Insulated drinking tumblers with cartoon designs are proving to be a real hit with overseas customers. [Photo/Tide News]
With their eco-friendly designs and quirky patterns winning over young consumers overseas, insulated drinking cup manufacturers based in Wuyi county — located in Jinhua city, East China's Zhejiang province — are riding a wave of export growth.
One leading producer, Zhejiang Coolshine Cup Industry Co, reported a 30 percent rise in revenue in the first seven months of the year, with products shipped to Europe, the Americas and Oceania.
"We design products based on our customers' needs," said Liu Yahui, the company's production manager. "Some clients ask us to design tumbler sleeves, while others request straw lids — we do our best to meet these personalized needs," Liu added.
Last year, Coolshine Cup reported an annual output value of around 100 million yuan ($14 million), while from January to July this year, the company generated sales revenue of 54 million yuan.
To stay competitive, it invests 5 percent of its annual sales revenue in research and development, continuously upgrading product quality and launching new collections.
Recent innovations include biodegradable cups, temperature-display mugs and lightweight portable flasks.
"The smart and lightweight designs have become our export stars, especially among young consumers in Europe and the United States," Liu said.
Off to market: Christmas-themed insulated tumblers. [Photo/Tide News]