Matthew McCormick will join Gong cha from KFC UK & Ireland and is expected to play a key role in supporting the bubble tea chain’s ambitious global expansion plans
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Gong cha’s new Global Chief Financial Officer Matthew McCormick | Photo credit: Gong cha
Taiwanese bubble tea chain Gong cha has appointed KFC UK & Ireland executive Matthew McCormick as its new Global Chief Financial Officer.
Joining Gong cha in March 2025, McCormick will be responsible for global finance functions, working with Global CEO Paul Reynish to identify sustainable growth opportunities as the bubble tea chain works towards reaching 10,000 sites globally by 2032.
In a press release, Gong cha said McCormick brings an impressive track record of driving revenue growth, leading successful acquisitions and growing margins to the role.
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Currently serving as Chief Financial Officer of KFC UK & Ireland, McCormick also held Chief Development Officer and Interim Chief Technology Officer positions at the fast-food chain, where he is credited with accelerating the pace of new UK store openings and improving profitability. Prior to KFC UK & Ireland, McCormick spent more than seven years with the Boston Consulting Group based in London.
“As we look to scale up and achieve our ambitious plans to reach 10,000 sites by 2032, Matthew’s unique blend of financial expertise and franchise know-how is exactly what we need to take Gong cha to the next level. I can’t wait to see the fresh ideas and energy he’ll bring to our global expansion efforts,” Reynish said.
Founded in Taiwan in 2006 and headquartered in the UK since 2020, Gong cha currently operates 2,100 stores across 28 markets. The bubble tea chain is seeking to reach 500 stores in each of its key UK and US markets and has outlined ambitious growth plans for the Middle East, where it is planning to open 300 stores with franchise partner Shahia Food Company Limited.