Check this out! KFC is droppin’ a bomb with their Original Recipe Chicken-flavored latte. Yeah, you heard that right! This isn’t some side dish combo; it’s straight-up coffee that packs the punch of KFC’s legendary chicken. Kicked off in China at K Coffee since September 15, this wild brew is stirring up the scene.
In the first few days, from September 15 to 17, they threw out 10,000 coupons daily so folks could snag this quirky concoction for just 6.6 RMB—that’s under a buck (0.94 USD)! But don’t sleep on it, ’cause after that, it shot up to its regular price of 12.9 RMB (1.83 USD).
This latte is part of the “Sanders’ Select” line, tipping the hat to the OG Colonel Sanders himself. It’s got that savory kick, all thanks to the secret mix of 11 herbs and spices that KFC is famous for. They even dropped a hilarious mock press conference vid where they just keep hammering that it’s an Original Recipe Chicken-flavored latte—no real answers, just vibes.
And yo, it’s not just chicken in the mix—earlier in June, they rolled out an “egg tart” dirty coffee, celebrating the 200th K Coffee branch. Inspired by those creamy Portuguese custard tarts, this one’s got a pastry shell you can munch on. Reminds everyone of those edible coffee cups, but way tastier, right?
This whole chicken coffee thing?
It’s kinda like that pork belly latte Starbucks pushed for Chinese New Year, with local flavors popping off left and right. And just like that, people are actually digging the chicken latte, calling it “surprisingly not bad.” So, are you gonna try it or what? Let’s see what all the hype’s about!
let’s dive into the coffee market in China—this thing is exploding, and it’s not just about traditional brews anymore.
- Flavor Coffee Invasion: The Chinese market is getting a taste for flavor-infused coffee—think vanilla, caramel, hazelnut. It’s not just about the caffeine; it’s about the experience, which is bringing in younger crowds and influencing menu expansions across the board.
- Coffee Chains on the Rise: Coffee chains are booming, with homegrown players like Luckin Coffee and international giants like Starbucks expanding rapidly. They’re catering to the Chinese palate and lifestyle, opening up shop right where the urban hustle is.
- Douyin’s Digital Stir: Douyin (TikTok) is turning into a mega player for brand marketing, including coffee. Brands are using this platform to launch trendy, short videos that show off new flavors, special offers, and even barista tricks, making coffee both a visual and gastronomic hit.
- Xiaohongshu (Red) Marketing: Over on Xiaohongshu, it’s all about lifestyle integration. Coffee brands are using this platform to connect with consumers through posts and reviews that blend coffee culture with fashion, wellness, and more, making every cup of coffee a part of style and personal expression.
China’s coffee scene is less about the morning rush and more about social connections, digital influence, and lifestyle statements. If you’re in this game, you’ve gotta be sharp, innovative, and ready to ride the digital wave to capture the market.
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