Presotea: Innovating Freshness in Bubble Tea Franchising

Presotea is a premium bubble tea franchise that originated in Taiwan in 2006. Founded by Chen Mei Yen and her husband, a fifth-generation tea factory owner, the brand transformed traditional tea preparation by introducing espresso-style machines that brew tea under pressure.

This method ensures every cup is freshly brewed to order, enhancing the tea’s aroma and flavor. Headquartered in New Taipei City, Taiwan, Presotea began franchising internationally in 2012, with its first overseas location opening in Australia.

The franchise entered the U.S. market in 2019 through a master franchising model.

Presotea offers a diverse menu that includes milk teas, fruit teas, smoothies, and cheese-topped drinks, all made from premium ingredients. Its unique brewing technology gives it a competitive edge by delivering a fresher, more flavorful beverage compared to traditional bubble tea chains.

Training

Presotea provides a thorough and mandatory training program for franchisees to ensure successful operation of the business. The training includes both initial and optional follow-up components.

1. Initial Training Program: Presotea requires franchisees and their designated manager to complete a 120-hour Initial Training Program, conducted over 15 consecutive days. This training takes place in Southern California, typically at the franchisor’s designated training facility, and covers operations, product preparation, customer service, and management practices.
2. Training Test Requirement: To pass the program, participants must successfully complete a training test. If they fail, retraining and retesting are mandatory and come with an additional fee. Only individuals who pass are authorized to manage or operate the Presotea location.
3. Additional and On-Site Training: Franchisees may request, or the franchisor may require, additional training at a cost of $495 per day. This training can be conducted on-site and is aimed at reinforcing procedures or updating staff knowledge as needed.
4. Training Materials: The franchisor may provide proprietary training materials for staff training, which are considered trade secrets. Franchisees must ensure all required personnel complete the designated training and maintain confidentiality.

Territory Protection

Presotea provides its franchisees with a protected territory, although it does not grant an exclusive territory. The franchisor agrees not to establish another franchised or company-owned Presotea shop within the defined area as long as the franchisee remains in compliance with the agreement.

This territory is generally described as a one-mile radius around the franchise location. However, the franchisor clearly states that franchisees may still face competition from other franchisees or outlets the franchisor owns or controls, including other channels of distribution.

While the franchisee can operate only within their designated territory, Presotea retains the right to engage in broader market activities that may indirectly impact the territory. The agreement ensures limited local protection but allows operational flexibility for the brand overall.