Gong Cha signs 50‑unit franchise deal to expand across Texas

Taiwan‑originated bubble‑tea chain Gong Cha announced a 50‑unit exclusive development agreement with Houston‑based franchise operator Bakers Acres & Cattle Co. The deal, the chain’s largest direct franchising contract, will add new Gong Cha stores in Austin, Houston, San Antonio and Dallas over the next seven years.

Geoff Henry, President of Gong Cha Americas, said, "As Gong Cha continues expanding across the U.S., we’re seeing strong interest from multi‑unit operators looking to grow with the global leader." Bakers Acres founder Brett Walker added that Gong Cha’s "premium positioning, operational sophistication and strong consumer loyalty" make it the right brand for Texas growth. The partnership follows Gong Cha’s recent acquisition of master franchise rights to 170 U.S. locations and its target of more than 500 stores in the Americas by 2028. The global bubble‑tea market is projected to reach $3.03 billion in 2026.