Chan Ye Xin Xi Wang·2025-11-29 05:27Core Insights - The ready-to-drink (RTD) coffee market in China has seen significant growth, with 2023 offline sales reaching 3.76 billion liters and a revenue of 10.653 billion yuan, but a decline is expected in 2024 due to economic slowdown and competition from freshly brewed coffee [1][5]. Overview - RTD coffee refers to coffee products that can be consumed directly without brewing, primarily packaged in bottles and cans, characterized by convenience and stable shelf life [1]. Development History - The development of China's RTD coffee industry can be divided into four stages: initial enlightenment, steady growth, diversified competition, and high-quality upgrade, with a focus on health, premium quality, and localization since 2020 [2]. Regulatory Policies - The food and beverage industry is facing stricter regulations, impacting the RTD coffee sector, which must comply with various food safety laws throughout the production process [3]. Industry Chain - The RTD coffee industry chain includes upstream suppliers of raw materials (coffee beans, milk, etc.), midstream production processes, and downstream sales channels such as convenience stores and e-commerce [4]. Upstream Supply - Yunnan province is the primary coffee bean production area in China, contributing over 90% of the national output, with 2024 production expected to reach 150,200 tons [4]. Consumer Demographics - By 2024, the number of coffee consumers in China is projected to reach 417 million, with a significant portion of the core consumer group aged 25-35, primarily urban professionals [5]. Current Market Status - The RTD coffee market is becoming mainstream in China, with a notable increase in consumer adoption, although a decline in sales volume is anticipated for 2024 [1][5]. Competitive Landscape - The market is highly concentrated, with the top five companies holding an 87.2% market share. Nestlé leads with a 60.4% share, while new brands are emerging, intensifying competition [6][7]. Company Analysis - China Resources Beverage: A state-owned enterprise with a revenue of 6.206 billion yuan and a gross profit margin of 46.67% in the first half of 2025 [8]. - Nongfu Spring: A leading beverage company with a revenue of 25.62 billion yuan and a gross profit margin of 60.3% in the first half of 2025 [8]. Future Trends - Health-oriented products, including sugar-free and plant-based options, are expected to dominate the market, along with the introduction of functional ingredients in RTD coffee [9].