Global tea brand

Gong cha is an international bubble tea brand specializing in freshly brewed tea beverages, including milk teas, fruit teas, and customizable drink options. The company operates on a standardized franchise model designed to ensure consistent product quality and brand experience across all markets. Its uniqueness lies in combining authentic tea culture with a highly efficient quick-service retail system that is optimized for high customer turnover rather than traditional café seating experiences.

The franchise stands out due to its strong global brand recognition, particularly among younger consumers, and its ability to adapt store formats to different markets, including compact kiosks, takeaway shops, and full retail locations. This flexibility allows franchisees to enter both high-traffic urban centers and smaller commercial spaces while maintaining operational efficiency.

Franchise entry, costs and operational structure

Becoming a Gong cha franchisee requires an application process that includes business evaluation, financial assessment, and approval of the intended market territory. Once approved, franchisees undergo structured training programs that cover beverage preparation, store management, customer service standards, and operational procedures before launching their location.

The financial commitment varies depending on country and store size, but the initial franchise fee typically ranges between approximately 30,000 and 40,000 US dollars. The total startup investment, including construction, equipment, and working capital, usually falls between 150,000 and 500,000 US dollars, with premium locations potentially exceeding this range due to higher real estate and build-out costs.

Ongoing costs include a royalty fee generally between four and seven percent of gross sales, as well as a marketing contribution of approximately one to three percent of revenue. These fees support brand development, advertising, and continued operational support from the franchisor.

Support, earnings potential and future expansion

New franchisees receive extensive support from the company, including site selection guidance, store design assistance, supply chain access, operational training, and ongoing business consultation. This structured onboarding process is designed to ensure consistency and reduce operational risk during the early stages of business development.

Revenue potential varies significantly depending on location, foot traffic, and operational efficiency. High-performing Gong cha stores in prime urban areas can achieve strong sales volumes due to high customer demand and repeat purchases, while average locations typically generate stable mid-range food and beverage retail revenues consistent with the global bubble tea market segment.

Franchisees are responsible for daily store operations, staff management, quality control, customer service, and maintaining brand standards set by the franchisor. This includes ensuring product consistency, inventory management, and adherence to hygiene and operational guidelines.

Looking ahead, Gong cha continues to expand globally, with ongoing growth focused on Europe, North America, and emerging markets. The company is actively increasing its footprint in high-demand urban areas and further developing digital ordering systems and delivery integration to strengthen its competitive position in the global beverage industry.