Core Viewpoint - The beverage industry is experiencing a creative product explosion, with innovative drinks gaining significant consumer attention and sales momentum, indicating a shift in product development strategies [5][15][39]. Group 1: New Product Trends - Recent collaborations, such as the "Mushroom Ice Cream" by Heytea and a celebrity chef, have led to immediate sell-outs, showcasing the appeal of unique flavor combinations [4][7]. - Creative drinks like "Drunken Milk Tea" and "Bean Juice Milk Tea" are becoming popular, suggesting a trend towards more adventurous flavor profiles [12][15]. - The introduction of visually striking toppings and ingredients, such as whole fruits or unique textures, is becoming a key factor in attracting consumers [19][24]. Group 2: Flavor Innovation - The integration of local flavors into beverages, such as the "Bean Juice Milk Tea" inspired by traditional recipes, is creating buzz and driving consumer interest [25][28]. - The use of basic ingredients like rice and grains is emerging as a new trend, with products like rice-based drinks gaining popularity and high sales [30][32]. - Alcohol-infused beverages are also making a comeback, with significant sales reported for products like "Drunken Milk Tea" [34]. Group 3: Market Dynamics - The beverage industry is shifting focus from mere marketing tactics to enhancing product quality, taste, and health benefits, indicating a move towards "productism" [38][40]. - Continuous creative output is essential for brands to maintain relevance and consumer interest in a competitive market [41][42]. - The current trend emphasizes that innovative drinks are no longer optional but a necessity for brands to thrive [41].

Core Insights - The article highlights the emergence of creative beverages in the market, with brands like Heytea and Cha Baidao launching innovative products that quickly gain popularity and sell out [1][6][17] - The trend indicates a shift in consumer preferences towards unique and visually appealing drinks, moving away from traditional offerings [6][17] Group 1: Product Innovations - Heytea's collaboration with celebrity chef Li Zi'an resulted in the launch of "Mushroom Ice Cream," which combines flavors of pu-erh tea, mushrooms, and soy sauce, leading to high consumer interest [1][4] - Cha Baidao's "Drunken Milk Tea" sold 120,000 cups on its first day of re-release, showcasing the demand for creative alcoholic beverages [16] - Other brands like A-Ma Handmade and Four Leaf Coffee are also introducing unique products, such as "Delicious Douzhi Milk Tea" and mushroom coffee, respectively, indicating a broader trend in the industry [1][4][12] Group 2: Consumer Engagement - Social media feedback on new products like Heytea's ice cream has been overwhelmingly positive, with consumers describing the experience as "magical" and "harmonious" [4][6] - The limited availability of these creative drinks has created a sense of urgency among consumers, leading to long queues and high demand [4][12] - The trend of integrating local flavors into beverages, such as using traditional ingredients like douzhi, is generating significant consumer curiosity and engagement [12][14] Group 3: Market Trends - The article suggests that the beverage industry is moving towards a "productism" phase, where the focus is on creating high-quality, innovative drinks rather than merely chasing marketing trends [17] - Brands are increasingly prioritizing the quality and uniqueness of their products, indicating a shift in strategy from rapid expansion to sustained creative output [17] - The rise of creative beverages reflects a broader consumer desire for healthier and more exciting drinking experiences, positioning these products as essential rather than optional in the market [17]