Chinese bubble tea brand Mixue Bingcheng surpasses McDonald’s in global restaurant count
McDonald’s is no longer the world’s largest fast food chain, as Mixue Bingcheng, a Chinese bubble tea and ice cream company, has taken the lead with over 45,000 locations worldwide.
According to CNN, as of September 2024, Mixue Bingcheng has surpassed McDonald’s, which has around 41,800 locations globally, based on Statista data via Chowhound.
A fast-growing chain with no U.S. presence
Mixue Bingcheng is known for its affordable pricing, offering soft-serve ice cream for one yuan (15 cents) and drinks priced between 2 to 8 yuan (30 cents to $1.20). Despite its massive growth, 90% of its outlets are in China, with additional locations across Indonesia, Vietnam, and Malaysia—but none in the United States.
Founded in 1997 by Zhang Hongchao, the chain originally specialized in ice and cold drinks. Hongchao previously told Chinese state media that his goal was to “let people around the world eat well and drink well for just two American dollars.”
Franchising model fuels expansion
Currently, over 99% of Mixue Bingcheng stores are franchised, with the company making most of its revenue from selling food ingredients, equipment, and packaging to its franchisees.
Although it now boasts the highest number of locations worldwide, its revenue still lags behind major U.S. brands such as Starbucks and Tim Hortons.
McDonald’s latest marketing push
Meanwhile, McDonald’s has been making headlines with its latest celebrity-endorsed campaign, revealing morning-after breakfast orders of various stars.
A recent YouTube video from McDonald’s showcased orders from celebrities like Colman Domingo, Teyana Taylor, Rosalía, and Keke Palmer, detailing their go-to breakfast meals after a night out.
