Gong cha temporarily closes all Singapore outlets, announces 2026 brand relaunch

Aliza Carmona — Fri, 10 Oct 2025 01:55:42 +0000

Singapore – Bubble tea brand Gong cha has temporarily closed all its stores in Singapore, with plans to return in 2026 under a refreshed brand and a new franchise partnership.

Founded in Taiwan in 2006, GongCha has grown into one of the most recognisable names in the bubble tea industry. The brand first expanded overseas in 2009 and now operates more than 2,100 stores across over 28 markets.

In an official statement, Gong cha Global confirmed that it has decided not to renew its agreement with its incumbent master franchisee. The company further confirmed its relaunch in Singapore in 2026 with new local franchise partners.

The relaunch will introduce ‘Gong cha 2.0’, the brand’s updated store concept that has already been implemented in South Korea and Japan. The new format aims to modernise the traditional bubble tea model through a scalable and adaptable design supported by technology that reduces customer wait times and enhances overall experience.

Last year, the company began the global rollout of Gong cha 2.0, describing it as a platform designed to evolve its store operations while creating a more welcoming environment for customers.

In a message to Gong cha fans, Paul Reynish, global CEO of Gong cha, said the temporary closure is “not a goodbye, but rather a ‘see you soon! ’”

“We will be back in 2026 with an even bolder, more innovative and more exciting proposition,” he said.

“We believe we’ve cracked the code with Gong cha 2.0, our award-winning technology-led store design. We have seen fantastic results in Japan and South Korea, with customer wait times significantly reduced, higher repeat visits, and overall customer satisfaction levels up. Next year, we’ll bring this concept to Singapore and relaunch our ambitious plans to scale in the market alongside new franchisees. This will give us a really strong platform to realise our growth potential in this fantastic market and build a market-leading position,” Reynish explained.

He added, “I’d like to thank the hard work and commitment of our colleagues in Singapore over the years, who have helped us deliver fantastic service and show consumers how tea is meant to be.”

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Chatime showcases its vibrant and youthful spirit in latest brand refresh

Teddy Cambosa — Thu, 16 May 2024 05:33:39 +0000

Singapore – Global bubble tea and beverage brand Chatime has announced a brand refresh anchored on its new brand promise, “Cups of Joy,” which emphasises the brand’s commitment to fostering inclusivity, creativity, and a sense of a global connected community for customers.

The brand refresh aims to capture the vibrant, youthful spirit of the company and appeals to Gen Z around the world–seeking opportunities to create and celebrate in their everyday lives.

From an updated logo and tagline to new menu choices, modernised packaging, and new store designs, all elements of the brand refresh are designed to engage new customers and longtime fans on an emotional level, forging deeper connections as it delivers the fun and flavorful experiences they crave.

Additionally, many Chatime establishments offer customisable options including sugar-free syrups and dairy-free or soy-based milk replacements that contribute to the drink’s increasing popularity. With the continued addition of beverages to Chatime menus, the brand is well-positioned to satisfy the preferences of more consumers and stay competitive in the broader beverage market.

Talking about the brand refresh, Henry Wang, chairman of Chatime, said, “In a changing and often challenging world, Chatime gives people a reason to come together and celebrate all the moments – big and small – that matter to them. Our updated brand is designed to catch consumers’ attention and inspire curiosity and excitement to reward yourself with a cup of joy.”

Meanwhile, Teresa Wang, co-founder of Chatime, commented, “Chatime’s new brand reinforces that we are committed to delivering an inclusive customer experience in every cup. We embrace our customers’ choices and create an atmosphere of community where they can express themselves freely, boldly, and confidently. Our beverages offer value and serve many purposes for today’s consumer, whether they are looking for a moment to rest for their mental health, a social outlet for spending time with loved ones, or simply a means to recharge for the day ahead. We’re here to support our customers with cups of joy.”

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Gong cha temporarily closes all Singapore outlets, announces 2026 brand relaunch

Chatime showcases its vibrant and youthful spirit in latest brand refresh