Taiwan’s leading bubble tea chain, Gong cha, is making major moves in the UK market. In a bold step toward its global goal of 10,000 stores by 2032, Gong cha has signed a significant franchise agreement with newly formed UK-based consortium Jinziex to open at least 225 stores across the UK in the coming years.
This expansion will dramatically increase Gong cha’s footprint in the country, where it currently operates just 13 outlets since its UK debut in Manchester in 2019.
First New Locations Coming in April 2025
The first four stores under the Jinziex partnership are set to open in:
- Romford
- Hornchurch
- Sidcup
- Gravesend
This launch wave reflects the chain’s mission to reach more communities with its signature tea drinks, tapioca pearls, and customizable options that have made it a global favorite.
Why the UK?
“Where it mattered most to us was the UK,” said Paul Reynish, Global CEO of Gong cha. “It is one of the most exciting markets for us globally.”
Gong cha moved its global headquarters from Seoul to London in 2019, solidifying its commitment to Europe’s food and beverage epicenter. With growing demand for premium non-coffee beverages and health-conscious alternatives, the UK is now seen as the brand’s launchpad for continental Europe.
Jinziex: The Powerhouse Behind the Deal
Jinziex was founded in July 2024 by franchise veterans including:
- Diljit Brar, CEO of Goldex, a major Costa Coffee franchisee with 60+ stores
- Azha Rehman, leader of Costa franchisee WY&SF Ltd
- Steve Falle, Founder and CEO of Kaspa’s Desserts, with 85 UK locations
Brar shared, “Gong cha is a fantastic global brand with a truly unique customer offer. With our experience scaling Costa Coffee and Kaspa’s, we’re confident in building Gong cha into a household name.”
Gong cha’s Global Growth Path
Founded in 2013, Gong cha now operates:
- 2,100+ locations in 28 countries
- Strong presence in the US, South Korea, and Australia
- 2024 master franchise deal to open 300+ stores across the Middle East with Shahia Foods
The UK is a critical part of Gong cha’s broader strategy to bring bubble tea to the mainstream and challenge established coffee chains with a diversified tea-based offering.
Franchise Opportunities with Gong cha
With a proven product, strong consumer demand, and elite franchise partners, Gong cha offers one of the most scalable beverage franchise models globally.
At Star Brands Consulting Group, we support entrepreneurs in evaluating high-growth franchise opportunities like Gong cha, including:
- Strategic location sourcing
- Application assistance
- Local marketing plans
- Supply chain coordination
- Franchise compliance guidance
Interested in becoming a Gong cha franchisee or launching a global F&B brand in your market? Let’s talk. We help investors connect with high-growth franchise systems globally.