The price of turning your Chatime obsession into a business.
Gen Z doesn’t just drink bubble tea — they live it. Whether it’s snapping the perfect pearl-drop boomerang for Instagram or ordering their go-to Chatime flavour through an app, this generation has turned bubble tea into a cultural movement across Australia. But here’s the kicker: many aren’t content with just sipping it — they want to own it.
The question on every future entrepreneur’s mind is simple: “How much does it actually cost to run a bubble tea franchise?” The truth goes way beyond the upfront fee. From the vibe-setting fit-out and TikTok-worthy cup designs to the everyday reality of staff rosters, marketing spends, and seasonal swings, running a franchise is equal parts numbers game and lifestyle choice.
This guide breaks it all down in plain English — no jargon, no corporate speak — just the real story on what it takes (and what it costs) to turn a passion for bubble tea into a thriving business. If you’ve ever dreamed of turning your daily Chatime order into your daily paycheck, you’ll want to keep reading.
Upfront Costs vs. Ongoing Costs
Every franchise starts with an initial investment. With bubble tea, that investment covers not just the franchise fee but also the creation of a store that feels on-brand and Instagram-ready.
Franchise fee: Chatime’s entry fee sits in line with other food & beverage brands, typically $30,000–$40,000 in Australia.
Fit-out and equipment: Expect between $250,000–$350,000 depending on store size and location. This includes sealing machines, blenders, refrigeration, counters, and signage.
Training and onboarding: Franchisees receive in-depth training programs included in the initial investment — everything from product knowledge to marketing systems.
These one-off expenses get you to opening day. After that, it’s all about running costs.
Ongoing Costs to Run a Bubble Tea Franchise
This is where the real budgeting happens. A successful Chatime franchise manages the balance between costs and daily sales.
Rent and Utilities
High-traffic shopping centres, transport hubs, and CBD strips demand higher rent but bring higher foot traffic.
On average, retail rents in metro shopping centres range from $80,000–$150,000 per year (Property Council of Australia, 2024).
Utilities (electricity, water, internet) can add another $1,500–$2,500 per month.
Staffing and Wages
Labour is typically the largest ongoing expense.
Most stores employ a mix of full-time managers and casual staff.
With Australia’s award wage for fast-food and retail workers starting around $24–$28 per hour (Fair Work Ombudsman), monthly staff costs can easily hit $20,000–$30,000 in busy stores.
Inventory and Supply Chain
Tea leaves, pearls, syrups, milk, and packaging are your essentials.
Average supply costs range from 25–30% of sales revenue.
Chatime’s bulk-buying agreements help franchisees save compared to independent operators.
Marketing and Promotions
Franchisees contribute to a national marketing fund (usually 2–4% of turnover).
Local activations — like sponsoring a uni event or TikTok campaigns — might add $500–$2,000 per month depending on ambition.
Technology and Systems Fees
POS systems, ordering apps, loyalty platforms, and accounting software are standard.
Budget around $500–$1,000 per month in tech subscriptions.
Hidden Costs to Consider
Beyond the basics, smart franchisees plan for less obvious costs.
Seasonal fluctuations: Winter can be slower than summer, so cash flow planning is key.
Council permits and compliance: Food safety certifications, signage approvals, and health inspections all carry fees.
Maintenance and repairs: Machines break down, lights need replacing — set aside $5,000–$10,000 annually as a buffer.
Your Investment Snapshot: Upfront & Ongoing Costs
Here’s what goes into starting and running a Chatime franchise. Figures vary by site, store size and sales performance — you’ll receive full details in our official franchise information pack.
Upfront Costs (One-Off)
- Franchise fee to secure your licence
- Fit-out and design of the store (location dependent)
- Equipment and technology set-up
- Initial training and onboarding program
- Working capital for the first few months
Ongoing Costs (Recurring)
- Rent and outgoings depending on your location
- Staff wages and rostering (largest controllable cost)
- Ingredients and packaging, scaling with sales volume
- Contribution to the national marketing fund
- Technology, utilities and ongoing maintenance
How Chatime Helps Control Costs
✔ Group buying power keeps supplies affordable
✔ National campaigns drive awareness & foot traffic
✔ Training reduces errors and staff turnover
✔ System-wide tech avoids costly trial-and-error
*This overview is general in nature. Full investment details are available in Chatime’s official franchise information pack.
