The Qingdao Beer Exchange is a unique beer bar in Qingdao, Shandong Province, China, inspired by the stock market. Beer prices fluctuate in real-time depending on customer demand at any given time.
Qingdao has long been regarded as the beer capital of China, with many tourists visiting to sample the exquisite brews. Catering to this demand, the Qingdao Beer Exchange offers a novel beer-drinking experience. Customers can view the drink menu on a large electronic board in the center of the bar and purchase beer according to the fluctuating prices.
The stock market-style beer-selling approach adds excitement to the drinking experience.
Operating similarly to a stock exchange, the prices of different beers change every ten minutes based on demand. During the Dragon Boat Festival (May 31-June 2, 2025), the bar attracted over 10,000 visitors daily.
The central electronic board also displays sales data for each beer. The most purchased beers increase in price, while the least popular ones decrease. Beers with rising prices are displayed in red, and those with falling prices are shown in green.
To ensure price stability, daily price fluctuations are limited to 10%, and prices are reset to the base rate every day. Weekly, the bar’s management reviews the sales data and adjusts the base prices accordingly, with a maximum fluctuation of 20%.
“Just like in the real stock market, the prices of popular beers surge while less-demanded beers decrease. This process is both simple and exciting. Customers sip their beers while eagerly watching the price board,” says Li Chao, the founder of the Qingdao Beer Exchange.
Li conceived the beer exchange concept, hoping to increase customer interaction. Customers feel like investors as they influence the bar’s menu by purchasing their favorite beers.
The Qingdao Beer Exchange features 30 beer taps offering 10 different beer varieties. It serves traditional Qingdao beers and fresh, pure drafts. Additionally, patrons enjoy fruit-flavored beers like lychee, peach, and passion fruit. The bar particularly appeals to young people and tourists seeking unique nightlife experiences.
