Thomas Keller Group Settles EEOC Case for $2 Million
Thomas Keller Restaurant Group will pay $2M to settle an EEOC harassment and retaliation case tied to Bouchon Las Vegas, closing a long-running action from 2018.
Jul 19, 2026
Thomas Keller Restaurant Group will pay $2M to settle an EEOC harassment and retaliation case tied to Bouchon Las Vegas, closing a long-running action from 2018.
Jul 19, 2026
Fresh Kitchen names Bill Knopf and Matt Livingston to lead operations and development as the clean-label bowl brand targets growth beyond 100 locations.
Jul 18, 2026
Hardee’s franchisee Superior Star filed Chapter 11 after a 2023 deal revealed unpaid taxes, costly repairs, and lease burdens; plans to reject leases and refocus.
Jul 18, 2026
Cinnabon posted a net gain of 308 U.S. units in 2025 and launched Seattle’s Best Coffee in 2026 to boost beverage mix, margins, and franchise-driven expansion.
Jul 18, 2026
Craveworthy taps master franchisee Unisan Bowls to launch Genghis Grill and Dirty Dough in India, targeting Hyderabad first amid tight U.S. financing.
Jul 17, 2026
Buffalo Wild Wings launches Poppin’ Ranch, a 99-cent popping-candy ranch add-on, designed to spark sensory buzz and impulse trials ahead of Wing Day.
Jul 17, 2026
Wonder closed a $650M Series D at a $9B valuation to expand locations and invest in robotics, AI, and delivery tech, accelerating its automation-first restaurant model.
Jul 17, 2026
Understand sports bar startup expenses, including location, construction, kitchen equipment, televisions, licenses, insurance, staffing, supplies, and cash reserves for operations.
Jul 16, 2026
Learn how to increase restaurant sales during the World Cup final through smarter planning, staffing, promotions, inventory, menus, and operations.
Jul 16, 2026
Mother-daughter duo Ciara Boyce and Tracey Pidge bring Hotworx to Wasilla, the first of four Alaska studios, extending a fast-growing 800+ location brand.
Jul 16, 2026
Discover the growth and evolution of the bubble tea market in the U.S. through the lens of a seasoned beverage industry leader. Learn about the success story of Gong cha and the impact of direct franchising in expanding the brand's reach.


The beverage industry has witnessed a profound evolution over the past decades, with the emergence of new trends and consumer preferences shaping its landscape. One such phenomenon that has captured the attention of many is the surge in the popularity of bubble tea, especially in the U.S. market. As a quintessential beverage that combines flavors, textures, and customization, bubble tea has become a staple for Millennials and Gen Z-ers seeking unique and personalized drink experiences.
Gong cha stands out as a trailblazer in the bubble tea industry, achieving remarkable growth and recognition for its innovative approach to tea beverages. Through strategic leadership and a deep understanding of consumer preferences, Gong cha has solidified its position as the premier bubble tea brand, offering a wide range of flavors and toppings to cater to diverse tastes. The brand's commitment to quality, freshness, and customer engagement has fostered a loyal fan base that resonates with Gong cha's distinct identity.

The recent announcement of direct franchising marks a significant milestone in Gong cha's expansion strategy, signaling a new phase of growth and market penetration. By embracing direct franchising alongside the existing master franchise model, Gong cha is poised to accelerate its presence in the Americas region and beyond. This strategic move allows experienced partners to take on multiple markets simultaneously, leveraging their expertise to drive sustainable growth and brand visibility.

One key factor that sets Gong cha apart is its focus on customization and profitability within a compact operational model. The brand's ability to offer highly customizable bubble tea options appeals to a younger demographic that values self-expression and choice in their beverage preferences. By enabling franchisees to deliver tailored drink experiences in a cost-effective manner, Gong cha ensures strong store profitability and long-term success in a competitive market.