What Returns Can You Expect from a Bubble Tea Franchise?
When you invest in a franchise, it’s not just about what you spend — it’s about what you stand to gain. With Chatime, you’re stepping into one of the fastest-growing sectors of the food and beverage industry. Bubble tea has exploded across Australia, and demand is fuelled by a loyal Gen Z and Millennial customer base that treats it as more than a drink — it’s a lifestyle.
Why Chatime sets franchisees up for success:
Strong market demand: Australians are embracing bubble tea in record numbers, making it one of the most exciting beverage categories of the decade.
Brand recognition: As one of Australia’s most established bubble tea brands, Chatime draws instant foot traffic the moment you open your doors.
Proven systems: Streamlined operations, group buying power, and advanced technology mean you can focus on customer experience while keeping costs under control.
Marketing power: National campaigns, digital promotions, and loyalty programs put your store in front of customers every single day.
Support for growth: From training to ongoing field support, you’re never on your own in driving sales and building a profitable store.
Unlike starting an independent business from scratch, you don’t spend years building a name or guessing what works. With Chatime, you’re buying into a tested model where every element — from recipes and equipment to branding and supply chains — is optimised to help you grow faster.
The bottom line: While profitability will always vary by location and management, Chatime’s scale, systems, and reputation give franchisees a head start that independent operators simply can’t match.
👉 For a more detailed look at investment returns and performance benchmarks, request our Franchise Information Pack today!
Why Chatime is the Best Franchise Choice in Australia
When you choose Chatime, you’re not just opening a store — you’re stepping into a globally recognised brand with proven success across Australia. With strong demand for bubble tea, powerful brand recognition, and innovative marketing, Chatime gives franchisees the tools to thrive.
- ✔ Proven Business Model: A track record of growth and profitability across hundreds of Australian locations.
- ✔ Training & Support: Comprehensive onboarding, ongoing training, and operational support so you’re never alone.
- ✔ Marketing Power: National campaigns and viral strategies designed to drive consistent customer traffic.
- ✔ Growing Industry: Bubble tea is one of the fastest-growing beverage sectors in Australia, with demand only increasing.
As a Chatime franchisee, you’ll gain access to premium systems, strong community support, and the opportunity to build a business that aligns with your lifestyle and financial goals.
Don’t just start a business — build a legacy with Chatime.
Start Your Chatime JourneyHow to Apply for a Chatime Franchise in Australia
A simple, supported pathway from enquiry to opening day. We’ll guide you at every step.
Submit an Enquiry
Tell us about your goals and preferred location. We’ll share the franchise information pack and outline the journey.
Intro Call & Fit Check
A friendly chat to align on timelines, investment readiness and the right store format for you.
Application & Due Diligence
We’ll review your application while you review our disclosure materials. Ask anything — transparency is key.
Site Selection & Approval
Work with our property team on locations and layouts. We’ll assess foot traffic, demographics and store design.
Training, Fit‑Out & Launch
Complete training, fit out your store and go live with national marketing behind you — we’ll be there on opening day.
*Timeframes vary by site availability and approvals. Your franchise manager will keep you updated throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
The investment varies depending on the location and format, but our team will guide you through all costs and help you plan with transparency.
No — many successful Chatime partners come from different industries. We provide full training and ongoing support to set you up for success.
On average, 3–6 months after signing agreements, depending on site availability, fit-out, and council approvals.
From marketing and training to supply chain and operations, our team will be with you every step of the way to help your franchise grow.
Your Future, Our Franchise — Let’s Build It Together
Join Australia’s leading bubble tea brand. With training, marketing and nationwide support behind you, the next step is simple.
