When we think of fast food, the first names that come to mind are McDonald’s fries, a good coffee from Starbucks, or delicious fried chicken from KFC. But if we look at companies with more stores… it’s none of them. It’s Mixue Ice Cream & Tea, a Chinese franchise specializing in ice cream and tea drinks, which has managed to surpass Western giants in the number of locations.
The surprising thing is that, despite having more than 45,000 stores worldwide, many people outside of Asia have yet to hear about this brand, but we’re going to tell you what you can find in these stores!
Mixue Ice Cream & Tea, what is it?
Founded in 1997 by Zhang Hongchao in Zhengzhou, China, Mixue began as a small local ice cream shop. Over time, the company adopted a franchise model, which allowed for massive expansion. Today, it has more than 45,000 stores in countries such as China, Vietnam, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Japan, South Korea, and Australia.
The secret to its success lies in its affordable prices and a varied menu, which includes bubble tea, smoothies, coffees, and ice cream, a little bit of everything! Unlike Starbucks, for example, which focuses on a premium image, Mixue offers affordable and accessible products for everyone.
More stores than Starbucks and McDonald’s… but fewer sales
Mixue’s impressive number of locations puts it ahead of the iconic chains we know in the United States, but this doesn’t mean it makes more money than its competitors because, according to analysts, in terms of total sales, Mixue still trails giants like Starbucks, Dunkin’, and Tim Hortons! Its strategy is based on volume, which means they open more stores at reduced costs compared to other brands, which is why they are able to have 45,000 stores operating across Asia.
What can you find at Mixue?
Mixue focuses its stores on offering drinks we would call “modern,” including:
- Bubble tea and fruit teas: Focuses on tea drinks with milk, toppings, and tapioca pearls.
- Smoothies and frappés: While a Starbucks Frappuccino can cost between $5 and $7, at Mixue you can find similar options for less than half the price!
- Mixue is committed to a mass audience, with incredibly affordable prices for everyone without sacrificing quality.
Will Mixue expand to the United States and Europe?
For now, the chain dominates China and other Asian countries like Vietnam, Thailand, and Japan, but there are rumours that it could expand to the West in the coming years.
If it reaches markets like the United States and Europe, it would become a strong competitor to Starbucks and Dunkin’. Its strategy could attract a young audience looking for affordable, refreshing drinks and pose a major headache for its competitors in the sector.
For now, Mixue continues to grow and prove that you don’t have to be McDonald’s or Starbucks to be the global leader in stores. Do you want to try it too?