The 33-store operator has secured a development deal in India and is also seeking franchise partners for Saudi Arabia and the US
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Cupp is also seeking multi-unit regional franchisees and master franchisees in the Republic of Ireland, Saudi Arabia, the US and Canada | Photo credit: Cupp
UK bubble tea chain Cupp has signed its first international franchise deal for expansion in the Indian market.
Founded by Lee Peacock in 2012, Bristol-based Cupp currently operates 33 UK outlets and is seeking to open 15 new sites in 2025.
The bubble tea chain partnered with franchise consultant Mikayla Whittle in 2024 to accelerate its international expansion plans and has since secured a development deal in Hyderabad, India. Cupp expects to open its first store in the city in the second half of 2025.
“I’m super excited to announce that Cupp will be going international. It has been a long time coming and marks a new exciting chapter in the Cupp journey. There’s so much more to come and I can’t wait to announce further news on our international expansion plans,” Peacock said.
“Expanding beyond the UK has been a key part of our growth strategy, and Hyderabad, with its vibrant food and beverage sector, is the perfect market to introduce Cupp,” Whittle added.
Cupp will be seeking to tap into India’s rich tea drinking heritage and catalyse increased consumer demand for new beverage innovation and out-of-home café experiences.
The UK operator will trade within a burgeoning bubble tea segment in India, led by domestic brands Boba Bhai, Dr Bubbles, The Bubble Tea Junction, Bubble Bee and Cha Bar.
International bubble tea chains are also eyeing India’s fast-growing hospitality market for expansion. Dutch brand YOYO! Fresh Tea debuted with a 1,800sq ft outlet in Bangalore in February 2025, while Malaysia’s Tealive partnered with Costa Coffee franchisee Devyani International Limited in December 2024 to launch later this year.
Cupp is seeking multi-unit regional franchisees and master franchisees to fulfill its international ambitions and has cited the Republic of Ireland, Saudi Arabia, the US and Canada as key markets of interest.