Li Yi, 26, a white-collar worker employed at a research agency affiliated to a State-owned petroleum company in Beijing, is a big fan of the fizzy drink because it is not too sweet. It is also a healthier alternative to other sodas.

"I can remember my childhood when I started drinking Beibingyang," Li said. "Now it comes in more flavors and it is cheaper than many other drinks such as milk tea."

With an iconic polar bear logo, the soda's classic glass bottle invokes bygone memories for the company's loyal customers. But due to transportation problems, the brand recently introduced drinks in pull ring-top cans, which are mainly sold in supermarkets.

"We purchased new production lines to double the capacity from our Beijing plant and we anticipate increased sales this year," Guo said.

"The company plans to build another manufacturing base and a sales process center somewhere else in China in less than a year, so we can expand our domestic market," he added.