Vietnam’s bubble tea market boom: A sweet obsession

Phuong Dinh
Oct 21, 2025

Vietnam bubble tea: A youth-fuelled cultural mainstay

Vietnam’s bubble tea market boom has evolved far beyond trend status; it’s now a deeply ingrained part of urban youth culture. Driven by millennials (29 to 39) and especially Gen Z (aged 18–28), this sugary staple enjoys near-equal popularity among men (51%) and women (49%).

The customer profile is predominantly white-collar workers (73%), with the vast majority earning below 40 million VND monthly. These young professionals see milk tea not just as a beverage, but as a regular ritual, a reward, and a means of social connection.

Data published by Cimigo, from a study conducted in January 2025 among 200 consumers aged 18 to 39 in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi who drink bubble tea at least 2–3 times every month.

Vietnam bubble tea: 4-times-a-week habit

On average, Vietnamese bubble tea fans indulge in their favourite drink four times a week. Bubble tea is primarily an afternoon delight, with peak hours between 2:00 pm and 8:00 pm.

This habitual behaviour offers brands an opportunity to:

  • Launch Happy Hour campaigns during peak slots.
  • Reinforce consumption as part of post-lunch relaxation or social hangouts.
  • Boost weekday orders with creative time-limited offers.

From couch to counter: Where bubble tea habits in Vietnam

Bubble tea is now enjoyed everywhere:

  • 76% at home (thanks to delivery and takeout).
  • 72% in-store (highlighting the importance of ambience).
  • 63% at work (a staple reward during office hours).

Bubble tea is now enjoyed everywhere

The takeaway trend is high, but in-store experiences still matter for aesthetic environments, group hangouts, or impromptu dates. Meanwhile, workplace consumption reveals a growing culture of group orders and midday refreshment rituals.

The takeaway? Brands must deliver across both digital and physical touchpoints, with consistency and convenience at the core.

Vietnam bubble tea: Sweet spot bubble tea pricing and emotional value

Consumers spend an average of 48,333 VND per drink, with a sweet spot priced at under 45,000 VND. Yet price isn’t the only driver; many drinkers prioritise emotional gratification, such as:

  • Enjoyment.
  • Stress relief.
  • Refreshment.

Consumers seek variety, rich tea flavours, and customisable toppings to match their moods and personalities. For brands, rotating menus, personalised options, and limited editions aren’t just a novelty but a necessity.

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Vietnam bubble tea discovery: digital first, but word-of-mouth still counts

When it comes to discovering brands:

  • 91% of consumers cite online channels (social media, mobile ads).
  • 87% recall offline media (storefronts, posters, events).
  • 80% rely on word-of-mouth.

This mix of channels means that the most successful brands are omnipresent, they create buzz online, appear visibly offline, and deliver well enough to get recommended among peers.

Vietnam bubble tea brands: Phúc Long, TocoToco, and the challenger pack

  • Phúc Long is the most widely recognised brand (75% total awareness).
  • TocoToco ranks #1 in top-of-mind recall (29%).
  • Gong Cha and The Alley follow closely, signalling a competitive landscape.

Each brand fights for visibility and emotional resonance. The small margin between aided and unaided awareness means no brand can rest on its laurels; constant engagement is key.

Vietnam bubble tea brand use: Loyalty reflects love, not just price

Actual usage paints a clear picture:

  • Phúc Long leads with 27% usage and 26% first-choice preference, regardless of price.
  • TocoToco (22%) and Gong Cha (15%) are strong contenders.

Vietnam bubble tea brand

Notably, many consumers select their preferred brand without prioritising price, signalling a strong emotional attachment and brand trust.

Vietnam bubble tea brand selection: price, flavour, and quality, but that’s not all.

Price is the top factor influencing bubble tea brand selection, but it’s closely followed by flavour and product quality. Consumers also value menu variety, brand reputation, and a relaxing experience.

While promotions and convenience play a role, lasting loyalty comes from a balance of affordability, taste, and trust. In this market, it’s not just about being cheap; it’s about being worth it.

Final sip: What it all means for bubble tea brands in Vietnam

The Vietnam bubble tea market is rich in opportunities, but only for brands understanding the nuanced interplay of price, taste, emotion, and accessibility. The most successful players:

  • Balance affordability with indulgence.
  • Deliver across both digital and physical channels.
  • Innovate with variety and personalisation.
  • Create a brand that’s not just consumed, but loved.

In short, bubble tea in Vietnam is not just a drink; it’s a lifestyle choice.

Visit AskCimigo and interrogate the report with our AI assistant.

From market questions to answers in seconds

Get instant access to syndicated consumer insights, market trends, and competitive intelligence across Vietnam.

Trusted by over 500 brands

If you have any questions or specific needs, please get in touch with us at ask@cimigo.com.

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