Gong cha Enters U.S. Airports with Phoenix Sky Harbor Location — GONG CHA LIMITED

Event summary

Gong cha plans to open its first U.S. airport location at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport by the end of 2026.
The location will be operated in partnership with Kind Hospitality, led by President and CEO Nava Singam.
Gong cha's airport format leverages its Gong cha 2.0 operating platform, designed for speed and efficiency in compact spaces.
The brand operates over 240 locations across 24 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico, with plans to exceed 500 stores in the Americas by 2028.

The big picture

Gong cha's foray into U.S. airports marks a strategic shift toward high-traffic, non-traditional environments, aligning with broader trends in the food and beverage sector toward convenience and efficiency. The partnership with Kind Hospitality underscores the brand's focus on operational scalability and its ability to adapt to fast-paced settings. With a strong track record of growth and recognition in the franchising industry, Gong cha's expansion into airports could further solidify its position as a leading bubble tea brand.

What we're watching

Execution Risk: Whether Gong cha can maintain operational efficiency and product quality in high-traffic airport environments.
Scalability: The pace at which Gong cha can expand its airport and non-traditional formats nationwide.
Market Penetration: How the airport location will affect Gong cha's brand visibility and customer acquisition in the U.S.