What cup sizes and lids do I need for a milk tea business?
Most milk tea businesses in the Philippines need two or three cup sizes: a small (12oz), a medium (16oz), and a large (22oz). Pair each size with the right lid type. Dome lids work for drinks with toppings or whipped cream. Flat lids with a straw hole suit standard milk tea. Sealer films give a clean, sealed finish that prevents spills during delivery. Buying cups and lids together in bulk from a wholesale supplier keeps your costs down.
Recommended cup sizes
The three most common sizes in Philippine milk tea shops are 12oz, 16oz, and 22oz. Some businesses only offer two sizes (medium and large) to simplify operations and reduce inventory. Choose based on your menu pricing and portion strategy.
- 12oz (small): Good for hot drinks, espresso-based beverages, or kid-sized portions
- 16oz (medium): The most popular size for standard milk tea orders
- 22oz (large): Ideal for milk tea with lots of ice, large fruit teas, or value-sized drinks
Choosing the right lids
Lids matter more than most new business owners realize. The wrong lid leads to spills, customer complaints, and wasted product. Make sure the lid diameter matches your cup exactly.
- Flat lids with straw hole: Standard for milk tea served with a straw. Clean look, good for grab-and-go.
- Dome lids: Essential if your menu includes drinks with whipped cream, cheese foam, or tall toppings.
- Sealer films: Popular in the Philippines for a professional, sealed presentation. Requires a cup sealing machine. Prevents spills entirely during delivery.
Cup materials
PET (clear plastic) cups are the most common choice because they showcase the drink layers, which is part of the milk tea appeal. PP (polypropylene) cups are slightly more durable and better for hot beverages. Paper cups work for hot drinks but are less common for iced milk tea.
Tips for ordering
- Buy cups and matching lids from the same supplier to guarantee fit
- Start with smaller wholesale quantities to test sizes with your customers before scaling up
- Keep a buffer stock of your best-selling size to avoid running out during peak days
- Wholesale packaging suppliers deliver nationwide in the Philippines via pier-to-pier shipping
Frequently asked questions
What is the most popular milk tea cup size in the Philippines?
The 16oz (medium) cup is the most popular milk tea size in the Philippines. It provides a satisfying portion at a mid-range price point, which appeals to the broadest customer base. Most milk tea chains use 16oz as their default regular size.
Do I need a sealing machine for milk tea cups?
Only if you use sealer films. If you prefer flat lids or dome lids, no sealing machine is needed. However, many Filipino milk tea businesses invest in a cup sealer because sealed cups look more professional and eliminate the risk of spills during delivery. Manual sealers start at a relatively low cost.
Can I use the same lid for different cup sizes?
No. Lids are sized by the cup rim diameter, not the cup volume. A 12oz cup and a 16oz cup may have the same rim diameter (depending on the manufacturer), but a 22oz cup usually has a wider rim. Always check that the lid diameter matches the cup diameter before ordering in bulk.
Related questions
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