The 1,800sq ft Bangalore outlet comes ahead of planned franchise expansion across the 'heartland of tea’
YOYO! Fresh Tea’s first India store in Bangalore | Photo credit: YOYO! Fresh Tea
Rotterdam-based YOYO! Fresh Tea has launched in India with a 1,800sq ft outlet in Bangalore.
In a press release, the tea chain said it will offer a contemporary approach to out-of-home tea consumption in India, a country with rich tea traditions. Its beverage menu includes a range of warm bubble teas, artisanal iced teas and exclusive ‘India Specials,’ created using locally sourced ingredients.
Founded in 2012, YOYO! Fresh Tea currently operates 15 stores across the Netherlands. The chain said Bangalore was a natural choice for its India debut due to its ‘openness to culinary innovation’ and will serve as a central hub for wider franchise expansion across the South Asian country.
“India is the heartland of tea, and its rich heritage aligns perfectly with our journey of elevating this beloved beverage. Our vision is to combine India’s love for tea with our innovative global concepts, crafting experiences that resonate with both tradition and modernity,” said Wing Li, Founder, YOYO! Fresh Tea.
While traditional tea chains hold most market share in India, bubble tea start-ups have garnered a strong customer following in recent years.
Founded in 2023, Boba Bhai has opened 23 outlets and 19 delivery-only kitchens across India’s largest cities and raised Rs 12.5 Cr ($1.4m) in April 2024 to accelerate further growth. The chain competes with fellow domestic brands Dr Bubbles, The Bubble Tea Junction, Bubble Bee and Cha Bar.
Further highlighting market potential for bubble tea operators in India, the world’s largest bubble tea chain CoCo Fresh Tea & Juice unveiled plans to expand to the country in late 2023, but has yet to open its first store in the market.