Workflow
为什么冰杯爆火,为重用循环杯带来了商机?
3 6 Ke·2025-08-20 10:12

Core Insights - The article discusses the rising trend of the "ice economy" in China, driven by high temperatures and consumer demand for ice products, particularly in urban areas [1][2] - Major retail players like 7-Eleven and Sam's Club are capitalizing on this trend, with ice cup sales experiencing over 300% growth for two consecutive years [1][2] - The cost structure of ice products reveals significant hidden costs, particularly related to packaging and environmental impact, raising questions about sustainability [4][5][6] Cost Analysis - The production cost of 1 kg of ice is estimated to be between 1.6 to 2 yuan, translating to approximately 0.3 yuan for a typical 160-gram ice cup [5] - Transportation costs for ice are high due to the need for cold chain logistics, adding an estimated 0.2 to 0.3 yuan per cup [5] - Packaging costs are substantial, with the cost of a single-use ice cup being around 0.6 to 0.7 yuan, which can exceed the cost of the ice itself [5][6] Environmental Impact - The environmental costs associated with single-use ice cups are significant, with lifecycle carbon emissions for a typical plastic cup estimated at 70-100 grams of CO₂e [7][8] - The recycling challenges posed by multi-material ice cups complicate waste management, leading to increased costs for waste collection and sorting [8][9] - The extended producer responsibility (EPR) framework is pushing brands to take accountability for the entire lifecycle of their packaging, including waste management [9] Sustainable Alternatives - The article highlights emerging models like "circular cups," which aim to reduce packaging waste through deposit and return systems, as seen in Taiwan's FamilyMart [10][12] - These models not only address environmental concerns but also create new business opportunities by transforming the consumer experience and brand engagement [13][14] - The shift towards reusable packaging is supported by government policies promoting sustainable practices, indicating a growing market for circular economy solutions [20][21] Industry Trends - The trend towards "circular+" models in the ice beverage sector is seen as a potential growth area, particularly in urban environments with high consumer traffic [14][19] - Companies are encouraged to innovate in their service models, moving from selling products to offering services that incorporate sustainability [19][20] - The article emphasizes the importance of aligning business strategies with environmental goals to gain competitive advantages in the evolving market landscape [20][21]