Gong cha has signed a three-unit development deal in Southern California, extending the brand\u2019s reach in the US.<\/p>\n
Signed with franchisees Gagan and Aman Batta, the agreement covers new stores in Fontana, Eastvale and Jurupa Valley.<\/p>\n
The first outlet is planned for Fontana, with an opening targeted for the third quarter of 2026.<\/p>\n
Gong cha Americas president Geoff Henry said: \u201cAs we continue our growth trajectory, key markets like Southern California demand the right balance of scale and local execution.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Batta brothers are exceptional operators, and we’re excited to partner with such experienced multi-unit leaders to accelerate development and establish the brand in a meaningful way.\u201d<\/p>\n
Gagan and Aman Batta currently run more than 26 restaurants across several concepts, including Subway, Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream, Nekter Juice Bar and Slice House Pizza.<\/p>\n
Their franchising background spans nearly 20 years. Over that period, they have previously owned and managed 14 Subway locations.<\/p>\n
They now oversee one of the largest Nekter Juice Bar groups in the US, with 20 stores.<\/p>\n
Gagan Batta said: \u201cBubble tea is a high-growth category, and we’ve been focused on finding a concept we can scale the right way.<\/p>\n
\u201cWith our background operating multi-unit brands, we understand how to build in competitive, high-demand spaces, and Gong cha gives us a strong platform to do that while also diversifying and complementing our existing portfolio.\u201d<\/p>\n
Gong cha has close to 2,200 outlets worldwide across 33 markets.<\/p>\n
In the US, the chain operates at more than 240 locations in 23 states, Washington, DC, and Puerto Rico.<\/p>\n
Last month, Gong cha took over 170 US stores<\/a> after acquiring the rights from a master franchisee.<\/p>\n