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Gong cha to Open at Atlantis Paradise Island, Marking Its Entry Into the Caribbean Market

via Business Wire

This strategic partnership brings the leading global bubble tea brand to one of the world’s most iconic entertainment resort destinations

Gong cha, the world’s premier bubble tea brand with nearly 2,200 locations across 29 international markets, will open its first Caribbean location at Atlantis Paradise Island in The Bahamas. The opening marks a strategic hospitality partnership between two globally recognized brands, introducing Gong cha’s signature bubble tea to one of the world’s most iconic resort destinations.

Set to open adjacent to Shake Shack near the resort’s Royal Baths pool, Gong cha will serve millions of annual Atlantis guests, offering its menu of premium teas brewed to exacting standards, and personalized with a wide range of flavors and toppings. The partnership comes as part of Atlantis’ broader $250 million renovation and reimagining, which includes new culinary experiences and elevated guest offerings.

“Gong cha shares many of our core values including leading with hospitality, creating uplifting experiences for guests, and a commitment to quality service and ingredients,” said Audrey Oswell, President and Managing Director, Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas. “We have many exciting dining additions planned this year and into 2026, and we are thrilled that Gong cha will be a part of the folio.”

As a direct partnership with the resort, the Gong cha Atlantis location will serve as a high-profile flagship in the Caribbean, and a potential blueprint for future resort-based growth. With peak-season foot traffic reaching approximately 7,000 daily visitors, the store is expected to introduce Gong cha to new international audiences, while delivering on the brand’s commitment to high-quality, customizable beverages.

The Atlantis location represents a key milestone in Gong cha’s growing presence across non-traditional venues—a strategic focus led by the brand’s newly appointed Vice President of U.S. Non-Traditional Franchise Development, Michael Nedelkovich Jr. With plans to scale through resort, travel, and entertainment-based partnerships, Gong cha is tapping into new channels to reach a global, experience-driven customer base.

“This location allows Gong cha to reach a truly global guest base, and demonstrates how our brand continues to evolve through strategic hospitality partnerships,” said Nedelkovich. “We’re honored to be part of Atlantis’ next chapter, and look forward to bringing our innovative, expertly crafted beverages to Paradise Island.”

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 29 international markets. Since 2014 Gong cha has opened more than 240 stores in the U.S. across 21 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.

“This location allows Gong cha to reach a truly global guest base, and demonstrates how our brand continues to evolve through strategic hospitality partnerships,” said Vice President of U.S. Non-Traditional Franchise Development, Michael Nedelkovich Jr.

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