Q&A: Does Bubbleology Franchise in the UK?

Becky Martin, writer

Published at 29/01/2018, Updated on 04/05/2022 , Reading time: 5 min

Q&A: Does Bubbleology Franchise in the UK? — Photo © bubbleology-franchise(1).jpg

bubbleology drink — Photo © bubbleology-drink.png

If you've always dreamed of owning and operating your own tea business, you might be familiar with the bubble tea brand Bubbleology. Today, we explore whether you can start your own Bubbleology franchise in the UK.

The Bubbleology concept originates from bubble tea, a delicious and refreshing tea-based beverage that includes tapioca pearls and can be enjoyed hot or cold. While traditionally consumed in Asia, Bubbleology has brought this tea to the attention of global consumers through its pioneering franchise ideas. Today, the brand has an exciting menu, which not only includes teas, but also alternative products such as coffee and waffles. But can you start your own Bubbleology franchise?

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Does Bubbleology franchise in the UK?

Yes, it does! And it’s accredited by the British Franchise Association (BFA), so is recognised as an ethical franchisor that complies with industry standards.

History of Bubbleology

The vibrant brand was born in Soho, London in April 2011. Assad Khan, who was formerly an investment banker, couldn’t get enough bubble tea during his trip to New York. After realising that the delicious drink hadn’t made its way to the UK, he couldn’t wait to get started with his new business venture. Since its launch, the franchise has rapidly expanded across the country, continental Europe and as far away as North America and the Middle East.

Starting a Bubbleology franchise unit

The bubble tea franchise is looking for ambitious franchisees to join its constantly expanding franchise network. Let’s now break down the opportunity so you can see if it’s the right one for you.

Becoming a Bubbleology franchisee

Am I the right fit?

You don't have to have experience of managing a food business to be eligible to run a Bubbleology bubble tea franchise. This franchisor is simply looking for people with excellent operational, team-building and customer service skills.

The typical Bubbleology franchisee will be a sophisticated entrepreneur with the skills, drive and passion to sell smiles, but take their franchise very seriously at the same time. Once you've signed your agreement, Bubbleology will be happy to review your business plan before you open your franchise.

In recent years, Bubbleology has supported several international outreach programmes, such as the creation of water wells in Africa. Therefore, the brand also looks out for people who want to make an impact and give back to their community and the wider world.

What does the application process involve?

Once you've filled in the online application form, you'll receive a brochure detailing the franchise opportunities available at Bubbleology.
Afterwards, you'll be given an initial phone interview which, if successful, will be followed by an invitation to attend the brand's Discovery Day.
Here, you'll be presented with a Financial Information Memorandum pack and have the chance to raise any queries.
Next, you'll receive a more in-depth application form, where you'll be able to finalise your franchise territory.
Afterwards, if you satisfy the Bubbleology criteria for new franchises, you'll receive a letter of intent before you select your site and sign the franchise agreement.
Bubbleology will assist you in choosing the most appropriate location for your new franchise by providing metrics and guidance on how to select a site where there'll be sufficient footfall.

Find out more about a Bubbleology franchise.

How much you need to invest

The initial franchise fee for a Bubbleology franchise is £23,000. Franchisees also have to pay a monthly royalty fee of five percent, as well as a one percent contribution to the network's marketing fund, which will enable Bubbleology’s head office to provide ongoing support and training.

You should also have £76,000 in liquid assets and a net worth of £230,000.

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What you get for your investment

In return for the franchise fee, you'll become the owner and operator of your own Bubbleology brand for an initial five-year contract period, which can be extended for another five years. Once you've joined the Bubbleology network and set up your bubble tea franchise, you'll be part of a global family, with ongoing support and training from the word go. This will include visits to the franchisor's London headquarters, operational training, guidance on social media and PR, location-based coaching and more.

Existing connections: Bubbleology has a streamlined supply chain, which means all franchisees benefit from an efficient, centrally managed distribution network, so costs are kept to a minimum. This exciting lifestyle brand also has partnerships with leading fashion retailers, which means your franchise will get significant exposure, so you can make the biggest impact in your franchise territory.
Training and support: All corporate location-based training will take place for up to 10 days, which will include guidance on the Bubbleology brand culture, on-the-job training, operations and more. You'll also receive up to three days' assistance before you officially open your franchise at the Grand Opening. In addition, Bubbleology will provide detailed manuals and handbooks, full operational training, ongoing operational assistance such as operational store surveys, access to reports and metrics, advice on marketing and strategy development, and access to the brand's central supply chain distribution.
Equipment and ingredients: Bubbleology will provide specialist equipment that's been tried and tested so you can produce the best tea in your bubble tea franchise. The franchisor also has proprietary ingredients and requires all franchises to use the same tea products from its dedicated supply chain to ensure quality standards are always met and costs are kept to a minimum. This also saves you the time and hassle of having to select equipment and ingredients yourself.

Cater to widespread demand and start a Bubbleology franchise

You should now know the franchise opportunity inside out and be able to decide whether Bubbleology is the business venture for you. If you’re unsure, you can browse more of our tea franchise opportunities.

Regardless of the sector you plan on entering, it’s always important to remember our official franchise checklist to avoid making any critical mistakes.