Gong Cha

About Gong Cha

Gong Cha was founded in Taiwan in 2006 and has developed into one of the world’s largest bubble tea franchises. The brand specialises in freshly brewed whole-leaf teas, milk teas, fruit teas and customisable drinks with toppings such as tapioca pearls. Its international expansion began in 2009, followed by its UK debut in Manchester in 2019.

Headquartered in the UK, Gong Cha operates through a predominantly franchised network spanning 33 markets. The business is expanding its UK presence through experienced multi-site operators and development partnerships. Its flexible formats include traditional high-street stores, shopping centre units and compact kiosks for transport hubs and other high-footfall locations. Gong Cha’s newer store design incorporates streamlined preparation systems and beverage technology. Franchise partners receive training, supply-chain assistance, operational guidance and marketing support.

Why franchise with Gong Cha

• ✓Join a globally recognised Taiwanese bubble tea brand with nearly 2,200 stores across 33 markets.
• ✓Offer premium freshly brewed teas, milk teas, fruit drinks and customisable toppings.
• ✓Choose from high-street stores, shopping centre units and compact kiosks in busy locations.
• ✓Benefit from an established international supply chain and streamlined operating procedures.
• ✓Receive support with site selection, store setup, staff training and launch marketing.
• ✓Explore multi-unit and master franchise development opportunities in available territories.

Investment breakdown

Minimum investment	£250,000
Maximum investment	£500,000
Franchise fee	£10,000
Management service fee	On request
Marketing contribution	On request
Agreement term	On request

What's expected of a franchisee

Property requirements

Gong Cha offers flexible premises formats for busy commercial locations. Traditional stores typically occupy 600-900 sq ft, while compact kiosks can be as small as 100 sq ft. Suitable sites include high streets, shopping centres, universities, airports, transport hubs and tourist destinations. Stores require beverage preparation areas, refrigeration, ingredient storage, water supply and customer service facilities. The preferred size and specification depend on the format and local market.

Training and support

Gong Cha provides franchise partners with training in product knowledge, beverage preparation, daily operations, customer service and point-of-sale systems. Support includes site selection, store development, equipment guidance and access to an established international supply chain. Master franchisees receive assistance with developing their territories and supporting sub-franchisees. Ongoing operational guidance, product innovation and marketing resources help maintain consistent brand standards.

Operational requirements

Franchisees oversee beverage preparation, ingredient quality, stock control, food hygiene, allergen management, staffing and customer service. Operators must follow Gong Cha’s approved recipes and preparation procedures while maintaining consistent product presentation. Stores require reliable equipment, inventory management and efficient service during busy periods. Franchisees also manage local marketing, financial performance and compliance with brand standards and applicable regulations.

Experience required

Gong Cha seeks financially capable franchise partners with strong commercial and operational experience. Master franchise applicants should have experience owning or managing established quick-service restaurant brands, supported by an existing management and operations team. Multi-unit development experience, leadership skills and access to sufficient capital are particularly important. Applicants must demonstrate the ability to establish stores, manage teams and support sustained expansion.

Territory availability

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