❓What Equipment Do You Need to Start Selling Bubble Tea? (2025 Guide)

Bubble tea (boba) is one of the fastest-growing drinks worldwide. Whether you run a café, restaurant, dessert shop, or bar, adding bubble tea can boost profits and attract younger customers.

But here’s the big question: what equipment do you actually need to get started?
This guide gives you a complete checklist—from must-have machines to optional add-ons—plus costs, ingredients, and FAQs.

Essential Bubble Tea Machines

Sealing Machine Creates the iconic airtight seal on cups Essential for takeaway, delivery, and brand image

Shaker Mixes tea, milk, and syrups quickly and consistently Saves staff time and ensures every drink tastes the same

Tapioca Cooker (or Induction Cooker) Cooks tapioca pearls evenly Avoids waste and guarantees the right chewy texture

Refrigeration & Storage Fridges & freezers keep milk, toppings, and fruit purées fresh

Measuring Tools Digital scales, scoops, jiggers Keep recipes consistent & control portion costs

Cup & Straw Dispensers Organises workflow and speeds up service during rush hours

POS System & Ordering Integration Handles customisation, toppings, and add-ons Prevents order mistakes and boosts service speed

Optional but Recommended Automatic Tea Brewer – consistent tea base Ice Machine – critical for high-volume shops Topping Dispensers – faster pearl/jelly portioning Water Filtration System – improves taste & extends machine life

🥭 Consumables & Ingredients You’ll Need

• 🧋 Tapioca pearls 

• 🍓 Popping balls & jellies 

• 🍵 Flavour powders 

• 🍯 Syrups & fruit purées

• 🍵 Tea Leaves

• 🍯 Jam

• 🥤 Cups, sealing film, eco-friendly straws
  
  

💷 How Much Does It Cost to Start Bubble Tea?

• Small café / add-on setup → £2,000–£3,500
  (blender + shaker + sealing machine + ingredients)

• Dedicated bubble tea shop → £8,000–£15,000+
  (full equipment, large storage, POS system)
  

❓ FAQs About Bubble Tea Equipment

Q: What is the most important bubble tea machine?
A sealing machine and shaker—these create the authentic bubble tea experience.

Q: Can I add bubble tea to my café or restaurant menu?
Yes! Many cafés, bakeries, and bars add bubble tea as a profitable side option.

Q: How long does it take to train staff?
Most staff can learn in just a few hours with proper recipes and equipment.

Q: Where can I buy bubble tea equipment in the UK?
👉 From Boba Formosa UK—we supply both equipment and ingredients locally.

🌟 Why Work with Boba Formosa UK?

✅ One-stop packages: machines, ingredients & training, and OEM products
✅ UK-based warehouse → fast delivery
✅ Seasonal menu design & recipe support
✅ B2B experience with cafés, restaurants & event partners

👉 Contact us today to start your bubble tea journey!