, 7CENTER ensures you grow with confidence, insight, and long-term sustainability.
The surge of bubble tea IPOs in Hong Kong is more than a financial milestone — it reflects how Asian F&B innovation is reshaping global markets. With Mixue leading the movement, bubble tea brands are proving that affordability, cultural relevance, and adaptability can compete with — and outperform — global industry giants.
For SMEs around the world, the message is clear:
Global growth is achievable with the right strategy, supply chain foundation, and trusted partners.
Learn how 7CENTER can support your expansion: www.7center.com
Contact: contact@7center.com
