Gong cha targets Texas with largest ever direct franchising deal

The Taiwanese bubble tea chain is partnering with experienced multi-unit developers to deliver its ambitious US growth agenda

In March 2026, Taiwanese bubble tea chain Gong cha took greater control of its US store portfolio by acquiring 170 of its licensed stores – over two-thirds of total footprint in the country.

The plan behind the move was to pivot from single owner licensing to larger multi-unit developers, which have greater resources at their disposal to deliver accelerated outlet growth.

That strategy is also being applied to new business opportunities – as evidenced by Gong cha’s latest franchise agreement.