2018
4
$150,000
$30,000
$350,000
No
Cha House is an Asian-inspired tea house that brings the rich flavors and traditions of Taiwan to the United States. Founded by Lulu (Ya Wen), who was raised in the heart of Taipei, the brand embodies a vision of sharing heritage through a modern-day tea house experience. Lulu's childhood experiences, from working in her parent's restaurant to visiting tea fields in Nantou, inspired her to create a space that combines quality tea with warm, familial service.
With locations in Cary, Raleigh, Wake Forest, and Myrtle Beach, Cha House has established a strong presence in the U.S. market. The brand offers a diverse menu that includes traditional Taiwanese teas, boba, and a selection of Asian-inspired dishes, catering to a growing demand for authentic and high-quality tea experiences.
Investing in Cha House offers a unique opportunity to be part of a brand that combines cultural heritage with modern business practices. The franchise model is designed to support entrepreneurs in building a successful business with a focus on quality products, customer experience, and community engagement. Cha House's commitment to excellence and its proven track record in the U.S. market make it an attractive option for investors seeking a rewarding venture in the food and beverage industry.
Established Year: Cha House was founded in 2018 by Lulu (Ya Wen), a native of Taipei, Taiwan. Her early life immersed in Taiwanese tea culture and restaurant management inspired her to bring authentic Taiwanese tea experiences to the United States.
Founders: Lulu (Ya Wen) is the visionary behind Cha House. Having worked in her family’s restaurant and spending time in Taiwan’s tea fields in Nantou, she developed a passion for authentic tea preparation and customer-focused service. This cultural heritage forms the backbone of the Cha House brand.
Franchise Units: As of September 2025, Cha House operates 4 locations in the USA:
Cary, North Carolina
Raleigh, North Carolina
Wake Forest, North Carolina
North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
These locations reflect the brand’s strategic growth in the Southeastern United States.
Brand Journey: Cha House began with the goal of introducing traditional Taiwanese tea to American consumers in a modern, inviting setting. The first store opened in Cary, NC, and the brand has expanded steadily, prioritizing quality, authenticity, and community engagement. Over the years, Cha House has gained recognition for its premium tea offerings, boba beverages, and Asian-inspired cuisine, becoming a go-to destination for tea lovers and families.
Company History & Ownership: Cha House is privately owned and operated by its founder, Lulu (Ya Wen). The company emphasizes a hands-on approach to quality control, menu development, and customer experience, ensuring each franchise maintains the brand’s high standards.
Market Presence in the USA: Currently focused in North and South Carolina, Cha House aims to expand further across the U.S., targeting regions with growing demand for specialty teas and authentic Asian-inspired dining experiences.
Industry Category: Cha House operates in the Food & Beverage sector, specifically Specialty Tea & Asian-Inspired Cuisine, a rapidly growing market in the U.S. due to increasing interest in healthy, artisanal, and culturally authentic beverages.
Cha House offers comprehensive support and training to its franchisees, ensuring they are well-equipped to operate their business successfully:
Pre-Launch Support: Assistance with site selection, lease negotiation, and store design to ensure the location aligns with the brand's standards.
Operational Training: In-depth training covering day-to-day operations, staff management, inventory control, and customer service to maintain consistency and quality.
Marketing Support: Ongoing marketing strategies, including digital marketing, local promotions, and brand-building initiatives to drive customer engagement and sales.
Ongoing Support: Continuous support through regular communication, operational audits, and access to a network of fellow franchisees to share best practices and experiences.
Cha House seeks franchisees who are passionate about Asian culture and cuisine and have a strong desire to build a community-focused business. The ideal franchisee should possess:
Business Acumen: Experience in management or ownership of a business, with a strong understanding of operations and customer service.
Passion for Tea Culture: A genuine interest in Asian tea traditions and a commitment to delivering authentic experiences to customers.
Investment Capability: Financial resources to meet the initial investment requirements and sustain operations during the early stages.
Community Engagement: A willingness to actively participate in local events and initiatives to foster community relationships and brand loyalty.
Location Preference: Interest in expanding Cha House's presence in untapped markets across the United States, particularly in areas with a growing demand for specialty tea and Asian cuisine.
| Category | Estimated Amount (USD) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $150,000 – $350,000 | Includes store setup, equipment, inventory, and initial operating costs. |
| Minimum Investment | $150,000 | Varies depending on location and store size. |
| Franchise Fee | $30,000 – $38,000 | One-time initial fee to join the franchise system. |
| Infrastructure Cost | $70,000 – $150,000 | Buildout, furniture, signage, POS systems, and décor. |
| Marketing Budget | $5,000 – $10,000/year | Local marketing campaigns, digital ads, and community events. |
| Working Capital | $20,000 – $50,000 | Funds for initial operations including staff salaries and inventory. |
| Royalty Fees | 2% – 6% of gross sales | Paid to franchisor for ongoing support and brand rights. |
| Expected ROI | 18% – 30% | Return depends on location, operational efficiency, and market demand. |
| Break-Even Time | 12 – 24 months | Time to recoup the initial investment based on sales performance. |
| Potential Revenue Streams | $200,000 – $500,000/year | From tea, boba drinks, Asian-inspired dishes, catering, and events. |
