Phoenix Sky Harbor Welcomes Gong cha's First U.S. Airport Store
HOSPITALITY
Gong cha, the world’s leading bubble tea brand, is expanding into the airport sector with a new location planned for Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.
Gong cha, the world’s leading bubble tea brand with nearly 2,200 locations across 33 international markets, is entering the U.S. airport sector for the first time. The company announced plans to open a new location at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport by the end of 2026, marking a significant step in its strategy to expand into high‑traffic, non‑traditional environments.
A Premium Beverage Experience Designed for Travelers
The new airport store will introduce Gong cha’s customizable bubble tea experience to millions of passengers passing through Phoenix Sky Harbor each year. The brand’s menu, known for fresh‑brewed teas, milk teas, fruit drinks, and specialty beverages, will offer travelers a refreshing alternative to traditional airport coffee and quick‑service options.
Gong cha’s Vice President of U.S. Non‑Traditional Franchise Development, Michael Nedelkovich, emphasized the strategic fit:
“Airports are a natural evolution for Gong cha as we continue expanding into high‑traffic, non‑traditional environments. Our model was intentionally designed for operational efficiency, flexibility, and speed.”
Powered by the Gong cha 2.0 Operating Model
The Phoenix location will showcase the brand’s Gong cha 2.0 operating platform, introduced earlier in 2026. This technology‑forward model is engineered specifically for compact, high‑volume environments like airports. Key features include:
Flexible footprints ranging from 150 to 600 square feet
Automation technology capable of producing beverages in under one minute
Lean staffing with just one to two employees per shift
No walk‑ins or ventilation hoods required, reducing build‑out complexity
This streamlined approach allows Gong cha to maintain premium quality while meeting the speed and efficiency demands of airport travelers.
Operated in Partnership With Kind Hospitality
The Phoenix Sky Harbor location will be operated by Kind Hospitality, an experienced airport concessionaire led by President and CEO Nava Singam. The partnership reflects Gong cha’s commitment to aligning with operators who excel in fast‑paced, high‑volume travel environments.
Kind Hospitality’s expertise ensures the new store will deliver consistent service during peak travel windows, offering passengers a reliable and convenient beverage option as they navigate the airport.
Strategic Expansion Into Non‑Traditional Venues
Gong cha’s airport debut is part of a broader push into non‑traditional, high‑traffic formats across the U.S. The brand currently operates 240+ locations nationwide and is targeting 500+ Americas locations by 2028, with airports, stadiums, and travel hubs serving as key growth channels.
The Phoenix opening serves as the brand’s first airport “beachhead,” signaling more airport and travel‑hub development to come.
Bringing Bubble Tea Culture to the Airport Experience
With its first U.S. airport location, Gong cha is poised to introduce bubble tea to a new audience of travelers seeking fast, customizable, and premium beverage options. The Phoenix Sky Harbor store will offer passengers a quick, flavorful break, whether they’re rushing to a gate or relaxing between flights.
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