Gong cha Expands Presence in Texas with a 50-Unit Franchise Agreement

Gong cha, the premier bubble tea brand globally, is taking significant strides in its U.S. expansion by entering into a landmark agreement with Bakers Acres Cattle Company (BACC) to develop 50 new franchise locations in Texas. This deal is notable not only for its size but also for its strategic importance as it aligns with the brand's ongoing efforts to enhance its presence in one of the top markets for franchise growth.

A Historic Agreement in Franchise Development

The recent deal signed in late July 2026 represents the largest franchising agreement in the history of Gong cha, which currently boasts around 2,200 locations across 33 international markets. Under this new agreement, BACC will spearhead the establishment of Gong cha outlets across major cities in Texas, including Austin, Houston, San Antonio, and Dallas. This massive undertaking is set to unfold over the next seven years.

“The demand for our bubble tea continues to grow,” said Geoff Henry, President of Gong cha Americas. He emphasizes that interest from multi-unit operators is burgeoning as they see Gong cha as a brand that embodies operational simplicity, strong consumer appeal, and efficient scalability—all critical factors for franchise success. With its flexible operational model and robust branding, Gong cha is poised for significant growth in high-potential markets.

Vision and Strategy for Growth

This expansion follows Gong cha’s recent acquisition of master franchise rights for 170 locations across 13 states, including Texas, which positions the company favorably for sustainable growth. The focus is not just on quantity but also on operational excellence. BACC has upheld a strong reputation in the franchising world, having successfully grown other premium brands, demonstrating its capability in managing large-scale operations.

Brett Walker, a principal at BACC, remarked on the meticulous selection process that led to this partnership. “With its premium positioning, operational sophistication, and robust customer loyalty, Gong cha immediately stood out as the right brand to grow with in Texas.” BACC plans to utilize its extensive experience in multi-unit operations to scale the business effectively.

Local Market Insights and Growth Potential

Over the past two years, Gong cha has committed itself to direct franchising initiatives within the U.S., securing agreements not only in Texas but also in California, Massachusetts, Arizona, and beyond. This approach reflects a growing trend where experienced operators seek out high-performing franchise opportunities.

Gong cha’s innovative operating model, which includes the Gong cha 2.0 platform, has been designed to upgrade efficiency across its franchises. This model emphasizes seamless digital ordering, automation, and optimized store layouts to boost performance and customer satisfaction.

A Bright Future for Gong cha

Established in Taiwan in 2006, Gong cha is more than just a beverage brand; it is a representation of a premium customer experience defined by quality and personalization. The brand is not only thriving in the U.S. but also aims to reach over 500 outlets in the Americas by 2028, reflecting its ambitious growth trajectory.

Given its consistent recognition, ranking #1 in the Tea category on Entrepreneur's Franchise 500 list five years in a row, and other accolades, Gong cha continues to capture the attention of both new and seasoned franchisees alike.

Conclusion

As Gong cha ventures deeper into Texas with this significant 50-unit deal, it marks an exciting chapter for the bubble tea phenomenon in the U.S. The blend of a strong franchise partner, a growing market presence, and innovative operational strategies positions Gong cha for continued success in the rapidly evolving beverage landscape. Interested entrepreneurs can find further details about franchising opportunities on Gong cha's official website.