Do You Really Need Bubble Tea Training to Start a Shop?
Posted by Diana - CoFounder on 13th Feb 2026
Do You Really Need Bubble Tea Training to Start a Shop?
Many new operators entering the bubble tea market are told the same thing: you must complete formal training before you can succeed.
Training can be helpful. It can introduce equipment, basic recipes, and workflow. But after working in the industry since 2010, we have seen repeatedly that training alone does not determine long-term success.
Why Training Feels Important at the Beginning
Starting any food business can feel overwhelming. New operators worry about recipes, menu design, pricing, and whether they are “doing it right.”
In that moment, structured training feels reassuring. It provides a sense of security and a clear starting point.
But reassurance and long-term business success are not the same thing.
What Actually Determines Long-Term Success
Over time, successful bubble tea businesses tend to share a few common traits:
- Reliable, ongoing ingredient supply
- Clear cost understanding and pricing discipline
- Focused menus rather than overwhelming variety
- Operational systems that staff can follow consistently
These factors matter far more than whether someone attended a short training session at the beginning.
Recipes Are Not the Real Barrier
Today, information is widely available. There are hundreds of demonstrations and recipe videos online. Many operators enjoy refining their own drinks and developing flavours that reflect their brand identity.
In fact, menu individuality is often part of what gives a shop its competitive edge.
No serious operator wants to serve exactly the same menu as everyone else.
Training vs Ongoing Guidance
There is a difference between one-off training and ongoing guidance.
Training is typically front-loaded. It happens at the beginning. It may even be tied to setup packages or minimum commitments.
Guidance is different. It means:
- Being available to discuss menu ideas
- Reviewing cost calculations
- Offering feedback based on industry experience
- Jumping on a video call when needed
Guidance evolves with the business. It supports operators as they grow, refine, and adapt.
What New Businesses Actually Need
In our experience, new operators do not need to be told exactly what to put on their menu. That is their brand, their concept, and their opportunity to differentiate.
What they do need is clarity:
- Which ingredients make sense for their format
- How to control margins
- How to keep preparation simple
- How to avoid unnecessary complexity
Confidence does not come from a certificate. It comes from understanding the system.
The Real Foundation: Ongoing Supply and Support
Bubble tea is not a one-time purchase. It is an ongoing supply relationship.
Operators need dependable stock, consistent quality, and access to experienced advice when questions arise.
Long-term partnerships are built on reliability and trust, not short-term training sessions.
So, Do You Need Training?
Some operators value it. For others, structured resources and ongoing support are more than enough.
The most important question is not whether you attend training, but whether you have access to consistent supply, practical guidance, and experienced industry feedback as your business develops.
Related Resources
Starting a bubble tea business and feeling unsure about next steps?
Get in touch with our team — we’re happy to discuss your ideas and offer practical guidance.