Core Insights - The introduction of the 1 yuan ice cup by brands like Mixue Ice City, Guming, and Shuyi Burned Fairy Grass marks a new trend in the beverage market, transforming a simple product into a platform for brand engagement and customer interaction [3][9][33] - The ice cup phenomenon is not just about low-cost beverages; it represents a shift towards a convenience store model, where brands aim to enhance customer loyalty and increase transaction frequency [33][34] Group 1: Market Dynamics - Mixue Ice City launched the 1 yuan ice cup with a capacity of 660 ml, leading to high demand and supply chain challenges, indicating a genuine market interest rather than a mere marketing gimmick [3][7] - Guming and Shuyi Burned Fairy Grass followed suit, with Guming offering a 500 ml ice water cup and Shuyi implementing a purchase incentive strategy to boost sales [9][13] - The trend of ice cups is recognized as a growing market opportunity, particularly in first-tier cities, while also having significant potential in lower-tier markets [15] Group 2: Financial Implications - The cost structure for Mixue Ice City's ice cup reveals a minimal profit margin, with production costs around 0.5 yuan per cup, highlighting the financial strain on the supply chain [7][8] - Despite the low profitability of the ice cup, it serves as a marketing tool to drive additional sales of higher-margin products like milk tea and ice cream [8] Group 3: Consumer Behavior - The ice cup has evolved into a DIY beverage container for young consumers, allowing them to create personalized drinks, which enhances its appeal beyond a simple refreshment [8][20] - Social media platforms are amplifying the popularity of ice cups, with various DIY combinations becoming trending topics among younger demographics [20][24] Group 4: Industry Trends - The ice cup is becoming a staple in convenience stores and retail chains, with significant sales growth reported, particularly in coffee ice cups, which saw a 60% increase [24][30] - The overall market for ice products and beverages is projected to exceed 63 billion yuan by 2026, indicating a robust growth trajectory for this segment [30]