Bubble tea chain Gong cha has opened its inaugural store at Atlantis Paradise Island, a casino resort in the Bahamas.
The launch is in time for the resort’s annual Battle 4 Atlantis college basketball tournament.
Go deeper with GlobalData
Discover B2B Marketing That Performs
Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.
The outlet, positioned close to the Royal Baths pool, is intended to operate as a regional flagship and serve as a template for future outlets in similar resort locations.
Gong cha US non-traditional franchise development vice-president Michael Nedelkovich Jr stated: “Opening at Atlantis Paradise Island marks a major step forward in our non-traditional growth strategy, and demonstrates how Gong cha fits in seamlessly at experience-driven destinations looking to appeal to a global customer base.
“The Atlantis team particularly appreciated the brand’s flexible footprint and ease of operations, which make it ideal for a range of high-traffic, high-volume environments.”
Gong cha expects to cater to high visitor volumes at the property, with peak-season daily traffic at Atlantis reported at around 7,000 people.
US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?
Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.
By GlobalDataThe store will offer the brand’s tea-based beverages with customisable flavours and toppings.
The opening forms part of a wider $250m redevelopment programme at Atlantis, which includes a range of new offerings for guests.
Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas president and managing director Audrey Oswell stated: “We’re thrilled to welcome Gong cha to Atlantis as we continue redefining our culinary and beverage offerings.
“The brand’s commitment to quality and creativity complements our vision to deliver unique experiences that go beyond a traditional vacation — and it’s already becoming a favourite stop for our many international guests and team members.”
Gong cha currently operates 2,200 outlets in 32 countries and territories. In the US, the brand has more than 240 stores across 23 states, Washington DC and Puerto Rico.
It is continuing to expand through franchising and seeking new partners in North American territories, including Southern California, Nevada, Utah and the southeast US.
In October 2025, Gong cha signed new multi-unit franchise agreements in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in Portland, Maine and in Nashville, Tennessee.
