Tapioca Express
Food & Beverage
Founded in 1999, Tapioca Express is the first U.S.-based boba tea and snack franchise, with over 26 years of proven success. Built in the U.S. and headquartered in Los Angeles, we offer a diverse menu of 100+ drinks and snacks, with flexibility for local customization. Franchisees benefit from strong brand recognition, comprehensive training and support, and affordable franchise and royalty fees.
Availability
Tapioca Express is currently accepting inquiries from the following states:
AK, AL, AR, AZ, CO, DC, DE, GA, IA, ID, KS, LA, MA, MO, MS, MT, NH, NJ, NM, NV, OH, OK, OR, PA, TN, VT, WV, WY
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Requirements
Financial requirements for this franchise: Minimum Cash Required $200,000 Net Worth $400,000 Franchise Fee $30,000 Royalty Fee 2.5% Total Investment $180,000 - $200,000 -
Options
Options available to franchisees: Home Based No Mobile Franchise No Military Discount Not Available Financing Available Training Available -
Franchisor Details
Facts about this franchise: Headquarters South El Monte, CA Total Units 20 Year Founded 1999 Franchising Since 2001
What does a Tapioca Express Franchise Cost?
To open a Tapioca Express franchise, prospective owners need a minimum of $200,000 in cash available (liquid capital) upfront. This amount is part of the estimated total initial investment required to start the franchise, which ranges from approximately $180,000 to $200,000. Qualified veterans may also be eligible for a discount off the initial franchise fee. *
Brand Overview
Tapioca Express is the original U.S.-based boba tea and snack franchise, founded in 1999 and built on over 26 years of proven operational success. As one of the pioneers that introduced Taiwanese tea culture to the U.S. market, the brand has grown steadily with a strong reputation for quality, innovation, and consistency.
Industry Position
The specialty tea and beverage industry continues to experience long-term growth, driven by strong consumer demand for customizable drinks, snack-oriented menus, and experiential brands. Tapioca Express is well positioned in this space with a diverse menu of over 100 proprietary drinks and food items, while allowing limited flexibility for local market customization.
Food Safety and Quality
Food safety and quality are core priorities at Tapioca Express. Our tapioca pearls and key ingredients are tested by U.S.-certified laboratories and meet lead-free standards. Ingredients are carefully sourced, with select products imported from Taiwan and others produced in the United States. All products and operations follow applicable FDA and USDA regulations, reflecting the brand’s long-standing commitment to quality, safety, and consumer trust.
Franchise Support
Franchisees benefit from a well-established business model supported by a Los Angeles–based headquarters and warehouse. Comprehensive training is provided prior to opening and continues throughout the franchise relationship. Support includes site selection guidance, store setup, operations training, marketing support, and ongoing product development.
Ideal Candidates
Ideal candidates are motivated owner-operators or investors who value brand consistency, food quality, and customer service. Prior food and beverage experience is helpful but not required, as strong training and support systems are in place. Franchisees should be committed to following proven systems while actively engaging with their local community.
