Taiwan is the origin of boba or bubble tea. The beverage is usually made with tea, milk, and tapioca ball, but can also include other toppings. In the U.S., there are many franchises for entrepreneurs who want to build a business around bubble tea. Consider these bubble tea franchises.
Top Bubble Tea Franchises
There are many brands that offer new franchises in the U.S. if you’re interested in starting a bubble-tea business. Consider these top bubble tea franchises.
1. Kung Fu Tea
Kung Fu Tea has more than 2,200 stores in the U.S. The company provides a 10-step guide to getting your bubble tea shop up and running. They offer a variety of store models, including traditional storefronts as well as those in shopping malls and airports. The initial costs for a traditional shop range between $140,000 and $422,000
2. Tapioca Express
Tapioca Express has approximately 29 franchise locations across the U.S. primarily along the West Coast. The company offers a variety of startup services, ranging from location selection to training employees. Starting a business can cost anywhere between $200,000 and $527,000.
3. Gong Cha
Gong Cha was launched originally in Taiwan. The stores offer tapioca and fresh tea from Taiwan. The company is looking for new franchisees to open in several high-quality locations, mostly in the Northeast. The estimated startup costs for a single franchise unit range between $177,430 and $335,400.
4. Bubbleology
Bubbleology offers boba and waffles as well as various fruit-flavored teas. The well-known brand is looking for retail operators with experience to create exclusive territories in the U.S. There are several open territories, as the company has only a few stores. The estimated upfront costs range between $205,850 to $458,950.
5. Sharetea
Sharetea is a beverage company that offers a wide range of drinks including teas, milk teas, fruit juices, and blended drinks. The company was founded in 1992, and now has over 150 stores throughout North America. There is a lot of brand recognition but there is still room to grow in popular markets. The startup costs can range from $300,000 to $500,000
6. Koi Tea
Koi Tea is a franchise opportunity for bubble tea drinkers with experience in food service or retail. Each boba shop sells a wide range of tea drinks, rolled ice-cream and other treats. Initial investments range from $200,000 to $500,000.
