Core Viewpoint - Nongfu Spring is expanding its business by investing 28.42 million yuan to build a new edible ice production line with an annual capacity of 7,000 tons, indicating a strategic move into the edible ice market [2][4]. Investment and Production Plans - The new production line will primarily focus on producing 160g ice cups, with an expected output of 5,600 tons, while 2kg bags of high-transparency ice will account for 1,400 tons [4]. - The project will utilize existing idle production facilities in the Zhujiabu area of the Xin'an River, emphasizing the use of high-quality water sources from the Xin'an River Reservoir [4]. Market Entry and Product Launch - In 2023, Nongfu Spring began its foray into the edible ice sector, applying for a patent for ice cup labels in May and launching its first edible ice products in 2024, including a 160g ice cup priced between 3.5 to 5 yuan [2][4]. - In June 2024, the company introduced a 2kg bag of pure transparent edible ice in Sam's Club, priced at 22.8 yuan, which generated significant consumer interest despite its higher price point [2][4]. Industry Growth Potential - The ice cup category has seen a sales growth rate exceeding 300% for two consecutive years, indicating strong market demand [6]. - According to Oliver Wyman's forecast, the ice and beverage segment is expected to become a hallmark of instant retail, with a projected growth rate of 39% over the next three years, potentially surpassing 63 billion yuan in sales by 2026 [6].

Group 1 - The core idea of the articles revolves around the introduction of new beverage products by the brand Gu Ming, specifically the "1 Yuan Ice Water" and "Fresh Lemon Water," which are aimed at providing high cost-performance drinks during the summer season [1][7] - Gu Ming's "1 Yuan Ice Water" is a 500ml medium cup filled with ice, priced at 1 Yuan, while the "Fresh Lemon Water" is priced at 3 Yuan, with a promotional price of 2.5 Yuan [1][7] - The introduction of these products aligns with Gu Ming's strategy to offer high value beverages, not just focusing on absolute pricing [1] Group 2 - The popularity of ice cups has surged among young consumers, with a reported 350% year-on-year increase in delivery volume for ice cups around the summer season [7] - Competitors like Mixue Ice City have also entered the market with their own 1 Yuan ice cup offerings, indicating a trend towards affordable ice beverages [7] - The ice beverage market is projected to grow significantly, with an expected increase in instant retail sales of ice products to over 63 billion Yuan by 2026, highlighting the potential for ice beverages to become a key category in instant retail [8]