Starbucks(US:SBUX) 东京烘焙职业人·2026-01-23 08:33Core Viewpoint - The evolution of cup sizes in the milk tea industry reflects various issues, including production capabilities, consumer demand changes, and operational management costs. The absence of small cups is attributed to historical trends and the influence of brands like Starbucks [5][6][17]. Group 1: Historical Context and Influences - The initial presence of small cups at Starbucks was primarily for espresso-based drinks, but as these products were phased out, the perception shifted to only medium, large, and extra-large options [6]. - The milk tea industry's early days saw smaller cup sizes due to the high cost of ice machines, leading to larger standard sizes as production capabilities improved [9]. - Starbucks has served as a model for many brands in the milk tea sector, influencing product offerings and service styles, which contributed to the trend of omitting small cup sizes [6][9]. Group 2: Current Trends and Consumer Preferences - Brands like Baozhugong and 1DianDian still offer small cup options, labeled as "children's cup" and "mini cup," respectively, indicating a niche market for smaller sizes [13]. - Major brands such as Heytea and Chayan Yuesheng have eliminated cup size options, focusing instead on customizing temperature, packaging, and sweetness levels, reflecting a shift in consumer preferences towards quality over quantity [15]. - The changes in cup sizes encapsulate the evolution of consumer economics, highlighting a transition in focus from volume to the quality and standardization of beverages [17].