Do Bubble Tea Kiosks in Non-Traditional Locations Work?

As bubble tea continues to grow in popularity across the UK, entrepreneurs and shop owners are exploring new ways to bring their drinks to customers. While traditional sites like high streets and shopping centres remain popular, there is increasing interest in alternative spaces. Petrol stations, gyms, co-working offices and student unions are just some of the non-traditional locations being considered for compact bubble tea kiosks.

But can these unconventional setups deliver consistent results? And how can business owners decide if this is the right move for them? 

What Counts as a Non-Traditional Location?

A non-traditional location refers to any space that is not primarily designed for food and drink retail. These sites serve a different core purpose but offer opportunities for customer interaction and sales.

Examples of non-traditional venues include petrol stations, gyms and fitness centres, co-working spaces, college campuses, office building lobbies, hospitals, libraries and transport hubs.

In contrast, traditional food and drink outlets are usually found on high streets, in shopping centres or food courts where hospitality is the primary focus.

Why Consider a Non-Traditional Kiosk Setup?

Choosing a non-traditional setting for your bubble tea kiosk can bring distinct advantages. Rental costs and operating overheads are often lower than those in high-traffic retail zones. These spaces can also give you access to highly specific customer groups such as commuters, students or gym members.

A presence in a location where customers are not expecting a bubble tea offering can add novelty and encourage impulse purchases. In settings like gyms, health-oriented tea options can align with the customer mindset. In office lobbies or petrol stations, speed and convenience play a larger role.

These environments can help you introduce your brand in places where competition is minimal and footfall is consistent.

Pros of Running a Bubble Tea Kiosk in These Settings

There are a number of operational and commercial benefits associated with using a kiosk model in an unconventional location.

The smaller space requirements of a kiosk often lead to lower overheads. These compact units typically need fewer staff and less inventory, which simplifies logistics. Flexible trading hours are another advantage. Many venues will allow you to align your opening times with peak customer usage, which can reduce waste and maximise revenue.

Non-traditional locations can also help you test demand for your brand without the financial commitment of a full-scale shop. If the model proves successful, you may choose to expand or replicate it in similar spaces.

This type of setup is particularly well suited to bubble tea, which is a fast-moving product with strong appeal across a wide range of customer groups.

Common Challenges and Limitations to Plan For

While the benefits are clear, it is important to be aware of the challenges that can come with this model.

Space is the most common constraint. You will need to plan carefully to ensure you can store ingredients, prepare drinks and serve customers efficiently in a limited footprint.

Licensing and permissions can also be more complex, especially in public buildings or healthcare settings. Make sure you understand the local requirements and whether the venue can accommodate food and drink services.

Another consideration is customer flow. Some locations may have heavy footfall, but not during your target hours. For example, a corporate office may be quiet in the evenings or on weekends, which limits your trading potential.

Branding and signage can also be restricted. If you are leasing space within a larger venue, you may not be able to use large signs or bespoke installations. This can make it harder to build visibility, so clear and consistent branding becomes even more important.

Finally, logistics such as water supply, electricity, waste removal and deliveries must be arranged with care. Many non-traditional venues will require you to operate self-sufficiently.

Success Stories and Real-World Examples

Several bubble tea brands have made non-traditional kiosk models work in the UK and abroad.

On university campuses, for instance, compact kiosks have been launched near libraries or student unions. These often use a simplified menu and offer loyalty cards or promotions tied to the academic calendar.

In gyms and wellness centres, some operators have successfully introduced health-focused bubble tea options, using lower sugar bases or plant-based milks to cater to fitness-focused audiences.

Petrol stations have also proven viable. Some UK forecourts now offer branded bubble tea from self-serve units or manned counters, providing a convenient option for drivers looking for a drink on the go.

These examples often succeed because they match the menu and format to the audience and space. They also show how flexibility and partnership with the host venue can increase footfall and awareness.

Tips for Making a Non-Traditional Kiosk Work

To give your kiosk the best chance of success, keep your setup focused and adaptable.

A compact and well-designed menu will help you manage preparation times and stock control. Focus on bestsellers or signature drinks that require minimal handling and can be prepared quickly.

Clear and consistent signage is crucial. Even if your branding space is limited, make sure your logo, colours and product offer are easy to recognise. Use countertop displays, window stickers or tabletop menu boards to communicate key messages.

Choose locations where customers spend time waiting or passing through regularly. Office buildings, gym reception areas and student common rooms can all work well if there is consistent footfall.

When negotiating with the venue, try to secure visibility in high-traffic areas and discuss how you can promote your offer as part of their customer experience. Some hosts may be open to joint marketing or co-branded promotions.

Use pre-packed or ready-to-serve products when appropriate, especially if preparation space is limited or hygiene is a concern.

Who This Model Works Best For

The non-traditional kiosk model is a strong fit for several types of operator.

It is ideal for first-time entrepreneurs who want to test a business idea without taking on a full lease. It also works well for established bubble tea brands looking to expand through low-risk outlets or pop-up formats.

Operators who target specific customer groups such as students, professionals or fitness enthusiasts can use this model to reach them in high-traffic environments.

It also suits business owners who have experience managing portable equipment and off-site logistics. If you are comfortable operating without a full kitchen or storefront, this could be an excellent path for growth.

Get Started With Support From Taipec

At Taipec, we understand the challenges and opportunities involved in launching a bubble tea kiosk in a non-traditional space. We supply a wide range of ingredients, tools and packaging solutions tailored to compact formats.

Whether you are looking for a flexible product range, support with menu planning or help designing custom visuals for your stand, our team can help. We also offer Private Label Customisation for businesses that want to establish a strong brand presence in any location.

Get in touch with Taipec to learn more about how we can support your next bubble tea venture. From initial planning to product supply and branding, we are here to help you make it work.

Contact Taipec to speak to one of our team members.