Tiger Sugar: Redefining Brown Sugar Boba on the Global Stage

Founded in 2017 in Taichung, Taiwan, Tiger Sugar has quickly become a prominent name in the global dessert beverage scene, best known for its signature brown sugar boba milk tea. What started as a local favorite soon turned into an international brand, with its headquarters now based in Flushing, New York.

The company began offering franchise opportunities in 2020, allowing business owners across the globe to introduce Tiger Sugar’s distinctive drinks to new markets. Its expansion has been fueled by a loyal fan base drawn to its unique and flavorful offerings.

At the heart of the brand’s success is its iconic brown sugar boba milk. This drink is crafted through a proprietary 8-hour preparation technique that involves slow-cooking syrups and tapioca pearls. The result is a perfectly balanced combination of tea, milk, and syrup that delivers a rich and satisfying taste experience in every cup.

Training

Tiger Sugar provides a structured set of training programs to prepare franchisees and their teams for operating a store. The training includes both mandatory and optional components, each designed to ensure consistency and operational readiness across locations.

1. Initial Training Program: Franchisees, their Designated Principals, and General Managers must attend a two to three-week initial training program provided by Tiger Sugar at a designated location. This training includes instruction on store operations and the proprietary system, and must be completed at least 30 days prior to the store opening.
2. Pre-Opening and Opening Assistance: Tiger Sugar offers on-site assistance during the pre-opening and grand opening phase. Representatives are sent to help establish standard operating procedures and assist in staff training, though franchisees must cover any travel-related expenses if additional days are requested.
3. Refresher Training: Franchisees may be required to attend annual refresher courses, seminars, or conventions. This training is typically limited to four days per person each year, with an additional three days allowed for attending conventions.
4. Replacement and Supplemental Training: If a Designated Principal or General Manager leaves, their replacement must complete the initial training. Franchisees may request extra on-site training, subject to approval and additional charges from the franchisor.

Territory Protection

Tiger Sugar provides a form of territory protection to its franchisees, but it comes with significant limitations. Franchisees generally receive a defined Territory as outlined in their Franchise Agreement, within which Tiger Sugar agrees not to establish or license another traditional Tiger Sugar store.

This protection is not contingent on sales performance, and once granted, the territory boundaries cannot be altered before the agreement ends.

However, this protection does not equate to exclusivity. Tiger Sugar retains the right to operate or license stores at Non-Traditional Sites—like airports, hospitals, malls, or stadiums—even if those sites fall within the defined Territory. Moreover, the franchisor may still distribute products through alternative channels such as wholesale, grocery stores, or online platforms, which may overlap with the Territory and impact sales.