Core Insights - The article discusses the innovative approach of companies like Heytea in creating new products that blend traditional flavors with modern trends, exemplified by the "Mooncake Milk Tea" which has gained popularity among young consumers [1][3][7] - The trend reflects a shift in consumer preferences, where younger generations seek to maintain the festive spirit of traditional foods while desiring new and exciting experiences [8][17] Group 1: Product Innovation - Heytea's "Flowing Heart Milk Tea" has become a new favorite for employees during the Mid-Autumn Festival, replacing traditional mooncakes with a more appealing beverage option [1][3] - The product combines various flavors, including salted egg yolk and black sugar pearls, creating a rich and layered taste experience that resonates with consumers [5][19] - Other brands, such as Dahuzi Ice Cocoa, have also introduced similar innovative drinks, indicating a broader trend in the beverage industry [5][19] Group 2: Changing Consumer Preferences - Young consumers are increasingly looking for new ways to celebrate traditional festivals, as seen in their enthusiastic responses to the "Mooncake Milk Tea" [3][8] - The success of these innovative drinks suggests that consumers want to enjoy familiar flavors in a modern context, leading to a resurgence of traditional tastes in new formats [16][19] - The article highlights that this trend is not limited to specific festivals, as various traditional snacks are being reimagined in beverage form throughout the year [12][16] Group 3: Market Trends - The beverage industry is witnessing a shift from relying solely on collaborations and marketing hype to focusing on product quality and innovation [20][21] - Companies are leveraging traditional snacks as inspiration for new drink offerings, creating unique selling points that resonate with consumers [19][21] - The trend of integrating regional specialties into drinks is expanding, allowing local flavors to reach a wider audience [14][19]

Core Viewpoint - The dessert industry faces significant challenges from the rapidly expanding new tea beverage sector, which is increasingly incorporating dessert items into their menus, leading to a blurred line between categories [1]. Market Dynamics - Top 10 new tea brands have increased their dessert SKU count by 170% over the past two years, with dessert sales now accounting for 18% of total sales, up from 5% [1]. - The dessert market is experiencing a slowdown in expansion among leading brands, while regional players are intensifying competition [1]. Company Strategy - The company plans to expand its franchise stores to over 2,000 in the next 3-5 years, targeting a net revenue of 1 billion from franchise operations [2]. - The company emphasizes a dual approach to supply chain management, balancing centralized production for core products with flexible supply chains for seasonal and trending items [14][15]. Competitive Landscape - The dessert sector is characterized by a lack of IPO cases, with leading brands like Baoshifu and Luxihe not yet listed, indicating a cautious approach to capital markets [3]. - The dessert market is currently in an "efficiency competition" phase, where companies must return to the fundamentals of business and respect single-store profitability to achieve sustainable growth [8]. Consumer Trends - The dessert market is primarily focused on intimate and family social settings, which limits its scene coverage compared to tea and coffee [5]. - There is a significant opportunity for dessert brands to innovate while maintaining traditional elements, as consumer preferences evolve [6][16]. Future Outlook - The company aims to achieve 500 direct-operated stores and 1 billion in net revenue from direct sales, alongside 1 billion from retail operations, while expanding its franchise network [19]. - The future of the dessert industry will likely hinge on enhancing consumer experience, adapting to changing lifestyles and consumption patterns [18].