Gong cha is embarking on a major expansion in the Texas market. The bubble tea brand has signed a 50-unit exclusive deal with veteran franchise operator, Bakers Acres & Cattle Company (BACC), according to QSR.
The rollout spans Houston, Austin, San Antonio, and Dallas. The plan is to open the new stores over the next seven years.
The exclusive area development agreement marks the largest direct franchising deal in Gong cha history. The deal follows the brand’s recent attainment of master franchise rights in 170 U.S. locations across 13 states, including Texas. Texas remains a prime location for franchise growth.
What Now Houston reached out to Gong cha’s President of the Americas, Geoff Henry, to find out more about the expansion and rollout. Unfortunately, we did not hear back by the time of this publication.
“From a single bubble tea shop in Taiwan, we’ve expanded to over 2,100 stores, bringing our signature teas to guests worldwide. Guided by a blend of tradition and innovation, we’re dedicated to creating exceptional experiences with each cup of tea,” the Gong cha website reads.
“We’re on a journey to serve a billion cups of happiness, opening hearts and minds to how tea is meant to be. Each cup is crafted to deliver not only exceptional flavor but also genuine moments that bring people together.”
Founded in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, by Zhen-hua Wu in 2006, the brand began with Wu experimenting with tea blends before opening early tea shops in Taiwan. Wu pioneered signature milk foam recipes and expanded overseas to Hong Kong. That expansion was followed by rapid entry into Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Macau. By 2023, Gong cha had surpassed 2,000 locations spanning more than 30 countries worldwide.
There are now nearly 2,200 Gong cha locations worldwide across 30 markets, including more than 240 locations in the United States. Texas has 35 of those locations, with just five in Houston, making it a prime location for this huge expansion.
