Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the rapid expansion and challenges faced by the new tea brand "爷爷不泡茶" (Grandpa Doesn't Brew Tea), highlighting its impressive growth in the competitive tea beverage market while also addressing issues related to customer complaints and market saturation [3][4][30]. Group 1: Company Overview - "爷爷不泡茶" has expanded to over 1,200 stores across 24 provinces and 163 cities within a year, achieving a growth rate of over 400% [5][6]. - The brand was founded in 2018 in Wuhan and initially named "爷爷泡的茶" (Grandpa Brews Tea), inspired by the founder's admiration for Jay Chou [10][11]. - The brand underwent a strategic rebranding in 2022, focusing on innovative tea products that reflect Hubei's tea culture [13][18]. Group 2: Market Position and Competition - The new tea beverage market is highly competitive, with many brands experiencing slow expansion, while "爷爷不泡茶" has managed to grow rapidly [6][30]. - The brand's products incorporate local Hubei flavors, such as the "恩施玉露" (Enshi Yulu) tea, but faces challenges of product homogeneity in a crowded market [20][21][22]. - The brand's recent product launch, "空山栀子" (Empty Mountain Gardenia), aims to capture market attention but is not unique to the brand, as competitors also offer similar products [21][22]. Group 3: Expansion Strategy - The brand's rapid growth is attributed to its franchise model, allowing for quicker market penetration compared to traditional direct store openings [30][31]. - "爷爷不泡茶" offers a lower entry cost for franchisees, making it an attractive option compared to competitors like "霸王茶姬" (Bawang Chaji) [34]. - The brand plans to reach 4,500 stores by the end of 2025, with ambitions to challenge the 5,000-store mark [39]. Group 4: Challenges and Consumer Feedback - Despite rapid growth, the brand faces significant challenges, including customer complaints about product quality and service, such as the "half cup" issue [35][41]. - Franchisees express concerns about profitability, citing high operational costs and low revenue due to aggressive promotional strategies [41][42]. - The brand's decentralized store distribution complicates supply chain management and quality control, which could hinder future growth [36][37].