Gong Cha USA - Bubble Tea - Franchise

About Us
Gong Cha today is one of the most recognized bubble tea brands around the world. Known for quality tea and service, Gong Cha has withheld its reputation against many existing competitors.

Founded in 2006 in Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Gong Cha, which translates to “tribute tea for the emperor” opened its doors into a highly saturated bubble tea market.

The success of Gong Cha in Taiwan was proof that customers responded favorably to the premium quality tea, products & services offered:

• Fresh Tea brewed every 4 hours
• Pearl (bubbles) cooked to perfection every 4 hours
• Tea sourced from the finest Taiwan tea estates
• Strict quality control for all ingredients

FAQs for Franchisees 

Q: What are the territories available?
A: NY, NJ, MA, and TX are currently open for development. Please fill out the application to apply.

Q: Where can I receive information?
A: The above information is available in our Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). After you submit your application, a company representative will contact you. 

Q: Where will training be held? Who should attend the training?
A: Before opening your first store, you and a designated store manager must attend the training program in NY which will take about two weeks.

Q: Is the investment different for non-traditional locations?
A: Estimated cost range is varied by location and situation, but it is usually more expensive to build a non-traditional store (such as a mall kiosk).

Q: How many units do I have to develop as an Area Developer?
A: We expect our Area Developer to establish 2 or more stores within the first year, 5 or more stores within 2 years.

Q: What does it cost to buy an existing Gong Cha Store from a franchisee?
A: The agreement to buy an existing store is made between buyer and seller. Costs are varied with each specific case.

Q: What is the profitability of the business?
A: It is impossible to predict future results about the profitability of the business. There are many causes that can influence the result, including: sales, location, the financing terms, your ability to manage the business and other factors. For these reasons, we do not predict sales, costs, or profits for any store.

Q: May I qualify financially with other partners?
A: A single applicant must personally meet the financial qualifications. However, if a partnership or corporation is formed, we will consider the overall financial strength of the business partnership or corporation.

Q: What happens after I submit my online application?
A: We will email you a confirmation when we receive your online application.

Q: What is the start-up cost for a new Gong Cha Store?
A: The estimated initial investment for a new Store can range from $162,430-$320,400 (per unit).

Q: How long is the entire process of becoming a Gong Cha franchisee?
A: The process includes Applicants Pre-Qualification, Business Plan Review and Approval, Agreement Signing, Training, Location Selection, Construction and Grand Opening. On average, it takes approximately 30-60 days to approve an applicant. The length of time between signing the Franchise Agreement and opening a store is 4 to 8 months.

Q: Is it still possible to be approved as a new franchisee if I do not have direct experience before?
A: Experience of food/beverage is preferred, but not necessary. Management or Business Experience is required if you would like to apply as an Area Developer.

Q: Why is the franchisee fee different across the United States?
A: Initial Franchise fees are based on some factors such as existing brand presence in the specific area.

Q: Is there any financial or development incentives for having multi-locations?
A: We intend to offer qualified Area Developer, who sign 5 or more locations, a 10% discount on the Initial Franchise Fee if paid upfront.

Q: Can I develop a Combination Store with Gong Cha and another brand?
A: A Combination Store will need both brands to have a separate POS system. It is preferred to have a wall or a partition between the two brands.

Q: Can I buy Gong Cha ingredients and provide Gong Cha Products in my existing Restaurant?
A: No, our ingredients can only be used in Gong Cha Stores.

Q: What separates Gong Cha between its competitors?
A: We provide high quality products and service to our customers. Additionally, we have a support system from the headquarter in Taiwan and a strong international brand presence. We cooperate with our headquarter in Taiwan to offer new menu items every 6 months, which is great for customers who enjoy trying new drinks.

Q: Is financing available?
A: We do not provide financing but franchisees can use their own resources.We are expected to be on the SBA Franchise Directory by the end of the month.