Recently, several tea beverage brands co-founded or endorsed by celebrities have been subjected to compulsory execution by the courts, including "Ben Gong De Cha" founded by Hu Haiquan and "Tian Ran Dai Milk Tea" endorsed by Guan Xiaotong. These incidents have not only sparked heated discussion among netizens but also led the public to reconsider: can celebrity influence truly sustain a brand in the long term? This article delves into the background of the incidents, legal liabilities, and the realities of brand management. [more…]

The Chiroso coffee variety this year claimed the highest price in the multi-variety category at the BOP global auction, selling for $488 per kilogram. This rare coffee from Colombia has garnered widespread attention for its unique floral and fruity aromas and rich flavor profile. This article takes you deep into its discovery background, suitable growing environment, distinctive flavor characteristics, and how genetic testing confirms its Ethiopian heirloom lineage—giving you a more comprehensive understanding of this specialty coffee bean’s potential and charm. [more…]

Tims has recently launched a single-store franchise program, initially opening up small-format Tims Go locations in Shanghai and Beijing. This shift to a single-store franchise model not only raises the investment threshold to over 600,000 RMB but also faces challenges such as high dining costs and fierce market competition. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the details of Tims' franchise policy and cost structure, and explores whether this move represents a crucial step in brand expansion or a strategic response under the pressure of high thresholds and potential losses. [more…]

In recent years, more and more coffee shops have announced that they do not admit young children, sparking heated discussion on whether this constitutes "consumer discrimination." From safety concerns to creating a quieter environment, what are the practical reasons behind such business decisions? This article delves into the controversy, exploring the delicate balance between the needs of families with children and the operations of cafés, and offers practical advice to help parents and shop owners coexist more harmoniously. [more…]

From the standard 300ml cup to 1.5-liter shareable sizes, and even 1500ml bucket-sized iced americanos, this trend of oversized coffee reflects modern professionals' need for a caffeine boost and the resulting health trade-offs. This article delves into the varying parameters of large-capacity coffees, explores the potential impacts of long-term high intake on heart palpitations and sleep, and offers expert advice to help readers balance alertness with physical well-being. [more…]

Want your pour over coffee to showcase a rich spectrum of acidity, sweetness, bitterness, and saltiness, along with clear flavor notes? This article delves into how to enhance the layered complexity of your coffee through bean selection, grinding, pouring, and more. From the impact of altitude and processing methods, to fine particle control, adjusting brew ratios, and practical tips for pulsing pours—master a systematic approach to brewing coffee with multidimensional flavor. [more…]

Many beginners, after purchasing a moka pot, often hear the advice that “a new pot should be boiled empty 2–3 times before use,” yet they don’t understand the reason behind it. In fact, this is not just a cleaning procedure, but also a step to ensure safety and extraction quality. This article delves into the scientific principles of seasoning a new moka pot, explains why the first three brews shouldn’t be consumed, and supplements practical details such as water level control, grind size setting, and how to fill the coffee chamber—helping you master the correct operation from the very first step and avoid common mistakes. [more…]

Cotti Coffee once expanded rapidly through a low-price strategy of 9.9 yuan, but recently canceled multiple discounts and adjusted prices, drawing market attention. This article delves into the operational pressures on franchisees behind the price hike, issues such as declining sales, and challenges in supply chain management. It also explores the brand’s future development direction while comparing the market performance of other competing products. [more…]

Will Luckin Coffee’s 9.9 RMB discount promotion officially come to an end on September 17? This news has sparked heated discussion on social media, with many consumers paying close attention to its potential aftermath. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the background behind Luckin’s 9.9 RMB promotional strategy, user feedback, and countermeasures from competitors such as Cotti Coffee, helping readers stay up to date and make more informed purchasing decisions. [more…]

A group photography creator in Xi’an revealed that while invited to shoot for Starbucks’ promotional event offering two cups for 39.9 yuan, they were asked by the organizers not to use phrases such as "Made in China" or "Chinese coffee." This led to protests and withdrawals by multiple creators. The incident has sparked widespread discussion on social media platforms—was it a brand strategy or a communication misunderstanding? This article delves into the full story and the underlying industry phenomena. [more…]

