Looking to invest in a food or beverage retail chain? Chatime is one of the exhibitors at the Sydney Franchising and Business Opportunities Expo in March. Here the company takes our Q&A.
CHATIMES BUSINESS BASICS
Length of time trading: four and half years
Number of stores (including company stores and franchisees): over 55
Investment costs: between $200,000 to $300,000
Franchise term: five years
POINTS OF DIFFERENCE
Q: Why is your business different from the competition?
A: We provide high quality natural ingredients which are directly sourced from our tea garden in NanTou, Taiwan. We have a unique method of infusing and blending our tea leaves to create an authentic fresh tasting tea experience and there are no added perservatives.
Our tea is freshly brewed in store, giving customers more flavour and fragrances in their drinks, and sugar and ice levels can be customised to suit any individual taste.
We use real dairy products, support Australian dairy farmers and continuously develop and launch new and innovative drinks.
There is comprehensive training on how to run a Chatime store and a support office in Sydney that provides ongoing operation and marketing support.
Q: What is the biggest challenge right now to your particular business and the sector you trade in?
A: There are a number of challenges including:
- Low barriers of entry mean there has been an increase in the number of bubble tea companies entering the market.
- Aggressive marketing by competitors
- Extensive choices in beverages
- Cost of raw material increase
Q: What are your plans for growth this year?
By 2015, there will be 12 new stores opening.
Q: What is your vision for the business?
To be market leader in the bubble tea industry and to be the number one choice of drink for all nationalities.
Q: What can franchisees expect when they join your business network?
A: Franchisees can expect:
- Fully fitted out and equipped store ready for trading
- Comprehensive training
- Assistance on staff requirements
- Assistance on business setup and promotion
- Using rights of Chatime name, trademark and other resources.
- Supply of original Chatime materials
- Quality control monitoring
- National and local marketing campaigns
- Continuous new product development
The Franchising and Business Opportunities Expo is at the Royal Hall of Industries, Moore Park from March 28 to 30. Click here to register for your free ticket.