Covid Impact on Bubble Tea – How Demographics Changed

COVID-19 changed almost every aspect of daily life. People’s routines, social habits, and diets were all disrupted. One trend that emerged during the pandemic was a growing love for bubble tea.

A Quick Bubble Tea History

Bubble tea originated in Taiwan in the 1980s. The combination of milky tea, fruity flavours, and chewy tapioca balls quickly became a sensation. From a single café in Taiwan, bubble tea, or Boba, spread across South East Asia and beyond. Taipec has been supplying the UK market with authentic Taiwanese bubble tea products for years. Sharing the best of bubble tea is our passion.

Growth in the UK & Covid Impact on Bubble Tea

The UK was one of the last countries to embrace bubble tea. Once it arrived, however, it captured a devoted following. By the time the pandemic began, nearly 300 bubble tea shops operated across the UK. The drink was especially popular with university students and young office workers.

When COVID-19 hit, these key customer groups largely disappeared overnight. Surprisingly, bubble tea maintained its appeal. Its colourful appearance and unique flavours attracted a broader audience. Today, queues outside bubble tea shops include people from all walks of life.

Looking to the Future

As the world returned to a new normal and people returned to the office and classroom, the popularity of bubble tea was renewed. Now, stroll down the high street of any major city in the UK and you will likely see the bright colours of a bubble tea in a brightly coloured cup.

So what does that mean for bubble tea retailers? For starters, the bubble tea market is set to continue to grow in the UK and the market is broad. As the stereotypical home of tea, it's hardly surprising that bubble tea has taken off in the UK.

If you're looking to start a bubble tea shop or incorporate bubble tea in to your menu then see our other blogs. And if you're interested in the best of bubble tea supplies, check out our products.