Latte art is more than just decoration on a cappuccino — it’s the crystallization of a barista’s skill and creativity. From an accidental heart-shaped milk foam in the 1980s to today’s intricate 3D patterns in competitions, how has this technique evolved? This article takes you deep into the history of latte art and explores how modern tools such as pitchers and etching needles help baristas push the boundaries of creativity. [more…]

Did you know? Before the 18th century in Europe, people didn’t lift their cups directly to drink coffee. Instead, they would first pour the hot coffee into the saucer to cool it down, then sip it in a manner similar to modern cupping. This wasn’t just a lifestyle habit—it’s also a piece of history faithfully recorded in artworks. This article will take you through the evolution of early European coffee culture: from the introduction of coffee to the Netherlands, to Germany’s invention of the handle-equipped porcelain cup, and the hidden coffee stories behind still-life and portrait paintings. [more…]

In recent years, as chain brands have aggressively entered the market, franchise entry barriers have significantly lowered, and vicious price competition has escalated continuously, many independent cafés have struggled to survive in the cracks. This article delves into the reasons behind the wave of closures at the end of the year through real-life cases, and shares operational insights gained from them to help aspiring coffee entrepreneurs avoid common pitfalls and make wiser decisions. [more…]

The competition in the coffee market has extended from storefronts to the supply chain. Gaoke Food has become a new supplier for Cotti while still supplying Luckin. Luckin is accelerating the construction of its own roasting facilities, with an annual capacity expected to reach 45,000 tonnes. The two major brands share the same founder, and the price war has escalated from 9.9 RMB to 8.8 RMB. How will the competition on the supply side reshape the market landscape? Take an in-depth look at the logic and impact behind this commercial battle. [more…]

Many baristas recommend filling the espresso grinder’s bean hopper nearly to the top, but did you know there’s actually scientific reasoning behind this? This article delves into the "hopper pressure" effect inside the bean hopper, explaining how it influences grind uniformity and ultimately the flavor of the espresso. We also compare extraction data between a full hopper and a low-bean scenario through practical brewing tests, helping you find the bean hopper management method that works best for you. [more…]

Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee is world-renowned for its unique flavor profile and stringent quality control. The various markings on its wooden barrel packaging are key to identifying authentic beans. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the CIB certification label, grade number, estate information, weight indication, and ICO number found on Blue Mountain coffee barrels, helping you determine whether what you have is genuine Blue Mountain No. 1 just by looking at the exterior. It also introduces the design origins and usage regulations of the wooden barrel packaging, offering deeper insight into the story behind this premium coffee. [more…]

The intense competition between Luckin and Cotti has once again sparked heated discussion. From store expansion to pricing strategies, the two major brands have ignited a "9.9 yuan vs 8.8 yuan" coffee price war. This seemingly simple promotional battle actually involves multiple factors such as market research, consumer psychology, and industry development. This article will delve into the current state of their competition, its real impact on consumers, and the long-term challenges that the price war may bring. [more…]

Behind the shiny facade of a coffee bar, unexpected mishaps always happen. From customers ordering a “warm Dirty” to exploding cold brew pitchers, these real-life cases reveal the daily challenges baristas face. This article compiles the most common frustrating moments for baristas—including foreign objects in the bean hopper, equipment malfunctions, and cleaning chaos—to help readers understand what goes on behind the counter, along with prevention and troubleshooting tips. [more…]

Starbucks recently announced that its founder, Howard Schultz, has officially stepped down from the board of directors, marking the end of his influential era spanning over four decades. Taking his place on the board is Zhang Wei, who previously held a key position at Alibaba Pictures, with her appointment set to take effect on October 1. This leadership transition not only signals a generational shift within Starbucks’ top management but is also widely regarded as a significant move for the brand to further deepen its presence in the Chinese market. Explore Schultz’s legendary journey and how Zhang Wei’s background may shape Starbucks’ future. [more…]

How should you store freshly bought coffee beans to preserve their optimal flavor? From understanding the principle of one-way degassing valves, the importance of light-proof and airtight storage, to common mistakes in storing ground coffee — this guide explains the key points of preserving coffee beans at different stages. Learn the difference between the best-before period and shelf life, master the correct storage methods, and ensure every cup of pour over coffee retains its fresh aroma. [more…]