Grand View Research predicts that bubble tea isn’t going anywhere. In fact, the demand for bubble tea will rise until 2027. By then, it would have a 4.2 billion revenue. Although there are many bubble tea stores popping left and right in the United States, is a bubble tea franchise still profitable?
Which are the most profitable bubble tea franchises?
1. Gong Cha
Franchise Cost: $177,430 to $335,400
Gong Cha is one of the well-known bubble tea brands. Their Milk Foam, Milk Tea, and Creative Series are the favorites. Some of those teas include Green Tea, Wintermelon Tea, and Pearl Milk Tea. Currently, Gong Cha is available for franchising in the following states:
- New Hampshire
- Connecticut
- Pennsylvania
- New Jersey
- New York
- Massachusetts
- Rhode Island
- Oklahoma
- Texas
It’s also available in Washington D.C. and California.
And if you want to try starting a Gong Cha franchise, you need to fill out their application form, and a representative will talk to you. After that, they conduct a review of your credit score, business plan, location, construction, franchise agreement, and opening. It can take up to 8 months for the franchise to complete with the grand opening.
2. Bubbleology
Franchise Cost: $203,100 to $455,550
Bubbleology is a bubble tea franchise from across the pond. Even if that’s the case, Bubbleology is also big in the US. They have a 5-year franchise term, and you can start one by filling out their application form. Then, the franchise will call you for an interview, and if successful, you start your journey as a franchisee of Bubbleology. Unlike most bubble tea franchises in this list, they offer bubble tea and bubble waffles, which are a common companion of bubble tea.
They serve the following drink types:
- Milk Tea
- Fruit Tea
- Slushies
- Coffees
- Bubble Fizz
- Cocktails (available only for select franchises)
3. Kung Fu Tea
Franchise Cost: $140,000 to $422,000
Although Kung Fu Tea started in 2010, it’s still one of the well-known bubble tea brands. Plus, it’s also a popular choice for franchising. They have 200+ stores in the US and a few in Canada (known as KF Tea there). Their bestsellers include:
- Kung Fu Milk Tea
- Mango Green Tea
- Cocoa Cream Wow
- Kung Fu Green Tea
- Strawberry Slush
Plus, they have other drink offerings and toppings.
If you want to franchise Kung Fu Tea, it starts by filling out an inquiry. From there, you’ll be interviewed and scout the best locations to set up the franchise. Then, once all other details are sorted out, such as franchise agreement, store renovation, and training, you can open the franchise and get high-fives from their team.
4. Tapioca Express
Franchise Cost: $200,000 to $527,000
Tapioca Express is another popular bubble tea franchise to start. With more than 20 years in the business, it’s one of the oldest bubble tea franchises in the US. Currently, it has stores in California, Washington, and Virginia. Not only do they offer teas, but they have food like rice meals and snacks. Plus, they also serve coffee and froyos.
To start your franchise journey, complete your franchise application form, and they’ll evaluate if you’re eligible to start a franchise. Once done, they will assess the store location and building. Finally, you can open your Tapioca Express franchise when it’s completed.
5. 7 Leaves
Franchise Cost: $200,000 to $450,000
7 Leaves started its humble beginnings in Little Saigon in California. It grew to become one of the well-known bubble tea brands in the state. They eventually grew to other cities in California, like Los Angeles and San Jose. Plus, they have stores in Nevada and Texas. It’s available for development in Washington, Oregon, Colorado, Arizona, to name a few. You can launch a 7 Leaves Express, Cafe, or Hybrid.
And if you’re ready to start a 7 Leaves franchise, send in your application, and they’ll contact you if you meet their qualifications and move on with the process until the grand opening.
Is it still profitable to set up a bubble tea franchise?
It’s a yes, considering that bubble tea since Millenials and Gen Z, in particular, love this drink. They might seek to try different flavors or brands offering various drinks. Plus, if a bubble tea franchise isn’t available in your area yet, you have the opportunity to open the first one there that could compete with other brands or drink franchises.
And if you want to check out other franchise info, read more here at Franchise HOW!
