Core Home acquires BUBLUV, driving expansion in retail and health-conscious beverage market

Core Home, a leader in trend-forward, sustainable housewares, has officially acquired BUBLUV, an emerging brand recognized for its innovative approach to traditional Asian boba tea. The acquisition marks Core Home’s strategic expansion beyond home and lifestyle products into the rapidly growing functional beverage market. By integrating BUBLUV’s unique better-for-you bubble tea into its portfolio, Core Home is set to disrupt the retail beverage space, strengthening its presence at major retailers such as Albertsons and Target.

BUBLUV has gained significant traction for its shelf-stable boba tea, a category-defining innovation that caters to consumers seeking convenient, health-conscious alternatives. With a focus on sustainable product innovation, Core Home’s entry into the beverage sector underscores its commitment to evolving consumer demands and market trends.

Core Home Strengthens Its Retail Footprint with BUBLUV

Core Home has built a strong reputation for delivering sustainable and trend-driven products across more than 20 brands, including BKLYN Steel Co., Core Bamboo, Thyme & Table, Manna, and Tal. With distribution partnerships spanning top retailers worldwide, the company has leveraged its deep industry expertise to introduce innovative consumer products that align with shifting preferences.

The acquisition of BUBLUV marks a pivotal moment as Core Home diversifies into the food and beverage industry. The company’s ability to scale emerging brands through its sustainable product innovation framework positions BUBLUV for long-term success. This transition will enhance BUBLUV’s retail presence, ensuring broader accessibility for its better-for-you bubble tea at mainstream outlets like Albertsons and Target.

BUBLUV Expands Distribution at Albertsons and Target

BUBLUV’s flagship product line, BUBLUV Bubble Tea, is redefining the ready-to-drink category with its shelf-stable boba tea. Unlike traditional bubble teas that require refrigeration and contain high levels of sugar, BUBLUV’s beverages offer a health-conscious alternative with 20-50 calories per bottle, minimal sugar content, and no artificial ingredients.

Each variety—Black Milk Tea, Matcha Soy Latte, and Passionfruit Oolong Guava with Jelly Pearls—is made with loose-leaf, antioxidant-rich tea, ensuring an authentic and flavorful experience. The growing demand for functional beverages has fueled interest in low-calorie, clean-label alternatives, making BUBLUV an attractive option for health-conscious consumers.

BUBLUV has now launched at Albertsons under four key banners—Safeway, Andronico’s, Pak N’ Save Foods, and Vons—solidifying its position in the mainstream retail sector. Additionally, the brand will expand its footprint at Target in April 2025, increasing its availability and reinforcing Core Home’s strategy to drive consumer adoption of better-for-you bubble tea.

Expo West 2025: A Platform for Growth

As part of its expansion efforts, BUBLUV will be exhibiting at Expo West 2025, one of the largest natural products trade shows in North America. The event, taking place from March 5-7 in Anaheim, California, will provide a platform for BUBLUV to connect with buyers, distributors, and industry leaders interested in shelf-stable boba tea.

Participation in Expo West underscores Core Home’s investment in scaling BUBLUV as a leading brand within the better-for-you bubble tea market. The brand will be showcased at Booth 7815 on ACC Level 3 within the Hot Products Pavilion, where attendees will have the opportunity to experience the product line firsthand.

Strategic Vision: Core Home’s Expansion into Functional Beverages

Core Home’s decision to acquire BUBLUV aligns with broader market trends, as consumers increasingly seek convenient, low-sugar beverage options without compromising on flavor. The functional beverage industry has witnessed substantial growth, driven by a demand for clean-label, nutrient-rich products.

By incorporating BUBLUV into its portfolio, Core Home is poised to bridge the gap between traditional beverage offerings and emerging health-conscious trends. The company’s expertise in sustainable product innovation will enable BUBLUV to scale efficiently, leveraging Core Home’s established retail partnerships and distribution channels.

This acquisition signals a long-term commitment to category expansion, as Core Home continues to identify opportunities that align with evolving consumer behaviors. The integration of BUBLUV further solidifies its reputation as a forward-thinking company that prioritizes better-for-you bubble tea and other innovative lifestyle products.

The acquisition of BUBLUV by Core Home marks a significant step in reshaping the ready-to-drink beverage industry. With increasing demand for shelf-stable boba tea, the brand’s expanded presence at Albertsons and Target represents a milestone in making healthier beverage options more accessible to consumers nationwide.

Core Home’s strategic entry into the functional beverage space reinforces its dedication to sustainable product innovation, ensuring that emerging brands like BUBLUV have the support and resources necessary to thrive in a competitive market. As the company prepares to showcase its latest venture at Expo West 2025, industry experts anticipate further growth opportunities that could position Core Home as a major player in the health-conscious beverage sector.