The Philippines’ love affair with milk tea continues to flourish, as both local and international brands cater to the ever-growing demand. Among the notable names is Tealive, a Malaysian milk tea brand that entered the Philippine market in 2022 and has quickly made its mark.
In just four years, Tealive has reached a significant milestone, opening its 70th branch in the Philippines. This latest addition, located at Fiesta Carnival in Araneta City, stands proudly across from the iconic Smart Araneta Coliseum.
“Tealive originates from Malaysia, where we currently operate around 800 stores,” said Mario Malalis, General Manager for International Franchise. “In 2022, Brian Loo, the owner of Tealive, decided to bring the brand to the Philippines. While most of our stores are located in Metro Manila, we’ve also expanded to areas like Cebu, Sta. Rosa, Batangas, Pampanga, and Bulacan. By early next year, we aim to reach 100 branches nationwide.”
Tealive is not just about milk tea—it’s a diverse beverage haven. From frappes and fruit juices to coffee-based and chocolate drinks, Tealive offers a wide range of options to cater to different preferences. The brand also excels in matcha-based drinks and seasonal specials.
“Tealive takes pride in its tea-based drinks,” Malalis explained. “We use a proprietary tea blend for our beverages, ensuring consistency and quality. Even our tapioca pearls, a staple for bubble tea, are produced in-house and imported directly from Malaysia.”
To keep things exciting, Tealive introduces limited-time beverages every six months. These seasonal offerings are designed to reflect both the time of year and the evolving tastes of Filipino milk tea enthusiasts.
In celebration of its 70th branch, Tealive has launched its festive Hokkaido Melon Line, available in Chocolate, Bubble Milk Tea, and Frappe versions. “We believe these drinks capture the joyful spirit of Christmas,” Malalis noted.
Customers can enhance their Hokkaido Melon drink experience with discounted food pairings. Options include the BBQ Mushroom Overload Fries for just P50 or the Luncheon Meat and Egg Toastea for P80.
What sets Tealive apart from other milk tea shops is its inclusion of food items, making it more than just a beverage stop. “We’re not just about drinks—we also serve snacks,” Malalis shared. “Our Toasteas, sandwiches filled with various ingredients, are a customer favorite. This makes Tealive an excellent choice for those looking for a sit-down dining experience.”
Unlike many milk tea shops that operate as takeaway kiosks, some Tealive stores feature full sit-down setups where customers can relax and enjoy their food and drinks in comfort. This approach aligns with Tealive’s goal to create a cozy, inviting environment for its patrons.
With its rapid expansion and innovative approach, Tealive is on track to become a household name in the Philippine milk tea scene. Its emphasis on quality, variety, and customer experience has earned it a loyal following in just two years. As Tealive marches toward its 100-store milestone, it promises to continue delighting Filipinos with its unique offerings and commitment to excellence.
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