The partnership with the iconic entertainment resort destination represents a key milestone in Gong cha’s growth strategy across non-traditional venues

Gong cha, the world’s leading bubble tea brand with nearly 2,200 locations in 32 international markets and over 240 stores in the U.S. across 23 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico, announces the opening of its first location at Atlantis Paradise Island in The Bahamas. The opening—timed with Atlantis’ annual Battle 4 Atlantis college basketball tournament—marks a significant milestone for Gong cha, bringing its signature bubble tea to one of the world’s most iconic resort destinations.

The Atlantis store serves as a flagship for Gong cha in the region, and a blueprint for future resort-based growth. The partnership highlights Gong cha’s increased focus on expanding the brand into high-traffic hospitality, travel, and entertainment-based locations across the Americas.

“Opening at Atlantis Paradise Island marks a major step forward in our non-traditional growth strategy, and demonstrates how Gong cha fits in seamlessly at experience-driven destinations looking to appeal to a global customer base,” said Michael Nedelkovich Jr., Vice President of U.S. Non-Traditional Franchise Development. “The Atlantis team particularly appreciated the brand’s flexible footprint and ease of operations, which make it ideal for a range of high-traffic, high-volume environments.”

Located near the resort’s Royal Baths pool, Gong cha anticipates serving millions of Atlantis guests annually, offering its menu of premium teas brewed to exacting standards, and personalized with a wide range of flavors and toppings. With peak-season foot traffic reaching approximately 7,000 daily visitors, the store will enhance visibility for Gong cha among millions of international visitors, many from markets where bubble tea is already a daily favorite.

The partnership comes as part of Atlantis’ broader $250 million transformation, which introduces an array of new experiences tailored for adventure-seekers, food lovers, and entertainment enthusiasts. With limited specialty beverage competition on property, Gong cha fills a clear white space in the resort’s offerings—perfectly aligned with guests’ on-the-go habits and preference for cold, refreshing drinks suited to the tropical climate.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Gong cha to Atlantis as we continue redefining our culinary and beverage offerings,” said Audrey Oswell, President and Managing Director, Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas. “The brand’s commitment to quality and creativity complements our vision to deliver unique experiences that go beyond a traditional vacation—and it’s already becoming a favorite stop for our many international guests and team members.”

Gong cha is currently seeking top-tier franchise partners in markets across North America, including Southern California, Nevada, Utah, and the Southeastern U.S., as demand for premium bubble tea continues to rise.

For more information on franchising with Gong cha, visit https://gongchausofficial.com.

ABOUT GONG CHA

Founded in Taiwan in 2006, Gong cha is the world’s premier bubble tea brand. Its commitment to quality starts with its name: “Gong cha” means to offer the best tea to the emperor from all of one’s possessions. From the most seasoned bubble tea connoisseur to a first-timer, Gong cha offers its customers the ability to customize their beverage to their exact specifications and never sacrifices flavor or technique. With its premium product, simple and scalable operational model, and strong corporate support, Gong cha is one of the fastest-growing bubble tea brands in the U.S and internationally, with nearly 2,200 locations in 32 international markets. Since 2014 Gong cha has opened more than 240 stores in the U.S. across 23 states and Washington, D.C. and Puerto Rico and is on track to exceed more than 500 stores in the Americas by 2028. Gong cha was ranked #1 in the Tea category in Entrepreneur magazine’s prestigious Franchise 500® list for the fourth consecutive year (2025, 2024, 2023, 2022); ranked #140 on Franchise Times’ Top 400 List of the largest U.S. based franchise systems by global systemwide sales (2024, 2023, 2022 & 2021); ranked #5 on Fast Casual’s Top 100 Movers & Shakers List honoring brands leading the industry (2024); awarded category winner of Top Food & Beverage Franchises in the Global Franchise Awards (2023); and named one of QSR Magazine’s 17 Best Restaurant Franchising Deals for 2023. For more, please visit gongchausofficial.com.

ABOUT ATLANTIS PARADISE ISLAND, THE BAHAMAS

Atlantis Paradise Island recently completed $250 million in bold renovations and launched exciting new partnerships throughout the resort — including a full transformation of The Royal Towers, a reimagined Atlantis Casino, and much more. These enhancements mark a dynamic new chapter for the world’s most iconic entertainment resort destination, ensuring that guests from around the globe continue to enjoy the very best of Atlantis: with stunning accommodations, innovative cuisine, and unforgettable experiences ranging from live music performances and concerts to internationally acclaimed food and wine festivals. For more information and reservations, please visit atlantisbahamas.com.

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“The Atlantis team particularly appreciated the brand’s flexible footprint and ease of operations, which make it ideal for a range of high-traffic, high-volume environments," said Michael Nedelkovich Jr., VP of U.S. Non-Traditional Franchise Development.