Chatime Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs
Chatime is a global bubble tea franchise known for its high-quality beverages. Founded in Taiwan in 2005, it began franchising in 2006 and now operates over 2,500 locations in 38 countries, including the U.S. The menu includes milk teas, fruit teas, smoothies, and coffee to suit diverse tastes.
Chatime stands out with its focus on quality and innovation. Advanced tea machines ensure freshness and consistency. Customers can personalize drinks by adjusting sugar levels and adding toppings like pearls and jellies. This commitment to customization has fueled its success worldwide.
In the U.S., Chatime continues to grow through franchising. Franchisees receive full support, including training, marketing, and supply chain management. This approach strengthens Chatime’s position in the competitive beverage market.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Chatime franchise? It costs on average between $293,000 – $480,000 to start a Chatime franchised restaurant.
This includes costs for construction, equipment, inventory, and initial operating expenses. The exact amount varies based on several factors, including the type of Chatime store you establish, its location, and whether the franchisee decides to lease or purchase the property.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $54,900 |
| Initial Training, Opening Support and Related Personnel Cost | $5,000 |
| Rent | $6,000 – $33,000 |
| Lease Security Deposit | $4,000 – $22,000 |
| Storage Space Deposit | $0 – $1,500 |
| Leasehold Improvements | $135,000 – $226,000 |
| Equipment | $33,500 – $46,000 |
| External Signage | $4,200 – $9,500 |
| Opening Inventory and Supplies | $10,000 – $16,000 |
| Grand Opening Marketing | $10,000 |
| Licenses, Permits, and Utility Deposits | $3,500 – $5,500 |
| Technology Systems | $10,500 – $14,000 |
| Uniforms | $500 – $1,500 |
| Insurance | $3,000 – $6,000 |
| Professional Fees | $1,000 – $5,000 |
| Additional Funds – Three Months | $12,000 – $24,000 |
| Total Estimated Initial Investment | $293,100 – $479,900 |
Average Revenue (AUV)
How much revenue can you make with a Chatime franchise? A Chatime franchised shop makes on average $244,000 in revenue (AUV) per year.
Here is the extract from the Franchise Disclosure Document:
Chatime Franchise Disclosure Document
Frequently Asked Questions
What funding options are available for a Chatime franchise?
Most franchise buyers in Chatimes investment range finance their unit through an SBA 7(a) loan, with some multi-unit operators using SBA 504 loans. Buyers with rollable retirement funds sometimes use a ROBS structure. See SharpSheets financial model hub for guidance.
How long does it take to pay back a Chatime franchise investment?
Payback periods typically run 3-7 years depending on investment level, location performance, and financing structure. Actual payback varies significantly by unit performance and debt service obligations.
Who owns Chatime?
Chatime is owned by La Kaffa International Co. Ltd., a Taiwanese company that operates the global bubble tea franchise. As of June 2024, Carlos Antonius serves as the global CEO, overseeing the brand’s operations and strategic growth worldwide.
SharpSheets Editorial Team | sharpsheets.io | Last Updated: July 2026
Disclaimer
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Research Chatime franchise data: For the full FDD cost breakdown, investment tables, and Item 19 disclosures, visit FranchisePayback.com → Chatime FDD Review.
