Cup-Ji, a rising force in India’s beverage industry, has secured a major international accolade at Gulfood 2025, one of the world’s largest F&B exhibitions. Competing against 5,500 exhibitors from 129 countries, Cup-Ji emerged as the winner in the Packaging Innovation category, marking a significant milestone for Indian entrepreneurship on the global stage. This victory is particularly special as Cup-Ji was the only Indian brand to reach the finals in this category.
The award-winning product is a revolutionary tea and coffee cup with a pre-filled base and an airtight aluminum foil lid—users simply add hot water and milk for an instant, high-quality beverage. This innovative design enhances on-the-go consumption, a rapidly growing trend in west zone super market.
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Journey to the Award
Cup-Ji’s path to victory was not easy. Founder Jay Sotta highlighted the challenges of developing a first-of-its-kind product, including machinery design, taste profiling for different markets, and ensuring product longevity. The company had to custom-build entire production lines to meet the technical demands of their unique concept. Despite initial skepticism from investors and industry experts, Cup-Ji’s commitment to innovation led to a patented technology that keeps the premix fresh and moisture-free.
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Global Expansion and Business Impact
Winning the Gulfood Award has already had a tangible business impact. Cup-Ji has shipped a container of the new product to Kuwait and Saudi Arabia, with Japan and the UAE lined up next. The brand has also secured a 12-container order, expected to add $300,000 (₹2.5 crore) in revenue annually, increasing their sales by 25-30%. Leading retailers like Zone Supermarket (Dubai) have already onboarded the product, and discussions are underway with buyers in Iran and Iraq.
Sustainability and Future Plans
While the current packaging is recyclable but not biodegradable, Cup-Ji is actively exploring eco-friendly alternatives. The company also aims to expand beyond hot beverages, with a pipeline of new product innovations in development.
Cup-Ji’s Gulfood triumph is more than just an award—it’s a validation of Indian innovation on a global platform. With international recognition and growing demand, Cup-Ji is set to disrupt the ready-to-drink beverage industry, bringing convenience and quality to consumers worldwide.
