Bubble Tea for Cafés & Non-Dedicated Shops

Bubble tea is no longer limited to dedicated bubble tea shops. Across the UK, cafés, bakeries, dessert shops, and multi-format food businesses are successfully adding bubble tea to their menus.

This guide explains how non-dedicated operators can introduce bubble tea in a way that is profitable, operationally simple, and aligned with existing workflows.

Why Cafés Are Adding Bubble Tea

Bubble tea offers cafés an opportunity to attract new customers, increase average order value, and diversify their drink menu beyond coffee and traditional iced beverages.

It performs particularly well during warmer months and appeals to younger demographics seeking variety and customisation.

Keeping Bubble Tea Simple

For cafés and non-specialist venues, simplicity is key. A small, focused menu with a limited number of flavours reduces training time and inventory complexity.

Many successful cafés start with a core range of fruit teas and one or two milk-based options.

Equipment & Space Considerations

Adding bubble tea does not require a full shop setup. Compact sealing machines, basic refrigeration, and efficient preparation areas are often sufficient.

Choosing ingredients that store well and integrate easily into existing bar setups helps minimise disruption.

Staff Training & Speed of Service

Bubble tea should enhance service, not slow it down. Clear recipes, pre-measured ingredients, and streamlined preparation methods help maintain speed during busy periods.

This is particularly important for cafés balancing coffee service with additional drink offerings.

Pricing & Profitability for Cafés

Bubble tea often carries higher margins than traditional café drinks. Pricing should reflect ingredient costs, preparation time, and perceived value within your existing menu.

When implemented correctly, bubble tea can become a strong incremental revenue stream.

Related Resources

Thinking about adding bubble tea to your café or food business?

Contact our team for ingredient recommendations and setup guidance tailored to non-dedicated operators.